68 
He pointed out that the Abbey had been founded about 736 years ago, 
and was particularly remarkable for the fine proportions of its construc- 
tion, the great height of the interior, and for the highly finished orna- 
ments which had been applied throughout the whole building with great 
taste and simplicity. 
To obtain great height had always been the aim in pure Gothic archi- 
tecture, and in this respect also, the Abbey might be considered one of the 
finest specimens, in imitation of the high forest trees from which this style 
had been derived. The material had been chosen with great judgement, 
and consisted of red sandstone strongly impregnated with mica ; it had 
stood the test of time remarkably well. 
The whole building had been erected in the same style in which it was 
commenced, the only exception being the archway leading from the north 
aisle into the cloisters, which was of a later period, but a masterpiece of 
design and carving. 
The uses of the various niches in the walls were explained as having 
served as safes for holy vessels, &c. 
The refectory was closely scrutinized, the little room to the right in this 
once beautiful hall, Mr. Praeger supposed to have been a store-room for 
wine and delicacies, which were brought out on particular occasions when 
distinguished visitors were entertained ; and this supposition was based on 
the fact of having seen similar arrangements in many convents in Southern 
Europe. Places were pointed out where sculptures had adorned the walls, 
probably bas-reliefs representing sacred objects. In comparing this build- 
ing with the Dome of Cologne, and other similar structures in France, 
Spain, Bavaria, Austria, and Italy, some interesting details were given of 
convents and convent life, as also the biographies of several individuals 
who had escaped from monastic institutions in more recent times. 
The sculptured head belonging to the statue of a knight was shown, 
which Mr. Praeger discovered some short time previously amidst the 
debris. It was to be regretted that the remains of so fine a structure were 
so carelessly treated ; for example, the ivy was allowed to become destruc- 
tive to the masonry, and even trees grew on walls and arches, the roots of 
which, together with the action of the weather, would soon bring these 
splendid relics to the ground. 
After having spent the allotted time very pleasantly in the Abbey, the 
party returned to Chepstow direct, and did ample justice to the dinner, 
which had been well provided at the Beaufort Hotel, whence also the 
breaks were hired. Shortly before seven o'clock the vehicles were once 
more entered, and after a fine drive to Portskewet, the party returned by 
the last up-train from the New Passage, much pleased with the result 
of the day. 
