CARLISLE.

FROM THE SOUTH.

THIS ancient city is pleasantly situated on a gently rising ground, in the midst of an extensive and very fertile plain; it is almost surrounded by the rivers Eden, Caldew, and Peteril. The principal street runs north and south, between the English and Scottish gates. Our view from the south represents the buildings connected with the Assize Courts, erected under the direction of Sir Robert Smirke, R.A. in 1810; the same architect designed the bridge of five arches, each 65 feet span, which was built here in 1812. The main street is broad and spacious, particularly towards its centre; from this street others branch off to the west, the finest of which is Abbey Street. The whole city presents an agreeable appearance, being more regular in its plan than others of the same antiquity generally are. The Castle stands on an eminence at the north-western extremity of the city; the citadel, or keep, is of square form, very lofty. The castle was originally built in the reign of William II., but was repaired and enlarged under Richard III. From the summit of the Keep is a

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very extensive view, comprehending the greater part of Cumberland, the Solway Frith, and the coast of Scotland. In all the transactions on the borders, the city of Carlisle was an important object, and became the scene of many interesting events. A parliament was held here by King Edward I. in 1298, after his victory at Falkirk, and Mary Queen of Scots was confined in the Castle some time after her landing at Workington in 1568; the very chambers occupied by the queen still remain.

The bishopric was established by King Henry I., previously to which, the Church was founded by Walter, deputy for King William II., and by him dedicated to the Virgin Mary; it belonged to a priory of Augustine Canons, the only episcopal chapter of that order in England, all others were Benedictine. The Cathedral Church, now generally called St. Mary's, was chiefly erected under the following bishops-Gilbert de Witton, 1353; Thomas de Appleby his successor, in 1363; and William de Strickland, bishop of Carlisle from 1400 to 1419 but great part of the nave, transept, and tower, were destroyed in the civil wars under Cromwell. choir has a beautiful window at the east end; and near the altar are two fine pictures, presented by the Earl of Lonsdale, K.G. Recorder of the city.

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