*** The Index is placed at the end of the First Volume, for the purpose of
equalising the size of the Volumes.


[Illustration]




LETTER I.


PASSAGE TO DIEPPE.

_Dieppe, April 20, 1818_.


At length then, my dear Friend, the long projected "_Bibliographical,
Antiquarian_,[17] and _Picturesque Tour"_ is carried into execution; and
the Tourist is safely landed on the shores of Normandy. "Vous voilà donc,
Monsieur à Dieppe!"--exclaimed the landlord of the Grand Hôtel
d'Angleterre--as I made my way through a vociferating crowd of old and
young, of both sexes, with cards of addresses in their hands; entreating me
to take up my abode at their respective hotels.... But I know your love of
method, and that you will be angry with me if I do not "begin at the
beginning."

It was surely on one of the finest of all fine days that I left my home, on
the 14th of this present month, for the land of castles, churches, and