CHAPTER VII.

Newstead Abbey -- Picturesque Approach to it -- Recollection of a former Visit -- the Desolation of the Place then -- Byron’s own Description of it -- the Gallery -- the Library -- Sculls and Crucifix -- Dog’s Tomb -- the Satyr Statues -- Eccentric Character of the former Lord Byron -- Anecdotes of Lord Byron’s Minority -- Paintings connected with the Poet’s History -- General good Taste displayed by the present Possessor of the Abbey -- Exceptions to this Taste -- General Description of the Abbey from Don Juan -- Houses of Fletcher and Rushton -- Tree inscribed by Lord Byron -- Demolition of the Mill -- Concluding Remarks on the Old Houses of England, and List of the most remarkable 290