Note 782 — Chapter XII · Peter’s Orchards.

“All the old traditions which give an interest to the Forest continue to be current there. The Fairies, who are kind to children, are still reported to be seen in their white apparel upon the banks of the Fountain; and the Fountain itself (whose waters are now considered salubrious) is still said to be possessed of its marvellous rain-producing properties. In seasons of drought the inhabitants of the surrounding parishes go to it in procession, headed by their five great banners, and their priests, ringing bells and chanting Psalms. On arriving at the Fountain, the Rector of the Canton dips the foot of the Cross into its waters, and it is sure to rain before a week elapses.”

“Brecilicn etait une de ces forets sacrees qu’habitaient les pretresses du druidisme dans le Gaule; son nom et celui de sa vallee l’attesteraient a defaut d’autre temoignage; les noms de lieux sont les plus surs garans des evenemens passés.”—Cf. Notes on The Mabinogion (Everyman’s Library), p. 383-90.