PREFACE. 
The publication of this little book has arisen out 
of a desire to share with others the happiness 
which I have enjoyed amid the wild scenes of 
Devonshire, hoping that they too may derive fresh 
life and joy from the breezy heaths and moorlands 
of their native country. I write for the votaries 
of health and pleasure, not for votaries of Science. 
I write for those of less cultivated intellect, who, 
with an innate taste and love for all that is beau- 
tiful and divine in nature, too often wander in 
darkness where even a little knowledge would open 
to them worlds of light in the animal and vegetable 
kingdoms, provided not only for use, but for end- 
less interest and research into the works of their 
Creator. My humble effort is designed to lead the 
youthful and to cheer the weary spirit, by leading 
them, with a woman’s hand, to the Ferny Combes 
and Dells of Devon, where my best reward will be 
their innocent amusement or their restoration to 
health under the soothing influences of a rambling 
Tour. 
Ilfracombe^ July^ 1856. 
c. c. 
