which is considered as one of the largest towns in South Wales. It is
very irregularly built, on the declivity of a hill, which is, in some
parts, so very steep, that the ground-rooms frequently overlook the
neighbouring roofs; yet there are some good houses. It is considered as
a county of itself, and sends one member to parliament. The town was
formerly fortified by a strong wall, or rampart, on the western summit;
the shell of a once extensive castle is still remaining; this is now
converted into a gaol.
The parade, commanding a cheerful view of the neighbouring country, and
the ruins of an ancient abbey, extends for a considerable way, by the
side of a hill. At the extremity of this walk stands the ruins of an
ancient priory of black canons; the remains are now very inconsiderable,
but we easily traced the chapel, over one end of which is an arch, still
in good preservation, and beautifully enwreathed with the rich drapery of
ivy.
The castle, which was built by Gilbert de Clare, first Earl of Pembroke,
was a strong edifice; but the keep now only remains; and that has been
converted into a gaol. From its elevated situation, it has a commanding
appearance, and an air of ruined grandeur, more interesting than the
proudest modern edifice can boast.
Haverford is called by the Welsh, Hwlfordh. {82a} Having finished our
survey of Haverford, we started early the next morning, proposing to
breakfast at