<g>Monmouth.</g>--Of this ancient town and its <g>Castle</g>, the limits prescribed to the present work will not permit us to indulge in any minute description. But before entering upon the Abbey of <g>Llanthony</g>--the next subject for illustration--the birthplace of Henry the Fifth is entitled to a general notice. The bridge over the Monnow, with its ancient gate-house at the west end, is, perhaps, the most striking feature of the place. Two other bridges, one over the Trothy, and a third over the Wye, contribute in no small degree to heighten the picturesque effect, as the stranger perambulates the scene and recalls the many interesting facts, connected with Monmouth and its vicinity, which to history and romance have given an early and permanent lustre. <g>The Castle</g>--of which so little remains that its original appearance can only be described by reference to the historical fragments that still mark the spot--is of unquestionable antiquity. It is supposed to have been built--or rather perhaps rebuilt--by <g>John of Monmouth</g>, whose adherence to the Barons cost him his estate, but contributed to the success of the cause in which he had embarked. The King having created his son Earl of Lancaster, this estate was annexed to the earldom. The Castle became a favourite residence of John of Gaunt, to whom it descended by his marriage with Blanche, daughter of Henry of Monmouth, Duke of Lancaster. It was in this Castle that the unfortunate Edward the Second was confined when taken prisoner by his Queen Isabella.[312]