_Martello Towers_ (Vol. ii., p. 9. and p. 110.).--The interesting
account of Le Tellier's defence in Corsica, shows clearly what first
drew the attention of our government to these forts but E.V.'s queries
do not yet seem satisfactorily answered. The late Duke of Richmond, it
is said, gave the plan of the first erected along the British Channel.
But as to their name and origin I apprehend that (as in the case of
Charles Martel, whose blows also fell so numberless and effectual on the
heads of enemies, Vol. i., p. 86.) the old Frank word _martel_ is much
more likely to have originated the name than any _locality_, town, or
tower, in either Spain or Corsica and the following extract from Dr.
Robertson's _Life of Charles V._ (bk. c. p. 452., 8vo. ed.) should not
be passed over in their history:--
"The commerce of the Mediterranean was greatly interrupted by
his cruisers (viz. Haseen Aga's, about 1541), and such frequent
alarms given to the coast of Spain, that there was a necessity
of erecting watch towers at proper distances, and of keeping
guards constantly on foot, in order to descry the approach of
his squadrons, and to protect the inhabitants from his
descents."
The doctor then gives marginal reference to _Jovii Hist_. L. 40. p. 266.
for authority. I have not Jovius, nor access to him here but I would be
obliged by learning whether he gives any and what more specific account
of these towers, or how they were called.