Continued entries/extra info

18 [No Header]

[Margin note] Page in Forms 136

[Castle of Rires - Continued]
[Quotation]
" The Castle of Rires merits particular notice situated on a high eminence commanding a most extensive view and intended it would appear for a place of defence it is surrounded by a ditch 70 feet wide whose depth cannot be now ascertained with accuracy by reason of the alterations time has made on the ground: No planting remains about it excepting one remarkable tree called the Bicker Tree measuring 14 feet around and its branching extending about 75 feet that part of the tree where the great branches separate from the trunk affords a very agreeable seat and shade in summer and tradition says that one of the hospitable proprietors after liberally entertaining his guests in the castle was wont to conduct them to this tree and give them an additional bicker there. In those days it was usual with people of rank to drink out of wooden cups or bickers tipped with silver. Sinclairs Stat. Acct. [Statistical Account] vol [volume] 9. p.297