Page:Archaeological Journal, Volume 1.djvu/249

Rh you enter into a fine chamber of 7 feet in height, covered by two blocks of granite, each 10 feet wide by 15 in length. At the entrance it is only 2 feet 8 inches wide, but increases to 11 feet within the interior, a row of upright stones on each side forming a passage leading into it; about midway was found a step across the avenue, but whether any separation once existed, so as to form an additional chamber, could not be determined. In exploring this in 1840, numerous jars and urns were discovered, a few bones and ashes were strewed about the floor, fragments of several vessels of good pottery were found, bearing the same designs as those of Carnac and other similar structures in the north part of Guernsey and Herm.

On another hill in the parish of the Vale, may be seen one remaining capstone, 13 feet long, by 6 wide, which, according to tradition, formed part of a celebrated cromlech of nine stones, perhaps the largest in these islands. The name by which it was known to our forefathers is significant of some property inherent or accidently pertaining to some one of the stones composing this Celtic remains: "La roche qui Sonne" was ascribed to it from the sound which issued from the hollow chamber beneath it, when struck on the surface. Urged by the value of the material, the former proprietor of this monument endeavoured to accomplish that which time and the elements had been unable to perform. The same year, however, his dear-bought temerity was arrested by his dwelling-house being destroyed by fire, and some of the inmates falling a prey to the devouring flames! This ill-fated coincidence has left an indelible impression on the minds of the country people, who relate the event, and the antiquary may rest assured that the remaining portion of this once venerated cromlech will be left for many years yet, to point to the spot where stood the mysterious "Roche qui sonne!" Under this capstone several vases were discovered in the lowest part, or primeval deposit, above which, however, a metal bracelet, in the form of a torques, as also one made of jet, were found. In this spot was a small coarse earthen vessel, not unlike a jug with one handle, being the only one of that description met with during our explorings in these islands!

The performance of superstitious rites and acts of devotion in or near Druidical remains may very properly be admitted, but it seems proper to limit these to certain spots and objects, and perhaps the Scriptural account of worshipping "stocks and