Rem Rapelje, purchased the property of the Rodman famil7, the Rodmans having: obtained it through the marriage of Samuel Rodman, with Mary Pell, daughter of Caleb PeH. The residence of the late Mr. Rapelje is occupied by Peter Brinckerhoti', Esq. ; it is beautifully situated near the eastern shore of the Neck. This spot is celebrated for extensive views of the Sound. The interior of the mansion possesses some good paintings ; the whole collection is well worthy the attention of the connoisseur.
Hawks' Wood, the residence of the late Elisha King, Esq.,^ now occupied by his widow, adjoins the Rapelje property on the south. The house is built of stone, in the Grecian style, and presents a fine front of columns to the water. The beauty of the scenery in this vicinity is greatly heightened by the close proximity of City Island and the richly wooded shores of the Point. The grounds, containing a great variety of choice trees, were laid out by the celebrated gardener, Andre Parmentier.
Pelham Neck is terminated by the property of Mr. Samuel Bowne.^ Perhaps the finest view of City Island and the adjacent waters are to be had from this portion of the Point. It deserves to be mentioned, that this district affords a favorite haunt for the fish hawk, (Falco Halitsetus,) whose nests may be seen in the lofty summits of the venerable oaks and chesnuts which abound on the Neck and neig?iboring shores.
'• These birds are greatly respected, and a kind of superstition prevails that it is a lucky omen if one builds on the farm. The nest is an immense fabric of rotten sticks --