Above: Land of Ireland

Like Scotland, the sister island of Ireland has broken and rugged coasts on the west; but unlike Scotland, she has few islands, and none of any size or importance.

Rathlin, or Rachlin Island, off the coast of County Antrim , is famous as the refuge of King Robert the Bruce when he was driven from Scotland for a time in 130G and 1307.

North Isles of Arran, off the north-west coast of County Donegal, are famous for their cliffs and caves. Tory Island, still farther north, stands out of the sea so as to appear like a collection of towers and pinnacles.

Achil Island, the largest island of Ireland, is off the west coast of Mayo and north of Clew Bay. it is separated from the mainland by a narrow strait running north and south. It is rugged and mountainous, with great sea cliffs, one of which forms Achil Head. The people on the island are engaged in fishing.

Clare Island stands in the entrance of Clew Bay, within three miles of Achil Island. Rising to a height of 1,520 feet at its western side, it looks like a mighty fortress standing up out of the sea.

South Isles of Arran are opposite the entrance to Galway Bay. The largest and most beautiful of them is Arran more, celebrated by Moore, the Irish poet, in one of his songs.

Valentia, off’ the west of County Kerry, in the mouth of Dingle Bay, rises to the height of 888 feet. It was the starting-point of the first telegraph cable that passed under the Atlantic from the British Islands to America.

Great Island, on the south coast, was formerly called Cove Island. On it Queenstown stands, in Cork harbour. It is very fertile, and has a mild and healthy climate.

Ireland’s Eye is a small rocky island east of County Dublin, and lying off Howth Head. It contains the ruins of an ancient church.