CORNWALL is the largest church in West Cornwall, i lo ft. in length. In 1770 the lofty spire was struck by lightning during service ; it was replaced by a replica. The church is chiefly Perp., but there are traces of E.E. Perhaps as old as any- thing in the church are certain of the bench-ends, carved with shields on which are implements and symbols of the Passion. The acute-pointed arches have elaborately moulded piers, making the church lofty as well as long. Memorials of shipwreck will be noticed within the walls, as well as in the churchyard ; St. Keverne parish embraces the notorious Manacles. Whoever St. Keverne may have been, there is a quaint story told about him. It is said that St. Just, of the Land's End district, paid him a visit. After enjoying his hospitality to the full, St. Just departed, taking with him Keverne's drinking -cup or chalice. Keverne searched everywhere for this chalice, and at last came to the conclusion that his saintly friend had stolen it. In a great rage he hastened after his guest, and while crossing Crowza Downs he thought- fully pocketed a few large stones for future use. Presently he came in sight of the holy absconder, and called on him to stop ; but St. Just proved very deaf. As shouts proved ineffectual, St. Keverne began to throw his stones, and he threw so well that St. Just thought it wise to drop the chalice and make the best of his way home. Having recovered his treasure, Keverne exhausted his wrath and his remaining stones by hurling these after the retreating saint; after 142
