Blay

( Zool.) A small river-fish; the BLEAK, q. v. Blaye, a fortified seaport of France, dep. Gironde, cap arrond. on the right bank of the Garonne, 34 m. N.N.W. of Bordeaux. The river here is about 21⁄2 m. wide, and defended by a fort on each side. All ve els inward bound are required to anchor at B. and deliver a manifest of their cargo, and many of the outward-bound ships call here to take on board provisions and complete their cargoes. Exp., wine, brandy, corn, oil, . B. is very ancient. In 1568, it was taken by the Protestants, and, later, by the Leaguers. The extensive marshes which surround it, having been drained by Henry IV., have become very fruitful. In 1832, the Duche de Berry (q. v.), while a prisoner in the castle here, was delivered of a daughter. Pop. 4,764.