Majesty's
negociating for its possession.

EAST COWES CASTLE, which enjoys a truly enviable site (for it combines
an uncommon degree of shelter with the most extensive and _animated_
prospect), is built in the bold style usually termed the Moorish, and
has three handsome fronts of varied elevations, with a tasteful
diversity of towers, mantled more or less by the most luxuriant ivy, and
a great variety of elegant flowering plants. The Conservatory is a
splendid addition; and the grounds, though not extensive, are very
beautiful.

East Cowes Castle was built by, and continued for many years to be
the favorite residence of the late John Nash, esq., and was with
him a sort of architectural pet, receiving from time to time such
additions and alterations as appeared to be improvements to the
general design, or called for on the score of enlarged
accommodation; a circumstance certainly not calculated to insure
the greatest amount of domestic convenience (as regards the size
and arrangement of the rooms), though no doubt contributing largely
to the picturesque effect of the exterior. On Mr. Nash's demise it
was purchased by Earl Shannon,--and after his death by N. Barwell,
esq., who in 1846 sold off all the furniture, and valuable
productions of art which adorned this beautiful object of interest
to visitors.

* * * * *

"EAST COWES PARK"

Is the title of a very extensive building speculation, which comprehends
above 100 acres of land, lying between Osborne and East Cowes. This
tract was a few years back laid out for the erection of a number of
elegant villa-residences, each to be surrounded with its garden and
shrubbery, yet to command a delightful marine view. Excellent roads were
made, having on either side a foot-path, flower-border, and neat iron
pallisade; handsome gateways erected; and a pier, botanic garden, and
other attractive improvements commenced or projected. The speculation
did not however meet the success it merited, and comparatively few
houses have as yet been built.

* * * * *

THE HARBOUR,

To which Cowes is principally indebted for its origin and present
importance, enjoys a high character for safety as well as convenience:
it is used by vessels of heavy tonnage, either in waiting for a
favorable wind, or for the purpose of repairing damages sustained at
sea;