¦ >.L<*f >*y}-9 GSl/^&^^^Sa^ ik ih* j. rCOA-^lAJ THE of ENGLAND akv WALE S ; OE ¦MELINEATIOWS TOPOGRAPHICAL HISTORICAL amd DESCRIPTIVE . Vol.XPartHL. msmm wmm & WESTMI5FSTEK HAL1. THE BEAUTIES England and Wales : OR, ORIGINAL, BEItlJVEviTIOJVS, TOPOGRAPHICAL, HISTORICAL, AND DESCRIPTIVE, EACH COUNTY. EMBELLISHED WITH ENGRAVINGS. BY THE REV. JOSEPH NIGHTINGALE, VOL. X. PART III. LONDON: PrtlNTED rOBJ. HARRIS; LONGMAN AND CO. J J. WALKER; R. BALDWIN} SHERWOOD AND CO. ; J. AND J. CDNDEE; B. AND n. CROSBY AND CO.; cuthell; j. and j. hichardson; cadell and davies; c. ani> j. rivington ; ando. cowie and co. 1815. to ADVERTISEMENT. J.T is with considerable pleasure I now close the present Volume, descriptive principally of the City of London, pro perly so called. The candid Reader will have observed the difficulty under which it has been executed, arising chiefly from a deficiency of information respecting the precise plan intended to have been adopted by my predecessor, had he com pleted it. I have found it totally impossible to conclude, as. was in tended, the Description of London and Westminster with this Third Part ; and, rather than suppress or mutilate, several highly important materials, I have deemedit more conformable to the plan of a work of such a nature to comply with the wishes of several Subscribers, and to give the History, and De scription of the ancient City of Westminster, and the innu merable improvements in its Liberties and immediate neigh bourhood, in a small distinct Part, or Volume. An arrange ment of this kind will certainly require no apology to those who duly appreciate the value of a publication like the present one ; and every thing shall be done in the succeeding Part to render it useful, original, and acceptable to the Subscribers. Concerning ADVERTTSEMENT. Concerning the Third Part now closed, I have but little farther to observe. — That no industry has been wanted, the regular appearance of the numbers will verify. And as to the judgment that has been exercised in the collection and ar rangement of the materials, my readers will differ. In one or two instances, perhaps, the descriptions will appear somewhat lengthened and disproportionate. It is difficult at all times to avoid these discrepancies ; but the reader may rest assured that they shall be avoided as much as possible. Where they have occurred, at the. time, they appeared to me necessary and important. To mention the various persons by name to whom I am in debted for their assistance and communications would present a list of names honourable to my work ; but much too long for this Advertisement. Those to whom I am personally known will, 1 am certain, give me credit for a proper sense of their. kindness ; and others will judge of the estimation in which I hold their obliging communications by the liberal use which I have here made of them. With respect to Books and MSS, I can only observe, that 1 have made such use of all that have come in my way as I thought would enrich or aid my own exertions; and I have never wilfully omitted to acknowledge my authorities. London, July 5th, 1815. List of PLATES inserted (pro tempore) in this Volume, the treasury. the tower of london, from the hill. staines bridge, middlesex. harrow on the hill, middlesex. twickenham, middlesex. temple of concord, in the green park. chelsea hospital. the entrance to hampton court palace. hampton court palace. kensington palace. osterley house, middlesex. chiswick house, middlesex. holland house, middlesex. tower gateway. stepney church, middlesex. the savoy, london. bow church, cheapside. interior of st. catharine's church. old porch, charter house. the british museum. stow's monument, st. andrew undershaft, leadenhall- street, london. the interior of the great hall, charter house. the dutch church, austin friars, london. bentley priory, middlesex, (the seat of the marq.uis op abercorn.) st. luke's hospital, old street road. the tomb of henry the third, westminster ablley. doorway to the temple church, london. THE BEAUTIES OF Cnglant) anb ®Uale& MIDDLESEX. Historical particulars of the city of london, from the fiftieth year of the reign of his present ma jesty, grorge iii. to the peace of paris, in 1814. IN an earlier part of this work, * mention was very briefly made of the great national Jubilee, kept in commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of his Majesty's birth-day; and with that short allusion the Editor closed his narrative of historical events. Since that time the City of London has witnessed many events of magnitude. They will be noticed in their order in this Chap ter. The City of London, as on all occasions for shewing their loyalty, was not wanting in the attention due to a circumstance of such importance as the Jubilee. At An early hour the day was u.shered in by the ringing of bells in the different churches; and at half past ten the Lord Mayor proceeded from the Mansion House to Guildhall, in the City state Coach, drawn by his set of six beautiful grey horses, preceded by the trumpets sounding, and the band of ,the West London Militia playing God Save the King. At Guildhall his Lordship being joined by the members A of * Part I. page 608. t MIDDLESEX". of the Corporation, at half past eleven, the procession moved from thence to St. Paul's Church. In the large space between the iron gates and the west door, the West London Militia received his Lordship with presented arms; and on entering the west door of the Cathedral, he was received by the Dean and Chapter. The centre aisle to the choir was lined on each side by the River Fencibles, in. full uniform. A most excellent and appropriate sermon was preached by his Lordship's Chaplain, from the 8th of the Second of Kings, and the 66th verse. *' And they blessed the King, and went into their tents joyful and glad of heart for all the goodness the Lord had done for David, his servant, and for Israel his people." The Coronation Anthem was performed previous to the ser mon, by the full choir with great effect. The procession returned about three o'clock, in the same order. At five o'clock, the Cor poration were introduced up the grand staircase in front of the Mansion House, the trumpets sounding during their entrance into the vestibule. The building had been previously decorated with a splendid illumination, consisting of elegant devices of the Oak, the Shamrock, and the Thistle, in coloured lamps. In the centre was a radiant display of G. R. and the Crown, -with " Long may he reign." On entering the grand Saloon, lined by the band of the West London Militia, playing God Save the King, Rule Britannia, &c. the company were individually received by the Lord Mayor in his robes of state. The Saloon was brilliantly lighted with several large Grecian lamps beautifully painted ; and at half past five, the doors of the magnificent Egyptian Hall were thrown open, illuminated by the blaze of innumerable lamps, arranged round the pillars, and the elegant lustres and chande liers suspended from the roof. The tables were laid out with the greatest taste, and covered with an elegant and hospitable din ner, the whole of it served in plate; and there was a plentiful supply of Madeira and Red Port of superior quality and flavour. The band continued during the dinner to play several military and MIDDLESEX. 3 and other airs. After the cloth was removed, Non nobis Domine, was sung by Messrs. Taylor, &c. &c. The Lord Mayor then gave " The King, God bless him, and long may he reign over a free and united people," drunk with three times three. When this effusion of loyal feeling had subsided, the grand national anthem of " God Save the King" was performed by the pro fessional gentlemen present, with appropriate additional verses on the occasion, accompanied by the military band. The toasts which were select and loyal, were followed by Rule Britan nia, sung in full chorus by the hand and the company pre sent. The illuminations of the public buildings and offices were unusually tasteful and splendid on the occasion; to heighten the public joy, a proclamation was also issued for pardoning all deserters from the Fleet, whether they returned to their duty or not. Another proclamation announced the pardon of all deserters from the land forces, provided they surrendered in two months. The Lords of the Admiralty ordered an extra allowance of four pounds of beef; three pounds of flour, and a pound of raisins to every eight men in his Majesty's ships in port, or half a pint of rum each man. Eleven Crown debtors were also on this occa sion discharged from prison by the Society for -the relief of per sons confined for Small Debts. The City of London had recently subscribed 1000/. to this useful institution. A form of prayer * was likewise composed and ordered by authority to be read in the churches on this occasion. A 2 Another * "0 God, in whose hands are the issues of life and death, and to wham alone it belongeth to distribute mercies, as well as in lengthening as in short ening the days of men, we yield thee praise and thanksgiving for the pro tection thoa hast voHchsafed to our gracious Sovereign, during a long and arduous reign. Continue, we pray thee, thy watchfulness over him : shield him from the open attacks of his enemies, and from hidden dangers ; from the arrow thatflieth by day, and from the pestilence that walkelh ia darkness ; enlighten his Counsels for the public good : strengthen all his measures ; 4 MIDDLESEX. Another benevolent trait in the Jubilee transpired through Mr. Percival, who sent a letter to the Society for the Relief of Persons confined for Small Debts, to say, that his Majesty had graciously given orders to present thenl with 2000/. from his private purse. In addition to this his Majesty gave 1000/. for the liberation of persons confined for small debts in Scotland ; and the same sum for those under similar circumstances in Ire land. The Merchants of London, pursuant to the example set by the Corporation, also gave 2000/. for the same charitable pur poses. What were called the O. P. riots at Covent Garden Theatre, about this time attracted considerable attention. The opening of this new house having been protracted till the 16th of De cember, the managers, in consequence of the great expence at tending its building, thought proper to make an advance inthe prices of admission ; but though the whole rise was only one shilling on the boxes, and sixpence on the pit, this, with the circumstance of having fitted up a number of private boxes, which were thought to infringe upon the room of the galleries, excited a spirit of resistance in the audience which had never before been equalled by its pertinacity and continued duration. As this rise of the prices had necessarily been announced in the papers pre vious to the opening of the house, the opponents of the managers were prepared to act their parts. Accordingly, on the opening as before mentioned, it appeared that a number of persons were collected in all parts of the house, who, by their noise and riotous behaviour, by barking, shouting, groaning, cat calls, cries of off! •ff! old prices, &c. interrupted the performances, or rendered them measures; and when it shall seem fit to thine unerring wisdom, perfect the ends of both — the restoration of peace and security to his people ; of con cord and independence to contending and bleeding nations. These bless ings and mercies we implore for our Sovereign, ourselves, our allies, and our enemies, through the merits aud mediation of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour." Amen. MIDDLESEX, i Uiem totally inaudible. A crowd of people also assembled on the outside, actuated with like feelings and designs. This noise and riot having continued with increased violence for five suc cessive nights, Mr. Kemble came forward, and announced the intention of the proprietors to shut up the house ; having resolved to submit their accounts and concerns to the inspec tion of a committee of gentlemen of the first respectability, who should report their true state to the public. This committee consisted of Alderman Sir Charles Price, Bart. M. P. Sir Thomas Plomer, Knt. the Solicitor General ; John Sylvester, Esq. Re corder of the City of Loudon : John Whitmore, Esq. Governor of the Bank of England, and John Julius Angerstein, Esq. The report of the committee was, that the rate of profit actually re ceived by the proprietors upon an average of the last six years, upon the capital embarked, amounted to 6|- per cent, per annum, charging the concern with only the sum actually paid for in surance on such part of the capital as was insured ; and that if the whole capital had been insured, the profit would have been reduced to little more than five per cent., &c. ; further stating the opinion of the committee, that the future profits of the new theatre at the proposed advance, would amount to no more than three and a half per cent, per annum upon the capital expended in the theatre. However, notwithstanding the character of the committee, and the perspicuity of their statements, on re-opening the theatre, much to the surprise and mortification of the ma nagers, the same discordant and hideous noises were resumed, with cries of " Old prices," " No garbled extracts to humbug John Bull," &c. Placards also of this nature were not only renewed every night, but the noisy performances of the rioters were related in such a manner in most of the newspapers, as to give them confidence, and even add to their numbers. For the first two or three nights after the re-opening, these disturbances began at the commence ment of the play ; but when the rioters were tired of paying the fell price, they reserved their opposition till the half price com- A 3 menced O MIDDLESEX. menced after nine o'clock; and there seemed at last to ha*« been a conspiracy for the attainment of the end in view. The instruments of noise and uproar were now varied and multiplied ; for in addition to laughing, singing, and groaning, there was an accompaniment of coachmen's horns and trumpets, dustmen's bells and watchmen's rattles. Many persons came with the symboli cal characters ofO. P. or old prices in their hats, and upon their clothes, forming rings, and making mockrfights in the pit, and sometimes pushing together iu a mass ; or otherwise joining in the notable O. P. dance, as it was called, which consisted in the alternate stamping of the feet, accompanied with the regular cry of O. P. in noisy and monotonous cadence. The performances of the house all the while consisted in mere dumb shew and pan- tomimical representation. The proprietors at length, wearied out with this conduct oji the part of the auditors, very imprudently sanctioned the introduction of several pugilists and prize-fighters jnto the house, in order to check the refractory ; and among these, a Jew, nick-named Dutch Sam. For a while, on the first night this experiment was tried, there was a kind of .calm ; but no sooner hud the curtain been drawn up than the actors were saluted with the customary hisses and groans. The constables and fighting men immediately began to act the parts assigned them, and till the half-pay auditors qame in, they had the ad vantage; but when the pit began lo fill, the yell of defiance was renewed, and in five minutes hundreds of fists were clenched in savage hostility. The people were exasperated almost to frenzy at the idea that brutal force was thus employed to compel them to submission, and the evening closed in disgraceful conr fusion. Whether these tumults would have subsided if Mr. Clifford, a barrister of distinction, had not made his appearance at Covent Garden Theatre, is hard to say; but coming into the pit with the letters 0. P. in his hat, he was saluted by the familiar and commendatory address : " Here comes the honest Counsellor." The people again gave free scope to their clamour, and 01$ prices^ MIDDLESEX. 7 prices, and Clifford for ever, became the rallying words of the night. Brandon, the box-keeper, got Mr. Clifford apprehended as a rioter, and carried before a magistrate at Bow-street ; hut he was immediately discharged. Mr. Clifford now indicted Brandon for an assault and false imprisonment, in which indictment Brau- don was cast. When the Jury came in with their verdict for the plaintiff, a shout of universal approbation was heard ; and the applauses of the multitude within the hall, were echoed by those without. At a public dinner at the Crown and Anchor Tavern, acom- mittee had been appointed to defend the persons under prose cution for riot; when the proprietors, thus foiled in their attempt at coercion, thought proper to compromise the dispute be tween themselves and the public; and Mr. Kemhle at length agreed, notwithstanding the losing concern made out by the first Committee of Reference, " that the boxes should continue at 7s. ; that the pit should be lowered to the old price, 3s. 6c?. ; and that the new tier of private boxes in the front of the house should be thrown open and restored to the public at the end of the pre sent season; and that all prosecutions on both sides should be stopped." The people, however, would not he satisfied without the dis- misal of Brandon, the box-keeper, who had been thought guilty of a malignity in the cause of his employers, which was not to be forgiven. This demand was also complied with. But a supplicatory letter from Brandon procured his reinstatement to office, and the part he had taken was overlooked. As to the cause of this scandalous contention; passing over the plea of the proprietors respecting the right of using their capital to the best advantage, the least defensible part of their conduct certainly was the erection of private boxes, which, as they were thought no other than the haunts of profligacy, were offensive to morals and decency. Even granting they had been appropriated only to the nobility, these invidious distinctions in a theatre could not be expected to be borne in this country. After all, if the pro- A 4 prietors S MIDDLESEX. prietors were in the wrong, the law was open for the redress of grievances. Serjeant Best, though counsel for Mr. Clifford, ob served, that however illegal or improper was the conduct of the managers, it could not be resisted by riot; he only contended that his client could not be proved to have had any share in it; and the Jury seem to have admitted the propriety of his rea soning. On the third of this month Mr. Kemble made a motion in the Common-Council for rescinding the resolutions of a former Court respecting a vote of thanks to Colonel Wardle, which was nega tived. The Colonel was not so fortunate in a suit which he instituted against the celebrated Mary Anne Clarke and Daniel Francis Wright: this being tried before Lord Ellenborough in the Court of King's Bench on the 11th of December, the verdict returned was — Not Guilty. Another meeting of the Court of Common-Couucil to con sider of an Address to his Majesty respecting the Ex pedition to the Island of Walcheren, gave rise to a nu merous Meeting of the Livery in Guildhall, and a Second Meeting of the Common-Council to reconsider the Address voted before, which, when ultimately presented to his Majesty on the 20th of December, drew forth a reply from the throne as to the Walcheren business, and other subjects of complaint connected with it in the Address, that his Majesty was the best judge of the propriety or impropriety of the measures adopted by the Executive; and, in fact, that Parliament only had a right to make inquiry. But, notwithstanding the high language used on this occasion, and the strenuous wishes expressed by a mem ber of the Cabinet for the retention of Walcheren, this important Island was evacuated by the British forces on the 23d of Decem ber, 1809, after they had kept possession of it, with Flushing, and several other strong posts, nearly six months. About this time the Court of St. James's received an additional tribute of respect in the mission of his Excellency Mirza. Abdul Hassan, the Perian Ambassador, who, presenting his credentials U MIDDLESEX. 9 to his Majesty at the Queen's Palace, the great gates wer& thrown open with mnch solemnity. The City about this time received an augmentation of its numerous commercial facilities in the opening of the navigation of the Canal from the River Thames to the town of Croydon, in Surrey. The death of an eminent statesman, iu the person of the Duke of Portland, was among the memorable events of the present year. His Grace, who from illness had resigned his seat in the Cabinet but a few days before, died, at Burlington-House, Picca dilly, in the 71st year of his age. Though the Duke had for many years deserted the party he was attached to, it was his fortune to be tenderly spoken of even by his former friends. On Monday, Nov. 6, his Grace's funeral took place ; the St. James's Volun teers mustered in St. James's Square, and afterwards formed a part of the procession on this solemn occasion. At eleven in the forenoon the cavalcade set out, and proceeded up Bond-Street on its way to St. Mary-le-bone Church-yard, where the Duchess of Portland lies interred in a magnificent family vault. The hearse was richly emblazoned with heraldic ornaments, and drawn by six horses, followed by several state-carriages and mourning coaches. The coffin was covered with a rich Genoa crimson vel vet, decorated with silver gilt nails and escutcheons. On the plate was inscribed, " The Most Noble William Henry Cavendish Bentinck, Duke of Portland, died October the 30th, 1809, aged 71 years." As Chancellor of Oxford, his Grace was succeeded by Lord Gren ville. The first session of parliament for 1810 was opened by com- mission, when the speech, read by the Lord Chancellor, ex pressed his Majesty's deep regret that the exertions of the Emperor of Austria had proved unavailing. The attack made upon the Scheldt in the preceding year was also noticed ; and, though the principal ends of the expedition were allowed not to have been accomplished, it was hoped that advantages, materially affecting the security of his Majesty's dominions in the further prosecution I© MIDDLESEX. prosecution of the war, would result from the demolition of the Docks aud Arsenals ' at Flushing, which important object his Majesty was enabled to accomplish in consequence of the reduc tion of Walcheren. His Majesty further signified, that the inter course between his Minister in America and the Government of the United States had been suddenly and unexpectedly inter rupted, an event which he sincerely regretted. The expulsion of the French from Portugal, and the glorious victory obtained at Talavera by Lord Wellington, were likewise noticed; while his Majesty lamented that Sweden should have found it necessary to purchase peace by considerable sacrifices. But, under all these misfortunes, the trade and revenue of the country were repre sented as being highly satisfactory. After the investigation of the Walcheren expedition had been nearly brought to a close, Mr. Yorke, on the 1st of February, gave notice of his intention to euforce the standing order of the house for the exclusion of strangers. This rule, which is settled at the commencement of eyery session of parliament, led to a train of events which very materially endangered the peace of the City of London. Mr. Sheridan having made a motion " That a Committee of Privileges be appointed to meet in the Speaker's Chamber, &c." Mr. Windham wished to know in what manner the daily publishing the debates of the House of Commons, was advantage ous to the country ? What was the value to their constituents of knowing what was passing in that house ? Supposing they should never know, it was only the difference between a representative government and a democracy. Till the last thirty years, or a few years further back, he said it was not even permitted to publish the debates of that house. So lately as Dr. Johnson's time the debates were never published but under fictitious names. He now saw that the uniform and constant admission of strangers led to a most mischievous tendency ; and he thought the house ought to maintain those regulations and orders which had so long prevailed. Lord Folkstone and Mr. Tierney. objected to Mr, Windham's doctrine ; and Mr. Peter Moore asked if there was r? ' any MIDDLESEX. 11 Any thing going on in that house of which they were ashamed ? The Chancellor of the Exchequer concurred in most of what had fallen from Mr. Windham, though he was not prepared to carry his concurrence to the full extent of that right honourable gentle man's opinions. On a division of the house, there appeared for Mr. Sheridan's motion, 80 ; against, 166. It soon after rather unfortunately happened that what had passed in the House of Commons on the subject of excluding strangers, was made the subject of a debate in a Society called The British Forum ; and the following placard was every where exhibited on the walls of the metropolis : " WINDHAM AND YORKE.^-British Forum, 33, Bed. ford Street, Covent-Garden, — Monday, February 19, 1810. — question : — " Which was a greater outrage on the public feelr ing, Mr. Yorke's enforcement of the standing order to exclude strangers from the House of Commons, or Mr. Windham's recent attack on the liberty of the press ?" Last Monday, after an inter esting discussion, it was unanimously decided that the enforce ment of the standing order for shutting strangers out of the House of Commons, ought to be censured as an insidious and ill- timed attack on the liberties of the press, as tending to aggra^ vate the discontents of the people, and render their representat tives objects of jealous suspicion. The present question was brought forward as a comparative inquiry, and may be justly expected to furnish a contested and interesting debate. — Printed by J. Dean, Wardour-street." Mr. Yorke having stated this in the House of Commons oi) February 19, John Dean was ordered to attend the bar, and was committed to the custody of the Serjeant at Arms. On the 21st John Gales Jones being brought to the bar, and asked by the Speaker what he had to say ? answered, " I acknow ledge that I was the author of that paper; and I am extremely sorry that the printer of it has suffered inconvenience on my account." Jones, at the desire of the Speaker, repeated what he ba4 said, *nd further declared, that " in what he had done, n« 12 MIDDLESEX. he was not actuated by any disrespect to the privileges of the house, or the persons of the members individually. He had always considered it to be the privilege of every Englishman to animadvert on public measures and the conduct of public men. He said he had erred, acknowledged his sincere contrition, and threw himself on the mercy of that honourable house." He was, notwithstanding, committed to Newgate ; but, as to John Dean, at the intercession of Mr. Yorke, and presenting a petition, after being reprimanded by the Speaker, he was discharged out of custody without paying any fees. This imprisonment of John Gale Jones in Newgate, it will appear ultimately led to the com mitment of Sir Francis Burdett to the Tower. On the 12th of February a motion being made by the honour able baronet for the acquittal of Jones, it brought on a most interesting debate : — with respect to his commitment for a breach of the privileges of that house, the house, he contended, and , parliament, were different; there must consequently be a differ ence in the extent of the privileges which they might separately, or, in conjunction with the other house of parliament, be supposed to possess. On this ground he maintained that the imprisonment of John Gale Jones was an infringement of the law of the land, and a subversion of the principles of the constitution. The question was, if the House of Commons had a right to imprison a person, not a member of that house, for an offence punishable by the ordinary course of law ; and, by a vote for that purpose, deprive the people of their imperscriptible rights ? In this question there were involved two distinct qualities: privilege and power. Privilege the house possessed for its own protection; power was a right exercised over others. Privilege they were to exercise to prevent the Crown from molesting them, as a shield to them selves, and not as a scourge to the rest of the people. The warrant of commitment, too, in the case of Gale Jones, he con. tended was illegal in all its parts, but eminently so in its con clusion. A warrant must conclude with the words " till the party be delivered by the due course of the law." Lord Coke laid + it MIDDLESEX. 13 it down explicitly, that no man could be sent to prison without trial and judgment. The privilege talked of would make the house as great as King, Lords, and Commons ! He might be told this is a privilege of parliament. He answered, No ; it was a privilege assumed only by one branch of the legislature. Sir Fletcher Norton had said, that " he would pay no more at tention to a resolution of that house than to a set of drunken porters at an alehouse." The observation was coarse, but just. If the members were persuaded that a resolution of that house was equal to that of all the branches of the constitution, they would agree in rejecting his proposition : but, if with him, they thought they could not overturn the law of the land, and the acts of parliament solemnly passed, they would agree with him that John Gale Jones must be discharged. Mr. C. Wynne and the Attorney-General cited a number of cases to shew the right of both houses to commit for any con tempt or breach of their privileges. Lord Folkstone maintained the house was competent on its own authority to punish any contempt or interruption of its proceedings. He denied, how ever, that the publication of a libel was to be regarded as a con tempt : for, if libel and contempt were the same, how came Hart and White to be brought to trial for a libel in the Court of King's Bench. Mr. Sheridan moved, as an amendment, that Mr. Gale Jones should be discharged in consequence of the con trition he had expressed, &c. ; but this was negatived, and the original motion lost in a division : for it, 14, — against it, 153. The time was now hastening when Ministers, as well as the other advocates for exclusive privileges, were lo have their satis faction : on Saturday, March 24, there appeared in Cobbett's Weekly Register a Letter, inscribed " Sir Francis Burdett to his Constituents," denying the power of the House of Commons to imprison the people of England. In this, he said, he had laid the case of Mr. Jones before them in a more full and connected way than could possibly be done by parliamentary reporters. Two days after the publication, it was brought to the notice of parliament 14 MIDDLESEX. parliament by Mr. Lethbridge, at whose desire the question wa» put by the Speaker to Sir Francis Burdett, whether he acknow ledged himself to be the author? Sir Francis answering that he did, Mr. Lethbridge gave notice of a motion which he made on the following day. For the purpose of saving time, Mr. Leth bridge had marked several passages in the letter ; and, among the most offensive, the following : — " The House of Commons having passed a vote, which amounts to a declaration that an order of their's is to be of more importance than Magna Charta and the laws of the land, I think it my duty to lay my senti ments thereon before my constituents, whose character, as free men, and even whose personal safety depend in a great degree on the decision of this question ; a question of no less importance than this Whether our liberty be still to be secured by the laws of our forefathers, or to lie at the absolute mercy of a part of our fellow subjects, collected together by means which it is not necessary for me to describe." If the Commons, he argued, have the absolute power of im prisoning and releasing, why may they not send their prisoners to York jail, as well as to a jail in London ? Why not confine men in solitary cells, or load them with chains and bolts ? He further more charged them with exercising a jurisdiction beyond the limits of King, Lords, and Commons, while Magna Charta remains un repealed, and repealed it never could be, he said, till England shall have found her grave in the corruption of the House of Commons. They have, said he, by burgage tenure, become the proprietors of the whole representation, and, in that capacity, inflated with their high-flown fanciful ideas of majesty, and tricked out in the trappings of royalty, they assume the sword of prerogative, and lord it equally over the King aud the people. In Writing this Address to his constituents, Sir Francis assured the house he had no idea that he was infringing any privilege : Was it to be supposed that the simple act of arguing on the powers of the Commons was a crime ? Would not the house endure MIDDLESEX. 15 endure even an abstract doubt of their powers ? He was willing to abide by the fact and arguments of what he had written. He would stand the issue; and, if it was the pleasure of the house, he would withdraw : the Speaker stating that this was the uni form usage, Sir Francis withdrew accordingly. Mr. Lethbridge then proposed two resolutions : First, that the Letter, signed Francis Burdelt, and the further argument which was published in the paper called " Cobbelt's Weekly Register," on the 24th of this instant, is a libellous and scandalous paper, reflecting upon the just rights and privileges of this house. Second, That Sir Francis Burdett, who suffered the above articles to be printed with his name, and by his authority, has been guilty of a viola tion of the privileges of this house. The motion was seconded by Mr. Blachford, who imputed the arguments of Sir Francis to the spirit of Jacobinism, which, he said, if not checked in time, would not only take away the dignity, the character, and au thority of that house, but destroy the very existence of it as a branch of the legislature. Mr. Sheridan deprecated all rashness and precipitancy in the proceedings upon this case. Sir Samuel Romilly said, that any man had a right to discuss any great constitutional question. He might shew his folly in arguing a point in which no other man could agree with him, but still he ha supposing all his wishes realized, was, for the time, made truly happy ; but was extremely distressed when a detection rendered it necessary to send the child back to its reial parents in London, attended by proper offi cers, and the woman in custody, who was in the ensuing sessions convicted of a misdemeanor. An act of parliament has been since passed, by whiteh child -stealing is very properly made felony , both in the perpetrator, aild those aiding and assisting. The demise of a very singular character occulted on the 18th of March this year, viz. Mr. John Home Tooke, the ci-devant friend and *nemy of the celebrated John Wilkes. This took place at his house at Wimbledon in the 77th year of his age. His MIDDLESEX. 07 His health had not long been, in a declining state; and, for some time, he had lost the use of his lower extremities. A few days before his dissolution a mortification appeared, and made rapid advances. His humour and eccentricity remained in full force to the last; and, even in the gripe of death, the serenity of his countenance never forsook him. While he was speechless, and considered to have been insensible, Sir Francis Burdett (who was present with a few more friends,) prepared a cordial for him, which the medical attendants declared to be of no avail, but which the Baronet persisted in offering, and raised up the patient for that purpose, when the latter perceiving who offered the draught, drank it off with a smile, and in a few minutes after expired. A tomb had long been prepared for Mr. Tooke in his own garden at Wimbledon,, in which it was his firm purpose to have been buried ; but this, after his decease, being opposed by his daughters and an aunt of theirs, his remains were transferred to Ealing Church, where they were interred according to the rites and ceremonies of the church of England: otherwise it was bis desire that no funeral ceremony should be read over his body, but that six poor men should have a guinea each to bear him to the vault in his garden. That a very singular address was this year presented to his Royal Highness the Prince Regent, from the Common-Council of the City of London, may be justly inferred from the answer the Prince Was pleased to return, as follows : " It must always be my inclination to listen with attention to the Petitions of any part of his Majesty's subjects. For the re dress of any grievances of which they can reasonably complain, I have full confidence in the wisdom of parliament, the great coun cil of the nation. " Being firmly of opinion that the total change in the domes* tic government and foreign policy of the country, the declared object of your Petition to accomplish, would only serve to in crease the dangers against which we have to contend, I should be wanting to myself, and to the great interests committed to E 2 my 05 MIDDLESEX. my charge, if I did not steadily persevere in those endeavours which appear to me best calculated to support the just rights of the nation abroad, and to preserve, inviolate, the constitution at home. These endeavours caii only be attended with success when seconded by the zeal and loyalty of his Majesty's people, upon which I sha'l continue to place the strongest reliance." A dreadful high wind occurred on the 27th of October this year, by which a lamplighter was blown over the balustrades of Blackfriars'-bridge, and sunk to rise no more. Downing-street, Westminster, was greatly alarmed by the falling of bricks and tiles from a ruinated house. About seven in the morning the large iron pipe affixed on the chimney of Colonel Calvert's apart ments in the Horse-Guards, was blown into the front of the building in Whitehall, fortunately doing no injury. A woman and child were killed in Blackfriar's-Road; several persons were wounded in the Borough ; and many other accidents of the same sort happened throughout the metropolis and in the environs. Fortunately, in addition to the prosperous state of affairs at home, the year 1S12 was closed by the official publication of a Treaty of Peace between Great Britain and Russia, in which it was agreed that the relations of amity and commerce between the two- countries should be re-established on each side on the foot ing of the most favoured nations, the perpetuity of which was now rising in probability every day, from the reiterated defects and distresses of the French army in Russia, accounts and confirma tions of which arrived almost with every post. And if any event served lo cast any degree of shade upon the brightening prospect, it was on the opening of parliament in December, when, with the deepest concern, the Prince Regent announced the continu ance of his Majesty's lamented indisposition, and the dimunition of the hopes he had most anxiously entertained for his recqvery. The' speech also noticed the relations of peace and friendship, restored between his Majesty and the Courts of St, Petersburgh and Stockholm, and the additional proof of the confidence which the Regent had received from his Imperial Majesty, in the mea- 6 sure MIDDLESEX. 69 sure which he had adopted of sending his fleets to the ports of this country : a tacit acknowledgment that Britain was almost the only point in Europe invulnerable to the common enemy. The commencement of the year 1813, exhibited a cheering idea of the growing independence of Great Britain as to com merce, as the lords of trade, acting upon the authority of govern ment, had adopted the determination of putting a stop to the intercourse with France by licences. An immense number of these had reoentiy been issued by Buonaparte, in expectation that they would be met by corresponding licences from the Board of Trade, so that the cessation of these indigencies on our part had the useful tendency of rendering his grants as useless as waste paper, and thus adding to that embarrassment which was rapidly undermining the whole system. On the night of Wednesday,- January 13, a most distressing scene presented itself to the inhabitants of Aldgate, by the dis covery of an alarming fire, at the house of Mr. Coats, who having gone out to spend the evening, a- young man sitting up for him, sleeping in his chair, awoke from it almost in a state of suffoca tion. The first step he took was to alarm the watchman ; he next proceeded to a Mr. Evans's bed-room door and alarmed him. The unfortunate female servant was by this time apprized of her situation, having been awakened by the perseverance of some butcher's boys who flung sheep and calves feet at her win dow. There was still a young man asleep in his bed in an ad joining apartment, whom she apprised: their situation was by this time become most desperate. Mr. Evans, together with the young man who' first discovered the fire, with much difficulty made good his retreat, by jumping iuto a back court adjoining the premises, out of the kitchen-window on the first floor. The other young man, with the poor servant, were now the only inhabit ants of this fiery scene : they were situated in a third story, surrounded by flames. No hopes of retreat, the only refuge left was jumping out of a window, a height about twenty feet, on some leads, a space about a foot and a half, adjoining which was E 3 a sky- 70 MIDDLESEX. ft sky-Itght belonging to the next house. The young man urging the young woman to follow him, first made good his landing ; he again waved his hand to her to follow, but to no effect. Her shrieks were distressing, and her heart now began to fail her. She shook her head, and before his sight disappeared, and was seen no more. This forlorn young man had still to make good his way from this perilous situation by jumping through the sky light into the adjoining premises, which he accomplished without any material injury. The house was burnt to the ground. Ou the 27th of March, the monument erected by the Corpo ration of London to the memory of the Right Honourable William Pitt, in Guildhall, was opened to public view, placed on the south side of that edifice, exactly facing that of his father, the great Earl of Chatham. Mr Canning, accompanied by George Leveson Gower, attended the Corporation Committee, and, after viewing it, expressed his satisfaction with its design aud exe cution. In the course of the spring as a number of gross and unfounded calumnies had been disseminated against the Princess of Wales, the spouse of his Royal Highness the Prince Regent, the City thought proper to present an address to her on the 17th of April, expressing that the sentiments of profound veneration and ardent affection which they entertained for her had never experienced diminution or change, and assuring her they should always feel, and be ready to give proof of their most auxious solicitude for her health, prosperity, and happiness. To this her Royal High ness replied, that it was a great consolation for her to learn, that during so many years of unmerited persecution, the kind and favourable sentiments with which the City of London had at first received her, had undergone no change. Their sense of abhor rence against the foul and detestable conspiracy which perjured and suborned traducers had carried on against her life and ho nour, she said, was worthy of them. The consciousness of her innocence had supported her through her long, severe, and unmerited trials. She added, that she would not lose any op portunity MIDDLESEX! ? I portunity she might be permitted to enjoy of encouraging the talents and virtues of her dear daughter, the Princess Charlotte, who would clearly perceive the value of that free constitution* over which, in the natural course of events, it would be her high destiny to preside. This distinguished proceeding, she said, adopted by the first city in this great empire, would be considered by posterity as a proud memorial of her vindicated honour. This Address the City presented to her Royal High ness at Kensington Palace, was not, as usual, inserted in the London Gazette. On Sunday evening, May 30, the murder of Mr. Benar, one of the most respectable merchants of the City of London, and his lady, was found to be equal in atrocity to any that had lately dis graced the country. This, notwithstanding the alarm it had excited here, occurred at his country-house, at ChiseHiurst, in Kent. This dreadful deed, it appears, was the act of Philip Nicholson, a footman, who, without any accountable motive, availed himself of the dead of night, and the absence of all the rest of the family, to go into his master and mistresses bed-chamber. With a poker, which it seems he took from the servant's hall, he made to his mistress's bed, and struck her two blows on the head : she nei ther spoke nor moved : he then went round to his master's bed, and struck him once across the face. Mr. Bonar was roused ; and, from the effects produced by the stunning violence of this Mow, and another immediately repeated, sprung out of bed, and grappled with the inhuman monster nearly fifteen minutes, and at one time was nearly getting the better of him, but being ex hausted by loss of blood, was at length overpowered, Nicholson then left him groaning on the floor, and went down stairs, and after washing off the blood as well as he could, opened the win dows of the drawing-room, in order that it might be supposed the person or persons who had committed the crime had entered that way. The artifice, however, was too shallow; he was sus pected, and being apprehended, soon confessed the particulars of the crime, for which he was ' tried at Maidstone on the 20th of E 4 August 72 MIDDLESEX. August, 1813, found guilty, and shortly after executed upon Pennenden Heath, about a mile and a half from that place. Even when upon the platform at the place of execution, the un happy wretch being urged by the son of Mr. Bonar, to confess whether he had any antipathy against his master or mistress, clapping his hands together as well as his heavy irons would admit, exclaimed, " As God is iu heaven, it was a momentary thought, as I have repeated before." He died unusually hard. This year Vaceine Inoculation, the practice of which had met with some obstacles, from a disagreement of opinion in a number of individuals belonging to the faculty, received the unqualified sanction of the Royal College of Surgeons, who entered into an engagement between themselves and with the public, not to inoculate for the small-pox, unless for some special reason, after vaccination ; but to pursue,- and to the utmost of their power promote, the practice of vaccination, concluding with their re commendation to all the members of the College of correspondent opinions and sentiments of duty, to enter into similar engage ments. On the 15th of July the City of London, feeling in common with the country at large, the benefits acquired by the successes obtained by Marquis Wellington, determined upon an address to his Royal Highness the Prince Regent, in which they offered their heart-felt congratulations on the brilliant and decisive vic tory obtained over the French forces in the neighbourhood of Vittoria, on the 21st of June; a victory, they observed, so com plete and decisive, that it could not fail to produce the happiest effects on the liberties and independence of Europe; and con cluding with their earnest hope, that it might promote, and finally secure an honourable and lasting peace. To this loyal and patriotic address his Royal Highness gave the following answer : " I return you ray warmest thanks for your dutiful and loyal address. The victory with which it has pleased Almighty God %o bless the operations of the allied army under its illustrious commander MIDDLESEX. 73 commander, Field-Marshal Wellington, cannot fail to have excited, in every part of the united kingdom, the strongest emotions of exultation and gratitude ; and it is with the utmost satisfaction that I receive such a testimony of feelings which animate the metropolis of the empire on this most interesting and important occasion. Success so splendid and decisive, so glorious in all respects to the arms of his Majesty and his allies, is calculated to contribute most essentially to the establishmeut of the inde pendence of the Peninsula on a firm and lasting foundation, and to the improvement of our prospects in all other parts of the world." About this time the foundation of the New Prison in White- cross-street, near Cripplegate, was laid. This extensive build ing is to be solely appropriated to the imprisonment of London and Middlesex Debtors, instead of confining those unfortunate persons, as before, in the criminal prisons of the metropolis. Mr. Alderman Wood, as chairman of the Committee appointed to superintend the building, laid the first stone, attended by the Dukes of Kent and Sussex, and several other persons of dis tinction. The expression of the public mind on the subject of the recent victories, was not confined to addresses. Tbe metropolis was illuminated, more or less, ou the nights of the 5th, 6th, and 7th of July. The fronts of Carlton-House and Somerset-House, exhibited each a blaze of light, with the name of Wellington formed with lamps, and allusions to the hero's exploits. The India-House, the Mansion-House, Apsley- House, (viz. Marquis Wellesley's, Piccadilly,) with the houses of the Spanish Ambas sador and the Spanish Consul, were illuminated with much spirit aud elegance: and many individuals made displays not less ho nourable to their patriotism, than to their taste and judgment. Still the public joy was not to rest here : those who have witnessed the gaudy exhibitions of eastern profusion, or whose vivid imaginations may have outrun the fabulous description of Arabian story, may form some imperfect idea of the dazzling, toe 74 MIDDLESEX. the intolerable splendour, and of the lavish and unbounded mag nificence of the scene : but persons, whose ideas never before extended beyond the vulgar standard of metropolitan illumina tions, or a common civic festival, can have no adequate concep tion of the effect produced by an assemblage of all the nobility, wealth, splendour, and beauty, of the three kingdoms, collected within the boundary of Vauxhall Gardens, where nature appeared to have been ransacked, and art exhausted, to administer to the pomp and lustre of the scene. For such we should search in Vain for words suited to the grandeur of the subject : suffice it to say, the advertisements stated that dinner would be on table at four o'clock ; those persons provided with tickets were not admit ted till four; but, for a considerable time previous to this, the company had begun to collect ; and, towards five, the road from Westminster-bridge was choaked with carriages of all descrip tions. The pathways were crowded with an immense number of spectators — " leads were filled and ridges horsed." Soon after five, 1200 people were assembled in the gardens waiting the arrival of the Duke of York. The preparations made for accom modating the company were as follow : — The rotunda was filled by a semi-circular table, which was raised upon a platform appro priated to the Royal Family, the Foreign Ambassadors, the Mi nisters, &c. ; at the head of which was placed a seat for the illus trious chairman ; and behind was ranged, on raised shelves, co vered with orimson cloth, a vast quantity of the richest gold and silver plate, surmounted by a bust of the Marquis of Wellington. At the back of the ohair was stationed two trumpeters, and a grenadier holding the standard of the 100th regiment of French horse, taken at the battle of Vittoria. The baton of Marshal Jourdan was disposed of among the plate so as to be obvious to all. On the same platform, was a small square table appropriated t& the Lord Mayor, the Aldermen of the City, and their imme diate friends. Three other tables filled up the remaining space, occupied principally by such of the stewards as were not engaged in HiakiBg arrangements. In the Saloon Were three long tables; and MIDDLESEX, 75 and beyond that, in a temporary building erected among the trees, the trunks of which served to support the roof, tastefully composed of the ensigns of Great Britain, Spain, and Portugal, were accommodations in a most convenient form for nearly 900 persons. These different apartments were lighted by wax candles on the tables, by magnificent glass lustres, by alabaster glohes of patent lamps, ami by other lamps variously disposed in festoons, crowns, wreaths, pyramids, &c. About half past five, the Duke of York, attended by his royal brothers, the Dukes of Clarence, Kent, Sussex, Cambridge, and the Duke of Gloucester, arrived. The company then took their seats at the tables covered with a cold dinner, except turtle soup. The wines provided were Port, Madeira, and Claret. As soon as the cloth was removed, one of the trumpeters, stationed at the back of the Duke of York's chair, sounded a parley, which was answered by another trum peter at a distant part of the garden, producing a very novel and striking effect, The public singers, about thirty in number were then requestod to sing Non nobis Domine. After this, the first toast was, " The King," with three times three, and the anthem of " God Save the King," followed it. The com pany next drank. " The Prince Regent," with three times three; and Mr. Taylor gave the song of " The Prince and Old Eng land for ever." A number of others followed; and the last toast given was that of the Ladies, who soon afterwards arrived to partake of the unrivalled festivities. By this time the day was closing, and the lamps throughout the Gardens were lighted. The night was cloudless; but none of the heavenly bodies Were visible. The Orchestra appeared a building of solid light ; and in the front of it, above the boxes, was a boarding, and at its summit, a blazing Sun, having the letters G. P. R. in the centre. Between the two medallions was the name of Wel lington; and round the colouades, in vivid light, were to be read the names of all the principal cities and towns in the Penin- rula, the scenes of British glory; and, on the same line, the names of the British generals who had achieved the victories. These 76 MIDDLESEX. These were surmounted by wreaths of laurel and emblematical shields. In an anterior colonade was inscribed, in the same Burning characters of variegated light, the titles of the Spanish generals who had nobly fought or fallen in the cause of their country. Behind the orchestra was a large brilliant transparency, representing the Serjeant of the 87th regiment, presenting to the Marquis of Wellington, who was seated on horseback, the baton - of Marshal Jourdan, found upon the field of battle. The fire works were under the direction of Colonel Congreve, and were singularly magnificent and striking. They were discharged at three intervals, viz. at eleven, twelve, and one o'clock. The tout ensemble was so completely magical, that the ladies, who arrived in great numbers after dark, were so much occupied in silent wonder on the first view, that it was long before they could find words to express their feelings. The dresses of both sexes were peculiarly splendid. Uniforms were extremely pre valent ; and all the Royal Family wore regimentals. The Duke of Sussex wore a Highland dress, as well as several officers of his regiment. The dancing did not commence till a very late hour : and the croud collected on the outside of the walls was so great, that they literally prevented the ingress and egress of the visitors even as late as two or three in the morning. Some ladies of the first fashion and consequence actually walked several miles to gain admittance, because they found it impossible to proceed in their carriages. About two o'clock the road from Vauxhall as far as Marsh-gate was one solid immoveable mass of coaches horses, and servants ; and many parties were, in all probability, prevented from witnessing this gorgeous and unrivalled exhibi tion. Still it was thought by some that the lustre of this festi vity was considerably dimmed by an occurrence rather derogatory to the high and generous feelings of Englishmen, viz. the Prin cess of Wales, the wife of the heir apparent, who made her ap pearance, but not being formally invited, could not be indulged with a seat ! Even under these circumstances that she should have been so slighted and neglected, and at last suffered to depart without MIDDLESEX. 77 without the slightest refreshment, or the offer of a seat, certainly did excite very strange sensations in the bosoms of many present. She did not go into the dinner-room ; but, after an hour's pro menade, her Royal Highness retired ! In order to pay respect to that part of the community that might not think the celebration of public fetes equal to acts of piety in return for national prosperity, a form of prayer* and thanksgiving, especially for the signal victory of the 21st of June, was read in all churches aud chapels. At a Common- Hall on the 29th of September, Mr. Alderman Domville and Mr. Alderman Wood being returned by the Livery of London as proper persons to fill the important office of Lord Mayor of London, the Court of Aldermen having proceeded to a scrutiny, Mr. Domville was declared duly and unanimously elected. In the beginning of October Dr. Howley's election to the bishoprick of London, was confirmed at Bow Church, Cheapside being the oldest church in the diocese, by Sir William Scott, the vicar-general of the province of Canterbury, with the usual cere monies. * " O Lord God of Hosts, who chiefly declarest thy almighty power by protecting the oppressed, and smiting to the ground the proud oppressor, and who, in the defence of injured nations, teachest thy servants to war, and girdest them with strength for battle, we yield Thee praise and thanksgiving for the continued successes in Spain, with which Thou hast been pleased to crown the conduct of our General, and the valour of our soldiers; but mora especially for the signal and decisive victory, which, under the same com mander, Thou hast recently vouchsafed to the allied armies in the battle of Vittoria. Continue, we pray Thee, thy blessing upon the counsels of our general j maintain and support the courage and strength of the allied armies j sanctily the cause in which they are united j and as it hath pleased Thee to put back, with confusion of face, the proud invader of Spain and Portugal, let the allied armies and allied kingdoms prostrate themselves with one con tent before Thee, and acknowledge, with humility of heart, the victory t» be thine. These prayers and thanksgiwngs we humbly offer to tby Divine Majesty in the name and through th« mediation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." 78 MIDDLESEX. monies. On the morning of the 3d, Dr. Howley was consecrated* Bishop of London at Lambeth Chapel. At half past ten the Qaeen, (who had expressed her wish to be present,) with two of the Princesses, were received at Lambeth Palace by the Archbi shop, who conducted them into the drawing-room, where Dr. Howley, the bishop elect, the bishops of Oxford, Gloucester, and Salisbury, the vicar-general, in their full robes, and other distinguished characters, paid their respects to them, after which they proceeded to his Grace's chapel. The Queen and Prin cesses were conducted into Mrs. Sutton's family gallery. No person was admitted into the body of the chapel except those engaged in the ceremony. Dr. Howley took his seat the last on the right of the altar. The morning service was read by one of the Archbishop's chaplain's : the Bishop of Gloucester read the epistle ; the Bishop of Oxford the gospel : the sermon was preached by the Rev. Dr. Goddard, who took a general view of the established church from the period of the reformation ; and dwelt upon the divine institution and expediency of the episcopal order. Early in November this year, an accident happened which af forded a fresh instance of the pernicious copperas quality of the London Dock water : a Mr. Ferrier, nephew to Mr. Sandeman, a respectable merchant, having some business to transact in these Docks, unfortunately fell between two vessels whilst iu the act of stepping from one to another ; he rose several times, and in the space of eight minutes was got into a boat; but it was too late to save his life. A surgeon present declared, that even had no bruises taken place, the pernicious quality of the water never fails proving fatal to persons long immersed in it. On Saturday November 21, the whole city of London was thrown, as it were, into a state of temporary delirium ; the heart cheering news of a counter-revolution in Holland, in which the French were every where ejected, while the allies were march ing in to the assistance of the natives, reached town this after noon. This gave birth to an extraordinary Gazette, and the 9 firing MIDDLESEX. 79 firing of the Park and Tower guns on Sunday evening. From ttote Gazette, and by the arrival of Baron Per'poncher and M. Faiel, it appeared that a counter-revolution had broke out in part of the United Provinces on the preceding Monday, the 15th of November, 1813, when the people of Amsterdam rose in a body, proclaiming the House of Orange, with the old cry of Orange Bmen, and universally putting up the Orange Colours. This example was immediately followed by other towns of the pro vinces of Holland, as Haerlem, Leyden, Utrecht, the Hague, Rot terdam, &C. where the French government was dismissed, and a temporary government proclaimed in the name of the Prince of Orange, until his serene Highness's arrival. In fact, the proclamation issued by the new governor of the Hague, ex cited as much joy here as it was possible even for the Dutch to feel, as in a commercial view, it seemed equally as applicable to us as themselves.* That no time might be lost, on Thursday the 25th of Novem ber, his Serene Highness the Prince of Orange left London, and embarked with the Earl of Clancarty, and was joyfully received by his ancient and faithful subjects, whose joint efforts have since been crowned with the happiest success. On the 7th of December a proclamation for a General Thanks giving was issued from Carlton House, to be observed in England, Ireland, and Scotland, ou the 13th of January following, for the series of signal and glorious victories over the enemy, and the in estimable benefits which this kingdom had received at the hands of * The following placard was exhibited in various parts of the city of Am sterdam : " ORANGE BOVEN ! Holland is free ! The allies advance upon Utrecht. The English are invited. The French fly on all sides. The sea is open. Trade revives. Party spirit has ceased. What lias been suffered is forgiven and forgotten. Men of consequence and consideration are called to the goVerntnent. The government invites the Prince to the Sovereignty. We join the allies, and force the enemy to sue for peace. The people are to have a day of rejoicing at the public expense, without being allowed to plun der, or to commit any excess. Every one renders thanks to God. Old times are returned. Orange Boven." 80 MIDDLESEX. of Almighty God, &c. This drew forth an ardent and loyal ad-* dress from the City of London to the Prince Regent on the late glorious events; highly congratulating him on his recent de claration on the opening of Parliament, " that uo disposition to require from France sacrifices inconsistent with her honour, or just pretensions as a nation, would ever on the part of his Royal Highness or his allies, be an obstacle to peace." In the answer returned to this Address, the Prince, after expressing his satis faction with the dutifulness and loyalty of the sentiments, added that great and unremitted exertions were still necessary ; but that he was persuaded that any further sacrifices required would be made by the citizens of London, and by all descriptions of his Majesty's subjects, with the same fortitude and perseverance which had distinguished the country- throughout the whole of the present contest ; the expected reward of which would be an ho nourable and lasting peace. This year 1814, had scarcely commenced, when it became'ge- nerally known that the Prince Regent and his ministers, acting up to the spirit of those pacific professions so recently made, had dispatched Lord Castlereagh to the head quarters of the allies at Chatillon sur Seine, in France, which country he never quitted till he had happily completed the object of his mission. If any thing ominous had, as usual in the darker ages, been attached to the appearances of the weather when his Lordship set out from London, the happy issue of his embassy would have sufficiently exposed the futility of such auguries : perhaps his Lordship's de parture from London on Monday, December 27, 1813, about severr in the evening, was attended by a fog, which, for its density and duration might have been equalled, but could not possibly have been exceeded at any time. Fortunately, his Lordship proceeded on the Essex road towards Harwich without interruption ; it was not so with the Prince Regent, who intending to pay a visit to the Marquis of Salisbury at Hatfield House, Herts, was obliged to return to Carlton House, after one of his out riders had fallen into a ditch on this side Kentish Town. It MIDDLESEX. BI ft was remarked that the winter of 1795, in several par ticulars resembled the present i but there was nothing in the memory of man to equal the continued fall of snow for nearly eight days, in the beginning of the winter of 1813-14. Al most twelve weeks the Wind blew continually from the north and north-east, and wds intensely cold. A short thaw also, which scarcely lasted one day, only rendered the state of the streets ten times worse. Hence the masses 6f snow and Water became so thick that it was with difficulty that hackney coaches With an additional horse, could plough their way through. In some streets in the city men were employed on the Sundays to remove the snow. Almost all trades and callings carried on in the streets were stopped, which considerably increased the distresses of the lower orders. Few carriages, even stages, could travel on the roads, which even about town seemed deserted. From many buildings, icicles full a yard and half long, were seen suspended. The house water pipes were -mostly frozen; whence it became necessary to have plugs iii the streets for the supply of all ranks of people. One fall of snow continued forty-eight hours inces santly, after the ground had been covered with a condensation, the result nearly of four weeks continued frbst. In the mean while, the River Thames, in consequence of the continuance of the severe weather, began to assume a singular ap pearance : vast quantities of snow Were seen almost every where on the surface, and being carried up and down by the- tide and the stream, or collected where thfe banks or the bridges supported the accumulation, a sort of glaciers were formed, united one moment, and crashing, cracking, aud dashing away the next. At tinies too, when the flood became elevated by the spring tides, and the current rati strongly, the small ice islands floated away, passing through the arches with a rapidity scarcely to be conceived, according as the wind or tide prevailed. In fact, the conglomeration upon the whole, presented more of the appearance of the rudeness of the desert, than that of a broad F surface 88r MIDDLESEX. .surface, to which the eye of the observer had been mostly accus tomed. Paths were formed by strewing ashes, &c. direct and diagonal from shore to shore, and frequent cautions were given to those ¦heroines whose curiosity induced them to venture on the glassy plain, to be careful not to slip off the kirb. Booths of all kinds ¦for constituting what might be called Frost Fair, were erected in great numbers. Many of these were distinguished by appropri ate signs, as the Waterman's Arms, The Crown, The Mag-Pye, The Eel-pot, &c ; and one wag had a notice appended to his tent, signifying " that several feet adjoining his premises were to be let pn a .building lease." In addition to dancing and drinking, the well-known ery of " Up and win 'em," resounded from the voices of numerous ven ders of savory pies, sausages, gingerbread nuts, &c. ; and the number of persons daily collected on the frozen surface, communi cated impressions to the spectators, particularly the juvenile part »f them, which will not easily be erased. Among the most rational of the oddities collected on the Thames on this occasion were a number of printers, who, with their presses, pulled off various impressions of names, verses, &c, which they sold for a trifle. On Saturday, February 5, notwithstanding there were evident signs of the breaking of the ice, and even very early on the Sun day morning some fool hardy persons passed over from Queen- hittre to Bankside. About two in the morning also some persons carousing in a booth opposite Brooke's Wharf, were veiy near losing their lives ; the tide beginning to flow at London Bridge, and being assisted by the thaw, the booth was hurried along with the. quickness of lightning. The men in their alarm neglected the fire and candle, which communicating with the covering, set it in a flame. In this singular situation they succeeded in get ting into' a lighter, which had broken from its moorings; but tW was dashed to pieces against one of the piers of Black Friars- MIDDLESEX. &g Friars Bridge; upon this some of the men got' out, and were taken off safely ; the rest had thrown themselves into a barge while passing Puddle Dock. Long before noon, on Sunday, the whole mass of the ice had given way, and forcing itself through the bridges, carried every thing before it. Numbers of boats were now busily employed saving rafts of timber, and towing drifted barges, &c. on shore. The passage of the river at length be came quite free, though the coldness of the weather, and the snow was not clear off the surface of the ground in the en virons of the city before Sunday, "March the 20th, when the wind, finally changed from the north-east *. Among the passing animadversions on the state of the weather a very curious communication was made by a gentleman, which he extracted from a memorandum made by his great grandfather, containing particulars of the frost in 1688, t an event which had before been mentioned by chronologists only in general terms. The account given in the note below we have seen confirmed by a French writer, a visitor to England, in 1688. He took particu- * Frostiana ; or, a History of the River Thames in a Frozen State, &c, &c. Printed and published on the Ice on the River Thames. t " On the 20th of December, 1688, a very violent frost began, which lasted to the 6th of February, in so great extremity, that the pools were frozen eighteen inches thick at least; and the Thames was so frozen that a great street from the Temple to Southwark, was built with shops, and all manner of things sold. Hackney coaches plied there as in the streets. There were also bull-bailing, and a great many shews and tricks to be seen. This day the frost broke. In the morning I saw a coach and six horses driven from Whitehall almost to the bridge (London bridge) yet by three o'clock that day, February 6, next to Southwark the ice was gone, so as boats did row too and fro, and the next day all the frost was. gone, pn Candlemas day I went to Croydon market, and led my horse over the ice at the Horse Ferry from Westminster to Lambeth. A8 I came back I led him from Lambeth upon the middle of the Thames to Whitefriars stairs, andsso' led himopby them. And this day an ox was roasted whole, over against Whitehall. King Charles and the Queen ate part of it." F2 lar 84 MIDDLESEX. lar notice of the pastimes of those days, in a small volume, which he published on his return to Paris. He says, that be sides hackney coaches, a large sledge, or sledges, were then ex hibited on the frozen Thames, and that the merry monarch passed a whole night upon the ice with one of his concubines. Upon the whole, it did not appear that the late winter, not. withstanding its length, was remarkable for intensity of cold. Fahrenheit's Thermometer has heen frequently observed at 20, several times at 15, more than once at 10, once at 6, and once so low as 2 below 0, that is to say 34 degrees below the freezing point. This happened on the morning of Christmas day, 179f June, by seven in the morning, the Admiralty, Navy, and Ordnance barges were collected at Whitehall Stairs, gaily dressed *ith banners, and a band of music in one of them. The Admi ralty barge hoisted the Royal Standard r others Mie Russian and Prussian flags. A gun being fired at nine, the Regent was escorted by a party of the horse-guards- to Whitehall Stairs; and the Emperor of Russia, the King of Prussia, and the .Grand1 Duchess, by detachments of the Blues. As soon as the illus trious visitors got on boards the band struck up " God Save the King," and the fleet moved off", gliding gently down, greeted With the acclamations of the thousands assembled on the wharfs and shores. Off London Bridge the City barges, with the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, &c. joined the procession. On the arrival of •the royal visitors off Woolwich, the Thisbe frigate, heaving the flag of Vice-Admiral Legge, and other vessels, fired a salute and manned their yards. The party then proceeded to the arse nal and laboratory ; and, in addition to a discharge of great guns, a quantity of Congreve's rockets were discharged. In the even ing, about eight, the whole party dined at the Marquis of Staf ford's, Cleveland Row, St. James's. On Tuesday, the 14th, the royal party left London for Ox ford, where they were received with all possible distinction. Mere, with his- characteristic activity, Alexander, after looking *t his apartments at Merton College, and the gardens behind it was MIDDLESEX. (JQ was walking in the public streets before three o'clock, accompa nied by several noblemen, with whom he made a tour to the most distinguished colleges and public edifices. Early next morning the Royal party returned to London : the Emperor, before he went to bed, attended a ball at Lady Jersey's. At eleven he repaired to St. Paul's cathedral, where he witnessed the annual assemblage of the charity children belonging to the different parishes of the metropolis. His Prussian Majesty and his two sons were also present ; and the august party were every where greeted both in going and returning, with cheers and acclamations. "" In the evening, after dining with Lord Castlereagh, the two Sovereigns visited Drury Lane Theatre; and, when the play was over, went to the Marchioness of Hertford's. At eleven, on Friday, the 17th, they set out to visit the Military Asylum, commonly called the Duke of York's School. The Emperor afterwards accompanied his sister to see Greenwich Hospital and the Royal Observatory. On the evening of the same day the Allied Sovereigns did the Merchant Taylors the honour of dining at their Hall in Threadneedle Street. Almost the whole of the afternoon every avenue to the place was thronged, so that a regiment of the Lpn- don Militia undCT Sir John Earner, could scarcely keep the ground. Before three o'clock nearly one hundred ladies of rank and distinction had assembled at the house of Mr. Teasdale, the Clerk, who had fitted up a kind of platform in the Court-yard, to enable them to see the great visitors as they passed. The ap pointed dinner-hour was six ; but, from the multiplicity of pre vious engagements, it was after eight o'clock before a part of the royal carriages drove to the door. As usual, they were received with loud acclamations; and the military presented arms, while the band played " God Save the King." In about a quarter of an hour a buz was heard, and then a shout, which seemed to rend heaven's concave : this was a sufficient announce- G 2 mellt 100 MIDDLESEX. ment of the approach »f the remainder of the guests, as, in less than a minute after, four more carriages, filled with them and their suite, dashed up the street with the utmost rapidity. Other Halls having contributed to the shew of plate exhibited on this occasion, it must have given the Royal strangers high ideas of the opulence of the citizens of London. The dinner consisted of the most exquisite viands : being ended, the Duke of York gave the first toast, '• The King:" this was followed by great ap plause, and the visitors seemed much amused at the hearty man ner in which the English receive their toasts. " The Emperor of Russia" was the next toast, at which he rose and bowed ; his sister, the Duchess, rose and acknowledged the compliment at the same time. " The King of Prussia" was next given ; and the company hailed it with equal congratulations. He bowed in return. " The Prince Regent" and " The Emperor of Austria" then followed. " Lord Castlereagh, and thanks to him for his exertions in concluding a safe and honourable peace," was the next. His Lordship, then, in a short speech, ascribed the chief merit of the peace to the valour of the Allies, and hegged leave to propose as a toast, " The Allied Sovereigns, and their brave Generals." " The Duchess of Oldenburgh" followed, and about eleven o'clock the illustrious visitants withdrew, and after leav ing Merchant Taylors' Hall, paid a visit to Covent Garden Theatre. On Saturday, the ISth, the Prince Regent, with his exalted visitors, dined with the Corporation of London at Guildhall, the procession to which was the same as a first visit of a king to the City. In the Hall the Lord Mayor stood behind the Prince Regent, who took the chair, supported on his right and left by the two monarchs. The time between this and Wednesday, June 22, the day ap pointed for the departure of the Sovereigns, was occupied by excursions, and some entertainments of less importance ; one of these was on Sunday the 19th, to see the Quaker's Meeting in Peter's Middlesex. 101 Peter's Court, St. Martin's Lane; and another to the Duchess of York at Oatlauds ; and a third to Chiswick to see the Duke of Devonshire. Monday, June 20, was, however, a day of no small import ance : a review of troops in Hyde Park was uncommonly splen did, and better attended than any other had been for a number of years. This day was also chosen for the formal proclamation of peace between Great Britain and France ; but a poorer proces sion was never witnessed. This being an event long anticipated, all its importance was worn off, and therefore it was the less sur prising that not a single sound of joy, vocal or instrumental, was heard on this occasion. As no persons of any eminence attended this ceremony, it was not till four in the afternoon that the He ralds and the Military left St. James's ; and it was six before they reached the Royal Exchange. Even the Lord Mayor was kept waiting at Temple Bar for several hours. The Princess Char lotte of Wales, the only person of distinction that condescended to look at the procession, viewed it as a private person from the window of Mr. Child, the Banker, near Temple Bar. Under an idea of the magnificence of this spectacle, however, a number of persons paid considerable sums for window room ; and many others, who had been standing in the streets several hours, were completely disappointed. The Proclamation on this occasion, if) the name of the Prince Regent, was uncommonly brief.* G3 On • " George P. R. " Whereas a Definitive Treaty of Peace and Friendship between his Majesty Bud his Most Christian Majesty has been concluded at Paris on the 30th of May last ; in conformity thereunto we have thought fit, in the name and on the behalf of his Majesty, hereby to command that the same be published throughout all his Majesty's dominions: and we do declare to all his Ma jesty's loving subjects our will and pleasure that the said treaty of peace and friendship be observed inviolably as well by sea as land, and in all places whatsoever, strictly charging and conimanding all his Majesty's loving subjects to take notice hereof, and to conform themselves accordingly. " Given at the Court at Carlton House, the 17th day of June, 1814, and in the 54th year of his Majesty's reign,'' 102 MIDDLESEX. On the evening the peace was proclaimed, both the Sovereigns, with the Prince Regent, attended White's Fete at Burlington House, Piccadilly, where, about two in the morning, nearly 2500 persons sat down to a dinner. On the same evening, the King of Prussia and his two sons had been a short time in the House of Lords ; and the Emperor and his sister were likewise in the gallery of the House of Commons. On Tuesday morning a Deputation from the Quakers Waited upon the Emperor of Russia at the Pulteney Hotel, and presented him an Address, with some books. This day the King of Prussia visited the India House and the Company's Warehouses. About eight on Wednesday morning, when the Emperor rose to prepare for his departure from town, people were no longer admitted into the hotel as spectators ; and all the visitors were in the Prince Regent's carriage by nine o'clock ; as they were entering, a woman presented the Emperor-of Russia with a book; another offered him a fine rose, which he presented to his sister. The carriage then drove off to the Tower of London ; and, lastly, to Turner's Patent Rope Manufactory at Limehouse. About twelve o'clock they passed over London-Bridge on their way to Ports mouth, where having been entertained with a grand naval re view in the presence of the Duke of Wellington and the Prince Regent, they left Portsmouth to visit the Duke of Norfolk at Arundel Castle ; from thence to the Prince's Pavilion at Brigh ton ; and afterwards continuing their journey to Dover, they embarked for the continent. After their final departure from the metropolis, the lovers of tranquillity began to flatter themselves that business would re sume its usual course, and a calm succeed the bustle that had prevailed. It was with good reason that the more sedate part of the community began to congratulate each other : for, during the stay ©f the strangers, it was not St. James's or the Parks ; hut every street, square, lane, and alley, through which they were expected to pass, presented the appearance of a fair. The only questions were, " Which way is the Emperor gone ?— • Where MIDDLESEX. 103 Where is the King of Prussia? Where is Blucher and Platoff ? Have you seen the Cossacks?" and running, hurrying, and huz zaing, seemed the whole business of the day ; but while the higher orders were mostly engaged in feastiitg, the lower class seemed as if they would have been contented with fasting, pro vided they could only have feasted their eyes, aud the few spec tators who had no opportunity to walk about by day, lost no time when they might view the illuminations by night. When it was understood that the allied sovereigns could not possibly stay to witness the Grand Fete which had long been pre paring for the celebration of the Peace, and that probably if de layed rauch longer, numbers of the gentry wtfuld leave tovvu, an earlier period was proposed than that at first intended. In the interval, though day after day had been named, and anxiety had been kept on its full stretch, delay did not appear to diminish ex pectation, or quench desire ; and when at length, Monday the first of August was positively fixed, no farther fears were enter tained, save from the caprice of the elementg. A showery day was an accident against which no human foresight could provide, and notice was given early on Monday morning, that in the event of unfavourable weather, farther postponement would be neces sary. In the mean while the public appetite had been considerably whetted by the publication of what was for stlie first time called an Official Programme, iu which they were informed that a beautiful Chinese bridge had been thrown over the canal, upon the centre of which had been constructed an elegant and lofty pagoda, consisting of seven pyramidal stories, " The pagoda to he illuminated with gas lights; and brilliant fire-works both fixed and missile, to be displayed from every division of the lofty Chinese structure, Copious and splendid girandoles of.rockets to. be occasional'y displayed from the summit, and from other parts of this towering edifice, so covered with Jerbs, Roman candles, and pots de brim, as to become in appearance one column of bril liant 'fire. Various smaller temples and columns ou the bridge tu G4 be 104 MIDDLESEX. be vividly illuminated ; and fixed fire-works of different devices on the balustrade of the bridge to contribute to heighten the gene ral effect." " The canal in St. James's Park to be well provided with handsomely decorated boats at the disposal of those who wish to add this amusement, to the numerous pleasures of the entertain ment. The whole margin of the lawn to be surrounded with booths for refreshment, open marquees with seats, 8f.c. The malls to be illuminated with Chinese lanterns. Bands of music at va rious distances; and spaces for dancing; the whole forming a Vauxhall, on the most magnificent scale. A full view of the Royal Booth in the Green Park, and of the grand fire-works there displayed from a fortress or castle, the ramparts being a hundred feet square, surmounted by a round tower in the centre, about sixty feet in diameter, and rising about fifty feet above the ramparts. " To secure every one a complete view this -edifice was made to revolve on its centre, so that each side would be successively pre sented to the company. The castle thus exhibiting the appear ance of a grand military fortification, was intended allegorically to represent War; and the discharges of artillery, small arms, maroons, &c. may be regarded as descriptive of the terrors of a siege. On a sudden this was to cease, and the lofty fortress, the emblem of war be transformed into a beautiful temple, the type of a glorious peace. The lower and quadrangular compart ment of the temple is embellished with Doric columns of por phyry, and the circular edifice which surrounds it with the lighter Ionic columns, are of Sienne marble. The whole beautifully illu minated, &c, '< In point of variety and extent the amusements in Hyde Park will exceed all others, including the Naumachia, in which will be shewn the celebrated manucevre practised by the immortal Nelson at Trafalgar, of advancing in two lines to break the enemy's line drawn up in the form of a crescent, and the de struction of the fleet by fire-ships in the evening : independent MIDDLESEX. 105 of large flights of girandoles, or rockets, consisting of some thousands in a flight, in Kensington Gardens: while the. moon being at the full will add splendour and cheerfulness to the scene, and insure universal decorum and good manners." This official paper also described the allegorical paintings upon the Temple of Concord, and mentioned the balloon which was to ascend from St. James's Park with Mrs. H. Johnston, of dramatic fame, and Mr. Sadler, junior, with several others of a smaller dimension; the latter of which for some physical reasons did not take place ; nor the lady's ascent with Mr. Sadler, she being dissuaded from attempting it on account of some defect in the construction. Un der these prospects and promises it was not astonishing that Monday, August 1, should have been waited for with a degree of impatience. Monday, so long expected arrived at last, but the early part of the morning was overcast with clouds.. Yet about eleven in the forenoon, this new apprehension of disappoint ment was relieved; the sun re-appeared, beaming in all his glory, and shedding his brightest refulgence ou the scene. The inhabitants of the Metropolis and the countless numbers who had come up from all the country round, had nothing now to inters fere with their hopes. The appearance of all the streets lead ing to the Parks was without any parallel. The shops in some streets were shut up, and those that were open deserted, AH were walking, or running, or riding, in the same direction, and it was difficult to proceed in an opposite point ! As the study of the characters who managed the intended Fete was to provide accommodations for all parties, and administer to the happiness of all orders, Hyde Park was entirely open to the public, with an extensive fair. The Green Park was also open to the people, with the Mall in St. James's Park, to which the people also had access from the Horse Guards and Spring Gardens, as far as Constitution Hill, where a barrier of railing and sentinels sepa, rated the spectators in each of the Parks. The lawn next the Panal and the Bird Cage Walk were reserved for such persons o . M 106 MIDDLESEX. as chose to purchase half guinea tickets, in order to avoid the erowd. By au excellent and judicious arrangement, no carriages or horsemen were permitted to enter the Parks, or to remain sta tionary near the avenues. The gates remained shut all the fore noon, and the public were informed by notice that they would not be admitted before two o'clock. All the notices being worded with delicacy and respect for the people, were punctually obeyed. Constables were placed at the New Street entrance, and at Spring Gardens, but they were not wanted. And though good order generally prevailed, about two o'clock there cer tainly was a rush into the Park, and the torrent continued pour ing in till the Green Park appeared for a while to be a com plete mass of persons. In Hyde Park, while every spot of grass about the Serpentine was covered by the multitude, several large limbs of trees were broken down, and some persons bruised se verely, but no lives lost. The company entered the inclosure in St. James's Park with tickets by Fludyer Street, Storey's Gate, and Buckingham Gate. Many of the nobility entered through Lord Melbourne's, and other houses in the Park within the fence which extended from the Horse Guards to the railway, near the Canal. There was another fence inclosing Buckingham House and the lawn. On the banks of the Canal, tents were erected to afford coolness and refreshment to the company. Between these appeared the, flags of all nations, with superb crescents and stars of variegated lamps. The trees were entwined by lamps and pleasing orna ments of various descriptions. There were also large covered spaces for dancing, for 'taverns, coffee-houses, &c. One of these, displayed the word Imperial in large lamps. Another had a beau tiful transparency representing ' Britannia seated on a rock.' A boy finely painted, recorded in a book, the names of Alexander, Frederick, Blucher, Schwartzenberg, Winzingerode. The bust at' Wellington was placed above all. Peace between branches of laurel, aud other devices were also conspicuous. Ne-arlv MIDDLESEX. 107 Nearly all the wherries on the Canal in St. James's Park were occupied by company rowing up and down with bands of music, and all the appendages of a regetta. Persons who paid their half guineas and those who paid nothing, were surprisingly de* ceived. If those who purchased their entrance found themselves confined in St. James's Park, they certainly had a most ad mirable view of the Canal, the boats, the Chinese Bridge, the Pagoda, and the balloon, though of the Temple of Concord in the Green Park they saw little more than the summit of it through the trees. The Mall of St. James's Park was illuminated with Chinese lanterns, ornamented with picturesque and grotesque de vices, and every tree had variegated lights mingled with its foliage. The lawn in the front Of Buckingham House was inclosed for the purpose of filling and sending up a balloon. At five O'clock a most magnificent serial globe was sufficiently inflated, and the Queen, with some of the nobility who had taken an early dinner with her Majesty, came to inspect it: among the former were the Duke of Wellington, Lord Castlereagh, the Princesses, aud seve ral Peeresses. Though the balloon was ready to ascend about six o'clock, its Might was delayed a few minutes that her Majesty and the Princesses might witness the ascent, which finally took place about twenty minutes past six, through an atmosphere perhaps as calm and serene as ever was witnessed. Mr. Sadler, junior, who was the only aerial traveller on this occasion, descended on Macking Marshes, iu Essex, sixteen miles below Grave-send, and arrived early on Tuesday morning, at the Queen's Palace, if*, a post chaise and four, bringing with him the balloon in the chaise, and his car fastened to the roof. After the balloon had ascended as the illuminations Were pro ceeding, and the spectators waiting with impatience for the ap proaching hour when the grand fire-works were to commence, their anxiety was a little relieved by the sound of the cannon in Hyde Park. The effect was pleasing, not only from the rapidity of each echoing roar, but from the recollection produced of our nava J 108 MIDDLESEX. naval heroes, whose deeds became in some measure the topic of conversation. About ten o'clock, the Chinese .Bridge in St. James's Park was completely lighted up ; and the pillars, the Pagoda, &c. re sembled a structure of flaming gold. The water beneath re flecting the light of the bridge,, as well as of the .stars and cres cents on each side produced a very pleasing effect. Another object which embellished St. James's Park was the naval arch way, which formed a bridge from Buckingham Douse to the Green Park ; here, as a tribute to our gallant sea officers the names of Howe, Duncan, St. Vincent, Collingwood, Broke, Sau- niarez, &c, were displayed in large letters; with chaplets of lau rel, and exhibiting on the whole a striking design. Notwithstand ing, the Pagoda, the bridge, the naval archway, &c. the appear ance of the Green Park was deemed superior to St. James's. That the public might be permanently benefited by a part of these preparations, the bridge over the Canal was opened to pas sengers for the first time on Sunday, September the 18th. The structure in the Green Park, to which all eyes would willingly have turned, was made to appear like a Gothic fortress of con siderable extent : here a discharge of cannon soon after ten o'clock, announced the commencement of an attack which was to level this building, to make way for the appearance of the Tern-, pie of Concord, concealed within its rude walls and buttresses. It is impossible to give even a remote idea of the effect produced by the firing of guns in rapid succession against this fortress, and the ascent of globes of fire, some bursting into the air into a thousand stars, and some rising in the most perfect brilliancy, proceeding at the same time from the Chinese bridge and the en virons of the temple. At one moment rockets, and at another, what is palled the girandoles were displayed. When the appearance of the fire-works began to slacken, the Gannon again began to roar, till at length, precisely at twenty minutes past twelve o'clock, the whole building being coiii- pletely enveloped in smoke, the walls gave way, and fell with a most MIDDLESEX. 109 most, tremendous crash. The artillery ceased to roar, the silence was universal, the clouds of smoke dispersed, and a most asto nishing appearance burst on the spectators. From the midst of the ruins of the castle's fallen towers, had risen a splendid and beautiful edifice, presenting a softened image of delightful gran deur. The frowning battlements were now converted into a Temple of Peace and Concord, supported by pillars of the most richly variegated marble, every part of which, with its decora- rations, were distinctly and accurately visible, the whole being formed by a tasteful- and judicious arrangement of lamps of the most brilliant and beautiful colours. In the mean time the Pagoda on the bridge in St. James's Park, by some accident took fire. At first it was supposed that the building was not really affected, but the falling of lighted fragments of wood into the water beneath, soon removed all doubt. The engines brought to the spot could only save the bridge ; for after the Pagoda had been burning for a considerable time, it suddenly gave way, and the part from the third pyramidal story, to the top fell blazing with a tremendous crash into the water. Two persons were severely hurt on this occasion, and died soon after. As the effects of this accident were not immediately made known, it was no check upon the general complacency which, particularly in the large parks, seemed much in want of the aid of music, that might have enlivened the long and dull uniformity of the fire-works before the Temple of Concord made its appear ance. The allegorical representations on this Temple were extremely well imagined. On the first side, Strife, as described by the an cient poets, was represented as expelled from heaven to excite dissensions among men. The inhabitants of the earth were fly ing terrified at her approach. A lower picture exhibited on one side the Cyclops forging implements of war ; Mars in his car, accompanied by Bellona, and hurried on by the furies, was driv ing all before him. In the back ground appeared, towns on fire, and HO MIDDLESEX. a- and a desolated plain. Iu the foreground, Charity flying in di may ; Truth and Justice quitting the earth, and Hope lingering behind. Another side represented Europe struggling with Ty ranny, tearing off her diadem, and trampling on her balance : at his feet, while Religion, Liberty, and Justice, lay prostrate, Wis dom brandishing the fulmen, was descending to the rescue of Europe. Inthe picture beneath, the genius of France was seen restoring the sceptre to the dynasty of the Bourbons; this was personified by a female seated on a throne, in a regal mantle, ornamented with ¦¦fieur de lis. On one side of her were seen Britannia, Spain, and Portugal, and on the other, Russia, Prussia, Austria, and Sweden, were witnessing the event with delight. A group of subjects behind expressed their joys and homage, and Genii were descending with Emblems of Peace, Plenty, Justice, Honour, Liberty, Religion, &c. At one end of the composition, strength was driving out anarchy, fraud, and rebellion : at the other end, Victory was in scribing on a shield, the names of the great commanders of the allied powers, while Fame sounded her trumpet. On the third side Peace was seen in the clouds with her olive branch, Time looking at her with transport, and the Earth hailing her return. Beneath appeared a representation of the Golden Age; and Peace Was surrounded by Plenty, the Rural Deities, Agriculture, Com merce, the Arts, Minerva, and the Muses. The fourth side displayed a colossal statue of the Prince Re gent crowned by Victory ; Disorder chained by Force to the pe destal : Truth and Justice returning to Earth, and Britannia looking up to Heaven with gratitude for the blessing of his go vernment. Below was the triumph of Britain. Britannia in a car of state : Neptune attending with his trident, and Mars dis playing the British standard. Fame and Victory attended, pre ceded by Prudence, Temperance, Justice, and Fortitude, and fol lowed by the Arts, Commerce, Industry, and the Domestic Vir tues. The MIDDLESEX. Ml The design and decorations of this GRAND REVOLVING TEMPLE OF CONCORD, were made by Messrs. Greenwood and Latille, of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. The allegorical transparencies were designed by Mr. Howard, R. A. and painted by him, Messrs. Smirke, Stothard, Woodforde, Dawe, Hilton, and Genta. The sculptor was Mr. Chenu. The machinery by Messrs. Maudsley and Co. and Mr, Drory. The building by Mr. Watts; the painting by Mr. Hutchinson ; the ornaments of tin and copper, by Mr. Jones; the illuminations by Messrs. Parker and Perry, and the fire- works by Mr. Mortratn. The Royal Booth for the illustrious spectators, and the adjoin ing gallery, were illuminated by the names of the officers ef the army in vivid letters, formed by lamps running on in a long parallel line in the front of the gallery, and at once produced the double effect of emulation and admiration. Hyde Park, though in their grateful countrymen, without pagodas or fortresses, was not devoid of powerful attractions. Here the amplitude of the space excluded all fear of pressure, and other inconveniences attending au over crowded scene : here the proprietors of booths, round and square, triangular and polygonal* waving with flags of all nations, in some places descended to adopt old sheets glittering with the insignia of the Regent, and fac similes of the illustrious Wellington ! These and the hum bler stalls, stablets, &c. covered the ground for many an acre. Be sides which, a number of much better executed paintings on the exterior of the various mimic theatres of Messrs. Scowton, Richardson, and GyngeU, gave an appearance perfectly corres pondent with the general feeling and hilarity of the spectators. Notwithstanding these highly diversified objects had a considera ble effect in rivetting the attention of the multitnde, they were- ,soon compelled to yield the palm of public attention to another exhibition still more congenial with genuine English feelings ; this was the Naumaxhia, or great sea fight on the Serpentine River, performed by a number of small vessels, fitted up and rigged exactly iu the man of war fashion ; and to give the 7 greater llg Middlesex. greater offect, bearing the colours of French, English, and Ame ricans. Precisely at six in the evening, this engagement was an nounced and commenced by an action between two British and two American frigates. The first broadside was scarcely fired, when ample testimony was borne to the propriety of choosing such a divertisement. Nt) sooner was the first shot heard, than the general anxiety for the honour of our tridents appeared so great, that the shews and booths poured out their myriads, who all rushed upon the shores of the Serpentine to cheer our brave tars with their presence, and witness the honour of our naval flag. Gin and gingerbread, and even Whitbread's entire at once lost all their unbounded influence. Romeo ranted, and Juliet whined to spectators, who possessed no faculty but motion, and who felt no desire but that of seeing the battle. The American frigates lay at anchor ; the English of course were the first to commence the action the moment they got along side the enemy, by a broadside, which was quickly returned. This, after some manuoevring, was followed by a desperate cannonade, kept up for a considerable time by both vessels. The second frigate then followed the example of the first ; the fight continued till it was supposed that great damage had been sustained on both sides, when the matter was decided, as such contests frequently are, by boarding ; the frigates ran along side, and clearing the decks of the supposed Americans, the Union Jack was in a moment hoisted above the thirteen stripes. Thus ended the first part of the en gagement; but at eight o'clock a French squadron of six sail being in sight, it soon appeared that ours were under way, to meet them, and with a steady breeze they came into action ; the van ship giving each of the enemy's vessels a broadside as she passed to the sternmost, and receiving the broadside of the whole line in return. The six English ships having ranged them selves close to the enemy in line, the two Admirals engaged, and a heavy cannonade was kept up forty-five minutes and twenty- six seconds. When it ceased, all the enemy's ships appeared dismasted ; one of the English fleet lost her main mast, and a second MIDDLESEX.' 113 Second was so much cut up in her hull and rigging; that she was ¦ unable torpursue the enemy; two. of the French ships .consequently got away. The other four being mere hulks, were taken posses sion of: then; in order to destroy them and the two that were supposed to have run-aground, two fire-ships were fitted up, and being towed- down to the) enemy, soon communicated the fatal element, so that in the course of an hour all the enemy's vessels were burnt down to the water's edge. Another exhibition pecu liar to Hyde Park on this occasion, was the water-rockets, dis charged by a man in the water provided with one of Daniel's Life Preservers, commencing with areport which drew the attention of the spectators ; they were then seen whirling about with great rapidity on the surface of the water, imitating: the rotatory mo tion of a mill-wheel. In a few seconds there was an imitation of a very beautiful fountain, which, after spouting for some time; burst forth with a loud report into a variety of angles, called wa ter-snakes. These, after flying into the air, descended again, and immerging into the water for a second, or two, rose at the distance of a few feet, and after bounding some time in all direc tions, expired in a~loud explosion. Here ended the diversions of the eventful first of August, 1814; but such was the avidity of the shop and booth-keepers,, who took no small advantage in enhancing the price of their commodities' during the fair, that they seemed to entertain no inclination to conclude it with the other amusements : on the contrary, eight days after its commencement, it was found ne cessary to issue an order from the Secretary of State's Office for removing the booths, &c. : this not being obeyed, was produc tive of another from Lord Sidmouth; and, at an early hour, Sir Nathaniel Conant, the Chief Magistrate of Bow Street Police, attended by a few officers, proceeded through the Parks, and requested that all keepers of taverns, booths, &c. would imme diately remove them. This behest was received with much dis pleasure, especially by those who imagined, from, some news paper reports, that the fair was to last till the Prince Regent's H birth- 114 MIDDLESEX. birth-day; under that impression they pleaded that ttiey ha# laid in a stock of provisions, &c. However, about two o'clock on Tuesday, August 9, it was considered indispensable that the Magistrates should again remind them of the Royal Order : con sequently Mi*. Bicknell, the deputy Ranger of the Park, Sir Nathaniel Conant, and Mr. Sketchley, with a large detachment of Police Officers, again attending, the offending parties, to avoid worse consequences, thought proper to withdraw. Some shocking acts of immorality committed in some ef the booths or taverite, besides the general stagnation of industry and regular habits, are understood to have hastened the termination of these public exhibitions, which was also effected by a serious re presentation from the Bishop of London to the proper authorities. Next to theBe considerations, Sunday, the 3lst of July, the- day preceding the Fete, as well as the Sunday following, had drawn multitudes of idle and dissolute spectators of all sorts into the parks, some to view the preparations, and others to see the remains of these unprecedented fetes : in reality, infatuation had worked upon the nascent principles of dissipation to such a de gree, that as numbers of the lower orders had persuaded them selves that the Temple of Concord in the Green Park-would he illuminated a second time on the night of the 12th of August, an unruly multitude assembled there late on that even ing, where, finding no other object to engage their attention, they began to pull down the fence round the Temple of Concord, of which, without hesitation, they made a bonfire i It was im possible for the centinels to oppose the numbers collected on this occasion ; so that gaining confidence from this forbearance, they proceeded from burning the' rails to burn the sentry boxes, and by throwing branches of trees into the fire, to raise such a vo lume of flame, that many persons, at a distance, imagined that St. James's Palace, or several houses, were on fire. But for the arrival of a party of horse, it is probable the rabble would have burnt the Temple of Concord. It was not without forte that they were three times expelled from the parks, and as often 1-e- tumed ; and, though the soldiers were pelted with stones and brick*- MIDDLESEX. 115 brick- ba^a, it must be owned they behaved with great moderation, ejnnjtenling thejaselyes merely with taking some of ithe most re- fjssetwyjijto custody. , Sufib was the conclusion in the metropolis of the celebration of a peace, in extent and magnitude superior to any precedent whatever. In the country, beyond all dispute, this great event was distinguished by observances much more congenial to the hospitality of the national character. The balls, illuminations, and firenW.orks, were either preceded or followed by liberal sub scription dinners or suppers, provided for the poor inhabitants and others, particularly in the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk. In many other places the people were presented with coals, cloth ing, &c. And whilst this much is recorded to the credit of the country, only for want of proper examples, it does not appear that a single shilling was disbursed in this hospitable manner in the metropolis, or any where within its verge. HlSTORICAL.TOPOGRAPfllCAl, AND PES,CRIPTIY£ PARTICULARS of the Parses,, fy$, east ,of tbe Royal Exchange. Limehouse, from its situation, may be considered as the farthest eastern extremity of the port of London, from its being a conti nuation of the line of the Thames from Wapping and Shadwell, The late increase of building in the vicinity of this hamlet, from the proximity of the East and West- India Docks, has completely cliahged the appearance of this neighbourhood within the last century.* Large houses and gardens, meadows, "garden-grounds, extensive rope-walks, &c. have all successively disappeared to give place to new buildings and streets, many of which are now, and are likely to remain in an unfinished state, particularly as H 2 the * Limehouse suffered a very considerable diminution in December, 1716, when, in consequence of * most dreadful fire, nearly 200 houses were destroyed. End infinite distress occasioned. The Prince Regent, agitated with strong s^ntfflients .of compassion, or.de.red the sum of 10001. to be distri buted jtmoxig fhe most pitiable objects, which laudable example was promptly followed by others to a considerable amount. But it does not appear that, the dwellipgs Were rebuilt, — Anecdotes of ths Manners and Customs of London. Il6 Middlesex. the peace of 1814 appears by no means to have increased the trade of the metropolis in this or any other quarter. One of th« peculiarities belonging to the villages near the Thames, however/ is still distinguishable about Limehouse, viz. the custom of erecting a flag-staff, a pennant, &c. in the gardens. These indi cations of things and professions belonging to the sea, sometimes extend to clocks and dials; and, as an instance of this kind, the minute hand of the dial at Limehouse Church, represents an an chor. And, as in time of peace, the vicinity of a • port is far from being eligible for the settlement of strangers, it is~rather to be apprehended that the decrease of business in such neighbour hoods will have a tendency to cause the removal of numbers of the inhabitants that are settled in them during war time ; and this may account for the decline of their, population after the return of peace. According to Stow, the original name of. this hamlet was Limehurst, a Saxon word, signifying a grove of Lime trees, and given to this village on account of the number of those trees anciently in that neighbourhood. The parish of Limehouse is comparatively but of recent date ; it was not till 1730 that an act was passed, by. which this hamlet, and part of Ratcliffe, both appendages to Stepney, were made a distinct parish, since known by the name of St. Aunc, Limehouse, bounded by Mile End Old Town and Poplar. The boundary iu Ratcliffe extends along the Butcher Row and White Horse Street ; the part of Ratcliffe newly annexed has no fur ther connexion than that relative to the payment of church-rates and dues : it is still assessed separately, and chuses its own offi cers. A very considerable part of the parish of Limehouse, which contains about 150 acres of land, is now covered with new build ings : the late numerous market-gardens and the pasture-grounds have mostly vanished, whilst rope-grounds, and other manufac tures, have risen in their stead ; and the business of the Lime house, made in 1769, increased beyond expectation during the long course of the late war. There are several docks in this parish, used principally for repairs. 2 The MIDDLESEX. 117 The parish' Church of Limehouse stands in the eastern suburb of the metropolis, near four miles distant from Temple Bar. It was one of the fifty new churches built by act. of parliament; the foundation was laid in 1712, and it was completed in 1724; but not consecrated till the 12th of September^ 1730.* The build ing is of Portland stone; after a design of Hawksmoor, who has mixed with' the Grecian a species of architecture which it would he difficult to describe ; the turrets on the steeple resemble those which the same artist has introduced in the new quadrangle at All' Soul's College in Oxford. The inside is fitted up in the Grecian style, and is very handsome : the pews are of Dutch oak. This edifice is of a very singular construction ; the body is not one plain building, but is continued under separate portions. The door under the tower has a portico, covered with a dome supported by pilasters; and to this door there is an ascent by a flight of steps. The tower, which is square, has a Corinthian window, adorned with columns and pilasters. The corners of the tower are also strengthened with pilasters, which support vases ou their tops. The upper stage of the tower is plain and exceedingly heavy ; and from this part rises a turret at each cor ner, and a more lofty one in the middle. The north side of Limehouse Church-yard is hounded by the new Commercial-road from the West-India Docks to White- chapel. This road is of sufficient width to admit five Carts a- breast: the centre is paved with Scotch granite, over which is laid a stratum of gravel, eight inches in depth, which being sup ported by the stone pavement underneath, is always firm and free from mud. The hamlet of Mile End Old Town occupies the greater part of the north side of the road between Stepney and Whitechapel. In Jack Cade's rebellion, the commons of Essex encamped at Mile End, Fortifications were thrown up at Mile End when the city H3 °f » The Environs of London. By the Rev. D. Lysons, A. M; 118 MIDDLESEX of London was surrounded by a trench in 1642 ; upon which, says one of the Diufnals, " women and children of good fashion labour bard at the' work." Sir Kenelm Digby was taken into custody as a Royalist, whilst he was viewing the fortifications at this place in disguise. This fortification, since known by the name of Whitechapel Mount, has, since Mr. Lysons saw it, been entirely levelled, and the whole covered with handsome houses. Its dimensions, whilst a mount, were not more than 329 feet in length at the base, and 182 in breadth. There was fbhneHy a Lazar-house> or hospital, at Mile End, dedicated to ouY Savioulr and St. Mary Magdalen, of which John Mills was Proctor In 1551, and Henry Smith in 1589. AmWng the number of charitable and pitnis institutions wMch distinguish this hamlet, the Almshduses of the Corporation of the Trinity House are not the least : they are beautifully built of brick and stone, for poor captains of ships and their widows, each of whoih received sixteen shillings per month, besides twenty shillings a year for c6als, ahd a gown every other year. This handsome edifice consists of two wings, which' contain twenty- eight apartments. In the centre, between these wings, is a chapel, which rises considerably higher than any other part of the build ing. On the front these words are inscribed : " This Almshouse, wherein 28 decayed Masters and Comriianders of Ships, or the Widows of such as are maintained, was built by the Corporation of Trinity. House, 1695. The ground was given by Captain Henry Mudd, an elder brother, whose widow was also a contributor." Adjoining are twelve almshouses for twelve poor widows of the Skinners' Company, who have each an allowance of 18?. per annum. Near these are the Vintner's Almshouses for widows, who have an allowance of bs. 3d. weekly. In MIDDLESEX. 119 In Eagle Place' are twelve almshouses for poor men past labour, belonging generally to all the hamlets of the parish of Stepney, who have each 41. per annum, founded by Judge Fuller. Bancroft's Almshouses are superior to most in their appear- ance : this structure occupies three tides of a spacious quadran gle. On the north side are the chapel, the school, and the dwel ling-houses for the masters : the former embellished with a stone portico .of the louic order. On the east and west sides the pen sioners reside. The whole was erected in 1735, pursuant to the will of Francis Bancroft, who bequeathed 28,000/. for purchasing the ground, and erecting and endowing the building. The im provements in this estate have admitted of the salary to each pensioner, consisting of 24 old men, to he raised from 8/. to 181. per annum. The school-room now accommodates 100 boys ; and there are dwelling-houses for two masters. The boys are admit ted between the age of seven and ten, and remain till they are fifteen, when they are allowed four pounds for binding them apprentices, or 2/. 10s. to fit them for service. Adjoining these almshouses are three cemeteries belonging to the Portuguese and Dutch Jews. Mr. Lysons has given a very -curious account of their burial ceremonies, to which we refer.* To the distinguished credit of the Portuguese Jews, they had An hospital ia Leman Street, Goodman's Fields,, ever since the year 1748, which was not limited to any number, but relieved about one hundred and twenty persons yearly, besides medicine and advice to out-patients. The increasing benefit of this hos pital haying rendered an enlargement necessary, in 1792, a more commodious building was erected at Mile End Old Town, which contains accommodation for fourteen sick men, and for eight lying-in women, besides twenty-one beds for the old and indi gent. Here is also a long sitting-room for the patients, with two fire-places. This hospital also dispenses medicines to all persons who hold any employment under their synagogue, and to all the poor of the congregation. Contrary to the example of the Dutch H4 and * Environs of LondoB, Vol. III. 475. HO MIDDLESEX. and German Jews in the management of their hospital in the same neighbourhood, the Portuguese print an account of the state of their institution, or its funds.* This community likewise supports another asylum adjoining the Synagogue in Bevis Marks, consisting of twenty-four rooms for poor women past labour, who receive a monthly allow ance, and several sacks of coals in the winter season : this esta blishment is entirely independent of the Beth Holim. Three general charity schools for the education and clothing of poor , boys, and another for poor girls, and a house /or the mainte nance, clothing, and education of twelve poor orphan boys, are also maintained by the same congregation; and. these are situ ated in the yard of the Synagogue. The whole of these institu tions are conducted by Committees, of which M. De Castro,, of Bevis Marks, is the Secretary. The Newy Tozadik, or House of Justice, in Mile End Road, established by the German Jews and others, in 1806, is an ele gant modern edifice, on the south side of the road between Globe Lane and Bancroft's Almshouses. The front of this capacious building, cased with artificial stone, hears a Hebrew inscription : '.' Keep ye judgment, and do justice.*' It appears that this institution, arose from the philanthropic exertions of the late Benjamin and Abraham Goldsmid, Esqrs. who, in 1795, com menced a collection among their friends for raising a fund for the benefit of the German Jewish poor, which, by the assistance of several well-disposed Christians, proved so successful, as to enable them, in 1797, to purchase 20,000/. Imperial three per cent. In 1806, after very mature deliberation, it was deter mined to establish an Hospital for the reception and support of their aged poor, as well as the education and industrious improve ment of youth of both sexes. The freehold, now called the Hospital, was first completed and furnished for the reception of five aged men, five aged women, ten boys, aud eight girls. An annexed freehold was also purchased for 2000/. for the purpose * Piefas Londincosis, MIDDLESEX. 121 of enlarging the building as soon as convenient. Annual sub scriptions, from one to five guineas, are taken, by which the subscribers are entitled to several privileges usual on such occa sions. No person or youth can be admitted who has been resi dent in London less than ten years. Several trades and manu factures are carried on here. The boys, after being initiated in a course of industrious; employment, are bound apprentices out of the house. The adults, as well as the ' children, receive hand some encouragements in money to stimulate their activity. AH theboys, when admitted, must be able to read Hebrew prayers ; and those who add thereunto a knowledge of English reading are preferred. In the house they are taught English, writing, reading, and arithmetic. The girls are kept till they are-fifteen years of age, and are taught reading, writing, and arithmetic, needle-work, knitting, washing, ironing, &c. If, at nineteen, they can produce a proper certificate from any respectable per sonage, each girl receives five guineas as a reward. This Institution has an annual dinner at the City of London Tavern, where between three and four hundred Christian and Jewish Subscribers haye been present, and liberally contributed to the promotion of this useful charity. It is to he observed that the Christian subscribers to this hospital differ very widely in opinion from those persons who enter into subscriptions for supT porting sermons and lectures for the conversion of the Jews. The former are those, who, without wishing to impose any condi tions upon the Jew as to his belief, and without the least inter ference with his religious opinions, wish to relieve him merely as a man and a brother. It is now (1814,) in agitation to add two Wings to this building, for more completely separating the youth and the aged. Mile End Old Town Charity School was instituted about the year 1724. It is principally supported by voluntary sub scriptions ; the present School House, a very neat and commodi- pus structure, was erected in 1787. Whitechapel Church, so called from the colour of its walls, is situated at the western extremity of Whitechapel Road, and 128 MIDDLESEX. the end of Church Lane, was erected in 1673. The parish was taken out of Stepney ; and the first church, which was a chapel of ease to the mother church, was called St. Mary Matfellon ; some persons of that name having, as Stow thinks, been Lords of the Manor. The old church being in a very ruinous condition, was taken down in 1763; the present edifice was soon after erected. It is nearly square, and separated into three aisles, by four round, and four square pillars. The centre intercolumniation on each side forms a large arch similar to those of transepts, nearly plain ; this intersects that of the nave ; there are two others on the sides, aud diminutive Venetian clerestory windows. The galleries do not interfere with the pillars; that for the organ is remarkably handsome, resting on Composite pillars, and has a rich carving on the front, of David playing on the harp, surrounded by musical instruments and fruit in festoons. Two gilt frames surmount the cornice. The organ is in a fine case, profusely ornamented with six figures of Fames and Urchins, gilt. The Altar-piece consists of two Composite pillars, imitations of lapis lazuli, supporting a pediment ; the carvings are gilt and elegant. A window in the east wall, which had been closed, has been opened, and painted glass, representing the Adoration of the Shepherds, fills the space. The performance does not seem to possess what might have been desirable : the composition of the Angels seems too crowded : and the vacant grin exhibited by the young Shepherd is devoid of all the religious feeling which the Angels and their mission should inspire. In 1711 the patronage of this church was purchased by the Principal and Scholars of Brazen-Nose College, Oxford, from the Minister of Stepney. The monuments here are neither re markable nor numerous. Some singular remains of Roman antiquity wore dug up in a Tenter-Ground in this parish near Goodman's Fields, in 1787, viz. a stone about fifteen inches by twelve, and three inches thick, besides several fragments of Roman urns and lachrymato ries. On the stone was inscribed : DM MIDDLESEX. 123 D M FL AGICoLA. MIL. LEG. VI. VICT. V. AN. XLII. VI. D. X. ALBIA. FAUSTINA. CoNIVGi INCoNPARABILI F C* But though Horseley may be justified in the remark he has made, it is certain that another respectable author mentions the Sixth Legion in two instances at least, f In digging a family vault in 1770, iu a burial-ground in Church Lane, Whitechapel, at the end leading to Rosemary- Lane, six feet under ground was found a stone, inscribed D M IUL. VALIUS. MIL. LEG. XXV. AN XL HSE C. A. FLAVIO. ATTiO PER. ir 'it: From these discoveries it has been inferred that the sixth le gion was stationed at least some time near London: the lachry matories found With the sepulchral stone, clearly prove the ground to have beett used as a Roman burying-ground, always withtut the v/alls of their stations. On the north side of Whitechapel- yoad is a freehold belonging to the parish for the educatiohoif jibor children, gratis. It was founded in the reign of Charles II. t'y the Rev. Mr. Ralph Daveffant, then rector : but wanting en dowment, it ^a's enriched by the gift of 1000/. by some benevo lent person who ch6se to he unknown, though supposed to have been * Horseley, Brit. Rom. p. 19. Legco Sexfa Victrix. I do net find Hi* mentioned in any inscription belonging to the southern parts of this island. t Coliinson's History of Somersetshire. 124 MIDDLESEX. been a lady then going out of town. With this thousand pounds the Trustees purchased fifty-five pounds a year at East Tilbury, " in the county of Essex, and thus established the charity upon a permanent basis. Here one hundred boys and one hundred girls, who have been baptized in the church of -Whitechapel, and are the children of parishioners, are new clothed and instructed upon Dr. Bell's plan ; the boys are employed in box-making, and the girls in needle-work : and they make all the linen for themselves and the boys. They are examined publicly every Saturday, at eleveii o'clock by the rector and trustees in their meal duties. Perneck's Almshouses, the Albion Brewery, and Whitechapel Workhouse, are the only public buildings of particular note on this side of Whitechapel -road. To the latter a new wing was lately added, in consequence of the removal of Some almshouses, upon the site of which it now stands. The boundaries of the metropolis towards Essex terminate at the turnpike at Mile End. Nearly adjoining WhitechapeJ Mount, or rather to Mount Place, is the London Hospital, one of the most distinguished charitable foundations in England, founded in 1 740, for the relief of all sick and diseased**iersons, particularly manufacturers, sea? men in the merchant's service, and their wives and children. It was first kept in a large house in Prescott Street, Goodman's fields, afterwards used for the Magdalen Charity, till, by the contributions of many worthy persons, it was removed into Whitechapel Road. This edifice is neatly constructed of brick, plain, yet elegant, without being expensive,- and consisting of one extended frpnt, without either wings or inner courts, the whple is seen at one view. To the middle door is an ascent by a flight of steps, and over this part extends a very large, angular pediment, within which is a dial. Above the ground-floor ex tend two series of sash-windows, each twenty-three in number. The architect has properly considered themse for which the whole ie designed, and has suited every thing to conveniencer This hospital is properly furnished and fitted up with beds for the reception MIDDLESEX; 125 feteption of the patients. According to its original institution, the corporation consists of a president',' two vice-presidents, and a treasurer,^ annually elected- out ! of the most considerable bene factors to this Charity : those who subscribe five guineas, or more, a year, are governors duringsuch subscription. Three physicians attend alternately; two of the surgeons daily, from eleven o'clock till one,1 without fee or reward. A surgeon extraordinary attends in consultation in all dangerous cases. The surgeons in waiting have an apprentice or pupil, constantly in the house to receive, and,- if necessary, to call the surgeon to such accidents as shall be brought in at any hour of the day or night. An apothecary, with an assistant, constantly resides at the Hospital ; and a Clergyman of the Established Church regularly attends the patients. Every governor is en titled to send one in-patient at a time, and out-patients without limitation. Subscribers of smaller sums may likewise send what number of out-patients they please. All subscriptions are during pleasure ; but all persons are expected to pay their subscription money when they enter their names for that purpose. The poor objects recommended as in-patients, as well as accidents, are received at any hour, without difficulty or expense, and are sup plied with advice, medicine, diet, washing, lodging, and every Comfortable assistance during their cure : nor is any security required against future contingencies, which security, in some other hospitals almost amounts to exclusion. On the contrary; in case of death, the patients of the London Hospital are buried at the expense of the charity, if not removed by their friends. Strange as it may appear, in a city which may justly boast of its benevolence, this useful institution, during the late war, has been several times upon the point of being shut up ! From this hazard we believe it has at length been effectually secured by considerable contributions from several well-disposed individuals. among whom the name of Samuel Whitbread, Esq. appears to a subscription for 1000/. The 1# MIDDLE$E3f. The ay^rage number of patients in this large hospital at any one time has not been more than J80 ! but if the finances wpuJd permit all the wards, eighteen in number, to be opened, they would contain nearly 400, a total not greater than the petitions for admission require : for its proximity to the river, and to the new London, We,st India^ and East India Docks, together with its situation on one of the most public roads near the capital, ren der it liabje to more applications for tjie reception of accidental patients than any other hospital in the cities of London and West minster. As a proof of the propriety of these remarks, most of the patient relieved here, consist of sick and wounded seamen, water men, coal heavers, shipwrights, rope makers, &c. The numerous poor in the vicinity of Spital Fields, Bethnajl Green, Sec. ajso find a ready asylum here in their sickness. The chapel is in the east wing, where divine service is. regu larly performed by the Rev, Andrew Hatt, the chaplain; the east end of the chapel is adorned with two whole length por traits; one of the late Duke of Gloucester, many years president of this corporation, the other of his son, the present Duke, who sneceeded his father in that office. Such is tb,e outline of au in stitution which it must be admitted demands peculiar protection and support. Cannon Road, leading southward from Whitechapel, at present- exhibits a double line of good houses : besides these, the fields on ea$h side of the Commercial Road, which intersect it, are newly covered a considerable way towards Stepney aud the. Thames. A large tract, formerly known by the name of the Spice Islands, On account of a Hartshorn Manufactory, and of soil being depo sited there, is also covered with buildings, and forms part of the Commercial Road to the djocks at Poplar. At the fcottjoin of the Cannon Road stands the parish church °f$T- GEORGE ijj TgE East. This massy structure is one.of the fifty new churches, and erected, in a very singular taste .by Hawksraoor and Gibbs. The floor Is raised a considfiraWe height above MIDDLESEX; , 127 above the level of -the ground ; and to the principal door in. the west front of the tower, is an ascent by a double flight of steps, cut with a sweep, and i defended by a low wall of the same form ; but that which . appears the most singular is the four turrets on the body of the church, and one on the tower, the latter in the manner of a fortification, with a staff on the top for an occasional flag. The interior is of the Doric order, containing two pillars on each side, a massy intercol umination, and a semi-oval arch, crossed by an enriched hand. The east and west ends are sup ported by strong square pillars and entablatures. These, with their pilasters, form four small squares ; beyond which are aisles terminating east and west. The Organ is very plain ; and the altar, a semi-circle, with a good painting of Jesus in the Gar den, by Clarkson. Here are no monuments of note. This parish is taken out of Stepney, and by Act of Parliament, the hamlet of Wapping, Stepney, was appropriated to that purpose. Towards the maintenance of the Rector and his successors, Par liament gave the sum of 3000/. to be laid out in the purchase of lands, tenements, &c. in fee simple ; and as a further provision, the churchwardens are annually to pay him 100/. raised by burial fees. The advowson of this rectory, like that of Stepney, is in the principal and scholars of Brazen Nose-College, Oxford. Near the east end of Rosemary Lane, at the extremity of this parish, is. WeUclose Square, which has also borne the name of Marine Square, from the number of sea officers who used to re side in it. It is a pretty little neat square; but its principal or nament is the Danish church in the centre, in the midst of its churchyaid, planted witli trees, and surrounded by a handsome wall with iron railing. The church is a small but elegant struc ture, consisting of a tall handsome body, with a tower and tur ret. The body is divided by the projection of the middle part into a fore front in the centre, and two small fronts. At the west end is the tower, and at the east it swells into the sweep of a circle. The comers of the building are faced. with rustic : the windows Jawge and well proportioned, are cased with stone, and 9 orna- 123 MIDDLESEX. ornamented with a cherub's head at the top of the arch ; and the) roof is concealed by a blocking course. The tower has a con' siderable diminution in the upper stage, which has on each side a pediment, and is covered by a dome, from which rises an elegant turret, supported by composite columns. This structure was erected in 1696, at the expense of Christian V. King of Den mark,' as appears by the inscription : " Templem Dano Nor- wegicum intercessione et munificentia serenssiini Danorum Regis Christian! Quinti erectum MDCXCVI." Gaius Gabriel Cibber was the architect, who erected a monument within this church to the memory of his wife Jane, daughter of William Colley, Esq. and mother of Colley Cibber, the famous dramatist. The architect himself is also buried here. In 1768, when Christian VII. King of Denmark, was in London, he paid a visit to this church. In Well Street connected, with this square by a paved court, is the Royalty Theatre, an extensive brick building, with out any ornament, built by subscription in 1786, with a view to the representation of plays; but the proprietors not having legal authority, only one performance of that kind was given, viz.- Shakspeare's Comedy of " As You Like It," and the Farce of " Miss in her Teens." This was on the 20th of June, 1786, when the profits being appropriated to the London Hospital, the ma nagers of the other theatres did not interfere. . After this the theatre was closed for a short time, and re-opened by licence under an Act of Parliament, for the exhibition of interludes, pan tomimes, and other species of the irregular drama. Since that time it has been in the hands of various adventurers, and was for some time.belonging to the late Mr. Astley, conducted upon a plan similar to his Summer Theatre. It has since been the pro perty of Mr. Elliston, &c. &c. On a line with WeUclose Square, but farther to the east, is Prince's Square, the principal ornament of which is the Swedes' church. The front of this building is carried up with flat niches and ornaments, and on the summit is a pediment. The, body. is divided into a central part, projecting forwarder than the rest, and MIDDLESEX. 129 and two sides. The central part has two tall windows, termi nated by a pediment, in the midst of which is ahi oval window; but in the sides there is only a compartment below, with a circu lar window above. The corners of the . building are wrought in a bold plain rustic. The tower, rises- square from the roof, and at the corners are placed urns ^vith flames ; from thence rises a turret hi> the Ian thorn form, with flaming urns at its corners; the turret is covered with a dome, which risesa ball, supporting the vane, in the form of a rampant lionj There are Several portraits of eminent persons in the vestry; one of the! most conspicuous is that of Jacob Serenins, D. D. Bishop of Stregnas, first mini ster of the Swedish church, a man of considerable learning, and compiler of a dictionary of the English and Swedish languages. The celebrated Emanuel Swedenborg, who died in London' in March 1772, was interred in a) vault in the church, after there- mains had lain in state. > RAINE'S HOSPITAL, aj very handsome edifice, situated in Fowden Fields, in this neighbourhood, was erected by Mr. Henry Raine, a brewer, in the year 1737, who endowed it by a deed of gift, with a perpetual annuity at 240/. per annum. The chil dren of this hospital, which contains forty-eight girls, were trans ferred from a parish school in Farthing Fields, in- the vicinity of this hospital, at the expense of about 2000/. These girls are pro vided with all the necessaries of life, and are taught reading, writ ing, and household work,.so as to qualify them for service. Before Mr. Raine died, he directed his executors to establish a fund for the purpose of continuing a most excellent charity, Which he had planned and executed for* : some years before he died.? viz.. the payment of two annual prizes .of- 100/. each, as a marriage portion to be drawn for in Christmas week, and on the first 6( May; by six ofthe most deserving young women, educated in his schools, being of the age of twenty-two or upwards, and a further sum of five pounds for a dinner in the great room at the school house, for the new married couple, the trustees, visitors, &c. The losing girls, if thny should continue unmarried, and maintain a good I character, 130 MIDDLESEX. character, are always to draw for the next prize till each has been successful/ ' By an Act of Parliament in 1780, for incorpo rating the trustees of Raine's charities, it is provided, that if there should not be six young women properly qualified, a smaller number may draw for the prize ; if only one should offer, she, if of a good character, is to receive the marriage portion ; if none should offer the money is to go to the general, stock. By Mr. Raine's appointment the husbands must be members of the church of England; and inhabitants of St. George's in the East ; St. Paul, Shadwell; or St. John, Wapping.' The boys educated here, on leaving the school, have Only three pounds as an ap prentice fee ; but this the , donor intended to increase to 20/. when the leases should, fall in. And as the funds might be con siderably increased after the founder's death, the governors are empowered to take into the school any other child or children in the same manner as those upon the establishment ; provided the number so admitted should never rise beyond a due proportion to those before allowed. :: '' Between Red Lion Street and .the western extremity of White chapel, but on the southern side is a large market for carcases of butcher's meat, and beyond the bars is a market three times a week for hay and straw. On the north side are several considerable inns for t,he accommodation of travellers, and the resort of coaches, waggons, &c. At the extremity of the meat. market,, and. nearly opposite Aid- gate church is the street called the Minories, so called from cer tain nuns of the Order of St. Clare, or Minoresses, for whose re ception, Blanch, Queen of Navarre, wife of Edmund, Earl of Lan caster, founded a convent in 1293 *. This street, though formerly as despicable as any in the environs of the city, has long been the residence * The length of this abbey, or convent was fifteen perches arid seven feet near the King's highway, as appears by a deed dated 1303. In the four teenth of Edward II. it was called " the Abbey of the Mi noresses of St. Mary, and of the order of St. Clare." The yearly revenue at the Dissolu- tioa MIDDLESEX. 131 residence of considerable tradesmen : among them are a number of gunsmiths. The West tide of it has been rebuil t with large uniform elegant houses, and several new streets have been made leading into Crutched Friars. On this side of the Minories also, are America Square, theCresent, and the Cireus, inhabited princi pally by eminent merchants. In Stow's time the site of these elegant buildings was occupied by dunghills, outhouses, and gardens, carpenters' yards, &c. bordering upon a filthy and danger ous ditch. In proportion as this new neighbourhood became populous after the Restoration, it was found necessary to establish a church. The ancient edifice used for this purpose being in a ruinous state, it was rebuilt in 1706. This little church, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, is of brick; and has a flat roof; its dimensions are sixty three feet in length, twenty-four in breadth, and, excepting a small turret,. void of ornament. The incumbent, or curate, for it is neither rectory nor vicarage, holds the same by an instrument of donation under the Great Seal of England. The income is very small, being only twenty-pounds per annum, collected from 12 the tion was 4181. 8s. 5d. Being a spacious structure, it was afterwards in habited by various nobles and others. The first occupant was Dr. Clerk, Bishop of Bath and Wells, and Master of the Rolls who having been sent Ambassador to. the Duk,e of Cleves, is supposed to have been poisoned in consequence of his mission,' and was buried in the Minorites Church ; but afterwards removed to Aldgate. In 1552, Edward VI. granted the chief messuage or mansion, called the Minory House, to Henry Grey, Duke of Suffolk, father to Lady Jane Grey, besides divers houses in London belonging to the monastery, of the clear yearly value of 361. lis. 5fd. to hold in free soccage, and the mansion in capite. On his attainder it reverted to the Crown, in which, being spared by the fire of London, it continued till the Restoration, wheji Charles II. granted it to Colonel William Legge, who re- sided there till his deafh in 1672, and was buried with great funeral pomp in the adjoining church. This house was afterwards converted into a kind of military storehouse, or armoury, and last of all, divided into tenements, which, with other buildings, gardens, &c. were ultimately removed to give place to the eastern side of the Minories Street, down to the church. 13$ MIDDLESEX. the inhabitants, besides surplice fees.. This chureh is, notwith standing worthy of notice for the following monuments : " In memory of Colonel William Legge, eldest son of six, to Edward Legge and Mary Walsh, which Edward was only son to William Legge and Ann Bermingham, of the noble and ancient family of the Berminghams of Athenree, in the kingdom of Ireland. He was groom of the bedcham ber, and Lieutenant General of the Ordnance to King Charles I. and in the late civil war,~was governor of Chester . and Oxford, and upon the happy restoration of the Royat Family in 1660, was, in consideration of his untainted fidelity to the King, and his many and great sufferings, restored to his place of Lieutenant General of the Ordnance, and groom of his Majesty's bedchamber by King Charles II. and as a further mark of his Royal favour, made superintendant and Treasurer of the Ordnance. He married Elizabeth, eldest daughter to Sir William Washington, and Ann Villers, daughter to Sir George Villers, and sister to the most noble Prince George, Duke of Buckingham, by whom he bad three sons and two daughters.. He died October 13, 1672, in the eighty-third year of his age, and lieth in a vault under this place." A little westward on the north side of the chancel is a hand some white and veined marble monument, adorned with a cornice, cartouch, pediment, and an urn, under, which is the following in scription : " To the memory of the Right Honourable George Lord Dartmouth, distinguished by his early and eminent deserts, and many high marks of Royal trust and favour; he was governor of Portsmouth, Master of the Ordnance, Privy Counsellor and Cabinet, to King Charles and King James II. and Master of the Horse to King James. After many singular proofs of his courage, conduct,, and affection to his couafey, MIDDLESEX. 1S3 country, given in several engagements at sea, he commanded in 'chief, and carried the flag as Admiral inthe whole English fleet, in two solemn -expeditions. He died October 25, in the forty fourth year of his age, and lies interred near this place. He married Barbara, daughter and coheir of Sir • James ArchboM, in Staffordshire, by whom he had issue -one son and seven daughters, two of whom lie in the same vault, as do also his lordship's father and mother (aforesaid) and Philip, eldest son of Sir Christopher Musgrave, of Ednal, in Cumberland, who married Mary the eldest daughter, and deceased August 6, 1688. At the back of this church in Haydon Square, are large ware houses belonging to the East India Company, one range of which is appropriated to the storing of tea and drugs, and the other for the reception of drugs only. A little to the east of the Minories are Goodman's Fields, con sisting of several handsome broad streets, the houses being large and convenient, with garden ground behind. Mansel, Present, Leman, and other considerable streets here, are mostly inhabited hy rich Jews. This ground within Stow's remembrance was a farm belonging to the Minoresses of St. Clare, who gave name to the adjoining street called the Minories, " at which fame," says Stowe, " I myself in my youth have fetched many a halfe pennce worth of milke, .and never had less than three ale pints for a half pennie in the summer, nor less than one ale uuart for a half pennie in the winter, always hote from the. kine as the same was milked and strained." One Trolop, and afterwards Goodman were the farmers there ; the latter having purchased the farm and the fields, so increased his property that he had thirty or forty cows for milking. Fanner Goodman's son afterwards letting, out the ground for grazing horses, and for gardens, the name of Goodman's farm was entirely lost in that of Goodman's Fields, which it retains, not withstanding al£ the- changes ft has undergone, it was on this spot,' at a theatre in Alie Street, where Garrick, on the 19th of I 3 October 1S4 MIDDLESEX. October 1741, first gave proof of those inimitable powers which afterwards astonished and charmed the public. During the few years that Garrick performed here the whole line of streets from Whitechapel to Temple Bar, were filled with the carriages of the nobility. and gentry. Presc i Street contained one of the first buildings dedicated to humanity and reformation ; a honse in the centre, having been occupied as the Magdalen Hospital before it was removed to its present situation in Great Surry Road. Little Alie Street contains a Lutheran chapel, where the learned and benevolent Dr. Wachsel was for many years the officiating minister. At the bottom of the Minories, towards the Tower, is Rose mary Lane, now a handsome street, though commonly called " Rag Fair." The idea which Mr. Pennant formed of this place will be found to have been extremely erroneous ; " the poverty of the goods and their cheapness," which he mentions, no longer exist. That a man may be wholly clothed here for fourteen pence is a pure fiction. It is true, that during a part of every afternoon the middle of the street is nearly filled with a num ber of Jews and other persons selling clothes, and second hand various articles of dress at a very low rate ; but the houses in Rosemary Lane, or the so called Rag Fair, are mostly, occupied by wholesale dealers in clothes, who used to export them to our colonies, and to South America. In several Exchanges, or large covered buildings, fitted up with counters, &c. there are good shops, and the annual circulation of money in the purlieus of this place, is really astonishing, considering the articles sold, although their cheapness bears no kind of proportion to Mr. Pennant's conjectures. On the North side of Rosemary Lane, near the east end, stand the Merchant Taylors' Almshouses for fourteen elderly women, who receive 1*. \d. per week, agreeably to the will of the founder; and 8/. 15*. annually from the Com pany. Richard Hills, master of the Company, and founder of Merchant Taylors' School, gave in 15iJ3, certain small cot tages MIDDLESEX. 1 35 tages founding the almshouses ; and Alderman Ratcliffe, of the same Company, added the benefaction of one hundred loads of timber. Rosemary Lane was formerly called Hog Lane, and reached to Whitechapel. In the year 1574, eight acres of adjoining land in the possession of Benedict Spinola, a rich Italian mer chant, were converted by him into tenter grounds and" gardens, however so low were commercial improvements estimated at that period that a proclamation of Queen Elizabeth ordered the re moval of all the pales, fences, and buildings ; because they were an annoyance to the archers, and to all the Queen's liege peo ple ! The inhabitants to avert the Queen's resolution repre sented to Lord Burleigh, that " The same field before had been a distinct piece of ground, not used by archers, being far unmeet for archers to shoot in, by reason of standing puddles, most noysome laystalls, and filthy ditches in and about the same. Also the way called Hog Lane, was so foul and deep in the win ter time, that no man could pass by the same; and in sum mer time men would not pass thereby for fear of infection, by means of the filthiness that lay there, so that the presenters were utterly deceived, and not well informed in their present ments." After this Spinola bestowed great cost and charges in level ling and eleansing the premises, and made tenter grounds which were extremely useful to the cloth workers, as several tenter grounds in other , parts had been built upon or converted into other uses. Besides, a safe and pleasant passage was now effected through these swamps, &c. which were before impassable; and the tenter grounds about Goodman's Fields are supposed to have been formed on the site of several of the meadows which originally be longed to Goodman's Farm. A narrow opening in Rosemary Lane towards Tower Hill, leading to the New Mint, lately the site of the Victualling Office, as it was afterwards of the tobacco warehouses, was once that qf 14 a mag- 136 IrflDDLSSBX. a magnificent religious foundation, called the New Abbey, or the Abbey of the Graces, or East Minster *. At the final dissolution of monasteries the lands and revenues being given to the king for ever, Henry VIII. granted this abbey, gcc. to Sir Arthur Darcy, second son of Thomas, Lord Darcy, who was beheaded in tiie reign ef Henry, hot who, on the family ho nours being restored *° him, was employed in the wars against Scotland, so much to the king's satisfaction that he was made governor of Jersey. After he, had heen some time in possession of the dissolved (abbey, he entirely demolished it f. The New Mint and the extensive offices belonging to it, hav ing occasioned the removal of all the old houses on the left hand jside of East Smithfield down to Norwich Court and Butcher Row, the street, which was before narrow and dangerous, is now ren dered commodious and broad, and the improvement has added con siderably to the good appearance of the neighbourhood^ The New Mint, which has the peculiar advantage pf being situated on an acclivity ascending from the Thames, would, were some visual impediments removed, have a most commanding site. It is de signed and executed by Mr. Smirke, jun. and is in the purest stile of Grecian architecture ; hut technically speaking, it ex hibits something superior even to a merely correct architectural Style: for it appears both in its plan and eleyation to be a fabric most admirably adapted to business, and particularly to the pur pose intended ; still it will probably strike every curious observer, that • In 1359, Edward having obtained the consent of the prior and convent fcftbe Holy Trinity, founded an Abbey of Cistertian, or White Monks, which he dedicated to St. Mary of the Graces, " in remembrance and acknowledg ment of the goodness of Almighty. God, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, and of the blessed Virgin Mary; whom he had often called upon, and fouad helpful to him by sea and land, in wars, and in other perils; and therefore ordered this house to be called The Kjng's Free Chapel of the Biess,ed Virgin of Graces, in memory of those graces and favours which he had received from her." -,;. .t Dugdale's Monasticon. ,i,;:llllll S§ MIDDLESEX. 137 tliat the houses on each side of this truly elegant building, in tended for the residence of the principal officers engaged in the coinage, would have much more correctly assimulated with the fabric, if they had been fronted with the new stuceu, and orna mented in the same style, so as to form a perfect- whole, simple yet beautiful, plain, yet for its purpose, sufficiently magnifi cent. Here are steam engines, and all those convenient and mechani cal contrivances, which for a long time were only to be found at the Soho, near Birmingham. The Mint, however, is inaccessible to strangers, excepting on special recommendation, or immediate business with the officers. From East Smithfield a lane running to the right, Leads to the Thames, on the bank of which, hereabout stood the Great Breweries ; or as they are called in the ancient maps, the Bere House. This part of public sustenance was subject to regula tion as early as the reign of Henry VII. who, in 1492, licensed John Merchant, a Fleming, to export fifty tuns of ale, called Berre. And so rude and summary were the modes of check ing abuses in those times, that in the same reign, we read that one Geoffry Gate, probably a king's officer, spoiled the brew- houses at St. Catharines's twice, either for sending too much abroad unlicensed, or for brewing it too weak for home con sumption. The demand for this article from foreign parts in creased so much in the time of Elizabeth, that five hundred tuns were exported at once for her use, (or probably for the armies in the Low Countries) three hundred and fifty barrels to Embden, three hundred to Amsterdam, and again eight hundred to Emb- den. It would appear that the exportation of ale, &c. was pretty large in this reign, excepting when checked by proclamation on account of any scarcity of corn, but even then it was permitted at times by royal licence*. A little * Pennant, the same author from " Customs, &c. of London," printed l5y Pynson, about '1521, has furnished us with the receipt for maiing the boasted' 13S MIDDLESEX. A little to the westward of this spot, and not far east of the .Tower, in a small open place, called St. Catherine's Square, stands the church of St. Catherine, almost concealed from the view by the surrounding buildings. It belonged originally to an hospital founded in 1148, by Matilda, consort to King Stephen. The old foundation was dissolved and refounded by Queen Eleanor, relict of Henry III. Queen Philippa, consort to Edward III. was a great benefactress to this hospital ; so was likewise Henry VI. who- not only confirmed all the former grants, and made se veral additional ones, but gave it an ample charter. It was exempt from the jurisdiction of the Bishop of London till its sup pression by Henry VIII. sooii after which Edward VI. annexed it to the diocese of London, but left the patronage in the hands of the Queen of England/ According to the wishes of Queen Eleanor, who refounded it. The, church, a very handsome Go thic building, is collegiate, and has a master whose situation is a valuable sinecure; and. three brethren who have forty pounds each ; three sisters who haye twenty pounds, , and ten beads women who have eight pounds per annum each; besides six poor scholars. This church was repaired and enlarged in 1621 ; and in 1629, the outside of it was rough cast at the expense of Sir Julius Csesar, about which time the clock tower was added at the charge of the parishioners. In the choir are several very hand some stalls, ornamented with Gothic work, under one of which is a very good carved head of Queen Philippa, and another of her husband. The east window is very elegant. The pulpit is a great curiosity : on its eight sides, are represented the ancient building, and the different gates, of the hospital. The length of the church is sixtyrnine feet, and its breadth sixty ; the length of the choir is sixty-three feet, the breadth thirty rtwo; and the, height of the roof is fortyriiiiie feet. This church, or Free Chapel, is well worthy the attention of the curious ; but its obscure situation prevented any particular ,: , . t .. notice boasted British liquor, viz. X quarters malte; II. quarters wheete : II quarters totes XI pound weight of hoppys to make L5{ barrels of sengyll beer." fae.from aDrwftyljjlP.Niait for tin Benim&s nfEng tend k I'SaL's IKT3EJS.IOM. OF ST CATHAMNE'S CHURCH. Lor.J^i-.J'uhliihtl bahbiMarnsXrad* Qav:hl&rlMBt.idAi5 . MIDDLESEX. 139 notice of it till it was repaired and beautified in 1778, when the little private ecclesiastical society, who had the management of its funds, were enabled from the savings of many years to adorn their venerable church at no small expense, after the Gothic manner. But though this venerable pile, more fortunate than many others, suffered very little after the Reformation, and dur ing the Usurpation, it certainly ran no small hazard in the infatuated year of 1780, when one Macdonald, a soldier with one arm, and two women, the one being a white, and the other a ne gro, headed a numerous mob, crying " No Popery," and de stroyed the house and goods of John Lebarty, a publican in St. Catherihe's Lane. Inflamed and intoxicated, the rabble were pro. ceeding to demolish the beautiful collegiate church, then newly repaired, on a pretence, as these abandoned women told them, " That it had been built in the times of Popery." The gentle men of the London Association, however, arrived before they could carry their threats into execution, and Macdonald and the women expiated their crimes on a temporary gallows on Tower Hill soon after. Ou entering the church the flood of light thrown on every part of it from the large east window, forms a delightful exhibition not often met with. A handsome' Gothic screen separates the body from the choir, in which are the beautiful stalls before mentioned. The altar piece is of exquisite workmanship, and is said to he the only altar in the pure Gothic stile in England ; and the lofty pil lars in the church are remarkably light, airy, and durable. A most stately and fine- toned organ, was built in 1778, by Mr. Green. It is inclosed in a beautiful mahogany case, with spiral work, and other Gothic carvings. The pipes are of very' large di mensions, and the instrument has three sets of keys, full compass, with 'twenty > one stops, and a swell. The construction of the- or- ganis in many respects' entirely new; the swell attracted the at- 'tentibn *>f several -musical 'amateurs; its compass extends from E in Alt, to Gamut, a whole Octave more than usual, and is five notes lower than that of St. Paul's Cathedral, so that this is-' the largest 140 " MIDDLESEX. largest swell iii England : till this was effected by Mr. Green the difficulty deteired many artists from making the attempt. The principal monument worthy' of notice is that of the Duke of Exeter, and, which, excepting those in the Temple Church is the most ancient in the city. The figure of the Duke, with his lady and sister, both on his left side, are all in praying postures, with coronets on their heads, and their fingers ornamented by many rings. On a tablet hung near the tomb is transmitted to memory by John , Gibbon, herald at arms, whose tomb is also here, the following inscription: " John Holland, Duke of Exon, Earl of Huntington, Earl of Ivory, in Normandy, Lord of Sparr, Lieutenant General of the Dukedom of Aquetaen, Admiral of England and Ire land, Knight of the most noble Order of the Garter, and Constable of the Tower of London, lyes buried here in the Chapter House belonging to the Collegiate Church of St. Catherine. He died in the 25th year of Hen. VI. on the 5th of August, 1447. Here lye buried by him his two wives, Ann, daughter of Edmund, Earl of Stafford, by whom he had issue Henry, the last Duke of Exon, of that sir name, dying without issue, and buried in Westminster Abbey. The second wife of Duke John, was Ann, daughter of John Montacute, Earl of Salisbury, and by her he had issue, Ann, mother to Ralph Nevill, third earl of Westmorland. Reges atque duces mors ducit at atria ditis Regna pauperibw mors sceptra legionibus equat. Death hath no more respect to crowns Than to the pates of meanest clowns." Here, according to Weaver, lies buried Constance, sister of the said Duke John, who was married to Thomas, Lord Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk, Earl of Nottingham, and Earl Marshal of England; and remarried to Sir John Grey, Lord Grey of Ruthin. The MIDDLESEX. 141 The Queen'* consorts of England are by law the perpetual pa tronesses, this hospital being considered part of their dower ; and they nominate, appoint, increase, lessen, alter, or remove old sta tutes, mak,e new ones^ and use unlimited power. Should there be no Queen Consort, the King exercises the same authority; for no Qneen Dowager can interfere, the dignity avid patro nage on her part ceasing on the death of the sovereign/. On this account it is called " The Royal Peculiar of St. Cathe rine." y .-i i '* ; These -various privileges and boundaries formerly attacMrig'lo St. Catherine's, were acknowledged and confirmed by several English monarchs, when the right being contested by the eitiy, it was granted in favour of the inhabitants of St. Catherine's^ or Portsoken ; over and above which, they enjoyed many other liberties granted to the citizens of London; " That no arrest, attachment, or execution, should be made by any officers of the King, within the said liberty, either by writ, or without writ; but only by the officers of the city. That the inhabitants of Portsoken and the Tower were to be impleaded only inthe- Courts of the City, for all matters, causes, and contracts, however arising. . That the Tower had no proper Court of its own, but Court of the Baron, which is no Court of Record, as appears by various records exemplified in the King's Bench. That when any murder or drowning had been within the said hospital of St. Catherine or the Tower, the City Officers attached the male. factors within the Tower, notwiiihstandiiig that, the King himself sometimes happened to be present within the said Tower ; and have the men so, arrested into some of the King's prisons within Hie City. That when the Justices itinerant have used to come tp keep assizes in the Tower, the city officers have had the keep ing both of the inner and outer gates, and that nothing was executed, within the Tower which pertained to. the office of a Serjeant, but by the servants of the city. That the Sheriffs of London have had the charge of all the prisons in the Tower as often 8 142 MIDDLESEX. often as the said Justices itinerant, had come, as appears by the many roll-pleas of the crown, and of the said itinerant Justices.'' These valuable privileges, in consequence of usurpation on one side, and through neglect, and compliance on the other, have long since become in a great measure a dead letter. Still the business of the establishment is transacted in chapter by the master, brothers, and sisters, the latter having an equal vote with . the former ; and no meetings are lawful except four members, and one sister, are present. The subordinate officers, elected by a majority in chapter, are a commissary, registrar, steward, surveyor, receiver, chapter, clerk, besides a sexton, &c. There are also two Courts belonging to this district ; the Spiri tual Court is a royal jurisdiction for all Ecclesiastical causes within the precinct: here probates of wills, administrations, mar riage licenses, &c. are granted as in other Ecclesiastical Courts. All appeals are made to the Lord Chancellor only. To this court, a registrar, ten proctors, and an apparitor, are attached. The Temporal Court here, in which the high steward of the Jurisdiction presides, lakes cognizance of all disputes within the precinct, and forms Court-leets, &c. A high bailiff and pro- thonatory belong to this court ; as also a prison, but this has long been disused. The whole precinct contains St. Catherine's ; Thames Street, from the Iron Gate eastward to the King's Brewhouse ; also St. Catherine's Court, Queen's Court, Three Sisters Close, St. Catherine's Lane, Dolphin's Alley, Brown* s Alley, Cat's Hole, alias New Court. From the King's Brewhouse it extends north ward on the westward side of the Butcher Row, including Uni corn Yard, Whiting Bridge, Helmet Steps and Court, and the Island towards Tower Hill. Abutting on Aldgate parish, it includes Plow Alley, Flemish Church Yard, and other Courts, Alleys, &c. As after the loss of Calais in the reign of Queen Mary, several of the French inhabitants sought refuge in Eng land, .St. Catherine's was assigned them as their residence; and a lane, MIDDLESEX. 143 a lane, then denominated Hamrnes and G'uisnes, from the place whence they had fled, was, in process of time, called by corrup tion, Hangman's Gains. St. Catherine's,' in the beginning' of the reign of Edward III. afforded a temporary residence to the' famous Hermetic philoso pher, Raymond Lulle. This appears by a M. S. copy of his " Testament concerning his Practice of Alkemy," at the con clusion of which he says, " that he made it in the Chirche of Saynte Katerine nexte London towards the partie' of thei castell afor the Thamyse, reigning the- King Edward of Wodstok, by the grace of God king of England : in the hands of whom we putte in keeping hy the will of God the present testament, in the year after the incarnacion 1332, with all hys volumns which have been named in the present testament." St. Catherine's Liberty also gave birth to Richard Verstegan, an eminent antiquary and judicious critic in the Saxon and Go thic languages, in the sixteenth aud seventeenth centuries. His father, though a cooper, was a descendant from an ancient and honourable family, in Guelderland. Verstegan was educated at Oxford, but left the University without a degree on account of his professing the Roman Catholic doctrines, for which reason also he quitted England and settled at Antwerp. He afterwards wrote, in favour of the Jesuits, " Theatrum Crudelitatem Hereticorum nostri tempores" He also wrote "The Sundr Successive Regal Governments of England." And a Restitution of Decayed Intelligence in Antiquities, concerning the most no ble and renowned English nation. Wapping, which has not been unaptly called " the Port of Loudon," is by no means of equal antiquity with the metropolis; for though no part of this hamlet below bridge, or below the Tower, was damaged by the great fire of 1666; previous to 1657 it consisted only of one continued street, extending about a mile from the Tower along the river almost as far as Ratcliffe. Both the hamlet and the neighbourhood of Wapping were formerly one great wash, covered with the waters of the Thames ; but after- ] wards 144 MIDDLESEX. wards having been gained from the river and turned into a kind of meadow-ground, it obtained the name of Wapping Wash, and was defended from the inundation of the river by walls or dikes, which were chargeable to the proprietors. Between the years 1560 and 1570, this wall was broken in several places, and the whole was again laid under water. Queen Elizabeth at length authorized, the Commissioners of Sewers to- hold out encourage ¦ ment to persons inclined to rebuild the wall and take land ; and, among the rest, one William Page took a lease of one hundred and ten. feet of the wall, laid the foundation of his building, and spent a considerable sum in strengthening the land against the river, with which he proceeded till a proclamation from the Queen, in 1583, put a stop to all new buildings; Page1 peti tioned ; and, some time after, it appears that his building went on again and was completed. How scantily this part, now closely covered withstreetSj lanes, and alleys, was supplied with houses in the early part of the reign of Charles I. appears from the circumstance of that monarch having hunted a stag on Friday, July 24, from Wanstead, in E ssex, killed him in a garden near Nightingale Lane, in the hamlet of Wapping, in which great damage was afterwards ..me in consequence of the multitude of people suddenly assembled. Within- the last twenty years a very great part of the parish of St. Johu's, Wapping, has been excavated for the formation of the London Docks, the express purposes of which were to secure vessels from the various accidents incidental to their being- crowded in the Thames, and to prevent depredations committed almost with impunity on their lading. The new Docks now extend along the Thames almost to Ratcliffe Highway, and are inclosed by a brick wall, lined with warehouses. One immense Dock, called St. George's Dock, covers the space extending from Virginia Street almost to Old Gravel Lane, in one direction; and, in another, from Artichoke Lane to the south side of Pennington Street. This dock alone is capable of holding five hundred ships, with room for shifting. Another called .MIDDLESEX. 145 called Shadwell Dock, adjoining, will hold about fifty ships. The entrance to the Docks from the Thames is by three basons, capable of containing an immense quantity of small craft ; and the inlets from the Thames into the basons is at the Old Hermitage Dock, at Old Wapping Dock, and Old Shadwell Dock. The whole cover more than twenty acres. The capital of the London Dock Company is 1,200,000/. ; and -they were at a very great expense in purchasing the- houses and streets which stood on the .space appropriated to these docks. On the 26th of June, 1802, .the foundation of the entrance bason .was laid by Mr. Pitt, the Chancellor- of the. Exchequer. The first stone of a tobacco ware house ; also. the first stone for a range of warehouses for general merchandize, were laid: the same day. The warehouses for the reception of Tobacco only are immense. The largest, is seven hundred and sixty-two feet long, and one hundred and sixty feet, wide, equally divided by a strong partition wall, with double iron doors. The smallest is two hundred and fifty feet "by . two hundred. Both consists of ground-floors and vaults : the .cellars in the smaller warehouses are for wines, and generally contain 5000 pipes. The whole is under the care and C/,gtrol °f the officers of. the Customs, the proprietors only re ceiving the rents. The London Docks were first opened on the 30th of January, 1805, when the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the principal,.Officers of State, were present. A vessel from Oporto, called the London Packet, laden, with wine, decorated with the colours of different trading nations, early in the. fore noon entered the Dock from the bason, amidst the shouts of the multitude,, when the Dock-master conducted it safely across the entrance bason into the South Dock, atythe north-east corner of which she was moored for the purpose of unloading her cargo. The company then partook of a cold collation which had been prepared in two of the warehouses purposely fitted up for the occasion. A grand dinner .was afterwards given at the London Tavern by the. Dock Directors, to Earl Camden, Lords Hawkes- bnry, EUenborough, and Harrowby, the Lord Mayor and Corpo- K ration 146 MIDDLESEX. ration of London, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Directors of the West India Docks, and about one hundred merchants of the city of London. Wapping gave rise to a singular custom and a singular character. Mr. Daniel Day, an eminent Block-maker of this part of the town, who being the possessor of a small estate in Essex, at no great distance from Fairlop Oak, was the cause of the establishment, of what has, ever since the year 1725, beeB called Fairlop Fair. To this venerable tree he used on the first. Friday in July to repair ; thither it was his custom to invite a party of his neighbours to accompany him under the shade of its blanches, to dine on beans and bacon. Events of importance frequently originate in trifling causes. The idea of dining under a large tree in the midst of a forest, had something in it roman tic ; the fame of Mr. Day's harmless celebration soon spread, and 'other parties were formed to participate in the enjoyment of his anniversary ; but from no part of the town were they so numerous as from Wapping. And as on the day of the fair Mr. Day never failed to provide several sacks of beans, with a pro portionate quantity of bacon, which he distributed from the trunk of the tree, he soon became popular. Besides the singularity of this largess, for several years before the death. of the humourous founder of this public beau-feast, the pump and block-makers of Wapping, to the number of thirty or forty, went annually to the fair in a boat made like that of Robinson Crusoe, or an Indian Canoe, of one entire piece of fir. This amphibious vehicle was covered with an awning,, mounted on a coach carriage, and drawn by six horses ; the whole adorned with ribbons, flags, and streamers. It was furnished with a band of musicians. Some time after, the Block-makers and Watermen joined together to huild a new boat, and both trades went in the same boat, rigged, until 1795, when the watermen lent the boat to Lieute nant Donadieu, to take it to several parts of the country to col lect volunteer seamen, instead of impressing them. This trans action giving offence to the Block Makers, tbey built a new one, which, MIDDLESEX. 147 which, in 1812, "being rather decayed, and nob so capacious as they could wish, they built another in Great Hermitage Street, Wapping, eightean feet long,; and five broad, with three masts, and rigged like a ship, surpassing any one built before for dura bility and neatness. Her two anchors were gilt with various 'ornaments, and a figurfe head, resembling Mr. Daniel Day/ other name she alsob ears. A few years before the decease of Mr. Day, his favourite oak lost a large limb, out of which he procured a coffin to be made for his own interment : his death happened on the 18th of Octo ber, 1767, he being1 then 84 years of age : his remains were, according to his own request, arising from his having been thrown From a horse and overturned in a wheel carriage', conveyed to Barking, by water, accompanied by six journeymen block and pump-makers, to each of which he bequeathed a new leathern aproii and a guinea. There is a tomb-stone in the Church-yard of Barking to hi& memory, and another to his sister, Sarah Thil- luck, who died in 1782, inthe 93d year of her age. The parish of Shadwell is one fbf the Tower Hamlfets, and formerly being called Chadwelle, is supposed to have derived its name from a spring dedicated to St. Chad. It belonged to Stepney till 1669; when the Chapel, now the Church, erected by Thomas Neale, Esq. lessee in the Hamlet 1656, was con verted into a church, and the patronage given to the Dean of St. Paul's. The parish is divided into Upper and Lower Shadwell ; the latter so called from its having been anciently a part of Wap ping Marsh. This hamlet 'is a continuation of the buildings along the river. Between the houses and the water in all this long line of streets, are various docks and small building yards. The passenger is often surprised with the sight of a prow of a ship rising over the street ; and the hulks of others appearing at numbers of openings. The only land not occupied by buildings, consists of a few acres called Sun Tavern Fields, in which are several rdpe- walks, 400 yards in length, where cables are made from six to 23 inches in girth. The chief part of the parish K2 >n 148 MIDDLESEX. in Lower Shadwell, is mostly inhabited by tradesmen and manu facturers connected with the shipping; such as ship-chandlers, biscuit-bakers, wholesale butchers, mast-makers, sail-makers, anchor-smiths; coopers, &c. The Church is a brick stmcture,- consisting of a chancel, two aisles, and a square low tower. It is eighty-seven feet long, and sixty-three broad. The body has but few windows, with rustic arches, and some very mean ones in the roof resembling those of garrets. At the corners of the building there are balls placed on small pedestals. The tower, which contains six bells, is carried up without ornament, and is crowned with balls at the corners and a plain low turret. The interior is ornamented with galle ries, which has been gaudily ornamented with gold. This edi fice is at present, November, 1814, shut up for repairs. The water-works in this parish were first established by Thomas Neale, Esq. whose estates comprised two-thirds of the parish in 1669; and, in 1691, the . proprietors were made a body cor porate. In 1.750, the water, raised before by horses, was raised by a steam-engine; and, in 1774, one of these was erected on the plan of Boulton and Watt, serving a district of nearly 8000 houses. These works were purchased by the London Dock Company in 1800 for 50,000/. In ] 615 a Roman Cemetery was discovered in SunTavern Fields, in which were found two coffins, one of stone, containing the bones of a man ; and the other of lead, beautifully embellished with scollop- shells, containing the bones of a woman, at whose head and feet were placed two urns, of the height of three feet each , and, at - the sides, divers beautiful red earthen bottles, with a number of lachrymatories of hexagonal and octagonal forms. On each side of these inhumed bones were placed two ivory sceptres of the length of eighteen inches each ; and upon the breast the figure •of a small Cupid, beautifully wrought; as were likewise two pieces of Jet, resembling nails of the length of two inches. Sir Richard Cotton, who made this discovery, supposed the female, here interred, was the consort of some prince, or Roman Praetor ; '¦* as MIDDLESEX. 149 as some Roman Coins, discovered at the same time, had on one side this inscription ; Imp Pupiems Maximus P. F. ; and, ou the reverse, with hands conjoined, Petrus Senatus. Matthew Mead, an eminent divine, was appointed Minister of Shadwell> Jan. 22, 1658. He was ejected for Nonconformity in 1662. Upwards of sixty years since, a mineral water, of a very pow erful nature, now called Shadwell Spa, was discovered by Walter Berry, Esq. in sinking a well in Sun Tavern Fields. At first this water was recommended for almost every disorder incident to the human frame. It was really found serviceable as an anti scorbutic : but afterwards the water was principally used for the purpose of extracting salts, and for preparing a liquor with which the calico-printers fix their colours. Considerable alteration was made in front of the High Street, Shadwell, by a fire which broke out at a haberdasher's, within a: few yards of the market-place, between two and three o'clock on Monday morning,Oct,16,1814, which consumed six houses in front, and between twenty and thirty backwards, happily without any lives being lost. The flames were so rapid, and the heat so intense as to break the windows, consuming the window- frames of the houses opposite, and, among them, those of the Shadwell Police Office. Fortunately the flames were prevented from spreading on both sides of the way, as had frequently been the case in this part of the town : however, the gap occasioned by the devouring element exhibited a strikiug miniature of the ruins of Old Loudon after the great conflagration in 1666, having disclosed a number of half destroyed houses huddled together in all directions, and which, from their ruinated and antique appear ance, naturally excited ideas of equal danger from an apprehen sion of their fall,* Having described the whole circuit south of Whitechapel from Limehouse to the Tower of London, we shall now return north- Ward to K 3 STv * Vide ante, Vol. I. p. 5$7, 150 MIDDLESEX, ST. BOTOLPH, ALDGATE.— This church is situated a* the corner ef Houndsditch, aud nearly opposite the Minories. The Saint to whom it was originally dedicated, according to the Britannia Sameta, was of noble English extraction. Few British saints have been more revered by the ancient inhabitants of this island, Botolph's Town, (now Boston,) in Lincolnshire, and Ba- tolph's Bridge (now Bottle Bridge) in Huntingdonshire, took their names from him ; and, besides the famous priory at Col chester, no less than four churches in London are dedicated to St. Botolph. The first church aft Aldgate is supposed to have been built about the time of William I. : and, in 1418, Mr. Robert Beresford, an eminent bell-founder in the parish, caused an aisle, dedicated to St. Catherine, a chapel to the Virgin Mary, and a new steeple to be made, agreeably to his will. — Perhaps at some other period the principal part of the church was rebuilt by the prior and. convent of the Holy Trinity ; it, how ever, became so ruinous, being spared by the fire pf London, that . an act passed for erecting the present structure, which was finished in 1744; and-, contrary to custom, stands north and south. It is built with, brick, and is a plain massy structure, with a regular body and a lofty steeple, formed of a tower, with rather a heavy spire. Its greatest ornament is a bold rustic, with which it is strengthened at the corners ; within- the tower are eight bells. The interior of the church is well embellished, and has a good organ. The altar is very handsome, and ornamented to imitate porphyry ; above are pictures of the Holy Family and the AnnunT eiation. The ancient monuments are but few : the principal is thus inscribed: " Here lyetb. Thomas Lord Darcy- of the North, and sometime of the Order of the Gaiter ;- Sir Nicholas Carew, Knight. of the Gaiter; Lady Elizabeth Carew, daughter to, Francis Brian ; and Sir Arthur Darcy, younger son to the said Lord Darcy ; and Lady Mary, bis dear wife, daughter of Sir Nicholas Carew, w-ho had ten sons and five daughters, A pillar MIDDLESEX. ljl A pillar on the south side of the nave of the church records a number of charities left by Robert Dow, Citizen aud Merchant Tailor, of London, there interred with Lettice, his Wife, and Thomas, his son. Among the few monuments of modern, date, are those of the Rev. Michael Rollings, late Secretary to the Society for the prbniotion of Christian Knowledge, 1786. Maria Halifax, wife of Dr. Benjamin Halifax, Gresham Professor of Divinity, 1802. The living is a Curacy ; the impropriator being held in fee from the Crown. Among the Curates, the most emi nent were Dr. White Kennett, afterwards Bishop -of Peterbo rough. A little to the east of Aldgate Church is Petticoat Lane, which with its numerous courts and alleys have long been stigm-atiz'ed as the resort and residence of Jews and others, of the lowest de scription. This1 neighbourhood has undergone several changes since Stow's time, who describes the High Street, White chapel, as a road with a few houses and inns for the entertain ment of travellers' ; arid remarks, that the'city liberties ended at a place i then oalled Hog, but now Petticoat Lane. Intliis la\ie, it seems; and the fields adjoining, the bakers of London ^ere al lowed to feed hogs: In StoW's time tiiis custom began to de cline, and he lived to see "fair hedge rows of elm trees on each side, with bridges and easy stiles to pass over into the pleasant fields, very commodious fot" citizens therein to walk, shoot, and otherwise to- recreate and refresh their dulled spirits in the sweet and wholesome air," which is now, says he, ''within few years made a continual building throughout of garden-houses'; and small cottages, and the fields on either side are turned inta garden plot's, tirhber- yards, howling- allies, and the like, from Houndsditeh in the west as far as Whitechapel." Curious and sing'ulal- as it may ajipear, this Spot soon after became the habitation of great mfeh, and even the town residence of the stately Count GotiUamar, Ambassador from Spain, and the Cause of Sir Walter Raleigh's death, in the reign of James I. Upon the authority of Mr. Moser, Within the last forty years, K 4 the J5S MIDDLESEX. the remains of a very large quadrangular mansion, which had court-yards, gates, and all other appendages of state, were to be seen in Petticoat Lane. Tradition says, that as well as by Count Gondamar, it had been occnpied by the Earl of Essex. In the interregnum it was possessed by Cromwell's soldiers, probably to communicate with the garrisons in Houndsditeh and the Tower. Latterly the great house was let out in tenements ; its gardens covered with mean cottages and sheds, and its once magnificent apartments inhabited by a colony of the children of Israel, Soon after the commencement of the late war, the East India Company purchased this spot, which had long been a publip nuisance, and errected upon it those magnificent warehouses, which extend from New Street, Bishopsgate, to Cutler's Street, Houndsditeh." On the east side of Petticoat Lane-, and within sight of Count Gondamar's, stood another large house, formerly occupied by Hans Jacobson, Jeweller to King James the First. This after wards became the residence of the famous Strype, and had been called Strype's Court, till, by the phraseology of the place it ohr tained the name of " Tripes' Yard." It had formerly gardens be hind it, and was said to have been very pleasantly situated. This Strype's, or Tripe's Yard, which took its name from the house in which the Annalist and his father had resided/is now like Petticoat Lane, the resort of the lowest order of Jews. A little to the westward of this lane, and running north and south from Aldgate church, is a handsome street, long since called Houndsditeh, which washing the city wall, took its name from its being the casual receptacle for dead dogs and other filth. It was rendered remarkable from its being the burial-place of the traitorous nobleman, Edric, the murderer of his sovereign, Ed mund Ironside, in favour of Canute. " I like the treason," ob served the latter,