the smallest province in France, bounded on the north by Poitou, on the west by the ocean, on the east and south by Saintonge, of which it was formerly a part. It is watered by the rivers Seure and Sarente, the former of which has its source at Seuro in Poitou. The coast of this small district has the advantage of several ports, the most remarkable of which are Rochefort, Rochelle, Brouge, St Martin de Re, Tremblade, Tonnai, and Charente. The soil of this country is dry, yet produces good corn and plenty of wine. The marshes feed a great number of cattle, and the salt marshes yield the best salt in Europe.