[Leagges, probably
lugs: a lug being "a measure of land, called otherwise a pole or
perch". (Bailey's Dictionary.) The context renders leagues
improbable.-J. B.]
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Elmes.-I never did see an elme that grew spontaneously in a wood, as
oakes, ashes, beeches, &c.; which consideration made me reflect that
they are exotique; but by whom were they brought into this island?
Not by the Saxons; for upon enquiry I am enformed that there are none
in Saxony, nor in Denmarke, nor yet in France, spontaneous; but in
Italy they are naturall; e. g. in Lombardie, &c. Wherefore I am
induced to believe that they were brought hither out of Italy by the
Romans, who were cultivators of their colonies. The Saxons understood
not nor cared for such improvements, nor had hardly leisure if they
would.
Anno 1687 I travelled from London as far as the Bishoprick of Durham.
From Stamford to the bishoprick I sawe not one elme on the roade,
whereas from London to Stamford they are in every hedge almost. In
Yorkshire is plenty of trees, which they call elmes; but they are
wich-hazells, as wee call them in Wilts (in some counties wich-
elmes). I acquainted Mr. Jo. Ray of this, and he told me when he
travelled into the north he minded it not, being chiefly intent on
herbes; but he writes the contrary to what I doe here: but it is
matter of fact, and therefore easily to bee prov'd. [See Ray's Letter
to Aubrey, ante, p.
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