The Isle of Wight Visitor's Book (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1839 Excerpt: ...to have secluded himself among the fishermen; having been compelled by the barons to sign Magna Charta: he afterwards negotiated with the pope to obtain absolution, and to be released from his engagement; and while the negociation was pending, he retreated to this quiet nook of the Island, free from the eye of his enemies, and secure in the confidence of the villagers and his friends. A little beyond the village stands Fern Hill, the singular and beautiful seat of S. Saunders, Esq. This mansion was built by the late Lord Bolton, then governor of the Island. The grounds are laid out with great taste, and the view is most imposing and extensive. Proceeding towards Newport we reach Stapler's Heath, where we obtain one of the finest panoramic views in the Island. Shortly after, we pass The celebrated Lady Lisle (widow of the late Sir John), fell a victim to the savage spirit of Judge Jefferies. She was charged, although a loyalist herself, with having harboured presbyterian minister of the name of Hicks. The jury, on examining the charge, twicebrought her in not guilty; but Jefferies having threatened them with an attaint of jury, to save themselves, they found her guilty. She was sentenced to he burnt, which was however mitigated to beheading. She was a woman of superior intellect and eminent piety; and at the advanced age of eighty years, was enrolled among the noble army of martyrs. Belcroft, the neat seat of J. Cooke, Esq., near which a church has lately been erected, possessing considerable architectural beauty. At a short distance stands a spacious building, in which a lace manufactory, belonging to Messrs. Nunn and Freeman, is carried on; while a little to the left, descending the hill leading to the town appears Barton's village. Newport now opens befor...