From a distance of about a quarter-mile, the cliffs could be viewed in their immensity, to a very imposing effect. Numberless sea-birds flew along the height and breadth of the cliffs, caverns and chasms appeared to reach a great way into the rocks, and all along, small cascades issued forth from ground-springs, tumbling into the sea. The Needles soon rose into view. Mr. Darcy explained that these singular rocks had once been yet more distinguished by one great, tall pointed rock which had risen one hundred and twenty feet above the water, until—within the memory of his father—it was become a victim to the waves, falling with a tremendous crash that had been heard as far away as Southampton, and then disappearing completely beneath the sea.

The following day, they travelled overland to Newtown, Carisbrook, and Calbourn, the principal towns of the westward island. The ancient church at Shalfleet was close-by the town of Newtown, the latter deriving its name from the circumstance of its being rebuilt, having been destroyed by the French in the time of Richard II. The town had been amongst the most ancient and populous habitations on the island, but was now very contracted, encompassing only about a dozen tidy cottages. In the centre of the Island were several very grand houses, all modern-built, surrounded by small, pretty plantations, seen to advantage against the dark lushness of the surrounding woods.

Carisbrook Castle could be seen for some distance, being situated atop one of the higher hills on the island. The strong outlines of its ancient ruins formed a most picturesque view within the panorama of downs, fields, woods, and cottages, viewed from the hill behind St. Mary’s Church. Mr. Darcy noted that the grass was more forward on the island, and pointed out the rows of hay-ricks in the distance, and the small figures of people busy in getting in the grass. This area of the island was remarkably devoid of trees, making the mound and its castle more reminiscent of Sarras, than a scene in England. The castle was approached by a gateway that led across the moat, through the two great towers, and into the Court. The Darcys tarried some while in the chapel and the remains of the rooms where King Charles was confined before his execution; the building was now empty of every article save the few items of furniture necessary for the accommodation of the servant retained there to shew the castle to visitors. The rooms were dark and melancholy, as befitted their history; Elizabeth and her husband staid some minutes imagining the sad last days of the King. The pretty village of Carisbrook lay below, with its grand Gothic church tower, many neat and comfortable houses, and a sparking stream winding through the village and around the foot of the castle hill.