Legend Land, Vol. 2: Being a Collection of Some of the Old Tales Told in Those Western Parts of Britain Served by the Great Western Railway

"Legend Land, Vol. 2" by G. Basil Barham is a collection of folklore tales from the western regions of Britain, particularly those associated with the Great Western Railway. Written in the early 20th century, the book incorporates traditional stories and legends that reflect the cultural history and mystical essence of places like Devon and Cornwall, showcasing themes of supernatural elements, local heroes, and the interplay between the natural and the mystical world. The book features a variety of enchanting tales, such as "The Church the Devil Stole," where villagers confront the devil over their church, and "The Weaver of Dean Combe," which tells of a ghostly weaver forced to redeem his soul. Other stories include the heroic figure of St. Neot, a pint-sized saint with remarkable powers over animals, and the mysterious lost land of Lyonesse, which was submersed under the sea. Each tale is rooted in the local geography and history, evoking the allure and whimsy of the English countryside while preserving the oral tradition of storytelling that has entertained generations.