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Page 99:-
down, and held their tongues. When they did speak, they
fared not much the better for having twenty-six sworn
comrades in their disgrace. As for the explanation,- the
Editor of the Lonsdale Magazine declared (Vol.ii.
p.313.) that it was discovered that on that Midsummer eve of
1745, the rebels were "exercising on the western coast of
Scotland, whose movements had been reflected by some
transparent vapour, similar to the Fata Morgana." This is
not much in the way of explanation: but it is, as far as we
know, all that can be had at present. The facts, however,
brought out a good many more; as the spectral march of the
same kind seen in Leicestershire in 1707: and the tradition
of the tramp of armies over Helvellyn, on the eve of the
battle of Marston Moor. And now the tourist may proceed, -
looking for ghosts, if he pleases, on Souter Fell.
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Scales Tarn
noonday stars
Sharp Edge
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Here, too, lies another wonder,- that tarn (Scales Tarn)
which is said to reflect the stars at noonday,- a marvel
which we by no means undertake to avouch. The tarn is so
situated at the foot of a vast precipice, and so buried
among crags, that the sun never reaches it, except through a
crevice in early morning. This dark water is one of the
attractions which bring strangers to this mountain; though
the easy ascent of Skiddaw better suits the greater number.
Another attraction here is the deeper solitude of the
recesses of old Blencathra,- as Saddleback should still be
called. Another is the view of Derwent Water from the
summit. Southey says, "Derwent Water, as seen from the top
of Saddleback, is one of the finest moun-
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gazetteer links
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-- "Linthwaite Fell" -- Hallsfell Top
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-- Helvellyn
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-- "Saddleback" -- Saddleback ascent 1855
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-- Scales Tarn
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-- "Souter Fell" -- Souther Fell
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