The Parson and the Clerk

A bit of a postcard view today. These are the Parson and Clerk rocks between Dawlish and Teignmouth. I've photographed them from Lea Mount in Dawlish.

The story is that the Bishop of Exeter fell ill and came to Dawlish to restore his health. An ambitious local priest aimed to succeed to the See after his death. His clerk was his guide and they often made a journey to check on the condition of the bishop. One stormy night they lost their way and the priest in his frustration abused his clerk with the words I would rather have the devil himself, than you, for a guide. At that moment a horseman rode by and volunteered to help.
A little later they came to a mansion and were invited by their guide to enter and partake of his hospitality. As they enjoyed a repast the news arrived that the bishop was dead. Eager to secure his chance for promotion the priest rushed to leave with the clerk and the guide but the horses refused to move. The priest cried Devil take the brutes, upon which the guide exclaimed Thank you, sir and shouted Gee up. The horses galloped over the cliff, carrying the parson and the clerk with them. The devil turned them both to stone, facing forever seaward, monuments to greed and disappointed ambition.

It was a better afternoon than I'd expected but I believe we're due a stormy night tonight. I hope no travelling parsons will be harmed. Have a good evening.

David