A rude cavern in an adjacent rock, which, in the interior, was cut into the shape of a cross, formed the hermitage, where some Saxon saint had in ancient times done penance, and given name to the place.

The rich Abbey of Coldinghame had, in latter days, established a chapel in the neighbourhood, of which no vestige was now visible, though the churchyard which surrounded it was still, as upon the present occasion, used for the interment of particular persons.

One or two shattered yew-trees still grew within the precincts of that which had once been holy ground.

Warriors and barons had been buried there of old, but their names were forgotten, and their monuments demolished.

The only sepulchral memorials which remained were the upright headstones which mark the graves of persons of inferior rank.