for it belonged to our first Norman earl, and in all probability to some
of the Saxon monarchs. The situation of the ground, before it was
stripped of its timber, possessed every advantage of pasture, water, and
diversified surface.—According to the record of Domesday, it was the
custom, when the king resided here, for twelve of the better sort of
citizens to keep watch over him; and when he went out hunting, those
having horses protected him. This practice probably arose in consequence
of the murder of Alfhelm (an earl of the blood royal) in 1016, who,
having been invited here and hospitably entertained by Ædric Streona
(son-in-law to King Etheldred), was barbarously assassinated by a butcher
while hunting, whom the perfidious Ædric had engaged for that purpose.
The boundaries of these pleasant fields bring us to the Shrewsbury canal,
which for some distance beyond passes above the banks of the river; while
from the canal towing-path numerous pleasing views may be obtained,
affording an agreeable half-hour’s walk to the picturesque village of
Uffington.
Retracing our steps along the green banks of the Severn, we arrive at a
gentle ascent which leads to the promenade surrounding the prison. From
hence the long ridge of Haughmond Hill, linked as it were to the noble
Wrekin,—the stately character of the White Hall,—the patriotic Column in
honour of Lord Hill,—the venerable Abbey Church, standing like a
patriarch among its more modern compeers,—the Stretton Hills in the
distance, and close at hand the frowning walls of the Castle, clad by
nature’s hand with stains of sober hue, combine to attract the eye and
the mind.