Page:An Account of Corsica (1769).djvu/63

Rh From this account of the harbours of Corsica, it will appear of how great consequence an alliance with this island might be to any of the maritime powers of Europe. For, a fleet stationed there might command the navigation of Genoa, Tuscany, and the ecclesiastical state, that between Spain and Naples, and a good share of that to the Levant; not to mention its influence over that of Sardinia. And it may be material to observe, that vessels stationed in the ports of Corsica might be formidable to France, as the western side of the island is directly opposite to the extensive coast: of Provence, on which a descent might be made with cruisers in a very short time.

The northern point of Corsica, called Capo Corso, is about 30 miles long, very mountainous and rocky, but covered with vines and olives. There are, in several parts of the island, but particularly in Capo Corso, a great many ancient towers, built about three or four hundred years ago, to defend the inhabitants against the incursions of the Turks and other pirates. There is there a little village called Tomino, strong by situation.