"Cornwall" by S. Baring-Gould is a geographical and historical account written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the various aspects of Cornwall, including its landscape, geology, flora and fauna, climate, and socio-economic characteristics. It presents a detailed overview of the region, featuring maps, diagrams, and illustrations to enhance understanding. The opening of the book introduces the concept of counties in England, contrasting them with American states and establishing Cornwall’s unique status as a Duchy rather than a traditional county. The author explains the historical development of Cornwall's boundaries and its distinct Celtic origins, emphasizing its geographical isolation and the impact this has had on its culture and economy. The narrative sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Cornwall’s natural features, resources, and the lifestyle of its inhabitants, which will unfold in subsequent chapters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)