GUERNSEY, an island in the English channel on the coast of Normandy, subject to Britain; but (as well as the adjacent islands) governed by its own laws. See JERSEY. It extends from east to west in the form of a harp, and is thirteen miles and a half from the south-west to north-east, and twelve and a half, where broadest, from east to west. The air is very healthy, and the soil naturally more rich and fertile than that of Jersey; but the inhabitants neglect the cultivation of the land for the sake of commerce: they are, however, sufficiently supplied with corn and cattle, both for their own use and that of their ships. The island is well fortified by nature with a ridge of rocks, one of which, it was said, afforded emery; but from late inquiries this appears to be a mistake, no such substance being found in the island. Here is a better harbour than any in Jersey, which occasions its being more resorted to by merchants; and on the south side the shore bends in the form of a crescent, enclosing a bay capable of receiving very large ships. The island is full of gardens and orchards. The population is 21,293, including 2000 sailors or persons not permanently settled in the country.