Ray, which, though it had lost a considerable leading bough in the
great storm in the year 1703, equal to a moderate tree, yet, when
felled, contained eight loads of timber; and, being too bulky for a
carriage, was sawn off at seven feet above the butt, where it
measured near eight feet in the diameter. This elm I mention to
show to what a bulk planted elms may attain; as this tree must
certainly have been such from its situation.

In the centre of the village, and near the church, is a square piece
of ground surrounded by houses, and vulgarly called the Plestor. In
the midst of this spot stood, in old times, a vast oak, with a short
squat body, and huge horizontal arms extending almost to the
extremity of the area. This venerable tree, surrounded with stone
steps, and seats above them, was the delight of old and young, and
a place of much resort in summer evenings; where the former sat in
grave debate, while the latter frolicked and danced before them.
Long might it have stood, had not the amazing tempest in 1703
overturned it at once, to the infinite regret of the inhabitants, and
the vicar, who bestowed several pounds in setting it in its place
again; but all his care could not avail; the tree sprouted for a time,
then withered and died. This oak I mention to show to what a bulk
planted oaks also may arrive: and planted this tree must certainly
have been, as will appear from what will be said farther concerning
this area, when we enter on the antiquities of Selborne.

On the Blackmoor estate there is a small wood called Losel's, of a
few acres, that was lately furnished with a set of oaks of a peculiar
growth and great value; they were tall and taper lice firs, but
standing near together had very small heads, only a little brush
without any large limbs. About twenty years ago the bridge at the