MONMOUTH'S ASH.
Letter from the Earl of Shaftesburg accompanying a short "History of Monmouth Close," formerly printed by his Lordship for the information of persons visiting that spot.
The whole of Woodlands now belongs to me. The greater part of it was bought by my late brother soon after he came of age.
I knew nothing of Monmouth Close till the year 1787, when I was shooting on Horton Heath; the gamekeeper advised me to try for game in the inclosures called Shag's Heath, and took me to see Monmouth Close and the famous ash tree there.
I then anxiously inquired of the inhabitants of the neighbouring houses respecting the traditions concerning Monmouth Close and the celebrated ash tree, and what I then learnt I have printed for the information of any person who may visit that spot.
What I have since learnt convinces me that the Duke was not going to Christchurch. He was on his way to Bournemouth, where he expected to find a vessel. Monmouth Close is in the direct line from Woodyates to Bournemouth.
About sixty years ago there was hardly a house there. It was the leading place of all the smugglers of this neighborhood.
SHAFTESBURY.
St. Giles's House, Nov. 27. 1849.