The number of inhabitants at _Dolphin Town_ amounts to about fifty families, who live in about twenty small houses. Here is also a _Church_ and some _Tin Mines_; the latter, although of little value, are said to be the only mines now to be seen on any of the islands. This circumstance is the more singular, as the Scilly Islands have long been noted for their _numerous mines_, and extensive trade with the Phenecians, &c. Much has been said by _Borlase_ and other celebrated writers respecting the great change which the islands have undergone; not only in regard to antiquities, trade, extensive population, &c.; but that it must be evident to those who are acquainted with the situation, _all the changes_ have arisen from the continual encroachments made by the sea, and violent tempests. The many shipwrecks which have also occurred, have in a great measure prevented many persons from entering into trade with them. It is the opinion also of a very eminent writer; that the islands are undoubtedly undergoing a gradual diminution; and that at no great distance of time, St. Mary’s will probably be divided by the sea, and a channel formed through the low land, between the new town and the south-east side of the garrison. BRYHER or BREHAR, so called from its extreme mountainous position, is situated to the west of Trescow, and contains little to interest the tourist, except several barrows; the largest of which, situated on high ground, is 77 feet in diameter. Borlase says, “within this barrow are many _kistvaens_, as the Britons call stone cells; and many of the flat stones which covered them, lie here and there; some keeping their first station, and some being removed to make stands for shooting rabbits, with which this part of the hill abounds.” The number of families now resident in Brehar, do not exceed 20. At low water, the Sands between this island and that of Trescow, may be crossed by foot passengers. SAMPSON ISLAND is chiefly composed of two circular hills, connected by a low rocky precipice. The inhabitants are but trifling compared to the other islands, but it is noted by Borlase for containing several stone barrows, some rock basins, a _kistraen_, &c.