The Survey of Cornwall And an epistle concerning the excellencies of the English tongue

A richly detailed portrait of Cornwall unfolds in this early‑modern survey, guiding listeners through the county’s rugged coastlines, fertile valleys, and bustling market towns. The author weaves together observations of local industry, natural landmarks, and the lives of notable residents, offering a snapshot of 18th‑century community life that feels both scholarly and intimate. Interlaced with the topographical notes is a passionate essay extolling the virtues of the English tongue, celebrating its clarity, expressive power, and role in uniting a diverse nation.

Beyond the geography, the work captures the spirit of a region eager to share its character with a broader audience. The long list of subscribers reads like a roll call of Cornwall’s merchant class, clergy, and gentry, hinting at the social networks that supported such publications. For anyone curious about the historical landscape of England’s far southwest and the period’s love of language, this recording provides an engaging, well‑rounded glimpse into a bygone era.