ading,
which in the season is well patronised. In this view the grounds
of Ferncliff can be seen behind the Arcade Bazaar, and there is a
cliff path to Shanklin on the top. The picturesque fishing village
lies under the cliff, slightly to the west. Sandown Railway Station
is a junction with the Isle of Wight and I.W. Central Railway.
Near the station is the celebrated Secondary School of the Isle
of Wight Education Authority.

[Illustration: _Tennyson's Avenue, Freshwater._]

TENNYSON'S AVENUE, FRESHWATER.--Leading from the main road, near
Stark's Hotel, is a lane giving access to the Downs and leading
to the Avenue, across which is a small wooden bridge connecting
Lord Tennyson's grounds. A quiet, secluded spot yet visited by
crowds of admirers of the late Laureate. Tennyson loved retirement,
and in scenes like these, surrounded with the loveliness of Nature,
the breathings of his genius found full and free expression. The
lane may be pursued under the bridge past the farm into the Alum
Bay Road.

[Illustration: _Freshwater Bay._]

FRESHWATER BAY.--To those who desire to escape from the noise and
traffic of the city, Freshwater Bay affords a delightful retreat.
During the bright days of summer the sea breaks in gentle murmur
on the sand and shingle of the beach, but in winter when lashed
by S.W. Gales "it tumbles a billow on chalk and sand." The roar
of the ocean can be heard for miles inland. The esplanade shown in
the picture has been destroyed by the breakers. Temporary repairs
have been effected, but a fierce controversy is still raging as
to the ultimate solution of the question, how to prevent further
encroachment, and the L.G.B. has been appealed to for help.

[Illustration: _Farringford, Freshwater, Lord Tennyson's Residence._]

FARRINGFORD, FRESHWATER, LORD TENNYSON'S RESIDENCE.--The residence
of the late Laureate is in the neighbourhood between freshwater
Gate and Alum Bay, secluded by trees almost to invisibility. The
front is covered with greenery, a fine magnolia growing round and
over the front door. From under the lateral branches of a fine
spreading cedar tree the Poet could look into Freshwater Bay and
yet himself not be seen. The park-like grounds are pleasant to
walk in, and are open to the inspection of visitors on Thursdays
at certain seasons. In his poem of invitation to Rev. F. D. Maurice
in 1854 he well describes it:

"Where far from smoke and noise of town,
I watch the twi