Mr. Ashton told them that the Chain-pier (for such the building was called) was used in the manner Edward had supposed; but that it was erected principally for the convenience of the visitors and inhabitants of Brighton, and that it forms one of the most agreeable walks in the town; “for, here” said he, as they passed the noble esplanade which forms the entrance to the pier, “we can enjoy the pure sea-breezes, without the danger or difficulty of going out in an open boat.” When they reached the platform, which is erected at the end of the pier, Edward and Lewis were full of wonder and delight. Papa pointed out to them the fine view of Brighton, and the line of coast on each side; then the wide expanse of sea, and the vessels, with their white sails swelling in the breeze. The pier that morning presented a busy scene, with the passengers embarking on board the steam-packet, for Dieppe; and the little boys turned reluctantly from the spot, when Mr. Ashton warned them that it was time they were on their way homeward. “Dear papa,” said Edward, “will you be so good as to tell us who planned this noble pier, and how they could contrive to build it of so great a length, and yet strong enough to stand against the winds and waves?” “Wait one moment,” cried Lewis; “I have not explored the lower part of the pier yet. You _will_ let us, papa:” and the boys ran down the steps, which descended to the platform beneath that on which they had been standing. “Well,” said Mr. Ashton, as they came panting up to him again, “what is the result of your researches? Edward looks as if he had something very important to communicate.” “We saw nothing but baths, papa,” said Lewis. “Yes,” said Edward, “I believe I saw the piles on which this platform stands.” “You are right,” said his father; “these piles are driven ten feet into the solid rock, and they rise thirteen feet above high-water mark. The four iron towers which you see, are all erected on platforms similarly raised: the towers are each two hundred feet apart. These suspension-chains are of wrought-iron: they are firmly fixed at the one end to the timber work of the pier-head, and at the other, they pass into tunnels formed in the cliff, and are secured to an immense iron-plate.” “This beautiful structure was erected under the superintendence of Captain Brown, a British naval officer: the expense of the work was thirty thousand pounds; and it was completed in the short space of twelve months.” “Well,” said Edward, “I should hardly have thought, with all his precautions, it would have withstood such storms as I have heard uncle Tom speak of, when the sea runs mountains high, and breaks over the tall masts of the ship, as though it would be swallowed up every instant. I am sure uncle Tom will never make a sailor of me.”