THE ESSEX OYSTER CULTURE.
49
scheme can be obtained. This fortress-like and impressive old tower
was probably at one time the centre of a considerable and populous
township. A few cottages by the side of the road leading to it, and
the well sheltered vicarage adjoining the churchyard, are all that
now remain. The old tower is of considerable service as a land-
mark to mariners making the intricate entrance to the Crouch and
Roach.
In the adjacent low-lying grounds the highly prized, and highest
priced, South Essex white-wheats are grown. These lands reclaimed
from the sea in past ages, its encroachments carefully guarded against
and prevented by strong walls of chalk and piles, need no stimula-
tion from the residuum of London sewage. Nature fertilized them
long ago, and her beneficent effects have not yet been exhausted.
The sprit-rigged barge is a familiar object upon the waters, and
may ever be seen gliding over the shoals ; at times taking a short cut
for the Thames, to contribute its quota towards the daily sustenance
of our vast metropolis. Cattle thrive and speedily wax fat upon
the rich grass lands, and appear well content with the change from
their earlier and less luxurious quarters. To the naturalist there is
much which is attractive. Both botanist and entomologist would be
well rewarded by an investigation of the flora and fauna of the
neighbourhood.
I have thus hastily recorded a few of the leading characteristics
of this district, without wish to unduly magnify its industries or natu-
ral advantages, and trust that sufficient has been said to ensure con-
sideration, commensurate with their importance, from those in whose
power it is to conserve or destroy. That the scheme, if carried out
as proposed by Sir R. Rawlinson, would be most disastrous and im-
politic, both upon public and private grounds, will not admit of doubt
from anyone acquainted with the locality; and I take leave to say
that had that eminent engineer been more completely informed of
the features and industries of this valuable, but isolated, part of the
country it is in contemplation to destroy, he would have selected
some other less precious spot for the sewage outfall.
The destruction of at least one unique and time-honoured inheri-
tance of immense value, and the source of employ of many hun-
dreds of hands, cannot be considered as amongst the smallest obsta-
cles to its consummation. Should the proposed suggestions in their
present condition assume practical form, I feel satisfied that the
public at large will join in demanding modification of the scheme,
E