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THE "LONG MAN OF WILMINGTON." 81 |
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was a descendant of that Richard Pendrel, who concealed the fugitive Charles Stuart in the spreading branches of the oak tree after the Battle of Worcester. The worthy surgeon had possession of the patent and pension granted by the royal adventurer whom the British nation recalled to a throne which he disgraced.
Aluriceton—such is its ancient name—is full of interest for the archaeologist. The High Street has scarcely a modern attribute. What is left of an ancient market-cross is a conspicuous object, and near it is the Star Inn, whose remarkable exterior attracts the notice of every traveller. At one end is a huge grotesque figure that once formed the figure-head of a ship. Along the front of the house are carved figures. Here is St. George waging terrific warfare against a most ferocious dragon ; there is a quaint head ; here are uncertain animals holding a staff, whilst a little lower at one side of the door-post is the figure of a priest, who has for companion on the other jamb the effigy of St. Julian, the friend and patron of travellers. This must be the oldest inn in England, and it is believe to have been a house of call for the
pilgrims who were wending their way to the
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