in its extent, corresponded in variety and beauty with the inland
view. In some places it rose into tall rocks, frequently crowned
with the ruins of old buildings, towers, or beacons, which,
according to tradition, were placed within sight of each other,
that, in times of invasion or civil war, they might communicate by
signal for mutual defence and protection. Ellangowan Castle was by
far the most extensive and important of these ruins, and asserted
from size and situation the superiority which its founders were
said once to have possessed among the chiefs and nobles of the
district. In other places the shore was of a more gentle
description, indented with small bays, where the land sloped
smoothly down, or sent into the sea promontories covered with
wood.

A scene so different from what last night's journey had presaged
produced a proportional effect upon Mannering. Beneath his eye lay
the modern house--an awkward mansion, indeed, in point of
architecture, but well situated, and with a warm, pleasant
exposure. 'How happily,' thought our hero, 'would life glide on in
such a retirement! On the one hand, the striking remnants of
ancient grandeur, with the secret consciousness of family pride
which they inspire; on the other, enough of modern elegance and
comfort to satisfy every moderate wish. Here then, and with thee,
Sophia!'

We shall not pursue a lover's day-dream any farther. Mannering
stood a minute with his arms folded, and then turned to the ruined
castle.

On entering the gateway, he found that the rude magnificence of