COMORO  ISLANDS has been cut through the

limestone ranges that enclose it, and once doubtless extended as far as Chiavenna, the Lake of Mezzola being a surviving witness of its ancient bed . Towards the south the promontory of Bellagio divides the lake into two arms . That to the south-east ends at Lecco and is the true outlet, for the south-western arm, ending at Como, is an enclosed bay . During the morning the Tivano wind blows from the north, while in the afternoon the Breva wind blows from the south . But, like other Alpine lakes, the Lake of Como is exposed to sudden violent storms . Its beauties have been sung by Virgil and Claudian, while the two Plinys are among the celebrities associated with the lake . The shores are bordered by splendid villas, while perhaps the most lovely spot on it is Bellagio, built in an unrivalled position . Among the other villages that line the lake, the best-known are Varenna (E.) and Menaggio (W.), nearly opposite one another, while Cadenabbia (W.) faces Bellagio . - (W . A . B .