/■ THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES Iv THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES ANNALS OF BATH. Q ANNALS OF BATH, FROM T H K YEA K 1 800 TO THE PASSING OF THE NEW MUNICIPAL ACT. UEDICATFD (BY PEK.MISSIOS) TU VICE-ADMIRAL LORD JAMES O'BRYEN, G.C.H. CAPTAIN ROWLAND MAINWARING, R.N. Author of " IxsTRUCTiVE Glkanings," Arc. " Amid the glories of thy beauteous streets, Empress of cities! — Mercy glows to see The domes by Charity's fond hand uprear'd: Around them breathes a hallow'd grace, that o'er Thy vanities, (which make our sages laugh,) Redeeming influence shed : despairing Woe^ Deserted JVant^ and Sicknenn, with her brood Of pale-faced martyrs seen, are shclter'd here ; And pure ascends their prayer of gratitude !*' R. MOfJTGO.MEBV'S " BaTH.* BATH: PRINTED BY MARY MEYLER AND SON, (HKBALD OFFICE,) ABBEY Cll VHCH-VARD. MDCCCXXXVIII. * 3IA L^O BSilZ DEDICATION. TO VICE-ADMIRAL THE RIGHT HONOURABLE LORD JAMES O'BRYEN, K.C.B., G.C.H., &c., &c., &c. 3£y Lord, The interest which your Lordship has taken in the public Institutions, private Charities, and general welfare of the City of Bath, gives me a fair claim (even had I been unhnown to your Lordship) to solicit the honour of dedicating to you the follotcing " An^tals of Bath" But, associated as I have been tvith your Lordship, in many of those Institutions, and having observed your Lordship's xeal and ability in promoting their interests, I have a stronger desire to dedicate to you pages of History, wherein your Lordship has borne so conspicuous a part. ENGLISH LOCAL VI DEDICATION. If close attention to the interests of the Poor, if xeal and activity in the ])romotion of a good cause, claim the gratitude of the Bath ■public, it is eminently due to your Lordship, and those worthy men who, with yourself, jmss their hours in acts of benevolence and Christian charity — men, on whom alone rest the loelfare and prosperity of Bath. I have the honour to be, My Lord, Your Lordship's obedient humble Servant, ROWLAND JNIAINWARING, CAPTAIN R.N. Whitmore Hall, St.\fpordshire, February, 1838. CONTENTS. 1801. Great Scarcity and Distress— Measures pursued by Government, in conse- quence—Measures adopted in this City— Beneficial Results— Proroga- tion of Parliament— His Majesty's Speech, in reference to the State of the Country — Average Price of Wheat during the Scarcity — The Harvest Months produce Great Abundance— Battle of Copenhagen- Collections for the Sufferers- Their Majesties expected— Preparations in consequence — Threats of Invasion — Precautions adopted — Bath Vo- lunteers resume their Services— Intelligence of Preliminaries of Peace reach the City — Effect on the Inhabitants — Accident — Illuminations — Burglars and Shoplifters numerous and successful — Population — Civic Appointments. 1802. Definitive Treaty of Amiens confirmed— Subscriptions to augment the Funds of the Hospitals, instead of Illuminating on that occasion- Peace proclaimed— Volunteers throughout the kingdom disbanded— Thanks to that Force, from His Majesty, Parliament, and the Local Authorities — Ministerial Measures Discussed — Amusements of the City in a Prosperous State — Arrangements for Opening a Communi- cation between the Upper and Lower Toums— City Boundaries Perambulated— Origin of that Custom— Parliament Dissolved — Mem- bers returned for the City — Civic Appointments. Vm CONTENTS. 1803. Colonel Despard and Associates Executed as Traitors — Corporation ad- dress His Majesty on the subject — Parliament meet — Message from His Majesty — Preparations in the French and Dutcli Ports — Cor- responding Preparations in England — British and French Ambassadors Re-called — Financial Statement of Ministers — Bill for Defence of the Country receives the Royal Assent — Patriotic Meetings in this City — Inhabitants ami in Defence of the Country — Subscriptions for Equip- ping Volunteers, and other purposes — Formation of the Bath Volun- teers — National Patriotism — Magnificent Bequest for Improving the City — Extract from Report of Commissioners on Municipal Corporations — Civic Appointments. 1804. Unabated Activity in Training the Bath Volunteers — Harmonic Society — When Established — Their Entertainments — His Majesty's Birth-day Celebrated — Meeting of Freemen, relative to Proposals for Building on the High Common — Report of Committee for the Extension of the Court of Requests — New Theatre Proposed and Commenced — History of the Bath Theatres — Civic Appointments. 1805. Strangers' Friend Society in Benevolent Activity — When Established — Institution established for the Practice of Vaccine Inoculation — Number of Deaths in Bath, in Twelve Weeks, from Small Pox — Society established for the Suppression of Mendicity, and Relief of Occasional Distress — Rapid Improvements in the City — Barker's Pic- ture Gallery opened — New Theatre opened ; Management to the Present Day — Secession of Mr. Tyson, Master of the Ceremonies — Appointment of Mr. King — " Bath Small Debt Bill" receives the Roval Assent — Its Powers and Jurisdiction — Prizes contended for bv the Bath Volunteers — Presentation of Colours to Volunteers — Battle of Trafalgar announced — Subscriptions for Relief of the Wounded, Widows and Orphans — Column in Laura-place proposed — Civic Appointments. CONTEMTS. IX 1806. Penitentiary Asylum cstahlislicil — Receptacle for Unprotected Females established — Fuiieni! of Lord Nelson observed in this City — Digression — Death of Mr. Pitt, and New Administration — Financial Statement of Ministers — Death of Mr. Fox — Dissolution of Parliament — Meniliers returned for the City — Improvements in the City — Classical Portico at the Lower Rooms — Union and New Bond Streets in jjrogrcss of •■ Building — Bath Agricultural Society — Civic Ap|)ointments. 1807. Measures of the Grenville Administration — Sinking Fund — Blockade of the Ports of France — Triumphant Departure and Passage of our Out- v\ard Bound Fleets — Anniversary of Bath Humane Society — Its Bene- ficial Effects — " Bath Common Inclosurc Bill" discussed in the House of Commons ; Lost by a majoritv of Tv\'entv-eight — Extract from Report of Commissioners on Mmiicipal Corporations — Catholic Ques- tion brought forward — Defeated — Change of Ministry — Address from the Corporation to His Majesty — Parliament Dissolved — Members for the City elected — Meeting of the New ParUameut — Their Measures — Preparations for Invasion — Effective Strength of the Vo- lunteers — Parliament Prorogued — Parliamentary Grant to Dr. Jenner — Proposals for Altering the Lower Assembly Rooms — Public Amuse- ments patronised — Visit of the Duke of Gloucester — Freedom of tlie Citv presented to him — Attempt to establish Hackney Coaches, failed — Civic Appointments. 1808. Severe Winter — Jlceting of Parliament — Extract from a Pampldet called " The Crisis" — Prediction of Napoleon's Downfall verified — Resignation of John Palmer, Esq., M.P. for the City — Election of his Son, Major Charles Pahner — Bill brought forward for Raising a Local Militia — Mr. Sheridan's Motion for Aiding the Spanish Nation — Mi- nisters assent — Active Measures of Co-operation, in consequence — Address to His Majesty from the Corporation — Parhament Prorogued — Devout National Appeal for Aid to His Majesty's Arms— Observed in X CONTENTS. this City — Bath Improvement Commissioners apply to Parliament for an Enlargement of their Powers — Cavendish-place commenced — Altera- tions in the Abbey — Oratorio in aid of the Expences — Domestic Ser- vants' Association — Savings' Banks — Their Origin in Bath — By whom Projected — Present amount of National Deposits — Bath Guardian Society noticed — Want of Local Power to try Offences seriously felt — Volunteers Reviewed by the Duke of Gloucester — Melancholy Occurrence and Loss of Life on Lansdown — Legal Result — Parallel instance in the Navy — Court Martial on Lieutenant Gamage — Sen- tenced to Death, and Executed — Ci\-ic Appointments. 1809. Failure of Sir John Moore's Expedition in Spain — Overflow of the River Avon — Distressing Results — Large Subscriptions in aid of the Sufferers — Distribution thereof — Appeal in behalf of the Charity Schools — Concert by Rauzzini, for the City Dispensary — Ridiculous Prophecy — Meeting of Parliament — Monument to Sir John Moore — Tiianks to Sir Arthur Wellesley and the Continental Army — Parliament Pro- rogued — " Jubilee Day" celebrated — Liberality of the Sheriffs — Sub- scriptions in behalf of the Debtors in the City and County Goals — Charitable Bequests — Civic Appointments. 1810. Lancasterian Free School Established — Utility of Union — Blue Coat School Demonstrated — Neglect experienced by Joseph Lancaster — Various Improvements — Suggestions for a New Entrance into Bath — Death of Rauzzini — Tribute to his Memory — The Concerts successfully continued bv Mr. Ashe — Recei\-ing Houses for Letters Established in the Environs — ^Scheldt Expedition Satirized — Presentations of Plate to Colonel Dumbleton and John Wiltshire, Esq. — Freedom of the City to Colonel Dumbleton — Kcnnet and Avon Canal Opened — Civic Appointments. CONTEXTS. XI 1811. Phince of Wales sworn Regent of the Realm— Distress from Severe Wea- ther, and Subscriptions in consequence — Donations and Subscriptions in bclialf of the City Infinnary — National Benevolent Institution EstabUshcd — Petitions against Formation of Bath and Bristol Canal — Discussed in the House of Commons — Majority in favour of the Bill Ultimately abandoned — Subscriptions and Concerts for Relief of the British Prisoners in France, and for the Suffering Portuguese— Bath Races Revived — Fatal Accident on the Course — Duel on Claverton j)o^v„ Fatal Termination — Theatrical Anecdote — Remarks on Duel- lii,„ Affecting Execution of Madame du Barre, at Paris — Retiections Bath Eve Infirmary Established — Measures taken to prevent the Escape of Water from the Hot Springs— Population— Civic Appoint- ments. 1812. Meeting of Parliament— Prince Regent's Speech — Assassination of Mr. Perceval, Prime Minister — Auxiliary Bible Society Established — Meeting of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge — Loss of three Line-of-Battle Ships in the North Sea — Subscriptions for the Widows and Orphans — Narrative of their Loss — Wrecks on the Northern Coast — Victory of Salamanca — Dissolution of Parliament — Election of Members for the City— Mock Election— Peace of the City Disturbed— Trial of Mary Lovatt— The King v. Allen and Cox, for a Riot— Defendant's Apology— Report of the Committee for the Relief of Debtors— Bust of his Majesty presented to the Corporation — Civic Appointments. 1813. Meetinp. for Relief of the Distressed Poor — Barnard, on the Poor and Poor Rates — Mr. Whitbread's Speech on the same Subject — Subscriptions in aid of the Distressed Russians — Volunteer Infantry Disbanded — Services of the Rifle Company Retained — Louis the XVIIIth arrives in Batli — Duke of Cambridge arrives — Freedom of the City pre- XII CONTENTS. seiited to him — " Something new" — Anecdote — Sagacity of tlie Turn- spit Dog — Proposals for Building a Now Churcli in Bathwick Parish — Ci\ic Appointments. 1814. Glokious Victories of the Alhed Armies, and Possession of the French Capital — Illuminations in consequence — Suhscriptions for Relief of the Distressed Germans — Address of Congratulation from the Cor- porate Bod}' on the Success of his Majesty's Arms — Severe Winter — Suhscriptions for Relief of the Poor — Report of the Committee for Relief of Debtors — Puhlic Amusements — Corporation of Bath v. Lyncomhe and Widcombc — Extract from Municipal Corporation Report — Definitive Treaty of Peace Ratified — Celebration thereof^ — Rural Fete on Claverton Donu — General Thanksgiving — Prorogation of Parliament, and Prince Regent's Speech — Foundation Stone of Bathwick New Church Laid — Abbey Church Repaired — Death of Sir Horace Mann and Harry Attwood, Esq. — Ratification of Peace with Amei'ica — Civic Appointments. 1815. Buonaparte's Escape from Elba — Military Preparations — Battle of Wa- terloo — Suhscriptions for the Wounded, the Wido\\s, and Orphans — Pleasure Baths opened — Death of John Horton, Esq. — Civic A]i- pointments. 1816. Public Thanksgiving for Restoration of Peace — Death of Dr. Harington — Freedom of the City to Major-General Sir Manly Power — Debates on the subject of Property Tax — Petitions against its Renewal — Ministers in the Minority — Marriage of the Princess Charlotte of Wales — Con- gratulatory Addresses from the Corporate Body — Seventy-eighth Anniversary of his Majesty's Birtli-day Celebrated — Sudden Alarm respecting the Silver Currency — Measures adopted in consequence — Foundation Stone of Bath District National School Laid — Death of Jaaies King, Esq., ALC. — George Wyke, Esq., Elected — Allusion to CONTENTS. XUl the Duties of that OHicc in the Days of Nash — Latter Days of Nasli Anecdote of Nash — Severe Frost — Subscriptions for tlie Relief of the Poor — Charitable Bequests — Civic Appointments. 1817. Mkeiing to Petition for Parliamentary Reform — Treasonable Attack on the Prince Regent — Address from the Corporation to his Royal High- ness on that Occasion — Examination of the National School Boys — Completion of the Building — Presentation of Plate to the Architect — Petition to Parliament to Abolish the Practice of Employing Boys to Sweep Chimnies — Fatal Accident on the River Avon — Foundation Stone of Freemason's Hall Laid — Visit to Bath of her Majesty the Queen, and part of the Royal Family — Death of the Princess Char- lotte announced — Her Majesty's Departure and Return — Addresses of Condolence from the Body Corporate — Her Majcstv's Final Departure Royal Donations — Retiections on the Death of the Princess Charlotte — Civic Appointments. 1818. Election of Master of the Ceremonies to the Lower Rooms — Proposals for Building Trinity Church — Petition to Parliament for Lighting the City with Gas — Seventh Annual Examination of Free School Boys — Dissolution of Parliament — Writs for a New Parliament issued — Members for the City returned — Death of John Palmer, Esq. — His Public Services — Death of her Majesty Queen Charlotte — Address of Condolence from the Body Corporate — Civic Appointments. 1819. Mketinu of Parliament — Asylum for Unprotected Females EstabUshed — Subscriptions for the Distressed Inhabitants of the Scilly Islands — Arrival of the Duke of Sussex — Dedication of the Masonic Hall — His Royal Highness accepts the Freedom of the City — The City first Lighted with Gas — The Fifty-ninth Anniversary of his Majesty's xiv CONTENTS. Accession to tlie Throne Celebrated — Loyal Address from the Body Corporate and Inhabitants on the State of the Times — Parliament Opened by the Prince Regent in person — Charitable Bequests — Death of Henry Parry, Esq. — Civic Appointments. 1820. Subscriptions for the Relief of the Poor — Death of the Duke of Kent — Deathof his Majesty George the Third — George the Fourth proclaimed King — Consecration of Bathwick Church — Dissolution of Parliament — Members elected for the City — First Parliament of George the Fourth opened in Person — Attempt to Assassinate his Majesty's Mi- nisters — Arrival of the Queen Consort (Caroline) in England — Tried before the House of Peers for Alleged Adultery with a Menial — Proceedings vrithdrawn — Occurrences in this City in consequence — Loyal Addresses from the Body Corporate and Inhabitants — Death of Archdeacon Thomas — Improvements in the Orange-grove — De- struction of the Lower Assembly Rooms, by Fire — Civic Appoint- ments. 1821. ExPENCE attending the Building of Trinity Churcli — Arrival of Sir Edward Parry from his first Polar Expedition — Freedom of the City voted to hini — Subscriptions to purchase Plate for Sir Edward Parry — Bed- fordian Medal voted him by the Agricultural Society — Coronation of George the Fourth — General Illumination — Death of her Majesty Queen Caroline — Earl of Liverpool arrives — Freedom of the City voted to him — Subscriptions for the Distressed Inhabitants of the Dolemeads — Population of Bath — Post Office removed — Death of Mr. William Meyler — Civic Appointments, 1822. Presentation of Plate to Sir Edward Parry — Subscriptions for Relief of the Irish Peasantry — Consecration of Trinity Church — Contributions towards it — Presentation of Plate to John S. Soden, Esq. — Civic Appointments CONTENTS. XV 1823. Amusements of the City liberally supported — Vestry Meeting in Walcot, relative to a judicial Division of the County — Proposal for Uniting the Casualty Hospital and City Infinnary, and for Erecting a new Building to combine the Institutions — Pauper Scheme — Im])rovements at the Abbey — Reference to Warner's History relative thereto — Sermon by the Rev. Francis Scurray — Extracts from the City Records respecting the Abbey — Proposals for Erecting a Literary Institution — Magdalen Hos])ital, Holloway, opened — Mention of that Chapel by Leiand, the Antiquarian — Inundation of the Avon — Deaths of Colonel Glover and Mr. T. S. Meyler — Rev. James Pears elected Master of the Grammar School — Civic Appointments. 1824. Meeting at the Guildhall respecting the Floods — Report of Mr. Telford on the subject — Measures taken to check a recurrence of the Inunda- tions — Meeting to fix the Situation of the United Hospital — Musical Festival in aid of its Funds — Sermon by the Bishop of the Diocese for the same purpose — Presentation of Plate to Captain Leigh Lye, of the North Somerset Yeomanry — Death of Dr. Falconer — Civic Appoint- ments. 1825. LiTEKARY Institution opened — Reverend Joseph Hunter's Lecture on the Connection of Bath witli the Literature and Science of England — o Inteiior of the Abbey Improved — Chapel of the Penitentiary Asylum opened — Corridor built — Improvements in the Market and elsewhere — Run on the Banks — Character essential to success — Death of the Rev. John Richards — His Funeral — Death of Charles Dumbleton, Esq. — Civic Appointments. xvi CONTENTS. 1826. Subscriptions for the Distressed Manufacturers of the Northern Districts — Dissolution of Parliament — New Election — Lord John Thynne and Lord Brecknock elected — Excitement in the City in consequence — New Free Church in Walcot Parish proposed — The same in Wid- combe Parisli — Bridge at Bathwck, across the Avon, contemplated — Anacreontic Society established — Presentation of Plate to the Rev. John Bowen — Charitable Bequests— Civic Appointments. 1827. Death of the Duke of York — Deaths of James Norman, Esq. ; of John Thomas, member of the Society of Friends ; and of William Clark, Esq., Alderman — Meeting at the Rooms to adopt measures to prevent Building on the Bath Common — Tower on Lansdown built by Mr. Beckford — Visit of her Majesty Queen Adelaide, when Duchess of Cla- rence — Freedom of the City presented to Mr. Canning — His Death — Bathwick Bridge finished and opened — Partis College completed — Its first Anniversary celebrated — Destructive Fire at the York House — Charitable Bequests — Civic Appointments. 1828. MuHDEB in Marlborough-buildings — Trial and Execution of the Murderer — Reflections thereon — New Election for Members to represent the City — Lord John Thynne and Lord Brecknock returned — Inundation and loss of Lives from heavy Bain — St. Swithin's day — Royal Scotch Fusileers arrive in Bath — Arrival of the Queen of Portugal — Honours paid to her, and remarks — Presentation of Plate to the Rev. William Marshall — Subscriptions for the Spanish Emigrants — Death of Sir John Hutton Cooper, Bart. — Charitable Bequests — Civic Appoint- ments. CONTENTS. XVll 1829. Dkath of Jcilm Parisli, Esq. — Meeting of young Tradesmen educated at the National Scliool — Election of Members to represent the City — Three Candidates, and a double return — New Writ ordered — Result in favour of Lord John Tliynne aud Lord Brecknock — Foundation Stone of Walcot New Church laid — Various spirited Improvements — Origin of the Pftmp-room — Bellot's Hospital — Subscription for Dis- tressed Spitalfield Weavers — Death of John Kitson, Esq. — Civic Appointments, 1830. Severe Winter — Subscriptions for Relief of the Distressed Poor — Esta- blishment of Hackney Flys — Petition of the Chairmen — Improvements at the Public and Private Baths — Use of the Bath Waters — Case supposed — Anecdote and Advice — Improvements of the General Hospital — Clauses in the Act of Parliament — Benefits derived from tliat Establishment — Foimdation Stone of Widcombe Church laid — Presentation of Plate to the Rev. Gaius Barry — Death of his Majesty George the Fourth — William the Fourth proclaimed King — Addresses from the Body Corporate and Agricultural Society — New Organization of Walcot Police — Walcot and Batliwick Police Acts — Improvement of Property in Batln\-ick Parisli — Extract from an old Bath Guide — Deputation to the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the Assessed Taxes — Visit of his Royal Highness Prince Leopold — Accepts the Freedom of the City — Suspension Bridge across the Avon, at Grosvenor-place, opened to the Public — Bath Park proposed and proceeded wth — Visit of their Royal Highnesses the Duchess of Kent and Princess Victoria — Opening of the Royal Victoria Park by their Royal High- nesses — Charitable Bequests — Civic Appointments. 1831. Disturbances in the Agricultural Districts — Remarks on the Condition of the Labouring Poor — Bath Employment Society establislicd — Samaritan Fund established — Dramatic Fete — Petition for Parliamentary Reform b XVin CONTENTS. — Proceedings in the House of Lords — Parliament Dissolved — New Election for the City — Lord John Thynne and General Palmer Elected — Extraordinary Proceedings in consequence — Second Somerset Mi- litia assemble for Training — Subscriptions in behalf of the Irish Pea- santry — Parliament opened — Rofonii Bill discussed — Lost in the House of Lords — Meeting at the Sydney-hotel to Address liis Majesty on the subject — Serious Riots at Bristol — Riotous Demonstrations in this City — Mob Dispersed and Tranquillitv Restored — Measures taken to prevent a recurrence — Address to the IVIayor from the Inhabitants — Celebration of his Majesty's Coronation — Parliament Prorogued — Improvement in the Suburbs — Deaths of Cliarles Phillott and Abel Moysey, Esquires — Population — Ci^ic Appointments. 1832. Temperance Society established — Extract from Parliamentary Report on Drunkenness — ^Widcombe and Walcot new Churches Consecrated — Parliament assembles — Reform Bill finallv passes the House of Com- mons — Third reading of the Bill lost in the House of Lords — Resig- nation of Ministers — Meeting of Political Unions on the High Com- mon — Duke of Wellington fails in his attempt to form a Ministry — Earl Grey and his Colleagues recalled — Reform Bill finally passes the House of Lords — Consequences of that event in this Citv — Treason- able Attack on his Majesty at Ascot — Address to his Majesty on that occasion — Cholera Morbus appears in England — Progress of that Disease — Precautions taken — Disease appears at Bristol — Appears in this City — Its progress — Measures pursued — Cessation of Disease — Alarming appearance and progress of diolera at Paulton — Subscrip- tions to Relieve the Sufferers — Parliament Dissolved — First General Election under the Reform Act commenced — Excitement in the City — General Palmer and John Arthur Roebuck, Esq., elected — Anecdote —Death of Edmund Andcrdon, Esq. — Civic Appointments. 1833. First Session of the New Parliament opened by the King in Person— Dis- tiu-bances in Ireland alluded to in his Majesty's Speech — Distress of the Irish Clergy — Subscriptions for their Relief— Presentation of Plate to the Rev. Edward Wilson — Meeting to Petition Parliament for a CONTENTS. XIX Repeal of the Hn\iso nnd Window Taxes — Bath Friendly Society Establislied — Horticultural Society Established — Parliament Prorogued — Extensive Improvements in the Abbey and its vicinity — Interesting Discoveries of Roman Antiquities at the Abbej- — Alterations in tlie Interior of the Abbey — Presentations of Plate to Colonel Horner and the Secretary to the Board of Health — Children's Friend Society Established — Death of James Sloper, Esq. — Charitable Bequests Civic Appointments. 1834. Parliament opened — Report of Municipal Commissioners — South Parade Bridge contemplated — Obvious Advantages of the Project — Great Improvements round the Abbey — Meeting of the Parishioners of St. Michael's — Re-building the Church decided on — Subscriptions entered into — Foundation Stone of New Church laid — AVood's Strictures on the Old Church — Demolition of it in progress — State of the Buildinn- — Meeting to Petition Parliament to preserve the Rights of the Esta- blished Church — Assembling of Trades' Unions — Improvements at Prior Park— Its Origin— Successive Proprietors— Charitable Bequests — Civic Appointments — Conclusion. INTKODUCTION. At the commencement of the year 1801, the Reverend Richard Warner produced a history of Bath, published in royal quarto, and dedicated to his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. It comprised the history of that ancient city, as connected with national and local events, chiefly of a military character, from its earliest authen- ticated period, extending through the British, Roman, Saxon, Danish, and Norman eras, to the infancy of its aggrandizement under the auspicious patronage of Queen Elizabeth ; with a continuation of its civil history, from the epoch of the charter granted by that Sovereign to the date of the publication. Mr. Warner's history presents a general description of the city and its improvements, the different parishes, hospitals, and public institutions, baths, courts of judi- cature, police, amusements, mineral waters with their medical application, and the mineralogy and botany of of its environs ; embracing a wide field of scientific and general research, of which the learned author has availed XXll INTRODUCTION. himself with an equal share of judgment, taste, and industry. The modern history is brought down to the commencement of the 19th century ; and from that period to the present, the pen of the historian has hitherto lain dormant. That there is a wide vacuum to fill up, the space of time points out ; and that, in- a lapse of thirty-four years, amidst the increase of population, accumulation of wealth, and local improvement, which have followed each other in more than cori-esponding proportion, much has been done, and much remains to be made known. It has been the author's endeavour to fill up that unrecorded space ; though, he trusts, with becoming diffidence ; for, in making the attempt, he dare not place himself in competition with his predecessor, whether in point of education, talent, or general scientific knowledge. IVIr. ^^'^arner's publication contains a large fund of interesting information, the result of able and deep research. The present does not aim at the dignity or importance of history, or (which is better suited for the pen of the antiquarian) a topographical account of Bath, but will comprise only the simple facts of gradual change and improvement, drawn from authentic documents, and a record of the principal events which have taken place during that important period. In the steady pursuit of those objects, it w^as the author's intention to INTRODUCTION. XXUI iivoid the introduction of political matter; but he has been reluctantly compelled to deviate from his original purpose, in order to notice events, in the administration of public affairs, wliicli have been more or less closely interwoven M'itli the interests of the city. In this somewhat bold undertaking, he inust claim the indulgence of a criticising public; they will bear with him, if his manner and style be those of an inex- perienced Avriter. He nnist remind them, that he was launclied into a sea of troubles at the early age of twelve, and is, therefore, unfitted, by babits and education, to claim the enviable title of historian ; and if he now takes up his pen to assume that character, it is because his legitimate " occupation's gone ;" and, in metaphorical language, his sword grown rusty in its scabbard. The author does not liesitate, however, to avow other motives, and, perhaps, of a more available nature, It must be obvious to every one, that he Avho ven- tures to submit a work to public criticism, has some object which be wishes to promote ; and must, of course, feel no little concern for the success of his nndertakiiiff. His first axxd principal object, therefore, is — general utility. History is the mirror of human actions, wherein the virtues and vices of tbose who have gone before us are transmitted to posterity, either as examples \\e ought to imitate or to avoid ; and there are few events worthy XXIV INTRODUCTION. the historian's notice, however humble his pretensions, but contain some useful instruction, either to individuals or the public generally. The second is, to impart information to those intel- ligent classes who honour Bath with their residence, or to any who take more than usual interest in its welfare. If, therefore, the present publication should conduce to those purposes, and prove acceptable to the general as well as local reader, the author's end will be ansAvered, his best wish accomplished. BEIEF NOTICE OP THE EARLY HISTORY OF BATH. The rights and privileges granted by Elizabeth to the Municipal Authorities of Bath, may be justly consi- dered the foundation of its long-established pre-eminence among the cities of the empire ; its sanative treasures, and the unrivalled beauties of its site and environs, having, before that time, failed to acquire for it that celebrity which has been the chief means of raising it to its present state of prosperity. About the middle of the 17th century, the city was still confined within its ancient walls, and much of the INTRODUCTION. XXV area, within that Hmit, consisted of gardens and waste ground. In the year 1646, the Corporation began to avail themselves of the powers which their predecessors had obtained. Bye-laws were then enacted, by which the police and government of the city long continued to be reo-ulated. To those, from time to time, many additions were made, better suited to the necessities and comforts of an increasing population. Under their influence, Bath soon assumed a new appearance ; and, possessing (independently of its waters) so many attractions, became soon established as the most frequented resort in the kingdom for invalids, for the wealthy who retire from business, or those who seek for refined amusement. In the early part of the 18th century, the city rapidly increased on every side. Its architecture now, for the first time, began to assume an aspect of grandeur and elegance In this department, the name of " Wood" holds a conspicuous place among the projectors of the time ; to whose great professional abilities the city is indebted for the leading features of its unrivalled coups (toeil and chief architectural beauties of the present day ; the classic taste of jNIr. AVood having ever been followed as a standard model in subsequent plans of embellishment. About the year 1728, that gentleman first began to XXVI INTRODUCTION. devote his professional talents to the foundation of a new style in the architecture of the city. New houses and streets were no sooner finished, than greater elegance in the furniture displayed itself. Instead of plain boarded floors, whitewashed walls, and common coarse draperies, carpets and other luxuries were introduced ; Queen- square was commenced; then followed Gay-street, the Circus, and Brock-street ; ajid afterwards arose that magnificent range of buildings, the Koyal Crescent. The Upper Rooms were also erected and opened in the year 1771, after the design, and under the inspection, of ]Mr. ^Vood. Jn short, the taste and beauty of its domestic and public edifices, their commanding and elevated situations (the Crescents, particularly), exhibit a combination of ai-chitectural symmetry and grandeur, which (aided by the effect of the surrounding scenery) presents such an harmonious blending of the beauties of nature and art, as no other city in Great Britain can rival.* In whatever direction Bath is approached, its classic beauty, together with the bold and undulating form of its environs, and their luxuriant scenery, have a most imposing effect, and strike the eye of both foreigner and native, on a first approach, with wonder and admiration. * In the Appendix, No. 1, will be found a few extracts from the " Bath Guide," of 1762, detailing the progress of building in the city, lodgings, public conveyances, coffee- houses, &c., forming a curious comparison with the state of the city and habits of the present day.— Vide, also, W.irncr's History, 35 to 3(iO. INTllODUCTION. XXVll In contemplating, also, the variety and seclusion which the beautiful vallies in tlie vicinity of Bath afford, it is impossible to imagine a city which so happily unites comfort, elegance, luxury, and the acknowledged advan- tages of natural beauty and retirement. Free from the bustle and inconvenience of a manu- facturing town,* with but little wholesale commerce, it is particularly adapted to the quiet repose so necessary for the invalids who resort thither for the benefit of the waters. The facility and economy with which professors are obtained, in every department of tuition, whether public or private, are also objects of the first consideration, and which Bath is allowed pre-eminently to possess. The number of families of distinction who reside there for the sole purpose of education, and whose taste and talent are conspicuous in the elegant accomplish- ments of polished society, are proofs of the correctness of this statement. It may also be here remarked, that this city can boast of having produced some of the most distinguished literary and scientific men of the age, as well as a * Bath was famous for a considerable manufacture in woollen, and the particular species of cloth, called " Batli heaver," or " liath coating," was known as early as the Ulth century. At the restoration, no less than sixty broad looms were employed in the narish of St. Blichael's. For the purpose of washing, scouring, and dyeing it, the water of the River was very essential, and various workshops were consequently erected on its banks. The clothing manufactory was rather considerable, in spite of the general confusion of the country in those times, but was afterwards completely annihilated. XXviii INTRODUCTION. superior degree of excellence in the polite arts, the celebrity of whose professors have not only done honour to themselves, but benefited the city, by the reputation of their talents. We shall have occasion to notice many of these in the progress of our narrative. With this brief introduction, we commence the " Annals of Bath," leaving all previous details to the more able pen of the Reverend Richard Warner; though, as improvements are introduced in the city, we may have occasion to refer to the various circumstances which gave rise to them. CONTINUATION OF THE MODERN HISTORY OF BATH. The Modern History of Bath, by the Rev. Mr. AVakneu, concludes about the year 1800: the materials of the following Annals will therefore take their earliest date from that period. It commences at a momentous epoch ; a time of national dearth and distress, and it is the Author's good fortune that he is enabled, at the commencement, to shew forth and prove that Charity, the Christian's choicest grace, ever has been, and still remains, the predominant feature in the character of the Bath public Great and unparaUeled distress pre- vailed at that time, among the poorer classes, in all parts of the kingdom, arising from the high price of provi- sions, induced by various causes connected with the continental war, then raging with all the bitterness of national animosity on one hand, and unsatiated ambi- tion on the other. The struffule had arrived at so serious a crisis, and had so drained the resources of the population, that the attention of Government was especially called to the A 2 ANNALS OF BATH. [1800. alarming state of the country. A Royal Proclamation Avas issued, and a Committee of the House of Commons appointed, for the purpose of examining into the sub- ject of the high price of provisions, as connected with the general scarcity then existing ; and to report on the annual consumption of wheat in Great Britain, and the resources of the country to meet that consumption. It would seem at that time, as if the general desire was to do good ; for never were there witnessed such promptitude and alacrity in succouring the distressed, as shewn in every part of the kingdom ; and never such general sympathy in acts of true Charity as this city exhibited at that period. The Mayor and Justices issued a notice, that in consequence of His Majesty's Proclamation, enjoining economy in the consumption of bread, they had agreed to adopt, in their respective families, the most rigid observance of frugality, and follow the other precautions recommended. They also gave it as their opinion that the several methods prescribed for prevention of scarcity were highly conducive to the interests of the public, and ought to be enforced in every family ; and they hoped the same would be duly observed. The newly elected Mayor, Mr. Attwood, set the example of economy and liberality, by declining to receive the usual sum allowed by the Cliamber for serving the office, and directed that it should be placed at the disposal of the Corporation, and expended in such manner as might tend, in some degree, to lessen the complaints of the poor, and alleviate tjjeir distresses during the winter. A Provision Committee was forthwith estabhshed, and subscriptions set on foot ; and after an unwearied 1801. J ANNALS OV BATH. 3 attention, of upwards of nine months, to the relief of the poor, tlieir laudable efforts were, for awhile, suspended. The liberality of the affluent had enabled them to render essential service, during a most trying period, to hundreds of distressed families. The provisions dis- posed of, consisted of above 60,000 quarts of soup ; 200 barrels of rice; 200 sacks of potatoes; and 317 tons- weight of coal ; — and these were distributed at a price very much under what those articles could have been bought for, even in times of the greatest plenty. 1801. National distress, however, had not ceased, and the year 1801 commenced Avith renewed appeals to the public for aid in the cause of humanity. Various means were adopted, in different parts of the kingdom, to relieve distressed families. The opening of soup shops ; loans to reduce the price of provisions ; distribution of meat, grain, &:c., — and, in short, every means were used that could, in the least, alleviate the pressing- urgency of hunger and distress. On this occasion the Bath Committee confined them- selves to the purchase of rice, and the distribution of it under such regulations as the exigency of the cases de- manded. Four tons of that article, convertible, when dressed, into twenty tons of food, were distributed in Aveekly portions among three thousand poor families, which, of course, lessened, in the same proportion, the consumption of bread corn : a considerable stock of coals was also laid in and distributed on the recom- mendation of subscribers. 4 ANNAI.S OF BATH. [1801. The Collections on this occasion were as follows : — £ *. d. At the several Places of Worship ... 434 7 10 The Corporation 100 Subscriptions otherwise received 1519 5 6 £2053 13 4 In the midst of this period of distress, in His Majesty's most gracious speech from the throne, on the 30th of December, 1800, on the prorogation of the last session of the British Parliament, previous to the com- mencement of the union of Great Britain and Ireland, His Majesty, referring to the state of the country, which formed the principal topic of the speech, observed — " It has been my earnest wish, that nothing should be omitted w^hich could tend to relieve the pressure occa- sioned by the present dearth of provisions, and to ensure a sufficient supply till the produce of the next harvest can be brought into use. 3Iuch, however, must depend on the disposition, which will, I am confident, be manifested by all those who have the means of carrying into execution my solemn recommendation and injunction, issued for the adoption of all practical economy in the use of those articles, which are necessary to the subsistence of the poorer classes of my subjects." How far that " solemn recommendation" was at- tended to in the city of Bath, the foregoing statements will show, and they will prove that the charitable dis- position of those who had it in their power to do good, was never more conspicuously manifested than by the distinguished industry with which they applied them- selves to the objects under consideration. ]801.] ANNALS OF BATH. 5 Spring approached ; but with it no immediate alle- viations of national distress. It is true, the chilling blasts of winter had ceased, and the cheering prospects of an approaching harvest, with its attendant blessings, was a subject of anxious anticipation to all. Yet, in July, the average price of wheat at Devizes, the principal mart, in this district, for that important staff of life was from lio to 160 shillings per quarter ! and in London, it had reached the unparalleled height of 184 shillings! At length, the harvest months arrived, and a season of joy and plenty commenced, bringing with it an abundance so great and so general, as not to have been surpassed in the memory of any person living. The joy throughout the kingdom was such, that it required the interference of the I^egislature to pursue prudent measures, that the public might receive the full benefit of that abundance so bountifully bestowed by Divine Pi'ovidence. Thus happily restored to the blessings of plenty, the thoughts and occupations of our citizens now became diverted into other channels, by the important events which passed in rapid succession towards the close of this year. The Battle of Copenhagen had been fought, and, while all who were blest with the means, had been recently straining every nerve to relieve their famished townsmen, yet they were not unmindful of those brave fellows who had fought and suffered in their country's cause, before the walls of that city, A Ball, suggested by Her Royal Highness the Duchess of York, (then a visitor in this city,) Avas given at the Upper Assembly Rooms for the benefit of the brave men who were wounded, and the widows and families of those who fell on that occasion. The notice 6 ANNALS OF BATH. [1801. was short, but the cause was patriotic, and found imme- diate v/ay to every grateful British bosom. 1 he room was crowded with all that was noble, loyal, and beautiful in the city. The amount of the clear profits was £536, which sufficiently indicates the number and liberality of the company who attended. One of the most heartfelt pleasures of the evening resulted from the presence of the venerable father of Nelson. His dress and de- meanour were as unassuming as the bravery of his noble son was conspicuous, and it is needless to say he claimed and received every mark of respect and veneration. A report had been long prevalent which occasioned considerable bustle among the trading classes, at this time, that their Majesties intended visiting the city on their return from Weymouth abovit the latter end of September ; and the two centre houses in the Crescent, were absolutely engaged for their accommodation, and preparations made for an appropriate reception. The Great Pump Room was ordered to be elegantly painted, and other public buildings repaired and beautified, pre- vious to the high honour expected. Illuminations were projected, and the proprietors of Sydney and Grosvenor* Gardens were naturally anticipating a rich harvest. These preparations, however, were, unfortunately, premature, it having been subsequently announced that their Majesties had, for the present, given up their in- tentions of visiting the city. At this period, the communication between the upper and lower parts of the town was generally through that lane now called Union-passage, tlie street bearing * The latter place of amusement was at the back of Grosvcnor-buildings, on the premises now occupied by Gen. Loveday ; but being near tlie river, exposed to wet and damp, combined with other causes, it fell into disrepute, and was abandoned. 1801.] ANNALS OF I5ATH. 7 the name of Union-street not being in existence. This confined thoroughfare was then considered a grievous nuisance, and a suggestion was thrown out, whether a commodious passage might not be made through tlie Bear yard, (now part of Union-street,) so as to afford the Royal visitors a safe and uncontaminated walk from the Pump Rooms to their intended residence. However, their IMajesties' visit having been relinquished, this plan likewise was given up. The foregoing expectation had, as may be sup- posed, created some excitement in the City ; and, as if to keep the flame alive, other causes of more serious import followed in quick succession. The first which claimed attention, was the preparations made by the enemy for invasion, with the measures of precaution adopted by this country. The demonstrations of our liostile neighbours, whether seriously aimed or not, were met by corresponding movements on the part of the British Government. Letters were written to the Lords Lieutenant of the several counties, with directions for the different corps of volunteers to liold themselves in readiness for actual service ; and a proclamation from the magistrates of this city Avas issued, calling on the volunteers, both cavalry and infantry, at this hour of serious alarm, to resume their services, so conducive to public safety, and so honourable to the city of Bath. Such an appeal, on such an occasion, was met with corresponding zeal and energy ; and on the 2nd of October, the Bath volunteers were reviewed by General Horneck, in Sydney Gardens. The muster was more than usually numerous : and the General declared their appearance and evolutions were most extraordinary, considering the short time of their for- 8 ANNAl.S OF BATH. [1801. mation, and that he should report, with every mark of approbation, to the Commander-in-Chief of the district. The cavalry were also reviewed on Lansdown, and the same comphments justly bestowed on them. In the meantime, it was known that negotiations for peace were in progress between the contending powers ; and, although no official notice from Govern- ment had been issued, it was generally supposed that a cessation of arms was nigh at hand. Each succeeding post was looked for with intense anxiety ; guards, coachmen, and passengers were successively annoyed with interrogations, and the public mind worked up to the highest pitch of excitement. At length, a proclama- tion appeared, declaring that Preliminaries of Peace between Great Britain and the French Republic had been signed in London, on the 1st of October, and the ratification of those preliminaries on the 10th. The intelligence arrived in this city about 12 o'clock on Sunday, the 11th. The expectations of the populace had occasioned the streets to be crowded at an early hour ; impatience and anxiety were visible in every countenance. But, when the mail coaches came in sight, decorated in such a manner as denoted that they bore the joyful tidings, the acclamations of the whole city were indescribable. To the manner in which the proprietor of the mail coaches for this district had caused the triumphal entry to be conducted, this electric effect may be attributed. Ten horses, adorned with gilt crowns and decorated with ribbons, over which waved the English banner, drew, in slow and stately pace, the Bristol mail to the Lamb Inn, and the Exeter mail followed, with eight horses, similarly caparisoned. These arrivals were announced by shouts that rent the air, and 1801.] ANNALS or liATII. 9 certiiinly, for the time, suspended all devotion in the places of worship. But, amidst this excess of joy, a severe instance of individual misfortune occurred, which threw a partial damp of sorrow over the proceedings of the day. A poor man, named John Griffiths, fell under the wheels of the Exeter coach, and was crushed to death ! leaving a young wife and infant family entirely destitute. A subscription in their behalf was, however, immediately afterAvards set on foot, and liberally filled. On INIonday following, it was generally understood that an Illumination would take place in the evening, and great preparations had therefore been made for the occasion, but not half the proposed designs could be completed. The city was in a kind of delirium of plea- sure, every person busily and joyously engaged for the display of his zeal and loyalty at night. The streets appeared one grove of oak, olive, and laurel branches, several neighbouring gentlemen having given the full liberty of their plantations for this exulting occasion. The situation of Bath, rising, like a splendid amphi- theatre, in all the elegance and uniformity of architecture, most happily adapts it for such a delightful scene, and the liberality and taste of the greater part of the inha- bitants evinced that they were deserving such a place of residence. The illuminations were in every way worthy the city, and the abundant variety of devices executed in a masterly style. The most magnificent display was at Sydney Hotel, which, from its situation at the end of a grand street, produced an effect in the highest degree beautiful. The Assembly Rooms, Guildhall, and Theatre, were also brilliantly illuminated. A band of music, consisting of .si,v hrother.s, paraded the city in uniform, and played appropriate airs. 10 ANNALS OF BATH. [1801. On the 17tli, the procession for instalhng the new Mayor took place with the usual ceremonies. They were rendered particularly interesting on that day, as well from the previous rejoicings, as the congregation of the numerous friendly societies, amounting, it was conjectured, to 1,500 members, who accompanied the Mayor to church, with their banners and emblems of trade displayed ; exhibiting a respectability of appear- ance, and propriety of feeling, truly laudable, in tlnis giving public acknowledgments to Almighty God for the united blessings of peace and plenty. They preceded the Corporation with bands of music, and at the church door formed into two lines, four deep, through which the procession passed. Then returning in the same order to the Hall, gave the Magistrates three hearty cheers, and departed to their club-rooms. These histitutions had received frequent praise, but their appearance and conduct this day was spoken of as deserving peculiar admiration. It would appear, however, that these happy events had not produced reformation of life among a certain portion of the poorer classes, though, with the re- flecting and more rational part of the community, they had been felt as a timely intei-position of Divine Providence in Avithdrawing the direful visitations of famine and war. Strange as it may seem, at this period, shop-liftei's, house-breakers, and robbers of areas, were more numerous and successful than had been ever remembered ; and it was chiefly carried on by boys trained to those particular avocations. By the vigilance of the Magistrates and their officers, twenty were taken into custody at one time, as well as some notorious receivers and abettors in their Jicfarious traffic. Such scenes of complicated iniquity 1801.] ANNALS OF UATII. 11 were discovered, that their detection was a subject of congratidation to the whole city. Mr. Sturges, of the Abbey Church-yard, exhibited much zeal and activity in the apprehension of these juvenile plunderers. It was then (as it has been frequently since) deeply lamented tliat the Magistrates of Bath had not the power to try such offences within their own jurisdiction. The great distance of the places where the Assizes and Sessions Avere held, occasioned a heavy expence to the injured parties ; and, consequently, prosecutions were often given up, and thieves let loose on the public, to commit fresh ravages at their leisure. Another species of robbery prevailed then to a great extent— namely, the continued stripping of the adjacent woods and shrubberies. Each succeeding day, groups of women laden with burdens of wood, and small bill-hooks concealed about their persons, were seen trudging into Bath with all the effrontery of honest traders ; their stolen burdens Avere purchased by creditable housekeepers, and thus encouragement oivcn to their dishonest practices. Mendicants were also numerous to an extent scarcely to be credited at this time, when the eyes of the public were opened to the plain truth, that alms bestowed on street-beggars were mere bounties on idleness and profligacy. The Population, as appeared by the Census taken in April of this year, was Males 13,790 Females 20,373 34,163 And the Civic Authorities Averc, at the Annual Election at the end of September, thus arranged : — 12 ANNALS OF BATH. [1802 Sir WILLIAM WATSON-Mayob. HARRV ATTW'OOD, Esu. I f MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esa. JOHN SYMONS, Esa. S JOHN HORTON, Esti. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. [ ^ \ HENRY PARRY, Esq. WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq. CHARLES PHILIiOTT, Esq. HENRY [ JOSEPH HARINGTON, Esq. PHILLOTT, Esq. Mr. EDMUND ANDERDON, Ig^^^^^^^^ Wr. GEORGE CROOK, ■• MR. MEYLER, ^ Constables. Mr. PICKWICK, •• 1802. It has been observed, that great rejoicings took place in this city, in consequence of the Prehminaries of Peace having been signed and ratified, on the 10th of October, in the preceding year, and the definitive treaty, therefore, was looked for with more than ordinary anxiety. To those unacquainted with diplomatic artifice, much mystery seemed to accompany the delay, es- pecially as, in the early part of this year, naval prepara- tions were carried on with unabated activity, — whether to quicken the negociations then going on, and prove to the French Government that England would not be trifled with, became a question difficult of solution. However, it was at length announced, that peace was definitively confirmed, and the Treaty signed at Amiens, on the 27th of March. The intelligence arrived in this city early on the 30th. There was a glow of satis- faction in every countenance ; each eye brightened ; every tongue bore congratulations of the welcome tidings ; and the bells rang merrily throughout the day. 1802.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 13 This ev^ent had long been anticipated ; and some weeks previously a plan was proposed, and acceded to by several influential gentlemen, to open subscriptioji books, with a view to augment the funds of the three ]irincipal Charities of the city — namely, the Dispensary, the General, and Casualty Hospitals — instead of pro- fusely repeating illuminations, to commmemorate, in fact, the same event. The late deplorable period of scarcity had entirely drained the treasuries of those institutions ; and, it was justly argued hoAV praise-wor- thy it would be to bestow on the objects of disease, poverty, and misfortune, that, which would otherwise only be expended in useless noise and confusion. This benevolent feeling was follov/ed up by a recommendation from the Magistrates to their fellow citizens, to foi-bear the usual manifestations of joy, by the expensive and dangerous mode of illumi- nating, and testify their sense of gratitude for the invaluable blessings of peace, by augmenting the diminished funds of those Public Charities. Books were accordingly opened at the ToAvn Hall for receiving subscriptions, as well as at the Libraries, and Public Rooms ; and each subscriber was requested to point out to which Institution he would wish his subscription to be applied. On Easter Monday, in celebration of the definitive treaty, a ball was given at the Town Hall, and the profits, which were considerable, appropriated to the charities before named. The Proclamation of Peace did not officially arrive in Bath till Friday, INIay 7th, and at 11 the following morning, the Mayor and several other Members of the Body Corporate, attended by P. George, Esq., Town Clerk, and a large posse of Constables, assembled at the 14 ANNAI.S OF BATH. [1802. Guildhall, and from thence proceeded, followed by an immense concom'se of people, to read the Proclamation, which was done by the Town Clerk, at the following- places — namely, opposite the Town Hall ; at the Bear corner in Queen Square ; and, lastly, at the top of Broad Street. The populace testified their joy by repeated huzzas, and conducted themselves with the greatest decorum. In concluding this subject, it is a gratifying circum- stance to know, that the good sense and benevolence of the inhabitants were never, on any previous occasion, more conspicuously manifested. The Illuminations did not take place, and the subscriptions collected for these charitable purposes amounted to £342 8*. Sd., chiefly contributed in small sums. In the accomplishment of that vastly important object, whereby peace was restored to the country, after a long, sanguinary, and expensive struggle, it became a primary consideration with Ministers to reduce the expenditure of the nation, and disbanding the volunteer corps throughout Great Britain, one of the first measures they adopted. Accordingly, in the early part of May, the Bath Volunteer Infantry met in Sydney Gardens for that purpose. Their appear- ance was particularly interesting to the iidiabitants, who had been imder so many obligations for their eflficient services. After his Majesty's thanks, with those of the House of Commons, and principal in- habitants of the city, had been read to them. Col. Glover addressed the corps, expi'essing his thanks for their cheerful obedience to his orders and wishes, during a period of four years, in which he had held 1802.] ANNALS OF BATH. 15 tlie command. Capt. Diimblcton replied in behalf of the corps ; after which they marched to the Town- Hall, where they were received by Sir William Watson, and other members of the Corporation. Sir AVilliam, in an appropriate address, offered the united thanks of himself and brother INIagistrates, for the cheerful assistance they had rendered the civil power during a long period of imusual turbulence and anxiety. The colours and arms were then deposited, and the Corps retired to an entertainment given by the Captains at Sydney Gardens. The Cavalry, under the command of Captain Wiltshire, requested that officer to make a further tender of their services to Government, upon the terms of their first em-olment. It does not appear, however, that they were accepted, but Captain Wilt- shire, to commemorate their association, gave a farewell entertainment to the members lately composing the corps, who, as a mark of respect, presented him with a piece of plate, of beautiful workmanship, on resigning the command. These reciprocal acts of good feeling do honour to society ; they bind in one common alliance all classes of the community, ensure allegiance to their Sovereign, and respect to the constituted authorities, — aud speak volumes for those from whom they emanate. The excitation consequent on the important events of the few past months having somewhat subsided, the restless and active minds of our townsmen were now transferred to other channels, and ministerial measures became subjects of free discussion. A respect- able and nmnerous meeting was held at the Guildliull, by permission of the Mayor, to take into consideration 16 ANNALS OF BATH. [1802. the expediency of applying to Parliament for the repeal of the Income Tax — a tax, as stated by the chairman, Henry Seymour, Esq., " oppressive, unequal, and arbitrary ; and better calculated for the inquisitorial edicts of Spain and Portugal than for the Statute Books of this free country." Several resolutions were read, pointing out the unconstitutional nature of the impost, the temptations to prevarication and deceit which it held out, and the immoral and otherwise injurious consequences. Dr. Falconer, Mr. Parry Okeden, Mr. Fowler Walker, and others spoke at considerable length on the subject, and a letter was read from Mr. Palmer, one of the representatives of the city, stating the declared intention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer to move for a repeal of the tax. Notwithstanduig this assurance, it was thought expedient that the petition should be forwarded, which was accordingly done tlie following day. But to a more cheerful subject. The amusements of our gay city were never in so prosperous a state as at this particular period. We find Rauzzini, with his corps of vocal and instrumental performers, now in full force. Among the former were Braham, Storace, Mrs. Billington, and other first-rate singers ; of the latter may be enumerated Weichsell, Lindley, and Schmidt. There were generally twelve Subscription Concerts every season, ircluding three Choral Nights, which were well supportea by the inhabitants and visitors, and the most eminent performers always engaged. The Theatre was also so well attended, that the benefits of the popular actors, with the occasional assi.^tance of Incle- don, at this time amounted, on an average, exclusive of gold tickets, to a hundred and fifty pounds per 1802 ] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 17 niglit; when a few years previously, sixty pounds was considered as the receipt of a "good house." Public Breakfasts were also given at Sydney Gardens during summer, once or twice each week, with appropriate music for dancing. The Upper and Lower Assembly Rooms were, likewise, fully and fashionably attended every week in the season, under the able superinten- dance of Messrs. Tyson and King. Connected with the amusements and, consequently, prosperity of the city, it may be noted, that Her Royal Highness the Duchess of York was at this time an armual visitor, her presence never failed to diffuse a pleasure and impart an interest among the inhabitants, by whom she was justly styled the " distinguished Patroness of Bath." Proceeding to the subject of improvements, it will be remembered that last year suggestions were thrown out, relative to opening a communication between the Upper and Lower Towns — (as the new and original portions of the City are still colloquially styled, though the phrase is at present far from being warranted by any thing like a breach of continuity) — through the Bear Yard before described. There was now the strongest reason to suppose that these hints would be attended to, and the obstacles, which had hitherto prevented that communication, would be speedily removed ; as the commissioners for improving the city, and the trustees of the estate in question had entered into an agreement, which was likely to prove highly beneficial to the public. Indeed, so far was the arrangement advanced, that the different tenants, contiguous to the Bear Inn, received notices to quit their several premises. B 18 ANNALS OV BATH. [1802. Before closing the events of 1802, we must not omit to record the observance of a triennial custom, which took place in September of this year, and which is continued to this day. At the fall of every third year, the Mayor and Body Corporate, with the Town Clerk, accompanied by a large number of inhabitants, proceed down the river in a barge, fitted for the occasion, with music and appropriate flags, and arriving at the bottom of Marlborough-lane, they land, and from thence perambulate the boundaries of the city. The Churchwardens and Overseers, attended by a numerous body of the rising generation, in like manner proceed round the boundaries of their respective parishes. These possessionings, as they were called, or perhaps rather " processionings," or surveying the corporate and paro- chial limits, are intended for the best purposes — namely, to prevent an oblivion of the line of boundary, and, consequent future disputes and litigations, as to the extent of their respective jurisdictions, and the proper- ties limited by them. The origin and practice of these perambulations may be traced to the times of the heathens ; for, from the days of Numa Pompilius, they worshijjped the God Terminus, whom they considered as the guardian of fields and landmarks, and the promoter of friendship and peace among men. From the festival of Terminalia (dedicated to this supposed deity), is derived the ancient custom of these boundary proces- sions. The people, accompanied by the high-priest, went into the fields, where prayers were offered up, and the mercy of God implored, to avert the evils of pestilence, and give them the fruits of the earth in due season. In an injunction made in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, it isoy.] ANNALS OF BATH. 19 wus ordered, tli.il llie eunite, at certain convenient places, should perform a similar ceremony, saying the 103rd psalm, and repeating such sentences as these : " Cursed be he who removeth the bounds and doles of his neigh- bour." Isaac Walton, in his life of the pious Hooker, relates, that this good man would by no means omit the customary procession, persuading all, if they de- sired the preservation of love and their parish rights, to accompany him in his perambulation ; and most of his parishioners did so. A Dissolution of Parliament took place in June this year, being the 42nd of the reign of King George the Third. In the following month. Lord John Thynnc and John Palmer, Esq., were unanimously re-elected members for the city. At the Annual Election of Civic Officers for the city, the following took place : — HENRY PARRY, Esq.,— Mayou. Sin WM. WATSON, Knight WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq. .JOHN IIORTON, Esq. CHARLES I'lIILLOTT, Esa. HENRY ATTWOOU, Esq. f JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. -! MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. JOHN KITSON, Esq. H. E. HOWSE, Esq.,— Chamberlain. I Sheuiffs. Mil. T. HORTON, Mn. BOWEN, Mr. TUGWELL, lnniH Constables, Db. HOLMAN, r B 2 20 ANNALS OF BATH. [1803. 1803. A temporary respite from the turmoil and ex- pence of War having been at length obtained, after tedious and unsatisfactory negotiations ; the turbulent spirit of the disaflPected in our own country began to manifest itself in secret acts of rebellion, which, though happily confined to a few unprincipled ruffians, were urged on and headed by Col. Despard, an officer who had held responsible commands abroad, and who, by dis- appointment in the service, it was supposed, had been driven to these acts of desperation. They formed a conspiracy against the life of his Majesty and his ministers, were tried, convicted on the clearest evi- dence, and executed as traitors. On this occasion, the Corporation voted a congratulatory address to his Majesty on his happy escape, which was presented by Earl Camden (as recorder) and the two representatives of the city. On the 5th of February, both Houses of Par- liament met for the dispatch of business ; and on the 12th of the following month, Mr. Addington* brought down a message from his Majesty to the House of Commons, to the effect, " that he thought it necessary to acquaint them very considerable military and naval preparations were carrying on in the ports of France and Holland ; and intimating the necessity on the part of his faithful Commons, of taking every proper measure for maintaining the peace and security of his dominions. That although these preparations were avowedly (on the part of France) for colonial I * Now Lord Sidmouth. 1803.] ANNAl.S OF 15AT1I. 21 purposes, yet as discussions of great importance were still pending between his Majesty and the French Government, the result of which must be uncertain, he considered it proper to make the communication, sensible that while his faithful Commons participated in his earnest and invariable solicitude for the con- tinuation of peace, he might rely Avith confidence on their concurrence in such measures as should best sup- port the honour of his crown, and the essential interests of his people." It will be necessary, as connected with the Military History of Bath, to enter fully into the details of pre- paration made by Great Britain at this momentous period, and to state briefly the occasion which demanded it, with a view to shew, that every free-born Briton must have felt the cause engaged in to be one in which his liberty, his property, and his very existence were at stake ; and that for loyalty to the King, and at- tachment to the constitution, no city in his Majesty's dominions could have furnished testimony of a more exalted character than Bath ; whether in point of per- sonal exertions, or unbounded liberality. His Majesty's message left little room for indecision. The militias were forthwith called out and embodied ; and 10,000 additional seamen voted for the service of the current year. Press warrants were issued, and measures of [)reparation at the different dock-yards carried on with the greatest activity ; and in a very short time, the Naval Force of England was again more than adequate to all that could be put to sea against it. On the 6th of May, INIr. Addington declared to the House of Commons, that General Andreossi, the French ambassador, had applied for his passports, and the Bri- 22 ANNALS OF BATH. [1803. tish Ambassador, Lord Whitworth, had been ordered to withdraw from France. The declaration of the Cabinet upon this important occasion, was publicly made known, and a more interesting state paper never appeared. In perusing it, no man could avoid remarking, that never, in the records of diplomatic history, were there exhibited such insolence, extra- vagance, and outrage on the one hand, met by such firmness, moderation, and dignity on the other. It com- prised the essence of that voluminous body of letters and memorials which had passed between the two Courts, during the momentous negotiation already al- luded to, and the result of which was our com])lete jus- tification for relinquishing so soon the promised blessings of peace, to encounter, once more, the expenses, uncer- tainties, and horrors of War.* To meet these expenses became next the considera- tion of his Majesty's Ministers; and, on the l.Sth of June, Mr. Addington proceeded to open the budget, and sub- mit his war taxes. He said — " He should abstain from entering into any particulars : a large majority of that House had solemnly decided that the present war had originated in the restless ambition, and the daring en- croachments of the enemy, and in the spirit of domina- tion which pervaded the French Government. There could (he hoped) be no difference of opinion on the sub- ject. Ministers saw the necessity of maintaining the war with exertion, but, at the same time with economy. They had avoided this termination of the business as long as they could, and they were now at war, only because they could not be at peace. He would rest the apjieal • Vide Appendix, No. 2. 180:i.] ANNAI.S or liATH. 23 he liad to make on the wisdom and patriotism of Tarlia- mcnt. The Ministers to whom they had given their con- fidence, were determined to pursue a conduct, firm but not haughty ; mild, but not pusillanimous." He then called on the House to furnish its aid, without any re- ference to party principles, and concluded with these energetic words : — " A great scene lies before us, if we look merely to the glory and security of the nation : in effecting this, we shall probably do the greatest good that ever was accomplished in fixing the everlasting salvation of our country." The taxes he proposed Avere various duties on sugar, exports, cotton, tonnage, tea, wine, spirits, malt, &c., amounting in the whole to £8,260,000. But the prin- cipal was a modification of the former income tax, by which it was proposed to make a marked distinction between income, arising from skill and industry, and that where neither of these were exercised. The income tax, therefore, on the whole, as estimated, would amount at 5 percent., to £4,725,000— viz. Land '3,375,000 Tenants' Duty 500,000 Salaries and Professions 200,000 Trade 650,000 £4,725,000 'J'iic tax on " Salaries and Professions" it was not easy to estimate, but he took it at £4,000,000, which, at 5 per cent., would produce the above sum. The tax on " I'rade" was still more difficult to ascertain. • It was his intention to omit all incon:es under £60 per annum ; and from thence to have a tariff up to those 24 ANNALS OK RATH. [1803. of £150. This class, (he was of opinion) would pro- duce £650,000. The income of the different classes throughout the country, in the former case, had been calculated at 89 millions, exclusive of income arising from the funds. But he saw no reason why such property should be exempted on the present emergency ; it was therefore proposed that the fundholders should now contribute with every other species of proprietors to the exigencies of the country. These duties, which were to be levied only during the tvar, would amount to £12,700,000. The taxes thus submitted, and the resolutions arising out of them, were carried without opposition. Some doubts were, however, entertained, (and it was thought with just reason) whether Par- liament had a right to tax the funds, a clause being inserted in every loan act, that these annuities should not be subject to taxation. But, however, this may be, the taxes were, upon the whole, thought to be fairly and impartially distributed ; and the principal objection to the Income Tax — viz , its inequality and publicity, was completely avoided, by the mode of levying a shilling in the pound, on the produce of landed and personal property only ; subject to deductions on a graduated scale in favour of persons whose incomes were betAveen £50 and £l50, in an inverse ratio of their amount, and a total exemption from all beneath the minor grade. A bill for the defence of the country had received the Royal assent. It directed that the names of every man, above 15, and under 60 years of age, should be collected and registered ; distinguishing those who were incapable of active service, and those who were engaged in any volunteer or yeomanry corps. Each person was required to state on \vhat terms he 1803.] ANNALS OF BATH. 25 was willing to be armed, trained, and exercised for the defence of the kingdom, in case of actual invasion, or of the enemy ap])earing on the coast, v/hen it might become necessary to embody them. A message was also delivered to both Houses of Parliament from his Majesty, calling on them to resort to such measures as were best calculated for the vigorous prosecution of the war, and recommending that a strong additional force should be forthwith raised and assembled. And at a meeting of the Livery of London, it was unani- mously resolved — " That the necessity of supporting Government, at that important juncture, was warmly felt, and imperatively called foi% and that they were ready to contribute to all just and equal imposts for the vigorous prosecution of the contest in which the country was engaged." For the same loyal and patriotic purpose, meetings were also held at the Guildhall, and Upper Assembly- Rooms, in this city. At the former place, by the Corporation at a Common-Hall, convened for that ex- press occasion ; when an address to his Majesty was voted, warmly approving the spirited measures of his Ministers, and offering every aid in support of his crown and person. At the latter, a imanimous address to his Majesty was resolved on by a large meeting of the citizens. Dr. Falconer addressed that meeting in a sensible and animated speech ; wherein he depicted the threats, perfidy, and cruelty of France, in most glowing terms ; and concluded with a strong appeal to the good sense and patriotic spirit of his fellow- citizens, not to suffer themselves to fall tame sacrifices to the avarice and rapine of a treacherous enemy. These addresses were presented to the King by the two repre- sentatives for the city and Dr. Falconer. 26 ANNALS Ol' BATH. [1803. On July IStli, (immediately following) a meeting of the gentlemen, tradesmen, and inhabitants took place at the Guildhall, pursuant to notice, for the purpose of considering the most eligible plan of arming in defence of the country, and of rendering every assistance to Government at this important crisis. Certain plans and resolutions were read by the Chairman, the most essen- tial of which ^vas— " That every person attached to the British Constitution, should subscribe a declaration of his readiness to appear in arms in some Volunteer Corps." The meeting was unanimous, and a committee appointed to take every necessary measure to carry the purposes of the bill, for the defence of the country, into immediate execution. A book was forthwith opened to receive the signatures of every person who might be willing to en- rol himself as a volunteer in the cavalry or infantry, to act personally, or to provide a substitute, and to enable persons of either sex to assist by peamiary aid in de- fending every thing valuable in this life — their existence as a nation, their liberties and independence. Acting on the spirit of these resolutions, in a short space of time, 800 names were entered at the Guildhall as volunteers, among which, a most respectable number engaged as cavalry, and a company of riflemen were enrolled. In short, a loyal and military ardour every- where prevailed, and parties learning the manual ex- ercise were seen, morning and evening, distributed in various parts of the city. Subscriptions were opened for equipping such per- sons as would offer to serve, but were unable to affbrd the expence ; also, for the relief of the families of those who might fall in repelling the enemy ; and for granting I'ewards to such as should distinguisli themselves by 1803.] ANNAI.S OF r.ATlI. 27 exertions of valour or merit. In fnrtlicniiicc of tliis object, the Corporation commenced Avitli 200 guineas. — Mr. Palmer, the worthy Representative of the city, subscribed £50, and directed that eleven silver cups of different value should be made at his expence and given to the same number of heat shots in the Bath Volun- teers, to be competed for at such time as sliould be judged proper by the commanding officer ; and Walter Long, Esq., following his spirited example, subscribed £50 for the same laudable purpose, and also 22 guineas, in prizes of two guineas each, for the eleven second best shots, at the same trial. Acts such as these are well calculated to produce that generous spirit of emulation amongst our volunteer defenders, which nuist ever ensure their zealous services on the call of necessity. On the opening of the Theatre for the season the tragedy of Pizarro was aptly selected for the first public performance, the return of which amounting to £54' l6s. was presented by William Dimond, Esq., in aid of the military fund. In summing up the subscriptions made for this particular purpose, we cannot better illustrate the spirit of generosity and patriotism, which animated every individual in the city, capable of contributing thereto, than by stating the total amount, upon the first apiili- cation, to have been £2,511 10s. Od. The Bath Volunteers were composed of cavalry, infantry, and riflemen, and were distinguished as the " Bath and Bathforum Volunteers." Several meetings were held from time to time at the Guildhall and in Queen-square, for the ])urpose of making sucli arrange- ments as were necessary for the formation of the dif- ferent battalions, and the due observance of regularity 28 ANNALS OF BATH. [1803. and military discipline. The command was offered to Col. Glover, the respected Commandant of the former corps, but he declined the honour on the plea of ill health, and John Strode, Esq., a Colonel in the army, and an officer of experience and ability, was applied to, and accepted it. The following gentlemen were also nominated as officers, though some few alterations after- wards took place — viz.. JOHN STRODE, Esq., Colonel and Commandant. CHARLES DUMBLETON, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel. GEORGE ROBINSON, Esq., Major. JOHN GODFREY, Esq., Adjutant. Grenadier Comjxiny : LL, Esq., Captj \ Lieutenants :., M.D.,J T. M. CRUTTWELL, Esq., Captain. F. BONHAM, Esq., JAMES MURRAY, Esq. First Company: WILLIAM HARRIS, Esq., Captain. T. F. DAVIS, Esq., m.d.,i , HENRY MANT, Esq, 1 ^ieute.vani Second Company : LIAM STROUD, Es( )IMOND, Esq, ) WILLIAM BOORD, Esq.,^ WILLIAM STROUD, Esq., Captain. W. W. DIMOND, Esq, ) , - Lieutenants. Third Company : The Privates of which consisted of sixty of those able- bodied men, the chairmen of the city. D. O. PARRY OKEDEN, Esq, Captain. C. II. MARSHALL, Esq, 1 H. C. BOISRAGON, Esq, ^ Lieutenants. 1803.] ANNALS OF BATH. f 29 Fourth Compcniy : WILLIAM CLARK, Jun., Esq., C'ArTAix. G. NORMAN, Esa., i , \- Lieutenants. J. KITSON, Esq. i Fifth Company : JOHN BRANDER, Esq , Captain. H. STONE, Esa.,1 , - Lieutenants. U EVILL, Esq., ) Sixth Compainj : JOHN LEIR, Esq., Captain. Light Covipmiy : JOHN YOUNG, Esq., Captain. II. P. RIDPATH, Esq., y x.ieutenants. JOHN STONE, Jun., Esq., i Riflemen iBINSON, Es( J. H. PARRY, Esq., I Lieut \. MITCHELL, Esq., ) MARK ROBINSON, Esq., Captain. H. MESSITER, Esq., C. H. PARRY, Esq., \ Lieutenants. A, B. N. WEBSTER, Serjeant-Major. The Cavalry, Which consisted of two full and effective troops : JOHN WILTSHIRE, Esq., Captain. GEORGE FARRANT, Esq., First Lieutenant. A. BALL, Esq., Second Lieutenant. F. GUYENETT, Esq., Cornet. Thus arranged, a loyal address from the whole body of the Bath Volunteers was presented to His JNlajesty, containing expressions of unalterable loyalty and attach- ment to His Majesty's sacred person and government, 30 ANNALS OF BATH. [1803. and offering their devoted services in the fiutherance of such plans of national defence as His ]Majesty, with the the concurrence of Parliament, might think proper to direct in a contest of such national importance. A noti- fication of His Majesty's gracious acceptance of that offer was in due time transmitted by the liOrd Lieutenant of the county to the INIayor. The great preparations making by the French to invade this country, left no doubt in the mind of every rational and reflecting person that the attempt would be made, and it was generally believed that government was in possession of their intended plans of operation. Indeed, it was a subject of heartfelt gratification to learn that the indignant spirit and patriotic courage of our countrymen were roused to an eager desire of meeting the daring intruders ; and that, in a comparatively short space of time, the number of volunteers, actually en- rolled and accepted, in the United Kingdom, amounted to nearly 400,000 ! If an inward satisfaction were felt by each indi- vidual of the above formidable body, arising from a consciencious discharge of duty to his King and countiy, how much more gratifying was it to learn that their ready acquiescence to the calls of government, their simultaneous acts of patriotism, re-echoed from one end of Great Britain to the other, to repel by force the insults and rapacity of an implacable enemy, should become the immediate subject of eulogium from the Commons House of Parliament, which, in full assembly, on the motion of INIr. Sheridan, passed a unanimous vote of thanks to the A'oluntcers of the United Kingdom, and directed that the same should be signified to the several corps by the I^ords Lieutenant of their respective 1803.] ANNALS OK BATH. 31 counties. It was also resolved " Tliat a return ol' all the volunteers now serving, or who fshould he serving before the next session of Parliament, should be made to the House of Commons, in order that their names might be handed down as a patriotic example to posterity." In concluding the events of the present year, little remains to reflect on, but the all absorbing topic of preparation to meet the enemy. We find the merchant, the tradesman, and the labourer, each laying aside his respective occupation, and training in companies or exercising in the field, pressing on with the ardour of veterans to meet the formidable phalanx preparing to invade their shores, ready to defend their homes, their families and flocks, at the bayonet's point, to assert their rights and liberties, and the justice of their cause. The timid wife and aged parent then felt their protection, made their beds in peace, and exclaimed, — In the mercy of Providence, and in the spii-it of our husbands and sons, we repose our confidence. Leonard Coward, Esq., this year, after various legacies, bequeathed the residue of his personal property for the improvement of the city. In this, and the two following years, the commissioners received .£7,344 10s. from his executors, which were applied to the purposes of the improvement act. The statute 29 Geo. III., c. 73, called " The Bath Improvement Act," had principally in view the im- provement of the baths and pump-room. This act (to the year 1834) was still nominally in force, although the purposes of it have been all attained. The JNIayor, Re- corder, Aldermen and Common Councilmen, the Town Clerk, Members for the city, and others therein named, were appointed commissioners. The Corporation dis- 32 ■ y&J ANNALS OF BATH. [1803. bursed £7,163 l6s. 5d. in money, and gave up buildings and other property, valued at £9,006, towards the im- provements, which consisted principally in re-building the pump-room, and in the removal of houses, for the purpose of securing the springs, and rendering the ap- proaches to the baths and pump-room more commodious. The commissioners were empowered to levy a toll on pleasure-carriages, at all the principal lines of ingress into the city, and to raise £25,000 on mortgage of these tolls. The tolls were directed in general terms to be applied to the purposes of the act, and were only to cease on the extinction of the debt, towards which the Corporation were bound to contribute £700 annually, after the first disbursement of £7,163 l6s. .5d. for which they were also allowed time, at the rate of £700 per annum. By the wording of these clauses, it seems to have been left entirely to the discretion of the commis- sioners (who were principally members of the Corpora- tion) how nuich, or whether any, of the tolls should be applied towards the liquidation of the debt ; and they might have continued to receive the tolls until it was extinguished, solely by the annual payments of the Corporation, in whom the property improved under this act was finally vested. In 1790, the commissioners issued bonds for £18,000, and in 1791, for the remaining sum of £7,000. The Corporation paid them £563 16s. 5d., the balance of the sum they had agreed to advance in the first instance in 1802, and in the following year they commenced paying off the commissioners' bonds — their payment that year being £2,500. The debt was finally extinguished in 1826, at which time the Corporation had paid off £22,900 of the £25,000 borrowed, (or at the rate of about £900 per annum,) the balance of £2,100 1803.] ANXAl.S or P.ATH. .'};} and interest having been liquidated by the commissioners out of the tolls. The commissioners did not pay off any part of the principal from the proceeds of the tolls until 1824, availing themselves so far of the generality of the clause, directing the application of the tolls. The following statement is supposed to shew, pretty accurately, the nature of the transactions : — The Commissioner.s in account with the Improvement Trust. DR. ii To Cash received on ac- count of Bonds issued... 25,000 Ditto from Corporation on account of Bonds 22,900 Tolls 4.8,046 Sale of Lands lG,5f;8 Balance of Rent 3,700 Coward's Bequest 7,344 £12.3,5.58 CR. £ By Bonds paid 25,000 Interest 34,325 Law 2,100 Purchase of Lands 4.'),0-12 New Buildings 8,302 Salaries 2,467 Ta.\cs and Repairs 1,447 Balance of sundry Accounts 875 £123,558 AVhen the toll was discontinued, a balance of about £70 remained in the hands of the treasurer. It was for the purpose of this act, that the toll-house was built, mentioned in the account of the Freemen's estate to have liecn subsequently pulled down.* Sec Report of Commissioners on Municipal Corporations. 34 ANNAI.S OF BATH. 1804.] The Election of Civic Officers, for the year ensuing, stood thus : — JOHN SYMONS, Esq.,— Mayor. WILLIAAI ANDERDON, Esq- JOHN HORTON, Esq. HENRY HARINGTON, Esq. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. HARRY ATTVVOOD, Esq. Sir WILLIA.M WATSON. HENRY PARRY, Esq. JAMES PHILLOTT, Esq. u J CHARLES CROOK, Esq. MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq. EDMUMD ANDERDON, Eso. HENRY WALTERS, Esq.,— Chamberlain; zice Howse, resigned. MR. WILLIAM MEYLER, \ E. PICKWICK, Esq., Sheriffs. G. E. ALLEN, Esq. ., WM. PERRY, M.D. } ^""=^ Constables. 1804. The year 1804 commenced with unabated activity, on the part of our volunteers ; military training, in- spections, and revieAvs, passed each other in rapid suc- cession. Their discipline became at length so perfect, their appearance so military, and their evolutions so un- exceptionable, that they drew from the inspecting field officers the most pointed marks of approbation. They were, consequently, reported to be in readiness for active and efficient service. It is but just to add, that the corps was considerably indebted to their Adjutant, Captain Davis, (who succeeded to that office, vice Godfrey, at their early training,) for his unremitting attention to their discipline. In acknowledgment of which, the 1804.] AXNALS OF BATH. 35 officers, after tlicir return from permanent duty at Bris- tol, jH-esented him with a valuable charger, as a mark of their esteem for his conduct and abilities. An efficient military force being now completely established in the city, ready to act, wherever and whenever required, amusements, improvements, and the ordinary avocations of more peaceable times, became natural subjects for consideration. Among those of the former, which at this period stood unrivalled in elegance and munificence, was " The Bath Harmonic Society." Their entertainments were generally on a scale of un- usual splendour, and, in the spring of this year, a Grand Fete Cliampctre was given at Sydney Gardens, by the noblemoi and gentlemen composing that society, to the ladies of the city. It was a magnificent display of liberality and taste. Not less than 1,200 persons sat down to an elegant breakfast, consisting of all the de- licacies which the season produced, provided by that excellent caterer, the renter of the gardens, Mr. Gale. Never was remembered such an assemblasfe of elegance and beauty as distinguished that Elysian scene, so novel and gratifying in its general arrangements. At this time, " The Harmonic Society" was admitted to be perfect — certainly at its meridian.* As the extraordinary events of the times had given Bath more the air of a garrisoned town, than that of fashion and the mart for gaiety and amusement, the birth-day of of our venerable sovereign ought not to pass unnoticed. The extreme splendour of the day, the display of flags * This Society, which contributed very materially to the rational amusements of Bath, was founded on the 18th December, 1795, by the Rev. Mr. Bowcn (a gentleman of acknowledged taste in the theory of music), and rose from the ruins of the ancient Glee Club, wliich long flourished under the auspices of Dr. Harington, m.d. c 2 36 ANNALS or EATH. [1804. on the different churches, and the joyful peals that rang from within, the concourse of strangers that were seen in every part of the city, and the appearance of a numerous military body under arms, bespoke the happy return of His Majesty's natal day. At noon, the cavalry, the Bath and Bathforum infantry, together with the Rodney Stoke volunteer infantry, marched into the new road at the end of Pulteney-street, where they fired several well-timed vollies. The officers of the respective corps dined together afterwards, and the privates were regaled with excellent dinners at the different inns in the city, where they could best find accommodation. In the evening, a grand display of fire-works and other amuse- ments took place at Sydney Gardens, which were crowded with an assemblage of beauty and fashion, amounting, it is supposed, to nearly 4,000 persons. Though this year proved somewhat bare of interest- ing matter, yet there were two or three subjects, which passed under discussion, likely to pi'ove of great local importance to the city hereafter. The first of these was a general meeting of the Freemen, to consider the ex- pediency of applying to Parliament for an act, to enable the Mayor, Aldermen and Citizens (as trustees) to grant building leases of their estate called the Bath Common. The next was a report of the committee for the extension of the powers and jurisdiction of the Court of Requests, for the speedy recovery of small debts in the city of Bath and its neighbouring parishes : stating that they had corresponded with the representatives of the city and county on the subject, and had received undoubted as- surance that, whenever the business shduld elicit Parlia- mentary discussion, it would receive the decided support of those gentlemen, and that a petition, to be presented 1804..] ANNALS OF i$ATH. 37 in the ensuing session of Parliament, was then in the coarse of signature. liast, tliough not least in tlic scale of importance, Avas the long talked of and much desired New Theatre. A brief history of the Bath Theatres may here be acceptable to our readers. The first regularly built Theatre in Bath was erected in 1730, on the ground where the General Hospital now stands. It was the pro- perty of the Widow Poore, and under the management of Hornby, a comedian. But, as gaming was the pre- vailing rage at the time, the Theatre met witli very indifferent encouragement, and the performers were hardly able to support themselves. Lady Haw ley after- wards became purchaser of the property, but that did not mend the condition of the actors. The Theatre was under her I^adyship's ball room, and the seats were placed one above the other, until they reached within four feet of the ceiling ; there was only one box, placed above the door, which held four persons, and the price of admittance was half-a-crown to every part of the house. Thirty pounds was the receipt of the fullest house ; and her Ladyship was entitled to a third share of the profits, and one-fourth for the use of scenes and dresses. The standing expence was £2 10s. per night, which included music, attendants, bills, and tallow can- dles : the remainder was divided among twelve per- formers. When the influx of company became more considerable, the theatre in Orchard-street was erected, which, in its turn al-so, was found too small and incom- modious ; and that circumstance led to plans and propo- sals for erecting the present superb building in Beaufort- square, which were in due time submitted to the pul)lic. It was built by subscription, the terms of wliich were 38 ANNALS OF BATH. [1804. to the foUowiuo' effect : — One luuulicd sliares to be ere- ated at £200 per share ; the share to terminate with a life named and registered at the time of subscribing. Each shareholder to receive three per cent, per annum, and a right of admission to all performances, transferable once a year. The whole rent-ciiarge of £600 per annum (that is, the three per cent, per share), to be paid so long as any one life remained, and to be equally divided among the survivors ; but the admission to cease with the life. The whole property of the theatre, which was duly vested in the hands of trustees, was security to the tontine proprietors. The subscriptions proceeded rapidly ; and in August of this year, it Avas annovuiced that the building would be speedily commenced. In December, the foundation stone was laid; and it ad- vanced with a rapidity seldom witnessed in the erec- tion of buildings in this city. The civic appointments for this year were arranged as follows : — WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq.,— Mayor. ( Being the third time of serving that Office. ) JOHN SYMONS, Esa. JOHN HORTON, Esa. H. HARINGTON, M.D. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. HENRY ATTWOOD, Esq. SiK WM. WATSON, Knight •-5 HENRY PARRY, Esq. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. HENRY WALTERS, Esq.,— Chamberlain. G.H.TUGWELL, Esq. 1 g^^^,^^,, J. HOLMAN, M.D. > Mn. T. HORTON, Mr. TAYLOR, 1 Constables. 1805.1 ANNALS OF BATH. 39 1805. It becomes a gratifying task to the historian, when attempting to detail with truth and impartiality the passing events of a city, whose healing waters draw from the remotest parts of the kingdom persons of every age, sex, and distinction ; where the leper is cleansed, and the poor crippled labourer returned whole to his family, to bear in mind how essentially he is aided by the fostering hand of the philanthropist, which enables him to record, in the pages of its history, acts of munificence which centuries can never efface. Charitable deeds, which stand registered for ever in the sacred Book of Heaven. How many of these exalted characters there were and are, these unpretending pages bear a willing testimony. Among the many institutions with which this truly charitable city abounds, " The Stranger's Friend So- ciety" claims no secondary meed of praise and admira- tion. It was established in October, 1790; is conducted upon the broad principle of universal philanthropy, and supported by voluntary contributions. Unbiassed by party distinctions, it extends its beneficence alike to all ; the only test required being a sufficient proof of distress. To seek want and sickness in their Avretched habitations, and to bear sustenance, with the means of promoting health, to despairing objects, are offices of true Christian charity ; and are (for the Institution still flourishes) de- voutly acted up to by its patrons and supporters. At the period to which we now refer, nearly sixty indivi- duals were visited and relieved weekly by this Society, without regard to age, sex, country, or religion. 40 ANNALS OF BATH. [1805. The Bath General Hospital, also proved so widely and successfully benevolent, as to reflect the highest credit on the city, and the greatest honour on the gen- tlemen under Avhose management it fell, and those to whom its important medical and other curative depart- ments were confided. But, if the friends of philanthropy had occasion for congratulation on these wide-spreading acts of the hu- mane and benevolent, future generations will also have cause to rejoice, that an Institution, for the practice of vaccine inoculation, was established this year in Bath, to be called — " The Somerset Jennerian Society for the Extermination of the Small Pox," and to extend gene- rally throughout the county. The Duke of York was requested to honour the society with his name, as patron. Earl Poulett was nominated president ; and the Mem- bers for the county and city, with many noblemen and influential gentlemen, vice-presidents. A committee was also appointed, consisting of physicians, surgeons, and other gentlemen of the city With respect to this society, it was much lamented that certain prejudices existed as to the efficiency of vaccine inoculation — prejudices so deeply rooted, that the society found it necessary to call public attention to some deplorable facts resulting from the visitation of small pox, and from causes continuing to obstruct the general adoption of a remedy, which was demonstrated, by the experience of a large portion of the civilized world, to possess the power of annihilating that dreadful distemper. The actual number of authenticated deaths, from small pox in this city, from the 1st of I\Iay to July 27* (twelve weeks) in this year, amounted as follows : — 1805.] ANNAI.S OF I'.ATII. 41 Walcot 15 St. Peter and Taul 8 Lynconibe and Widcombe IS St. Michael's 3 Bathwick 16 60 And these were, no doubt, within the actual amount, many burials constantly taking place in other grounds than those belonging to the Established Churches of the different parishes. The Society deemed it necessary to enlarge on the nature and extent of that devastation, which feU almost entirely on poor children, (for most of the higher and middling classes were vaccinated,) and they lamented that endeavours should be made to diminish the public confidence in, and to depreciate the reputation of so va- luable a preventative. They were highly persuaded that greater importance had been attached to cases of supposed failures than they deserved ; as, on investiga- tion, most of the cases had been ascertained to arise from some irregularity in practice, or other assignable cause. They called particular attention to the mischiefs attend- ant on small pox inoculation, a practice certainly no longer morally justifiable, as being a constant source for diffusion of the natural disease, so extensively fatal. They appealed to the better informed, to support, by their influence and arguments among the poorer classes, the general adoption of a system, which must, ultimately, exterminate that dreadful pestilence. The year 1805, likewise, produced the institution of two laudable societies, which have continued to flourish under the guidance of able directors, and, with the liberal 42 ANNALS OF UATII. [1805. assistance of the Bath pubhc, appear likely to extend their beneficial influence through many future j'ears. The first was a Society, formed under the sanction of the JNIayor and Magistrates, for the suppression of common vagrants and impostors, the relief of occasional distress, and the encouragement of the industrious poor. The particular objects of this society, were to banish the multitude of common beggars, who, to the reproach of the place, daily infested the streets, and maintained them- selves in vice and idleness, on that mistaken benevolence which should be applied to the relief of the really deserv- ing poor. An office was established in Walcot-street, where, under the direction of a committee, daily applica- tions and enquiries were received and made. The busi- ness of this society was afterwards removed to JMonmouth street, Avhere its office now is. The public Avere indebted for its formation to I^ady Isabella King, by whose zeal and exertions it became firmly established, and it continues (under the guidance of a committee of respectable resi- dents) to suppress vagrancy, administer relief to the poor, and encourage the industrious to maintain an ho- nest independence, by advancing loans (under approved securities) in cases of temporary distress. It is a fact, highly creditable to the class of persons to whom these loans have been extended, that, since the first establish- ment of the society, £12,000 have been thus lent, the loss on which, from all causes, does not exceed £150. The second was for the recovery of persons ajipa- rently ch'owned, and for administering assistance in va- rious other cases of suspended animation. It had long- been a subject of surprise and lamentation that, although so much attention had been paid to that important ob- ject, in most parts of the world, the city of Batii had not 1S05.] ANNALS ny r.ATii. 43 followed the example with a spirit that might have been expected from the opulence and benevolent dispositions of its inhabitants. It was well known that fatal acci- dents were frequently occurring, and particularly since the Kennet and Avon Canal had been made to ap- proach the city. Could an annual statement have been made of the numbers permitted to perish for want of timely assistance, there can be no doubt that a general alarm and a universal regret would have been excited ; it was, therefore, and not without just reason, supposed, that every person possessing the common feelings of humanity would assist, by subscriptions, this laudable undertaking. It was placed under the patronage of the preceding society, of which Lady Isabella King Avas pa- troness ; Sir George Colebrook, bart., president ; Sir W. Cockburn, bart., Sir W. Addington, and Rev. Arch- deacon Phillott, vice-presidents ; and Rev. J. Richards, secretary. It is, therefore, unnecessary to add, that un- der such guidance " The Bath Humane Society" became eminently popular and successful ; and that success and popularity has been since maintained, by the continued exertions of the existing committees, as the records of the society from year to year amply testify ; it appearing that, from 1821 to 1831, 244 persons have been rescued from drowning, through the agency of this society. At the commencement of the year, a vestry meet- ing took place in the parish of St. Peter and St. I'aul, for the purpose of taking into consideration a letter from the commissioners of the city, respecting the defects and insufficiency of the several powers of the act for pitching, paving, lighting, and watching the city and liberties; when it was resolved, that a particular statement of the defects of the present bill, should be requested from the 44 ANNALS OF BATH. [1805. commissioners, and the desired improvements obtained by a new act. It was also resolved, " That the vestry, feeling anxious for the improvements of the city police, do appoint a committee to confer witli the inhabitants of this and the other parishes on the subject." Indeed, it Avas a source of much gratification to the inhabitants at large, to witness the rapid improvements taking place in many parts of the city ; for instance, Stall and Horse-streets, (the latter being now known by its original name of Southgate-street) were widened, and rendered more respectable in appearance, and that long complained of nuisance, the old houses, on the east side of St. Michael's Church, were at length removed ; and, calculating on the spirit and activity of the per- sons concerned in improving and widening the higher part of Walcot-street, a spacious unobstructed way was soon expected from Lady-lNIead, to that street. On the south side of Bath, the approaches to the city were highly inconvenient, and even dangerous, for nothing could be more so than an obstructed passage (the Angel Inn) at a meeting of four principal roads, which was the case near the Old Bridge. However, proposals were now made to the Turnpike Commissioners, which it was hoped they would be able to accept, and carry the proposed alterations into speedy execution. It was also determined by Lord Newark to form a carriage road to the Lower Assembly Rooms, and other im- provements were in contemplation on his I^ordship's estate in the lower town. A new burial ground for the parish of St Michael, situate in ^^'^alcot-street, opposite the present, was consecrated this year by the Lord Bishop of Bath and A\'^ells with the usual so- lemnities. 1805.] ANNALS OF ]!ATII. 45 But, the most marked feature in the way of improvement, which occurred this year, v»as opening the New Theatre, in Beaufort-square, ah-eady alluded to. That event took place on Saturday the 12th of October, with the play of King Richard the Third, and farce of the Poor Soldier. IMuch had been said respecting the size, convenience, and beauty of the Theatre, but the audience were more than ausply gra- tified when they beheld it. Everything that could be conducive to the pleasui'e of sight, faculty of hearing, and general comfort of the public had been aimed at, and accomplished. Under the guidance of ]Mr. John Palmer, the city architect, Mr. George Dance, for the ornamental parts of building, Mr. Parfitt, for the masonry, and Mr. Thomas Lewis, for the carpentery work, it could not faW to be executed with celerity, sound judgment, and faithfulness in the fulfilment of their respective contracts. There are three entrances, in as many different directions. The grand front (for chairs) is in Beaufort-square ; the carriage entrance, in the Saw-close, and the remaining side, for pit, gallery, and stage. The extreme length is 125 feet, the width 60 feet, and the height 70 ; and the whole building is replete with conveniences of every possible description. The scenery was beautifully executed by Messrs. Grieve, Marchbank, French, and Capon, who were severally honoured with loud plaudits, as the different changes occurred, evidently displaying much skill, taste, and experience. The ceiling has also been recently orna- mented with .some exquisite paintings, by Cassali, which were purchased at the celebrated sale at Fonthill. It may be as well, perhaps, to give at once, by an al- lowable anticipation of its success, a history of the progress 46 ANNALS OF BATH. [1805. of this establishment to the present day. The theatre commenced and remained under the management of John Palmer, Esq , M. P., and Mr. W. W. Dimond, and their families, till the death of Mrs. Dimond, in 1823, when the whole property became vested (by the purchase of INIrs. Dimond's moiety) in General Charles Palmer, M.P., and Captain Edinuud Palmer, R.N., sons of the above gentleman. At the death of Mr. Dimond, senior, his son undertook the direction of the theatre, and con- tinued to be the manager till June, 1823, when he was succeeded by Captain Benjamin Peach. At the termi- nation of the season, June, 1826, that gentleman resigned, and was succeeded by Mr. Charlton, who for many years had been stage manager. He retired in the follow- ing May, and IMr. B. P. Bellamy became manager in 1827. In 1832, the proprietors determined on letting the theatre ; but no eligible offer being made, some of the principal inhabitants entered into a subscription to support the theatre, and INIr. Bellamy became lessee. And it is but justice to say that, during the direction of this gentlemen, the entertainments submitted to the public were of the most amusing and varied description. In 1831, Mr. Barnett, of the Reading and Newbury theatres, rented it for a short season ; and in the follow- ing November, it was announced that Mr. Woulds (a long and deserved favoin-ite on the Bath boards) had taken it for a term of years. In taking a cursory view of the state of the metro- politan and other large theatres, for some few years past, we fear they have long since ceased to be profitable as a speculation ; yet it is to be hoped, and there is no doubt, theati'icals will long continue an established amusement in this gay, fascinating city. ISOo.] ANNALS OF BATH. 47 Amono- the many attractions which were brought before the public this year, I\lr. Thomas Barker's picture gallery, on Sion-hill, justly claimed attention. The names of Thomas and Benjamin Barker have long been known in the city of Bath, as connected with the fine arts ; and the produce of their pencils adorn the galleries of many first-rate connoisseurs. The collection consisted of valuable specimens of the old masters, and a Aariety of Italian and English subjects, productions from the able pencils of the proprietor and his brother. At the fall of this year, the fashionable portion of our residents and visitors had to regret the secession of Richard Tyson, Esq., from the office of Master of the Ceremonies to the Upper Assembly Rooms, which he had filled for upwards of twenty years, with an ability and attention highly satisfactory to the company, and creditable to himself. He was succeeded by James King, P]sq., from the Lower Rooms ; and Charles Le Bas, Esq., was unanimously chosen to Mr. King's vacated oflSce. About this period the " Bath Small Debt Bill," for the extension of the Court of Requests, received the Royal Assent. By the provisions of this bill, debts to the amount of ten pounds may now be recovered in a summary way ; a barrister of experience being appointed by the Lord Chancellor, who is always to preside in the court as chairman, and assist the commissioners with his legal advice. Much praise was due to the county and city members, as well as the worthy chief magistrate and members of the body corporate, for their uniform sup- port of a measure that has tended so much to benefit the city. Tins court has very considerable business. Its jurisdiction comprises the city of Bath, the hundreds of 48 A^JNALS Ol' BATH. [1805. Bathforuiii and Wellow, and the liberty of Hampton and Claverton, containing a population of about seventy thousand. The most distant part within its limits is about seven miles from Bath. By the Act 6 George III., c. 16, which fii-st established a Court of Re- quests at Bath, the demand recoverable in the court must have been under forty shillings. The present Act, 45 George III., c. 67, gives a jurisdiction for any sum not exceeding ten pounds, in all actions or causes of debt or assumpsit, whether on simple contract or on specialities ; and also in trover, for the taking and detention of goods. On an average, there are eighty fresh causes entered every week. The court has a power of imprisonment, varying with the amount of the debt. It has been stated, that at the enrolment of the Bath Volunteers, in 1803, the worthy and liberal repre- sentative of the city (Mr. Palmer), directed that eleven silver cups should be given to the same number of best shots of that corps ; and prizes in money, of two guineas each, to the eleven second best shots, by Walter Long, Esq., to be contended for at such time as the command- ing officer should judge proper. Mr. Palmer had, ori- ginally, purchased a costly and superb cup, as the oi/l?/ prize to be awarded ; but, by the advice of the field- officers, the arrangement was altered to the above plan. The proposed trial of skill took place in July this year. The cups were of handsome workman sliip, and bore the following inscription : — " This cup, presented by John Palmer, esq., to excite and reward the Bath Volunteers, was Avon by , as the best single shot at the target, on Claverton Down, July 19, 1805." A letter was read at the same time by Colonel Strode, from Mr Palmer, requesting that the volunteers would honour ISO.'S.j ANNA I. S OK liATlI. 49 liiiii l)y accepting the cups. The successful candidates, on the first list, were as follows : — Edward Haniiey Grenadier C\\\i Serjeant Wilcox 1st. George Gunning i^d. Edward Phripp 3d. William Hill 4th. William Pitt 5th. William Newman Gtli. CIn-istophcr Heath 7th. Henry Mitchell 8th. ^Villiam Smart Light Iiifantry Cup. William Needes Rifle Corps Cup. The whole were reviewed by General Moore on the 23d of that month, Avhich concluded their twelve additional days of exercise, as appointed by Act of Par- liament, in lieu of marching to distant permanent duty. It should not be omitted, that the presentation of colours, to the liathforum volunteers, took place this year, in front of Sydney Garden Hotel. They were the gift of the Baroness Bath. The lady of Colonel Ste- phens, who represented the noble donor on this occasion, in a suitable speech, delivered them to the Colonel. The Rev. Dr. Godfrey, Minister of Kensington Chapel, and Chaplain to the regiment, afterwards consecrated the banners, with a force and solemnity suited to the oc- casion. In closing this eventful year, it is our good fortune to announce the great naval victory, gained on the 21st of October, by the British fleet, under Lord Viscount Nelson, over the combined fleets of France and Spain. D 50 ANNALS OF BATH. [1805. off Cape Trafalgar. The intelligence reached this city on the 9th of November, and was hailed with all that joy and enthusiasm which the result of so important a battle was calculated to create ; it was damped, however, by the melancholy communication of the death of the greatest naval hero of his day, and those of his brave companions, who, on that occasion, met a similar fate. It is scarcely necessary to add the immortal name of Nelson I A n address of congratulation, on that important victory, from the Mayor and Corporation, was presented to the King, by Earl Camden, the Recorder, which Avas most graciously received ; and, at a Common Hall, espe- cially convened, the sum of one hundred guineas was voted towards the relief of the seamen and marines who were wounded, and of the widows and orphans of those who fell in that glorious action. A book was also opened at the Guildhall, for subscriptions in aid of the Patriotic Fund established in London for the general relief of the widows and orphans of the killed, and of those brave men wounded in his ]\Iajesty's service by sea and land. On the day appointed for a general thanksgiving, it was proposed that a collection should be made at the several churches and chapels of this city, in aid of the above fund ; and the sum produced was a strong proof of the excited feelings of the public, being far beyond any contributions, in a similar way, within the memory of its oldest inhabitants. Religious sects, of all deno- minations, vied with each other, on this occasion, in their zeal and liberality to reward the mei'its of our brave defenders. In proof of this, is subjoined a list of the sums collected : — lS()5.j AXXAI.S t)F ISATH. 51 £ .V. d. Abbey Church 92 2 St. James's 51 7 2 St. Michael's 27 8 Walcot 37 1 Bathwick* 5 13 6 Christ's Church 53 6 3 Laura Chapel 166 18 Octagon Chapel 129 18 Queen-square Chapel 41 4 St. Margaret's Chapel 126 14 6 St. John's Chapel 7 13 All Saints' Chapel 39 13 11 Kensington Chapel 12 10 6 Lady Huntingdon's Chapel ... 25 16 Moravian Chapel 7 2 Argyle Chapel 24 2 Catholic Chapel 17 4 1 Unitarian Chapel 38 19 6 Widcombc Church* 1 6 9 Casual Collections 9 6 Total £915 6 2 It is a fact worth recording, in corroboration of the general public feeling on this occasion, that the subscrip- tions to the Patriotic Fund, throughout the United Kingdom, amounted to £126,000, of which £81,500 were collected at places of divine worship ! A design was also in contemplation to erect, b)^ public subscription, an honorary pillar in memory of the • The oia Churches. ]) 2 52 ANNAI.S Ol' BATH. [1805. much-lamented Nelson. As there appeared but one sen- timent respecting the services of that extraordinary man, the only question was, in what situation would it be most conspicuous, and, at the same time, most orna- mental ? The centre of Laura-place Avas pointed out as an eligible spot, standing as it might in that elegant area, at the head of one of the finest streets in Europe ; while others suggested the centre of the Circus ; and a meeting was held on the subject at the Guildhall, for the pui-pose of taking the same into consideration. As the contemplated subscription, however, never took place, the result of that meeting need not be further alluded to. At the Election of Civic Officers for the year ensu- ing, the following were the arrangements, viz.: — CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esa.— Mayor. WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq. JOHN HORTON, Esa. HENRY HARINGTON, Esq. HARRY ATTWOOD, Esq. Sir WILLIAM WATSON. HENRY PARRY, Esq. u JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. JOHN KITSON, Esq. HENRY WALTERS, Esq.— Chamberlaik. GEORGE EDWARD ALLEN, Esq. 1 g^j^^jp^,, WILLIAM PERRY, flI.D. ^ VyiLLIAM CLARK, Esq. | constables. WILLIAM BOWEN, Esq. J T806.] ANNAI.S nV I5ATH. 53 1806. The Penitentiary Asylum was established in Bath, on the 4th of Jaiuiary in this year. The outline of the charity was agreed on at a general meeting, at Hetling- liouse, in November, 1805; and its object was, to receive into close residence, protection, and employment, with a view to their reformation and restoration to their friends, and to prepare them for being placed in suitable services, such unhappy females as might be induced voluntarily to apply, and enter into proper engagements, for these purposes. Donations and annual subscriptions were solicited, and Cornwall-house, Walcot, was taken and fitted up for the occasion. At the same time, public attention was called to " The House for the reception of vmprotected Females," opened last year, and which, under the management of ladies, had hitherto met with much success. The object of this Institution was to find employment, by needle- work or other occupations, for young girls thrown des- titute on the world, and deprived of honest means of support. On the 8th of the same month, the funeral of the lamented Lord Nelson took place in London. This city bore a part in mournful unison with the metropolis on this occasion. The solemn tenors in all the churches tolled some hours in the day ; and the muffled bells in the evening gave melancholy and doleful peals on this deeply-regretted national loss. The Pump-room band also played several dirges with impressive solemnity ; 54 ANNALS OF BATH. [I8O6. and every heart seemed touched with one general sensa- tion of sorrow and esteem. Sorrow, we may add, mixed with wonder and admiration, at the foresight, skill, and valour of that lamented officer.* And here we beg permission to digress. The battle of Trafalgar was, without doubt, of more national importance than any one heretofore celebrated in the records of history. The^iial destination of the com- bined fleets was the British Channel ; and their pritnari/ object to divert the attention, and elude the vigilance of Nelson ; and he foresaw it. Had the manoeuvre suc- ceeded, the gigantic project of Napoleon was to have been carried into execution. The Channel open, and at the enemy's command, a landing was then to have been attempted. The reluctance of Napoleon, hitherto, to enter on so presumptuous and desperate an enterprize, was attributed to the vigilance and intrepidity of our navy, and the formidable state of our regulars, militia, and volunteers. Had he escaped the former, there can be no doubt it was his intention to play a desperate game, and " hazard the die" on the latter, placing his invading army in opposition to 810,000 British subjects under arms ! for such was the amount of force in Great Britain ready to receive him. The result no loyal man could doubt ; but the conflict would have been desperate, and the fate of thousands on that day decided.f In * His Lordship was repeatedly requested not to wear his various orders of merit, as he would thereby become a conspicuous mark for the enemy ; but, with the proud spirit of an Englishman, he indignantly rejected the advice. ■\ A translation of the French account of the battle of Trafalgar cannot fail to be highly amusing to our readers ; we subjoin it in Appendix. No. 3. It was jiublishcd in the Moniieur, and taken among other iMjiers in a captured French vessel, a few weeks after the battle. 1806.] ANNALS t)F BATH. 55 confident anticipation of the result in favour of France, IJuonaixu-te caused a medal to be struck. On the ob- verse of which was the head of the Emperor, and the reverse represented Hercules strangUng a marine mon- ster ; round was the legend " Descente en Angleterre ;" and in the exergue " Frapjiee a Londres" On the 23d of January, the death of that great states- man, Mr. J'itt, occurred ; and a new administration was consequently formed, at the head of which was placed his political opponent, Charles James Fox. Although it is not the author's intention to enter on poHtical matters beyond that which it may be necessary to introduce, in connection Avith this history, it will not, however, be irre- levant to touch on the " Ways and Means" proposed by the new IMinistry for supplying the sinews of war. In- asmuch as the taxes of a country are felt in a greater or less degree by all classes of the community, commerce becomes affected by them, and every city or village, in proportion to its magnitude and trading intercourse, feels their depressing influence. The national expenditure was daily increasing, and war with Spain added grievously to the burthens already borne by the people. Lord Henry Petty,* then Chan- cellor of the Exchequer, stated, that the sum of ,i'43,6 18,000 would be required for the exigencies of the present year. To meet this in part, he proposed to in- crease the property tax, from five to ten per cent. This tax was selected as being the most equal in its pressure, and most productive. It was much better (he said) to take that step at once, tlian proceed by gradual addition. No one lamented so sincerely as himself these increasing * Now Marquis of Lansdownc. 56 ANNAI.S (IF RATH. [I8O6. burthens; but. he trusted, they fully understood that such sacrifices were essentially necessary for the great cause in which the nation was embarked. He pledged himself to the country, that its resources should be ex- pended with the most scrupulous economy, and that this was the chief object which Ministers had in view. With regard to himself, and the system of finance, he should, like the old Roman moralist, who built a house where all his actions could be seen, do the same with regard to the public expenditure. Such was the line of conduct he meant to pursue. It is unnecessary to add, that this appeal, on the part of IMinislers, met with but little opposition. The only additional public measure of this session, of sufficient local importance to claim our present notice, was introduced by Mr. Windham, for the better regulation of the army. That part which related to the Volunteers proposed " that the office of Inspecting Field Officer should be abolished," and, in lieu thereof, four Major-Generals be appointed to review the Vo- lunteers of the Avhole kingdom ; permanent duty to be also abolished, and twenty-four drills substituted in each year. The political rival of the lamented Pitt held not long his high responsible office. A dropsical complaint had been, for a length of time, gradually imdermining his constitution, and latterly prevented his attendance on parliamentary duties. At length, after a lingering illness and much suffisring, on September 20th, the secre- tary for foreign afl'airs, Charles James Fox, breathed his last. It is not on this occasion. too much to assert, that notwithstanding a difference of political opinion, never 1806.] AXXAI.S OF KATH. 57 were two men more anxii)us for the public good, more desirous of upholding the dignity of the crown, or more tenacious for the honour of the British nation, than those two enlightened statesmen. The following month a dissolution of Parliament took place, and Ivord John Thynne and John Pahner, Esq., were re-elected members for the city. The alterations determined on by Lord Newark, in the lower town, were this year carried into effect ; a noble entrance to the Rooms had been made fronting the North-parade, the portico of which (copied from the Temple of Neptune, at Ffestum) was considered one of the best specimens of classical architecture then extant in the city. A carriage entrance was also made through York-street, by which an easy access was obtained to those Rooms ; and the Upper Assembly Rooms also were newly painted and decorated. Nor were the improve- ments confined to the lower town alone, for that ob- structed, inconvenient passage, between the upper and lower parts of the toAvn, before alluded to, appeared MOW likely to be removed. In the early part of this year a notice was issued, inviting such persons as were desirous of contracting lor the purchase of certain plots of ground, to build a new street, intended to be called Union-street, leading from the north side of Cheap-street, to other streets and places in the upper town, for the accommodation of the inhabitants thereof, and the public in general, passing to and from the Pum])-room and the public and pri- vate baths ; and for the completion of other improve- ments in Ciieap-street, Union-passage, and the east side of Parsonage-lane. 58 ANNAI.S OF BATH. [1806. Towards the conclusion of the year, we find these improvements rapidly progressing ; and, as if by magic, convenient openings, spacious streets, and elegant edifices presented themselves in every direction. Union-street nearly finished, New Bond-street opening a short and easy access from Milsom-street to the INIarket-place, and the projected improvements in the vicinity of Pulteney- street ; whilst the east wing of the pump-room almost completed (the contiguous houses having been pulled down), presented to the admiring visitor an unobstructed view of the enriched gothic front of the Abbey. The suggested improvements at the Old Bridge were also in a OTcat state of forwardness. According to annual custom, the meeting of the Bath and West of England Agricultural Society was holden, at Hetling-house, in the autumn of this year. Benjamin Hobhouse, Esq., M.P., was unanimously re- elected president, and Richard Bright, Esq., was chosen one of the vice-presidents. The attendance of the nobility gentry, and agriculturists, was more than usually nu- merous and respectable ; and the pi-oceedings held out a certain presage of the increased advantages and pros- perity of that institution. The new Parliament was opened by commission on the 15th of December. At this crisis the public mind Avas wrought to a high state of anxiety, as respected the future conduct of Ministers. Abilities of the hiohest degree, and measures most prompt and energetic, were required. As we proceed in our history, the development of these measures will be shown. The Magistracy for the ensuing year was thus arranged : — 1807.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. ;>9 JOHN HORTON, Esa.-MAYoit. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Lso. 1 f Sm WILLIAM WATSON. WILLIAM ANOERDON, Esu. II. HARINGTON, M.U. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esu. [ g j CHARLES CROOK, Esq. I M JOHN KITSON, Esu. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esu. HARRY ATTWOOD, Es MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq. HENRV PARRY, Es the various asso- ciations of the passions, so as to be able to command 180S.] ANNALS Ol- BATH. 75 them in musical expression. If wo wutcli the anxious countenances of the audience at our numerous concerts here ; tlie breathless silence with whicli every turn, swell, or cadence, is received, which constitute the soul of music; we may (without incurring censure for un- necessary praise), say that, ?'« Bath, those various attri- butes are found. It has always been considered a matter of duty with those who are blest with the means in this happy country, to attend to the condition of the working- classes, to render their labour, if possible, a source of comfort and independence, and to protect them from misery and destitution. We may, with truth, add, that in no city do we observe that feeling more prominent than in Bath ; and this year an association was formed, at the suggestion of the Ladies Douglas (sisters to Lord Selkirk), for the purpose of securing to domestic ser- vants an easy and safe method of depositing their occa- sional savings, and placing them on good security, with the certainty of a regular payment of interest. Before the accomplishment of those admirable in- stitutions, which may be justly termed national (the Savings' Banks), much inconvenience was experienced by |)crsons in the humble ranks of life, disposed to a laudable spirit of frugality, in effecting the safe and advantageous disposition of their hard earnings ; and it was with a view to obviate that inconvenience, that the idea of this association was first suirsrested. It was lioijcd also, the formation of it Avould tend to strenathen the tics between master and servant, and operate as an inducement to general good conduct ; particularly as their advantages were limited to those only who could produce certificates of good character. Certain rules 76 ANNALS OF BATH. [1808. and regulations were drawn up for the guidance of the parties ; and Mr. Henry Mant, of Green Park-buildings, was appointed agent to the trustees. It may not be generally known, that the subsequent and extended Savings' Banks had their origin in Safh ; and it was certainly the institution already mentioned which sug- gested them. William Davis, a member of the Society of Friends, was the first who projected that now extended scheme ; to Dr. Haygarth, John Ensor, Hastings Elwin, Esqrs., and others, the public are indebted for its more matured efficiency. Those gentlemen constituted a committee, for the purpose of effecting the establishment ; and its advancement was also much forwarded, and its arrange- ments improved and secured, by the late Right Hon. George Rose, then Secretary of the Treasury, and N. Vansittart, Esq. (since created Lord Bexley), then Chan- cellor of the Exchequer. The National Savings' Banks were established in January, 1815, of which the deposits at this time (1834) amount to about fifteen millions! That excellent institution, " The Bath Guardian Society," for the prosecution of thieves, came under the especial cognizance of the magistrates this year; and their laudable exertions, in preventing the in- crease of burglaries and petty thefts in the city, justly claimed the thanks of the public. There is no doubt that this institution, if it does not abate, certainly tends to check the propensity to crime ; and, at all events, it enables many sufferers from depredation, to defray the expences of a prosecution, which otherwise they would be unable to do ; whereby numerous lawless wretches would be let loose on the world again, and escape that punish- ment which their crimes so justly deserve. 1808.] ANXAI.S OF I5ATH. 77 The want of all power in the City Magistrates to try felonies, has been long felt in Bath as an e\il of serious importance. With a population, exceeding 50,000 persons in the city and immediate neighbour- hood, the most trifling case of larceny must be sent to be tried at the County Quarter Sessions or Assizes, which are held at Wells, Bridgewater, and Taunton, at the distance of 18, 39, and 50 miles respectively from Bath. It is also manifest, that independently of all consideration of expence, the inconvenience of at- tending to prosecute at so great a dislance, must have a material efiect in adding to the impunity of offenders. In the month of September, the Bath Volunteers (Cavalry and Infantry) passed under review before His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester, in the Villa Fields, Bathwick, who expressed his admiration at the effective state of military discipline those corps had at- tained. After Avhich, the officers belonging to the infantry invited their colonel to a sumptuous entertain- ment, at which they presented that officer with an elegant piece of plate, for his indefatigable exertions in promoting the discipline of the corps, and his un- remitting zeal for the public service. Col. Dumbleton, in returning thanks, spoke at some length on the ad- vantages accruing from such associations ; they were, he said, productive of the happiest effects in checking that spirit of disaffection, which imhappily too much existed among certain classes of the comnumity ; and, with energetic feeling, he added — "■ next in estimation to tile wooden walls, they are Britain's best bulwark." We close the records of this year with a melan- choly and fatal occurrence, which excited deep interest in the city, and led to just and severe animadversions 78 ANNALS OF BATH. [1808. on the disgraceful cause which gave rise to it. It was at that time customary to hold an annual revel, (as it was not unaptly termed) on Lansdowne, but, for what purpose it would be difficult to sur- mise, when we state, that Sunday was the day generally fixed on for its celebration. Like most meetings of the same description, the day invariably ended in drunkenness and rioting ; and, with a view to prevent as much as possible those degrading scenes, the high constable, (Duncan Campbell, Esq.) thought proper, in his official capacity, to attend the meet- ing this year, for which purpose he was accompanied by a numerous body of constables. As predicted, a quarrel took place between two young men under the baneful influence of liquor, Avhich induced Mr. Camp- bell to interfere, and one of the party was accordingly taken into custody. A scuffle ensued, and a rescue was attempted, upon which Mr. C. drew a loaded pistol from his pocket, and snapped it at one of the assailants ; fortunately, it missed fire. The mob became exaspe- rated ; a further attempt at rescue was made, and harsh irritating language being used, Mr. Campbell drew forth a second pistol, and shot one of the lui- fortunate men in the side. The fury of the pai'ties then knew no bounds, the high constable was obliged to fly from the ground with preci]iitation; and was saved only from their indignation by taking refuge in the house of ]Mr. White, a magistrate, in the East Wing of Lansdown-crcscent. The man died of his wound. A Coroner's Inquest was afterwards held, and the jury brought in a verdict of Manslaughter against Mr. Campbell, upon which verdict he was tried at the ensuing Wells Assizes. The Judge (Sir Robert 1S08.J ANNALS OF IJATH. 79 Graham) in recapitulating the evidence, gave Mr. Camp- bell full credit for an upright ajid honourable intention, but said, he could not acquit him of great temerity in interfering at all to interrupt a meeting, which, as far as he could learn, was never attended with mischief, and in arresting a man for conduct which barely amounted to a misdemeanour, and in using pistols at all to secure prisoners for any offence, less than folonij. The law did not require being supported by such violence. If the jury thought that at the time the pistol was fired, Mr. Campbell's life was in innninent danger, and that no other expedient could be resorted to, but the use of such a weapon, that would amount to a jus- tification, and they must acquit him. If they thought otherwise, they must find him guilty of manslaughter. The jury, after five minutes' consultation, brought in a verdict of manslaughter. Mr. Campbell was sentenced to pay a fine of £5 to the King, and to be imprisoned in the county jail for three calendar months. To the wretch hardened in crime, and growing grey in the pursuits of villainy, the recollection of having deprived a fellow-creature of existence, must, sooner or later, crowd his imagination with horrors, and oppress his mind with pangs of the deepest re- morse ; — how then can any power of language express the multiplied pains of that man, who, having passed through many years of a well spent life, with kind- ness and humanity to those around him, finds, that by a sudden and unpremeditated act, he has plunged a human being into eternity, with all his sins upon his head, unprepared to meet his God ? What bosom can deny the sigh, or what eye the tear, when charged with the death of a fellow-creature under any circum- 8Q ANNAI,S OF BATH. [1808. stances ? Of this act of Mr. Campbell, the least that can be pleaded in extenuation, is an erroneous idea of justification, in the performance of his duty as high constable : erroneous, as stated by his judge, and nn- juHtifiahle, " in using pistols at all to secure prisoners for any offence, less than felony," unless IMi-. Camp- bell's life was in danger, " and no other expedient could be resorted to, but the use of svich a weapon." It was, probably, the previous possession of those pistols (consequently, it was an utipremedilafed act) only that produced the lenient sentence of manslaughter. We recollect a lamentable occurrence of that de- scription, (but still more fatal) where a lieutenant of his Majesty's sloop, Griffon, in a moment of infuriated exasperation, and from a mistaken notion of justifica- tion from supposed mutiny, ran a serjeant of marines through the body, and deprived him instantly of life. But in this case the " previous possession" did not exist, as on the first burst of passion, he ran below Jbr his sword. Poor Stewart Gamage ! We knew him well ; and a more humane and compassionate man ; a more kind and indulgent officer never stept on ship-board. He was tried by a court martial, and condemned to suffer death, which sentence Avas carried into execution, on board the Griffon, in the Downs, on the 23d of Nov., 1812. He had encouraged a hope that mercy woidd be extended to him, and was apparently calm and composed ; but, when he was informed that none re- mained, the idea of suffering such an ignominious death overpowered his feelings to such an extent, that he became quite incapable of receiving those consolations which his unfortunate situation required. But, at length, under the influence of his spiritual adviser, he 1808.] ANXAl.S OF HATH. 81 embraced those truths, wliich alone are the sinner's trust and hope. He was handsome in person, of most prepossessing address, not more than twenty -five years old, and mucli beloved by those who knew him. The eveniii": before his execution he took leave of the ship's companv, and wrote an affectionate and heart-breaking- farewell to his sister. At nine in the morning, of the 23rd, the signal gun fired, and the boats assembled to witness his execution. Captain TroUope and his mess- mates assembled with him, and joined in prayer. He then said, " I am perfectly ready." " See, Elliot (ad- dressing himself to the chaplain), I don't tremble, do I?" With his neck bared, he then advanced, without the least assistance, and placed himself firmly on the plat- form. When his arms were tied, he delibex'ately gave his pocket-handkerchief, and requested his hands might also be tied. A black handkerchief was then put over his face — the fatal gun fired — and he was launched into eternity. Thus was cut off, in the prime of an honourable life, an officer, the characteristics of whose mind were mildness and humanity ; but who, in a paroxysm of passion, connnitted that crime on which divine laws have denounced death. May his example strike deep into the hearts of those who read his unhappy fate. May it prove an impressive lesson to those tvho command, as well as those who ohey ; tliat they may learn, from the sad end of poor Stewart (Jamage, the necessitv of guarding the passions, and keeping them within their proper bounds ; that one moment of lost reason may destroy the hopes of a well- spent honourable life, and bring the best of ns to an untimely and disgraceful end. F 82 ANNALS OF BATH. [1809- The Civic Appointments for tlie ensuing year were thus arranged : — HENRY PARRY, Esa-MAYOR. HARRY ATTWOOD, Esq. -| WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq. | JOHN HORTON, Esq. H. HARINGTON, M.D. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. Sir WILLIAM WATSON. ig JOHN SYMONS, Esq. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. L HENRY WALTERS, Esq Chamberlain. Mr. WILLIAM MEYLER, i ^ E. PICKWICK, Esq. } Sheriffs. W. W. DIMOND, Esq. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. I Constables. 1809. The commencement of 1809 was peculiarly marked by melancholy events of a public character ; and the gloom which pervaded all classes of society arising there- from, will be long remembered by a large portion of the inhabitants of this city. In the first place, the sad ter- mination of Sir John INIoore's expedition, in his struggle to preserve the liberties of Spain, met with universal sympathy throughout the kingdom; and many worthy individuals had to mourn the loss of husbands, parents, or sons. General Hope's letter, on that occasion, con- tained a masterly and appropriate eulogium on the cha- 1809.] ANNAI.S OF 15ATH. 83 racter of the deceased coniTiiander in chief; and spoke ill the highest terms of every officer and soldier who par- ticipated in that disastrous event. It falls to our lot next to relate the distressing ravages of a flood, hitherto unprecedented in the records of the city. From the particular situation of Bath, sur- rounded on all sides by steep acclivities, and subject, of course, to frequent overflowings of the river, many had been witnessed at various times, but never with such devastating effects as at the present. At Monk's Mill, near the Orange Grove, a high flood was marked in 1725, and a second in 1774, neither of which were so high, by two feet and a half, as that which we now record. It will be our endeavour to particularize that sudden and calamitous immdation : so sudden as to deprive many vmfortunate individuals of their lives, and others of their homes and property, to a large amount. A heavy fall of snow had occurred for two or three days preceding the flood, which Avas followed by a sudden thaw, accompanied with violent rain. Immediately the waters poured in torrents from the surrounding hills, causing the river to swell so rapidly, as to give the inhabitants near its borders no opportunity of preserving their goods, or, in many fatal instances, providing for their own safety. It was, indeed, an awful sight to witness that generally placid, and almost motionless stream, swelled to a mighty torrent, and carrying, in its impetuous and de- structive course, timber, hay-ricks, waggons, horses, tops of hovels, cattle, and sheep. Among these, and other calamities, several houses in Bedford-street, Walcot (ad- joining the river,) not being sufliciently strong to with- stand the force of the current, were torn from their founda- tions, and the wretched inmates buried under their ruins. F 2 84 ANNALS OF BATH. [1809- The inliabitants of the Quay, Southgate-street, JNIilk and Avon-streets, and the old lower parts of the city, were obliged to retreat to their upper apartments ; and many were deprived of food and fuel during that day and the following night. Boats were employed to convey such relief to the unhappy sufferers as it was possible to afford, though many were totally ruined by that merci- less visitation. It would be difficult to point out the numerous distressing events which occurred on that oc- casion ; but, Avithout doubt, the most agonizing spectacle was, that of a cradle floating down the stream, from which an infant now and then endeavoured to raise its head, as if in anxious expectation of being taken to its mother ! Fortunately, the little innocent was preserved by the exertions of some bargemen near the Old Bridge, and restored to its distracted parent, who inhabited one of the small garden cottages in the Dolemeads. On the London road, the mail and other coaches were stopped, and the letters conveyed to Bath by a circuitous route ; and, at Bath Easton bridge, the two leaders of a coach, endeavouring to proceed to the city, were unfor- tunately drowned. In short, it was an occurrence as deplorably lamentable in its effects, as it was sudden and unexpected. To the humane exertions of many indivi- duals may be attributed the alleviation of many of its disastrous consequences ; and would that it lay in our power to name each particular person who stood fore- most in that soul-stirring, benign effort. Of a few only of these worthy individuals, we are enabled to make due and honourable mention. The exertions of Mr. Thomas Lewis and his workmen, in forming rafts to save some poor creatures inhabiting cottages on the I^ower Bristol-road, which they almost ISOS).] ANNALS OF BATH. 85 miraculously effected, after several attempts to extricate tlieui had failed, were deserving- the highest praise. Dr. Clarke and JMr. Tliomas Jones particularly distinguished themselves by their intrepidity, and had the happiness to save several families who, by an hoin-'s delay, might have been swept away in tlie torrent. It was ascer- tained that twenty-six persons were saved by these means. Of the number lost no exact account could be obtained ; ten bodies were dug from the ruins in Bed- ford-street, but it was much feared more remained to be accounted for. Petitions from the unhappy sufferers, thus suddenly overwhelmed in misfortune, came pouring in from all quarters ; and the Society for the Relief of Occasional Distress were constantly occupied in investigating and relieving, to the vitmost extent of their funds, such cases as, from their peculiar nature, required immediate assist- ance. In furtherance of their views, a meeting of the magistrates and clergy took place ; when it was resolved that a collection should be made at all the places of divine worship on the following Sunday, in behalf of the sufferers. The humane and enlightened pastors of the various churches and chapels, who (as it was justly remarked) " live but to do good," strenuously exerted themselves, in a|)]ieals to their respective congregations, and in prayers and sup])lications to Heaven ; and by their exertions immediafe and bountiful succour was afforded to their distressed fellow-creatures. This age has been stigmatised as the age of a])athy, and this city has been aspersed as the peculiar scat of idleness and dissijialion. AVe ask those who have thus ventured to cast this reproach on our fair western metro- polis, to behold her noble institutions; to look at the 86 ANNALS OF BATH. [1809. bountiful subscriptions which have been collected from time to time* in the cause of humanity ; and they must confess that no where, can boundless liberality, or the more marked duties of a Christian life floAv with purer, or less interrupted zeal. The large amount of subscriptions on this occasion will be a lasting testimony of the charitable dispositions of the inhabitants and visitors of this city, by whose liberal humanity, hundreds of their fellow creatures were prevented entirely sinking under a most awful vi- sitation of Providence. The report of the special committee appointed to relieve the sufferers, Avas extremely gratifying, and their mode of distributing the subscriptions gave general satisfaction. Their first measure was, to divide the claimants into two classes; one to consist of persons whose losses did not exceed £5, which comprised the lower orders of the community, the other class to com- prehend the sufferers above that sum, such as shop- keepers, publicans, &c. Visitors (assisted by the parish officers) were appointed throughout the suffering dis- tricts, and the whole of the cases underwent the mi- nutest investigation. The result was this : — The claim- ants of the first class received the fidl amount of their respective losses ; and those of the second class a divi- dend of seventeen shillings and sixpence in the pound on their several losses. Rewards were also bestowed on various persons who were instrumental in saving the goods or lives of individual sufferers, and the sum of £240 was reserved to provide for sickness (in the event of any appearing) in consequence of the effects of the * Vide Appendix, No. 9. 1809.] ANNAI.S OF 15ATH. 87 iiood. The summing up of the receipts and expendi- ture on that occasion was tlms stated : — RECEIPTS. £ S. d. Bv Collections at the Churches ami Cha- pels 7C3 a 15 V Subscriptions re- ceived from other sources 2732 3 !l £34.95 4 3 DISBURSEMENTS. £ s. d. Money to 1st Class... 1008 3 11 Ditto to 2nd Class ... 1799 13 10 Provisions, Clothes, Coals, &c. &c. ... 3.5,5 18 5 Rewards 74 18 10 Advertisements, Print- ing, &c 16 2 4 Balance in hand for Contingencies 240 6 11 ii3495 4 3 The rapid increase of population in this improving city, now began to attract the attention of the reflecting portion of our community, and became a matter for their immediate and serious consideration. The necessity of attending to the education, or, we should rather say, the religious instruction of the numerous children, daily passing their time in idleness and immorality (the na- tural consequences of want of useful occupation) was but too evident ; and an appeal was therefore made to the public, to further the objects of the conductors of the Sunday schools, and schools of industry, with a view of increasing those establishments. The advantages resulting from early habits of di- ligence and assiduity, require no comment : in every city, street, or habitation, we witness their happy effects, effects which are attributable to those who. with true 88 AXXALS OF BATH. [1809- Christian meekness, seek only to benefit their fellow creatures, and walk uprightly with their God. From year to year this feeling has prevailed, and that benefit has been acknowledged. The gradual increase of our national institutions bears us out in the truth of these remarks, and the records of this city (done confirm them. It is needless, therefore, to add that the appeal was emi- nently successful. Nor must we omit to mention, while on the subject of charity, that the funds of the Bath city dispensary were considerably augmented this year by instrumental and vocal concei-ts, given by Rauzzini and Madame Catalani. The attractions of the latter, (that wonderful enchantress of her day) were so great, that at four o'clock on the evening of her concert, the most celebrated in musical science had assembled, to secure places, and witness her prodigious powers ; the room was crowded to suffocation, and the profits to the city dispensary proportionably great. In these enlightened days, blessed as the larger portion of society are supposed to be with common sense and the faculty of sound reason, and many of that portion possessing also the advantages of a liberal education, will it not create astonishment that there should be found so large a number of persons existing in various parts of the kingdom sufficiently credulous and superstitious, as to become victims and followers of that arch impostor Joanna Southcot ! It has been said by some one, that " to rear up or to maintain a false religion, in the present state of knowledge, has become absolutely impossible ;" but here we have a lamentable instance to the contrary, for a disciple of that prophetess having foretold that on Good Friday of this year, " a convulsion of the earth should take place, and cause 1809] AXXAI.S ()!• BATH. 89 Beacon Hill and Beechcn Cliff to meet each other .'" it will scarcely be credited that the tremendous sentence had such an effect on the weak minds of several inhabi- tants and visitors, as actually to hurry them out of the city. To give a moment's belief to sucli impious non- sense, must either display a very corrupt heart, or a dis- ordered imagination ! We will, therefore, return to more interesting matter, and leave those silly people to the enjoyment of their ridiculous fancies ; not even troubling ourselves to inquire, whether they honored Bath with their presence again tliat season, or retired to condole with '" Joanna's disciple" on the failure of her awful hypocritical prediction. At the opening of parliament this year, the Earl of Eridgwater moved the address in the House of I^ords, briefly touching on the necessity of supporting Sweden and Spain, and increasing our military force to the utmost extent of our power. His I^ordship congra- tulated the House on the state of the revenue, and concluded by moving an address of tlianks, which was unanimously carried. In the House of Commons the address Avas atrreed to without a division. I^ord Castlereagh, in the Com- mons, spoke at some length on the situation of affairs in the Peninsula ; prefacing his speech by the same ar- guments, and bestowing the same well merited compli- ments on the heroes of Corunna, and the conquerors of Vimiera, as had been used on a similar occasion in the Upper House, and concluded by moving an address, praying that His Majesty would order a monument to be erected in St. Paul's church, to the memory of the lamented Sir John Moore ; and the thanks of the House Avere unanimously voted to the officers and soldiers en- 90 ANNALS OF BATH. [1809. gaged in the battle of Corunna, as well as to Sir Arthur Wellesley and the troops under his command at the battle of Vimiera. The prorogation of Parliament took place on June 22. The Jubilee to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of His Majesty's accession to the throne, terminates our history of events for this year. In the early part of October, a meeting of the magistracy took place for the purpose of devising the best mode of celebrating that event. It was their una- nimous opinion, in conjunction with the prevailing sen- timents of a large portion of the inhabitants, that the dangerous, and uselessly expensive practice of illuminat- ing ought to be tliscouraged, and, accordingly, they re- commended that subscriptions should be entered into, for the purpose of distributing rehef, during the rigours of the ensuing winter, to the most necessitous and de- serving objects hi the city. It was also proposed that a separate subscription should be established, with a view to release the debtors in the city and county jails ; and plans were laid down, to celebrate otherwise, in a rational way, that most interesting event, rendered peculiarly so by the gratifying reflection, that in the then humi- liating state of Europe, whilst other nations were bend- ing beneath the yoke of despotism, and other monarchs were degraded and hurled from their thrones, Britain still retained unimpaired her envied Constitution, and be- held her legitimate and gracious sovereign commence the fiftieth year of his reign, amidst the grateful blessings of his faithful and affectionate subjects. The proposed plans were, therefore, put ih execution, and the beneficial result, with its application, will be sub- sequently stated. 1809.] ANNAI.S or HATIl. 91 Meanwhile it sliall be our pleasing duty to par- ticularise the observance of the Jubilee as it occurred in this city. At an early hour of a beautifully serene morning, on the 25th of October, the joy bells (as they are aptly termed in Ireland) commenced their merry peals, and the flags of the se\eral churches were displayed from their towers. By ten o'clock, the streets Avere all gaiety and animation, and the windows thronged with spectators to view the expected pro- cession, as it passed on its way to the Abbey. At a little after eleven the procession began to move from the Guildhall, and was thus arranged: — •&" Boys and Girls of the Blue Coat School. Yovnig Gentlemen of the Grammar School. Mayor, Aldenncn, and Common Council, accompanied hy Lord John Thynne, one of the City Representatives. The Bath Vohuiteer Infantry, j)rccedcd hy their excellent hand. Thirty-three Friendly and Benefit Societies, (tico of which icere female.,) consisting of nearly two thousand five hunihed mcmhcrs. These Societies formed an interesting part of the spectacle ; they were accompanied by bands of music, emblems of tlieir trades, and loyal devices suited to the occasion. Having reached the Abbey, divine service was performed, and an appropriate discourse delivered by the Rev. William IMarshall. A dinner was provided for the children of the Blue Coat School, and a jubilee medal presented to each, as a token of lemembrance of the day. At the conclusion of divine service, the Volunteer Infantry marched to the Crescent Fields, and concluded by -a feu de joie, after which the members of the different societies retired to their respective liead- quarters, and the remainder of the day was jiassed in harmony and good fellowship. 93 ANNALS OF BATH. [1809. Wliile reflecting on these occurrences, and the liberal sums which have been collected by private subscriptions, as well as at the different places of divine worship, we cannot but be thankful to the Almighty, that he has bestowed abundance on those, whose hearts delight in clothing the naked, feeding the hungry, and relieving the sufferings of their unfortunate fellow-creatures. Nor must we omit to record the liberality of those gentlemen appointed to the duty of Sheriffs for the ensuing year (G. S. Crook and George Lye, Esqrs.) who, at their oic/i cost, threw open the prison doors, and set free every debtor within its walls. A loyal address to his Majesty, on the commence- ment of the fiftieth year of his reign, was also presented by Earl Camden, from the Corporation of the city. We will now produce a statement of the sub- scriptions and expenditure on the foregoing occasion; imder the auspices of the Committee formed for carrying the benevolent design of the measure into effect ; and it is only necessary to add, that their efforts were crowned with complete and gratifying success. It appears, by the report of that Committee, that the fimd placed at their disposal Avas already lightened of a portion of the claims upon it, by the sjiontaneous liberation of the city debtors already mentioned, and that in the county prison, there were twenty six confined debtors, of whom twenty four were discharged, the remaining two cases, upon attentive consideration, being thought im- worthy of relief. And it should also be stated, that to those who were discharged, pecuniary assistance was afforded to return to their respective liomes and families. 1809.] ANNAI.S or BATH. The account was tlius rendered : — 93 Total amount subscribed and collected, of which the Corporation gave 20 ''uineas— 1290 £ (/. S iil290 8 By Cash paid for dis- charging 21. debtors, including all expen- ces, and enabling them to return to their homes 020 19 Paid on account of a benevolent fund, for relieving debtors con- fined for small debts in the citv and coun- tv,and atfordingtheir families relief 206' 11 2 Relief afforded to indi- gent and aged fami- lies, amounting to upwards of 1200 in- diwluals 380 Balance in band for conthigencies 22 17 10 £1290 8 On the hst of Charitable bequest.s this year were: £200, to the Bath Hospital; £200, to the Blue Coat School ; £50, to the School of Industry ; and £50, to the House of Protection ; from the late Mrs. Boyce, formerly a resident in this city. The executors of Richard Attwood, Esq., paid also £100 to the Bath Hospital, being a Legacy left to the Institution by that benevolent gentleman. The Annual Appointment of Civic Officers was thus arranged : — 94 AXXALS OF BATH. [1810. JOHN PALMER, Esq.— Maioji, (Late Representative of the City,) being the second time of filling that office. H. PARRY, Esq. 1 » f JOHN SVMONDS, Esq. JOHN HORTON, Esq. I ^ J CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq. j g | HENRY ATTWOOD, Esq. H. HARINGTON, M.D. J ^ L Sih WILLIAM WATSON. WILLIAM CLARK, Esq.— Chamberlain, (In the room of Henry Walters, Esq., who from continued ill-health retired from the fatigues of office.) G. S. CROOK, Esq. 1 Sheeifks. GEORGE LYE, Esq. i WM. T. W. TAYLOR, EsQ.|co,.,.rABi.ES. JOSEPH SPRY, Esq. ' 1810. The commencement of this year produced a plan for establishing a Free School, for educating children on the Lancasterian System. Mr. Lancaster was at that time in Bath, and in the habit of giving occasional lec- tures at Hetling-house, on the education of the poor. He was a member of the Society of Friends, and as plain in language as unadorned in person. His argu- ments were forcible and demonstrative, and he was invariably listened to with profound attention. The principle, by the development of which he clearly proved that a thousand boys might be instructed, by one master, with the same facility as twenty, was simple, easy, and effectual. It was borrowed, certainly. 1810.] AXXAI.S OF BATH. 95 from military tactics, wherein order and obedience de- pend rather on sijutem than the authority of the person commanding ; but, it :vas not to be the less recommended. Subscriptions were immediately set on foot, a com- mittee appointed, and regulations draAvn out for the government of the institution ; by which, annual sub- scribers of two guineas were at liberty to reconunend five boys for admission, and those of one guinea, two boys. The committee also (with a spirit of liberality worthy of imitation) commenced a subscription among themselves for purchasing a plot of ground for the erection of a suitable building. It was accomplished by tontine, in shares of twenty-five pounds each, and the list soon filled up. As the year advanced, their plans matured with wonderful celerity ; and on the 14th of ]\lay, the open- ing of " The Royal Lancasterian Free School" took place, vnider most satisfactory and auspicious circum- stances. Three hundred children, Avith their parents, were present. The Reverends Richard Warner and J. Richards severally addressed them, in impressive and energetic language ; and the former gentleman concluded witli a devout prayer, supplicating the blessings of the Almighty on the infant establishment. Several hand- some presents, in bibles and prayer-books, were made by benevolent individuals to the institution — the objects of which were, to rescue poor children from vicious courses, and implant in their youthful minds early prin- ciples and habits of morality, virtue, and industry. Examples, such as these, have the best effect on the public mind ; and generations yet unborn must revere the name of Lancaster, and of his coadjutors and sup- porters in his benevolent undertaking. 96 ANNALS OF BATH. [1810. And here let us pause, and inquire where is the founder of that new system of national education, Joseph Lancaster ? It must be in the recollection of very many, that his lectures in every part of England were attended by the noble and the great ; senators applauded,* Princes condescended to preside, and Ma- jesty Avas his declared and unchanging patron. Schools, on his system, by the aid of the persevering and the wise, have been extended, not only over the British, but foreign realms. Tens of thousands, in every clime, will have cause to bless his name ; it is embalmed in the records of the advancement of human knowledge, and can never be forgotten. How has he been rewarded ? He has had no reward, he is an exile ; he lives in po- verty ! That man, who has called forth the labour of the philanthropist, and has excited the contributions of the benevolent to an extent that cannot be calculated, is, or was, residing in Montreal, arduously labouring for his ex- istence, and reaping a precarious and dear-bought support for himself, a wife, and family. This ought not to be. It is a blot on our national character, that Joseph Lan- caster is in want. But, to return to our history. It was to be regretted that certain jealousies existed on the part of the Managers of the Sunday Schools and Schools of Industry, xmder an idea that the Lancasterian school was intended to supersede those establishments ; and the Committee deemed it neces- sary to state that, so far from wishing to interfere with those useful charities, which had been so long and so beneficially instituted, they were anxious cor- * In Appendix, No. 6, will be found an extract of Mr. Whitbread's speech in the House of Commons, February, 1807, on the Poor Laws and Education; in which the highest encomiums are passed on that neglected and much injured person. 1810.] AXXAI.S OF 15ATH. 97 dially to unite with them, being thoroughly con- vinced that a perfect union of the wliole, on a compre- hensive plan, would greatly promote such an introduction of religious and moral principles, combined with in- dustrious habits among the poor, as could not fail of being highly conducive to their present and future happiness. The Committee of the Union Blue Coat School demonstrated, at this time, the utility of that establish- ment by a public examination of the boys, which gave the greatest satisfaction to a luunerous assembly of visitors and inhabitants. The objects of that institution were,^to clothe and educate thirty boys, from the age of seven to fourteen years, and to instruct them in the first principles of religion, without regard to sect or party. Little, in the Avay of improvement, passes under notice this year. The inconvenience arising fi'om the extremely narrow entrances from Green and Burton streets was, however, now to be remedied. The com- missioners for improving the city had purchased a pro- jecting building attached to Old Bond-street, which made the passage for carriages both inconvenient and dangerous. It was soon pulled down, and that great thoroughfare rendered more commodious. A dangerous corner at Quiet-street, near Northumberland-buildings, which obstructed the passing of carriages from Milsora- strect into Queen-square, was also about the same time removed. Indeed, that narrow and inconvenient street was a constant subject of complaint, as it is at the pre- sent time ; and plans were suggested for making a direct communication into JMilsom-street, through Kinff- street, by which it might be avoided, and the beauty of G 98 ANNALS OF BATH. [1810. that part of the city improved. This suggestion arose from Lady Rivers Gay having agreed to carry into execution a plan for widening and improving one of the principal avenues to the town, by the Upper Bristol-road, and that at her sole expence ; for which liberal offer, she became justly entitled to the esteem of every inhabitant and visitor of the city. Why that improve- ment did not take place, we are unable to state ; but shortly afterwai'ds we find the proprietors and occupiers of houses in the Royal Crescent, Marlborough-buildings, and contiguous streets, meeting to consider on tlie most effectual measures for opposing any Act of Parliament that might be attempted to be obtained by " Dame Martha Rivers Gay," for i-escinding Ihe covenants en- tered into by her ancestors with individuals, for restrain- ing the building or planting on the fields, then called the Crescent Fields ; so that, in all probability, the con- templated improvements, by the Bristol-road, and the re- scinding of the covenants already mentioned, were directly or indirectly parts of the same project. At that time, also, Norfolk-crescent was proposed to be finished upon the plan of a tontine, for the benefit of survivors at the end of twenty-one years, nine houses only being then completed. The proposal, however, did not svicceed. The death of that celebrated musician and composer, Venanzio Rauzzini, took place at his house in Gay-street, on the 8th of April. His remains were deposited in the Abbey. A select number of his friends, including INIr Braham, apjjeared as mourners ; and a numerous and respectable body of gentlemen made a part of the funeral procession. i A tribute to the memory of a deserving man, who drew hundreds annually to this city, may here not be 1810.] ANNAI.S OF KATH. 99 misplaced. When Linley retired from conducting the Bath concerts, Rauz/ini (in connection with the cele- brated violin player, I^a Motte), came to this city, with a view to establish concerts on a new and superior scale to any hitherto witnessed out of the metropolis. Un- fortunately, La Motte was unbounded in his expences ; and llauzzini, becoming responsible for the sums which his colleague had so lavishly squandered, laboured under pecuniary difficulties for many years. Those difficulties were, however, in some measure overcome, and, to the honour of Bath and its incalculable advantage, llauzzini continued from that period to the day of his death at the head of the musical department in this elegant city. The great regard which every eminent performer (native and foreigner) had for Rauzzini, induced them to appear at his concerts, when no price could have purchased their attendance; and the whole musical world agreed in acknowledging that an hour of his instruction well repaid them for months of service. But if his profes- sional celebrity was great, it was also equalled by his hospitality, warmth of heart, and good humour. A more generous, more truly liberal being never existed ; and every inhabitant of Bath, and all who delight in the " concord of sweet sounds," must I'egret the loss of a man, whose abilities as a composer, performer, and teacher, drew numerous families every season to dwell in a place where they could be both charmed and im- proved by the exertion of his professional talents. It is a pleasing fact to state, that Rauzzini's benefit took place in the early part of this year (about three months previous to his death) ; and so greatly was he held in estimation and respect, that every private party on that evening gave way for the interest of an individual who G 2 100 ANNALS OF BATH. [1810. had so largely contributed to their amusement for upwards of thirty years.* The management of the concerts were afterwards undertaken by Mr. A. Ashe, and certainly under very discouraeing circumstances. Rauzzini had resources which few people could command, and no successor could have any pretensions to expect. But he exerted himself with credit ; and, by a small advance on the terms of admission, succeeded in engaging Madame Ca- talani to sing at all the nine subscription concerts that season, which circumstance alone speaks volumes in favour of JNIr. Ashe. Great inconvenience began now to be experienced by the delay in the delivery of letters, arising chiefly from the increased and increasing extent of the city ; and a representation having been made to that effect to the Post-master General, he was pleased to direct that an arrangement (under the Acts of Parliament for estab- lishing and extending penny posts) should be carried into effect, and receiving houses for letters were forth- with established in the villages of Batheaston, Bathford, Twerton, and Weston, as well as Widcombe, Sion-hill, and Mount Beacon. These arrangements proved of great con- venience to the inhabitants of those particular environs. Political matters do not claim attention this year. The debates of the Lower House were principally on the failure of the Scheldt expedition ; the abstract, or summing up of which, was humourously satirized in the public prints with these lines : — " Lord Cliathani, with his sword undrawTi, Kept waiting for Sir Richard Strachiln ; Sir Richard, eager to be at 'em, Kept waiting too — for whom ? Lord Cliatham." • Vide Appendix, No. 7i for liis appropriate epitaph. 1810.] ANNAl.S OF BATH. 101 The usual assembly of the Corporation, for the purpose of electing a Mayor for the ensuing year, took place in October, Avhen they unanimously voted a piece of plate to Colonel Dumbleton, of the Bath Volunteer Infantry ; and a similar testimony of respect to John AN'iltshirc, Esq., commanding the Cavalry, for the pei-- severing attention which those gentlemen had so long displayed, and the services they had rendered the city at the head of their respective regiments. Colonel Dumbleton was also presented with the freedom of the city. On the 9th of November, the first opening for na- vigable purposes of the Canal connecting the rivers Kennet and Avon, took place, by the passage of a loaded barge, containing forty tons of stone ; and, by the same canal, barges arrived at Sydney Wharf from Newbury, containing more than eight hundred sacks of flour, being the fii-st week of inland communication, by water, from London to Bristol. On this freightage six horses only were employed ; while, on a moderate computation, the draught by land carriage would have required more than one hundred ! The appointment of INIr. Guyenette, as master of the ceremonies to the Lower Rooms, vice Le Bas, con- cludes the local events of the year. That place of amusement had lain a considerable time in a deserted state ; and on this occasion new regulations were adopted for the guidance of the subscribers, which it was hoped would render the I^ower Rooms once more the scene of fashionable resort. The first ball, which shortly after- wards took place, was crowded with the principal residents and visitors of the city. 102 ANNALS OF BATH. [1811. The following Civic Officers were appointed for the ensuing year : — ABEL MOYSEY, Esu.,— Mayor. (This Gentleman served the same Office in 1792.) JOHN PALMER, Esq. WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq. JOHN HORTON, Esq. H. HARINGTON, M.D. JOHN SYMONS, Esq. HENRY ATTWOOD, Esq. (J tn CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. Sir WM. WATSON, Knight. HENRY PARRY, Esq. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— Chamberlain. WM. W.DXMOND, Esq. 1 g„j.„„,^,_ WM. TUDOR, Esq. > Dr. DAVIS, ■• Constables. LYE, Esq. ■* 1811. The debates in the Houses of Parliament at the commencement of this year, were read Avith the greatest interest, and the confidential servants of his Majesty had to contend with an opposition more formidable in talents and number, than ever ministers were placed in contact with. It was indeed a crisis of much importance to the country : on one hand, there was an enemy, powerful, vigilant, and implacable; on the other, our own venerable Sovereign confined to a sick chamber by the most awful affliction that human nature could experience. 1811.] AXNAI.S or BATH. 10.3 Those who differed with the Administration, were desirous that the august personage who was to be entrusted with tlie Regency, should be unrestricted in the exercise of the executive power, and have the full command and splendour of regal authority. Ministers, on the contrary, wished to limit that power, and adduced a precedent, when at a former period the Royal parent was similarly afflicted. However, as we do not profess to enter on political subjects, except when they bear on the particular interests of, or, are in some way connected with the city, it will be only necessary to add that, in pursuance of an act passed for the pur- pose, his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales was, with aU due solenmity, sworn in at Carlton House, on the 7th of February, as Regent of the Realm, under certain restrictions. On the 10th of January, a numerous and i-espect- able meeting took place at the Upper Rooms, to take into consideration the distressed condition of a large number of industrious and deserving persons, who were now in great want of assistance from lack of em- ployment, arising from the severity of weather, and general stagnation of trade ; and it was resolved to raise a subscription, and supply the most necessitous v/ith coals, rice, potatoes, and bread, at reduced prices during that inclement season. A committee of management was consequently formed, and sub-committees in the different parishes of the division of Bath and Bath- forum ; who were requested to solicit subscriptions in their respective districts for furtliering the views of the meeting, and effecting the relief thereby intended. — Books were opened at the several banks, libraries, and inns, and tlie masters of the ceremonies were re- 104 ANNALS OF BATH. [1811. quested to lend their assistance in soliciting pecuniary aid. It bavins: been also stated that the balance of a former subscription for the same laudable purpose re- mained still in the hands of the treasurer, and also the balance of a subscription for the sufferers by the flood in 1809 in the hands of the society for the relief of occa- sional distress, the chairman was requested to apply to those gentlemen, and request that the balances might be transferred to the present subscription, which applica- tion, it is almost superfluous to observe, was readily acceded to. In April, the committee made known the result of their labours, and it was highly satisfactory to ascertain that the subscriptions amounted in the whole to £902 2*. 9d., and that they had been able to afford seasonable relief to 11,067 individuals by the well-timed bounty of the public. The funds of the City Infirmary and Dispensary next claimed the attention of our fellow citizens. It appeared that they had become totally inadequate to its support, on its present enlarged scale, and W. G. Lang- ton, Esq., one of the county members, with a munifi- cence Avorthy of his character, commenced their resto- ration unsolicited, by a donation of one hundred pounds, and an annual subscription of five guineas. Such an example could not fail to ensure followers and secure an ample fund, not only sufficient to extricate the charity from its embarrassments, but to protect it from a recur- rence of pecuniary difficidties. A plan was also submitteil by Mr. Peter Hei've, an artist of no mean celebrity, in the miniature depart- ment, for forming a national benevolent institution, for the especial benefit of persons in the middle classes of society, Avho had experienced unexpected and afflicting 1811.] AXNAI.S OV 15AT11. 105 reverses : the mode proposed for ciFectiiig this liumaue and original design, was by vohmtary subscriptions, do- nations, or bequests from the affluent and sympathizing- portion of tlie public. A meeting Avas accordingly held at the York House for the purpose of carrying it into effect, and the committee took that opportunity to state, that they considered ]Mr. Herv^ entitled to the thanks of the public at large, for the laudable and dishiterested motives which first induced him to form, and the perse- verance Avith which he had followed up so praiseworthy a charity, Avhich has for its peculiar object, the rescuing from want those who, by unavoidable misfortune, have been reduced from a comfortable and prosperous station in the middle ranks of life ; and who, if not in absolute indigence, are suffering, in silence, privations, of which they alone can feel the force. The obscurity of the foimder of this plan frustrated, for a long time, his be- nevolent intentions : pi-ejudice was strong against him, and many deemed his projects visionary and impractica- ble. Mr. Herv^, however, never lost sight of his object until he brought it to maturity. The lectures which he delivered in this city, contained so many strong argu- ments in favour of the institution, and were enforced with so much eloquence, that all who listened to him became converts, and he ultimately found supporters among persons in the most exalted ranks in life. The principle of this institution has been since followed up, and seems permanently established by the formation of a central society in the metropolis, which is now pros- pering imder illustrious patronage, and aided, b)- branch societies on the same plan, in different parts of the king- dom, the result of that gentleman's laudable exertions. — At present there are two hundred and fifty pensioners 106 ANNALS OF BATH. [1811. on the establishment, of from twenty pounds to thirty pounds per annum, requiring upwards of six thousand pounds for their payment annually. Thus are we again enabled to notice the zeal and activity of those, who devote a large portion of their time, attention, and resources of v.'hatever nature, to the good order and management of charitable institu- tions, an employment highly worthy their stations in society ; opening a field of extensive usefulness in their generation, and " laying up for themselves a certain treasure in Heaven." A plan had been some time in contemplation to form a canal from Bath to Bristol, commencing in the parish of Lyncombe and Widcombe by a junction with the Kennet and Avon, the inland communication by water between London and Bristol being still thought incom- plete; but it met with great opposition from a large portion of the inhabitants, and parish meetings were held with a view to petition Parliament against its being- carried into effect. It was argued that such canal would materially affect the rights and properties of individuals, as well as afford just grounds of alarm by the extended embankments, which might cause higher floods than any hitherto expei'ienced. In IMarch the subject Avas brought before the House of Commons, and ]Mr. C. Duudas presented several petitions in favour of the "Bath and Bristol Canal Bill." Sir John NichoUs moved the second reading. He declared it to be not merely a local or speculative undertaking, but a vSubject of the greatest national importance. It would open (he said) a quicker communication between Ijondon and Bristol, and the West of England ; and render the intercourse between the metropolis and Ireland more 1811.] ANNALS OV BATH. 107 secure. All the counties in South Wales would be benefitted by such canal, inasmuch, that the present sea communication between those counties and London, was so perilous and insecure, that the insurance became enor- mous, but if that canal were opened, the manufacturers, (particularly of the iron and copper works) might convey their goods to the Severn, whence they might be brought safely and cheaply to the midland counties and the metropolis. Mr. Dickinson opposed the bill, stating as his reason, that great injury Avas apprehended to the hot springs, as well as the sewers of Eath, and pointed out the great local inconvenience to the grounds of vari- ous individuals which such a measure was calculated to produce. To him it appeared inexpedient at a time Avhen our commerce was so diminished that the ordi- nary channels of communication were more than suffi- cient for its conveyance. Mr. TjCthbridge followed on the same side; while Mr. Bathurst, Mr. C. Dundas, and others supported the bill. The question being called for, a division took place, when there appeared for the motion eighty-six, against it thirty -five, leaving fifty -one in favour of the bill. However, the prosecution of that measure was ultimately abandoned, the canal company having purchased a majority of shares in the river Avon property, and availed themselves of a junction with that river. We have to notice with considerable pleasure, a subscription opened for the relief of the British prison- ers in France. The claims of men who had fought in defence of their King and their country ; suffcring under privations and in need of the common necessaries of life, became (as it ought) a national object, and was attended to by the hihabitants of Bath and other towns 108 ANNALS OF BATH. [1811. and cities, in a manner befitting loyal subjects ever alive to the feelings of patriotism and humanity. Indepen- dently of private subscriptions, a concert was held at the upper-rooms in their behalf, when by the assiduous attention of the performers (gratuitously given) and their distinguished ability in conducting it, the sum of two hundred and seventy-one pounds was collected. Nor should we omit to mention that appeals were made in behalf of the suffering Portuguese nation, in aid of which great and patriotic cause, the corporation gave one hundred pounds, and INIrs. Long, of South Wraxhall, a similar sum, besides donations to a considerable extent from other parties. That interesting local, and enlivening amusement, " Bath Races" was revived in 1811, after a lapse of more than fifteen years, much to the gratification of the inha- bitants and visitors. They were formerly held on Cla- verton Down, but from various causes unnecessary to mention, they became gradually neglected, and at length were entirely given up. On this occasion the Bath pub- lic owed much to the indefatigable exertions of many influential inhabitants and gentry of the city and neigh- bourhood, and particularly to the stewards. Sir John Hawkins, S. Day, and R. B. Thornhill, esqrs., who in effecting the arrangements of the week, had many dif- ficulties and much opposition to contend with, arising from an apprehension too well grounded, that these sports are seldom vmattended with gambling, thieving, and other demoralizing effects. To Mrs. Blathwayt, of Dyrham Park, who had most kindly given permission that the races might be held on her property on Lans- down, the inhabitants expressed their grateful acknow- ledgments ; and it was finally decided, that , they should 109 jgj^l n ANNALS OF BATH. take place on the jNIonday following Bibury races, which would occur the first week in July. Various other amusements were announced to add interest and give splendour to the week. The novelty of the scene, added to the serenity of the weather, caused a greater niflux of company than had been remembered at that season for many years, and the gaiety of all ranks of society caused such a spirit of enthusiasm as to furnish a tolerable as- surance of an annual repetition of that attractive sport. A fatal accident occurred to one of the course keepers, named Thomas Miller, who, by exertion m the per- formance of his duty, and heedless of his own safety, was rode over by one of the contending horses (Viscountess) and killed on the spot. He was of good character, and left a widow with tln-ee children, in whose behalf the stewards generously and very successfully exerted themselves to raise a subscription. It should not be omitted, that the attractions of the week were not exclusively devoted to pleasure. To alleviate the sufferings of our fellow-subjects in the prisons of France, already alluded to, formed one of the principal objects during the race week. A concert was held at the Lower Rooms for their benefit, which was crowded to the very doors; and Catalani's vocal exer- tions were as successful that evening as they ever had been enchanting. It is, without doubt, unknown to many of our readers, that some part of the revolutionary history of France is not altogether unconnected with the historical details of this city, as the following narrative will ex- plain ; and, as it is peculiarly affecting and hiterestmg, we need not offer any apology for introducing it here :— That elevated and then retired situation, Claverton 110 ANNALS or BATH. [1811. Down, on which (as ah-eady stated) the Bath races were formerly held, was long known as the place of resort for settUng the disputes of the billiard-rooms, gambling- houses, and other places of public resort in this city ; and, within our own memory, many of those rencontres have taken place, without any serious bloodshed on either side ; but we will now relate a fatal meeting of that description, which took place in the winter season of 17T8. Among the foreign arrivals at that period, were the Count and Countess du Barre, with his sister, two ladies of great beauty and accomplishments. They were accompanied by Count Rice, an Irish gentleman in foi'eign service, who lived with them at a fiu'nished house in the Crescent. Monsieur du Barre made a great figure in the city, had a large establishment of servants, and kept open house, where every species of gambling- was carried on to a great extent. But at length a violent disagreement took place between the two Counts, and each being of an impetuous disposition, it was resolved that the dispute should terminate with the death of one or both Accordingly, they left their abode about one o'clock in the morning, procured a coach from the Three Tuns, in Stall-street ; and, provided with arms, seconds, and surgical assistance, reached Claverton Down long before daylight. There they paced in sullen silence till dawn began to break, when their stations were taken. Count Rice fired, but his ball did not take effect. Du Barre returned the fire, and the ball lodged in the groin of his antagonist, who fell ; but raising himself imme- diately from the ground, he discharged his second pistol in a recumbent position, the contents of which pene- trated the heart of the unfortunate Du B^rre. The 1811.] ANNALS OF BATH. Ill parties decamped, and the body of the deceased, Du Barre, was left on the field of battle for more than twenty-four hours, an object of curiosity to those who could patiently and calmly witness so horrid a spectacle. The wounded survivor was taken to the York -house, and Monsieur Du Barre was afterwards buried at Bath- hampton, where a stone now marks the spot of his in- terment. Count Rice recovered, was tried at the Taun- ton assizes, in 1779, and acquitted. The following anecdote is Avorth recording in this place. On Monday previous to the day on Avhich the duel occurred, the regular succession of plays for the week was announced at the theatre in Orchard-street, concluding with the first part of King Henry the IVtIi, for Saturday. On that evening Falstaff was played by Henderson, whose manner of reciting the soliloquy on " honour," made at all times an impression not easily forgotten. When, on this occasion, he came to the words — " What is honour?" A word. — What is that word honour ? Air. — A trim reckoning ! Who hath it? lie that died on Wednesflmj T the sensation it made in the house may be readily conceived, Wednesday having been the day on which the unfortunate duel occurred ! The whole audience applauded ; one part, under the idea that it was an apt interpolation of the actor ; the other, from the remarkable coincidence with Shakspeare's text, Avhich had thus been elicited. — And after all, what is this object of duelling? In most cases only a redress for imaginary wrongs, or a display of resentment, that often subsides before the execution. Is there a man, we would ask, of probity and honour (and many of that character have been seduced by the illusions of false honour), who Avould 112 ANNALS OF BATH. [1811. think himself justified to call forth a fellow-creature, place hini us a iJ/ar/,\ and desire his friend to shoot him if he can! because, in the heat of argument, or in the imguarded hours of conviviality, he had committed some trifling offence, or verbal incivility ? Is it not adding folly to injustice, to undertake such an opprobrious office at the hazard of his own life, and the ruin, perhaps, of his nearest and dearest connexions? We think so. But to proceed : — The most affecting circumstance attending that tragical event, was the fate of Madame Du Barrd, who, after the duel, immediately departed for France. That lady was said to be the mistress of the King of France ; and the astonishing influence which she ob- tained over that monarch, united to unbounded extra- vagance, having, at the commencement of the revo- lution, rendered her an object of suspicion to the French Government, she was obliged again to take refuge in England. Lulled into fancied security, in 1793, she revisited France, and shortly after her arrival was arrested and conducted to a prison in Paris. Those prisons were then called " Anti-chambers of the Scaf- fold ;" and the mind of Madame Du Barre was so strongly impressed Avith a presage of her fate, that, during her imprisonment, when her door ojiened only, she was affected even to fainting. At length the fatal summons to the revolutionary tribunal arrived. One of the most flagrant charges produced against her, was the production of Mr. Pitfs picture, which had been presented to her by Lord Thurlow previous to her departure from London, and which she had incautiously carried on her person. The result was, her condemna- tion ; and she was ordered for immediate execution. On her passage to the scaffold, she leaned on the 1811.] ANNALS OF BATH. 113 head of lier attendant, and appeared almost dead ; but when she reached the fatal spot, the sight of the instru- ment of death rallied her sinking spirits. Suddenly she rose up and rent the air with shrieks, her convulsed frame acquired most extraordinary strength ; and, after a conflict with her executioners, at the relation of which humanity shudders, the fatal stroke released her from all her sufferings. The behaviour of this unfortunate female, in her last moments, was indeed an awful example of the end of a life passed in vice and dissipation. Unprepared, by reli- gious consolation, to meet her God, the prospects of futurity flitted before her in the most terrific forms, and she shrank from the view with horror. From that wretched scene, reader, we would fain lead you to the death-bed of a virtuous, pious Christian. We would ask you to contemplate the picture of one possessed of all the comforts, the graces, and best blessings of life — a wife, a mother, and a friend. The world still before her, a gay and flowery prospect, into which she was preparing to lead her children with a mother's care and anxiety ; and that mother suddenly called from all her earthly duties by a malady unerring and fatal ! No murmur escapes her lips — no sigh responds to those of her weeping relatives and friends ; but, with religion smoothing her aching brows, she waits with resignation and confidence a translation to that better world, " where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest." In the rough paths of our pil- grimage, we have more than once experienced the conflicting emotions of such a scene. H 114 ANNALS OF BATH. [1811. A valuable institution was opened this year, at the suggestion of Mr. Soden, surgeon, by whose skilful superintendence it has ever since been supported, called " The Bath Eye Infirmary," for the relief of those un- fortunate beings labouring under the various diseases to which the eye is subject. It must occur to every re- flecting observer, that scarcely a day passes but their attention is arrested, and their sympathy excited, by some deplorable object labouring under a privation of sight, justly dreaded as one of the bitterest calamities that can befal suffering humanity. And it is no small subject of regret, that our former military intercourse with foreign countries (particularly Egypt), should have tended so considerably to augment that class of human infirmities. The numerous patients who applied for relief and admission, best bespoke the necessity of such an institution ; and the managers were truly gratified with the patronage it received in its early formation, and which they felt would be further extended, when a knowledge of its purposes should be more widely dif- fused, and its beneficial effects appreciated. Considerable apprehensions were this year enter- tained by the escape of water from the hot springs, with which the prosperity of the city is so intimately con- nected, and heavy expences were incurred by the Cor- poration in puddling* the ground through which they rise. The result of that operation on the Hot Bath, and the previous state of that bath, was thus reported : — • " Puddling" is a term used by engineers in the construction of tanks, canals, Sec. Thus, when excavators arrive at a required depth, and find loose sandy soil, through which the water finds ready egress, " puddling" is resorted to ; which is performed by pressing down successive layers of thick tenacious clay, so as to form a coat, or imper- vious platform, on the bed of the canal, tank, or whatever the excavation may be. 1811.] ANNALS OF BATH 115 HOURS. In I693, it used to fill in 11^ Just before the puddling was executed, it filled in 16 And at the date of the report, 1811 8 An unsuccessful attempt was made, about the same time, by another engineer, on the Cross Bath, which, HOURS. In 1693, filled in 11^ In 1748 161 Before the attempt, in 26 Immediately after, in 1810, in 19 At the date of the report, 1811, in 30 The same report states, that the temperature was re- duced from 97 Fahrenheit to 91 Fahrenheit. An attempt was then made to puddle the King and Queen's Bath, which filled, in 1693, in 9f hours; and 1810, in 13 hours ; but it was discontinued, as it endangered the safety of the Pump-room. A census of the Bath population took place this year, by which it appeared that an increase of 2,836 females, and 1,185 males, had occurred since the year 1801. The total being Females 23,209 Males 14,975 38,184 It may be as well to mention, as a curious fact, that in 1808, a pauper, named James Wait, died in Walcot H 2 116 ANNALS OF BATH, [1811>. Poor-house, at the advanced age of one hundred and seven. He well remembered when there were not a hundred houses in the jxirish of Walcot, and at that time no poor-rate. The Annual Election of Civic Officers was as fol- lows : — JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esa.,_MAyoR. ABEL MOYSEY, Esq. WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq. JOHN HORTON, Esq. HENRY HARINGTON, Esq. JOHN SVMONS, Esq. JOHN PALMER, Esq. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. HARRY ATTWOOD, Esq. HENRY PARRY, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esa. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— Chambeblain. WILLIAM TAYLOR, Esq. \ JOSEPH SPRY, Esq., i Shekiffs. W. W. DIMOND, Esq. | Chief Constables GEORGE KITSON, Esq. ^ 1812. Resuming our duty of occasionally remarking on the progress of political events, as they are more or less interwoven with the historical details of the city, we will now particularize a few of those which occurred this year. 1812.] ANNALS OF BATH. 117 On the opening of Parliament, his Royal Highness the Prince Regent expressed his deep sorrow in announcing the continued indisposition of his ISIajesty, and the disappointment of those hopes which had been cherished by the dutiful afFection of his family and the loyal attachment of his people. He dwelt with pride and satisfaction on the conduct of his Majesty's troops in those various and important services in which they had been engaged on the Peninsula, and the consum- mate skill displayed by their General, Lord Viscount Wellington ; and expressed a confident hope (in the name of his Majesty) that Parliament would continue to afford the most effectual aid, in support of the contest, which the brave nations of the Peninsula then main- tained with such unabated zeal and resolution. His Royal Highness regretted, that various important subjects of difference with the Government of the United States of America yet remained unadjusted; but assured the House that, in the farther progress of discussion with that Government, he would continue to employ such means of conciliation as might be consistent with the honour and dignity of his Majesty's Crown, and the due maintenance of the maritime and commercial rights of the British empire. The contents of the American journals were of considerable importance at this period. The President's inessage breathed nothing but war, and that in the most unmeasured terms of defiance. This subject, with the evident tendency of the leading members of Ministry towards concession on the Catholic Question, became interesting topics of conver- sation. But tliat which most engrossed the public mind, 118 AXXALS Ol' BATH. [1812. was the assassination of the Prime IMinister, Mr. Perceval, from motives of private resentment, by a villain named Bellingham, who watched his opportunity of shooting him with a pistol in the lobby of the House of Commons. An address on that occasion, from the Mayor and Corporation of the city, was presented to his Royal Highness the Prince Regent, by the Recorder, Earl Camden, accompanied by the Representatives of the city, expressing their abhorrence of the atrocious deed, their sincere condolence on an event which deprived the British empire of one of its brightest ornaments, and their assurances of loyalty and devotion to his Majesty's sacred person and government, and to that of his illus- trious representative. Meetings, on the same deplored event, took place in many of the principal cities in the kingdom ; and Parliament, on the recommendation of the Prince Regent, made a liberal provision for the afflicted widow and children, thereby manifesting its high opinion of Mr. Perceval's assiduous and upright conduct in the discharge of his public functions. On the 10th of March we find a numerous and respectable meeting of the inhabitants of this city taking place, at the Guildhall, for the purpose of establishing an Auxiliary Bible Society, in connection with the British and Foreign Bible Society. Sir Horace INIann was called to the chair. He took an able and eloquent review of the several obstacles which had opposed the progress of the Gospel in the different ages of Christianity, from its first promulgation to the present period, and paid a just tribute of praise to that spirit of benevolence so 1812.] ANNALS OF BATH. 119 conspicuously displayed on all occasions in this favoured land, not omitting some very pointed allusions to that particular feeling in favour of every laudable under- taking which so eminently reigned in this city; adding, that he hoped the plan for the establishment of an Auxiliary Bible Society, in Bath and its vicinity, now submitted for their consideration, would meet unanimous approval. The chairman was then followed, in succes- sion, by the three Reverend Secretaries from London, Messrs. Owen, SteinkopfF, and Hughes, as well as the Rev. Messrs. Jay and Roberts, to whose pious and impressive speeches it would be impossible in these limits to do adequate justice. It will be sufficient to say, that the object and constitution of the British and Foreign Bible Society met the cordial approbation of the meeting, and various resolutions (fifteen in number) for its formation and guidance were forthwith submitted, and unanimously adopted. It was highly gratifying to behold the good order and decorum with which that meeting was conducted ; never were the simple objects of the Bible Society better explained ; and, notwithstanding the doubts that did exist in the minds of many worthy pious men, as to the necessity or utility of such an institution, they all agreed that it would have this beneficial result — that where the foundation of faith was the same, it would lead to the fuller investigation of truth, and the establishment of the pure principles of the gospel. The rapid progress of that undertaking cannot be placed in clearer point of view than by exhibiting the annual expenditure of the society for the first seven years : — 120 ANKAI,S ()!• BATH. [1812. £. *. d. 1805, its commencement, 691 10 3 1806 1,637 17 5 1807 5,053 18 3 1808 12,206 10 3 1809 14,565 19 7 1810 18,543 17 1 1811 28,302 13 7 And in the year 1833, the annual expenditure was upwards of £70,000 ! Soon after the above important meeting, the clergy and gentry, i-esident in the city and its immediate neighbourhood, assembled at the GuildhaU, under the sanction of the liOrd Bishop of the Diocese, for the purpose of furthering the objects and interests of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, in con- formity to certain resolutions adopted by the general board, at London, in 1810, and at subsequent periods. Rules and regulations were agreed on, the objects of which were in accordance with those of the parent society ; embracing chiefly the distribution of bibles, testaments, prayer books, and other religious and moral tracts, among the hospitals, prisons, almshouses, &c., and particularly among the ignorant and uneducated classes of society. Amidst the various causes that have contributed to the general diffusion of knowledge in the present age, nothing seems to have been of more importance than the circulation of religious and moral publications. It is well known that, within these few years, they have multiplied to an amazing extent, and their characters 1812.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 121 for learning and elegant composition have kept pace with their numbers. Competition begets exertion ; and those who hoped that their writings would be read, and their labours patronized, have studied to adorn them with all the charms of polished diction and the attractive graces of novelty. A publication, of any description, conducted on proper religious and political principles, is calculated to do infinite service among those who are incapable of thinking for themselves, and who by habit adopt the sentiments that perpetually meet their eyes and amuse their vacant hours. On the other hand, what prejudice is displayed ; what factious principles are disseminated through the medium of the press ! Hence the importance of strict attention in the education of youth, the instruction of adults, and the general diffusion of knowledge. Periodical publications, esta- bhshed on false principles and delusive reasoning, poison the minds of the ignorant, weaken their faith in reve- lation, sever the ties of moral order, and disseminate opinions subversive of the well being of civilized society. The solitary vices of a few may affect a few ; but who can estimate the results of public ill example, or atone for its wide-spreading mischievous effects ? The attention of the Bath public, and their well- known generous aid, was now especially called into active requisition, arising from the loss of three line-of- battle ships in the North Seas, whose crews fell a sacrifice to the performance of public duty during the tremen- dous gales, at the termination of last year. His Majesty's ship SL George, of 98 guns, Captain Guion, bearing the flag of Rear-Admiral Reynolds ; and the Defence, of 74 guns, Captain David Atkins, in returning from the Baltic, were caught on a lee shore on the coast of Jutland. 122 ANNALS Ol- HATH. [1812. wrecked, and nearly the whole of the crews perished. His Majesty's ship Hero, of 74 guns, Captain Newman, also met a similar fate on the coast of Holland. Thus, " at one fell swoop," were consigned to a watery grave more than two thousand souls ! A subscription immediately commenced (in aid of a similar fund forming in London) for the relief of the widows and orphans of those braA^e defenders of our country. The Body Corporate gave fifty pounds, and a ball was held at the Rooms for the same purpose, which was crowded on that occasion to excess. The sum transmitted was about one thousand pounds. The history attached to the loss of these ships, places in a clear point of view the devotion to public duty, so long the distinguishing characteristic of our great naval heroes. They formed part of a squadron, of eight sail of the line, under tlie command of Lord de Saumarez, having a fleet of merchant vessels under convoy, laden with warlike stores from the Baltic to the different ports in England. The Hero (the first we shall allude to) was the victim of one of those erroneous calculations in navigation which are unavoidable in strong tides, dangerous seas, and tempestuous weather. The officers on board conceived they were close to the British coast, at the very time when (on Christmas day of 1811) the ship struck on that of Holland, on the same spot where the Minotaur was wrecked the preceding- year. The words of Captain Newman were somewhat prophetic of his sad fate. In conversing with some officers of the Victory (Lord de Saumarez's ship) before leaving Wingo Sound, he said (remarking on the late- ness of the season), " I cajmot help thinking we have been detained too long, and it is well if some of us do 1812.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 123 not share the fate of the Minotaur; but, we must obey." It is, indeed, singular that he should be doomed to verify in his own person the tiuth of that con- jecture, and that his destiny was fixed by the selection of his otvti ship, for the protection of the convoy ; the event proving, that had he continued with the commander he wovdd have reached England in safet)^ ^Vith respect to the St. George and Defence, the circumstances were different. The St. George had been previously ashore in the Baltic, had lost her rudder, had a temporary one fixed, and was otherwise seriously damaged. She was one of the old class three-deckers, and ill calculated to contend with the boisterous Avinter storms of a northern cliniate. In vain were represen- tations made to Admiral Reynolds, of the dangerous and defective state of his ship. He had received orders ; and " obey" was his motto. Prompt, decisive, and energetic in his measures, his duty — the service of his country — alone occupied his thoughts : and in that service — in the execution of that duty, he died. The squadron sailed ; and three times returned from adverse weather. At length they faii-ly put to sea. The Defence and Cressy were ordered to stay by the St. Geoige and the latter ship took her in tow. A tremendous gale, however, came on, the horrors of a lee-shore presented themselves, and self preservation obliging the Cressy to abandon the St. George, with great difficulty she escaped a similar fate. The Defence was not so fortunate. The sad conclusion is briefly summed up in the narrative of a survivor, John Anderson. He said — " On the 22d of December at six in the morning the ship 124 ANNALS OF BATH. [1812. became unmanageable, and Ave anchored in twelve fathoms, the cables shortly parted, and the ship struck. The sea ran so high, it was impossible for boats to come to our assistance ; and a raft was contrived alongside ; those who got on it and neglected to lash themselves, were swept off by the first sea. The ship, however, held together, and from the 24th to the 25th the crew began to drop : many were dead, and others dying fast, from cold and exhaustion. The Admiral remained in his cabin till the 24th, when the sea made a breach through it, and he was obliged to be hoisted through the sky-light on the poop. There he lay down, and Captain Guion by his side. It was their last resting place. At three in the morning of the 25th the Admiral died, and the Captain survived him but a few minutes. The ship afterwards fell to pieces, and the raft drifted ashore, six of the crew only being saved on it." The Defence went entirely to pieces, half-an-hour after she struck ; twelve of that crew only were saved. The body of Captain Atkins was washed ashore. Sad indeed was the fate of these brave men : but the loss of life was not alone confined to them. Thirty sail of the convoy were wrecked on various parts of the Northern coast, whose shores were strewed with bodies and with wreck, too fatal demonstrations of the perilous existence of sea- faring men. The narrative of Captain Dudley Pater of the Cressi/, connected with these losses, was truly affecting, and it was long, very long, ere by many a weather-beaten tar the fatal winter of 1811 was forgotten. Lord Wellington's splendid victory over Marmont. at Salamanca, occurred this year, and was' announced 1812.] ANNALS OF BATH. 125 by Lord Clinton as he passed through this city, bearing the official dispatches, with two French eagles, and six stands of colours. The stay of his Lordship was necessarily very short, yet while a carriage and horses were preparing, an immense crowd assembled round the Lamb Inn, for the pleasure of inter- rogating him, and viewing the trophies of that glorious victory. His Lordship drove off rapidly, amidst the acclamations and cheering of our citizens. Although it was nearly eleven at night, the call bell summoned the ringers to their respective steeples, and the bells were heard pealing with more than usual spirit to a late hour. The mail of the following day brought a single copy of the Gazette Extraordinary, and the welcome news was now amply confirmed under the hand of Britain's modern Marlborough, the victorious Wellington. On that occasion the Mayor obhgingiy o-ranted the use of the Town Hall, for the purpose of a Ball, which was given for the relief of the Avidows and orphans of the brave heroes who fell in that memorable battle. On the 29th of September his Royal Highness the Prince Regent (on behalf of his Majesty) dissolved the Parliament, and writs for the assembling of another were issued: returnable on the 24th of November. On the 7th of October the election of Members for this city took place, when Lord John Thynne, and Lieutenant Colonel Palmer Avere re-elected. On that occasion a serious riot occuiTed, in con- sequence of the extraordinary conduct of a Mr. John Allen, who presented himself at the Town hall, and demanded a poll for himself and William Colleton Graves, insisting on the right of the freemen of the 126 ANNALS OF BATH. [1812. city to give their suffrages. However, no attention was paid to that demand, and the business of the election having concluded, the two members were chaired. Allen and his friends being left in quiet possession of the Hall, then proceeded to take the votes of several freemen through the medium of a young man whom he appointed his poll-clerk, and after remaining there three hours, and having procured twenty-eight names in support of his pretensions, he adjourned to a neighbouring inn, from one of the win- dows of which he addressed the populace, who had collected in great numbers. His speech was violent in the extreme. He railed against the war, taxes, placemen, and pensioners, and declared his opinion that if Botany Jioy could he ransached, six hundred such base notorious characters could not he found as composed the last Par- liament ! He then invited his friends to meet him again on the morrow. Accordingly, the following day, a numerous concourse assembled in High-street, and at eleven, Allen made his appearance. The doors of the Guildhall were closed. He then mounted a temporary stage before the Town-hall, and began to address the increasing multitude, among whom, many insisted that the doors of the Hall should be immediately opened. The populace at this time were proceeding to outrage, and the Mayor was compelled to read the riot act. Little attention, however, was paid to it, and the tumult increasing, serious consequences were appre- hended. A sortie was now made from the Town-hall, and one of the chief constables, (Mr. George Kitson,) after remonstrating with Allen on the impropriety and ill effects of such outrageous conduct, rushed on, and seized him by the collar, upon which he was. immediately 1812.] AXNAI.S oi- nATH. 127 rescued by his party, and disappeared from the scene altogether. The mob, chiefly consisting of disorderly women, labouring men and boys, began then to hurl stones at the Town-hall, and continued their violence until nearly the whole of the front windows were demolished. The peace-officers seized several of the ring-leaders, and a small party of the volunteer cavalry arriving at the time, rode among the crowd, and by their spirited and judicious conduct, it was at length dispersed. A party of the Oxfordshire militia arrived in the evening from Trowbridge, and several of the principal inhabitants having enrolled themselves as special constables, succeeded in restoring complete tran- quillity to the city. Thus, by the intemperate conduct of a single individual, assisted by a party of vagabonds, (who, having nothing to lose, and every thing to gain, were heedless of consequences,) was the peace of the city disturbed, and its welfare put in peril, at a period Avhen the arrivals for the season were daily expected, and that respectable portion of society, the tradesmen, were looking forward to make up the losses of a long, unprofitable summer. For, might it not be fairly supposed that the report of these disorders (always exaggerated) would tend to protract the arrival of visitors, and thus materially injure the season ? And where existed the shadow of an excuse for such conduct? The right of election for the city, by the established laws then in existence, was clearly defined, and declared to be vested in the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council. And we subjoin the decision of the House of Commons of more than a century previous, on that particular subject : — 128 AXNALS OF BATH. [1812. " LiiucB 26f/i, (lie Januarii, 1706. " Resolved, — That the right of election of citizens to serve in Parliament for the city of Eath, in the county of Somerset, is in the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council only." And which resolution was confirmed by the following clause of an Act twenty- three years afterwards. " Second George III., cap. 21, ^ 4, a. d. 1729.— And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, that such votes shall be deemed legal which have been so declared by the last determination in the House of Commons, which last determination, concerning any county, shire, city, borough, cinque port, or place, shall be final, to all intents and purposes whatsoever, any usage to the contrary notwithstanding." AVith reference to the riot, the committee of the freemen put forth the following publication : — " Bath, October 21, 1812. " The Committee of the Freemen of this city deem themselves imperatively called upon to express their indignation at the unwarrantable and tumultuous proceed- ings which lately disgraced this city ; at the same time they make this public acknowledgment of the zealous attention which the Corporation, as trustees of their estate, have recently paid to the Freemen's interests. The committee, therefore, avow their determination of support- ing their trustees, with all the means tb.at their power can afford or their gi'atitude suggest." To any man of rational understanding, or peaceable disposition, a knowledge of these facts might, at least, have insured respect to the laws of his covmtry. But the authoi-ities had not to contend with such a person And. at the commencement of the session, ^n the 3d of 1812.] ANNAI,S OF BATH. 129 December, the following petition Avas presented to Par- liament by Sir Francis Burdett : — " The petition of John ^illen, of the city of Bath, and Samuel Colleton Graves, of Henbiuy Fort, in the county of Devon, setting forth : — That at the last election of two citizens to represent the city of Bath in Parliament, Lord John Thyime and Charles Palmer, Esq., were candidates ; and that the notice of the said election was not according to the sheriff's precept ; and that Joseph Phillott, the IMayor and Returning Officer, acted with gross partiality, and refused to admit the petitioners as candidates, though duly qualified by law to be so. That the said Joseph Phillott, with twenty others, self appointed, claiming to be freemen, were exclusively proceeding to elect two members of Parliament, in the Giuldhall, the doors of which were closed on the freemen and citizens at the hour appointed for the election to commence, being also guarded by about thirty ruffians, called hludgeon-men, who were protected in all their gross outrages and violence on the freemen and citizens, contrary to the freedom of elections and express law of the land. That the Durham Act was not read, though repeatedly required ; and that, without any justifiable reason, a large military force was introduced into the said city, during the election, to disperse a portion of the freemen legally assembled ; and to prevent the exercise of their elective franchise, contrary to the rights and privileges of those freemen." The petition set forth many other grievances, and concluded by stating — " That Lord John Thynne, and Charles Palmer, Esq., were not duly qualified to represent the said city in Parliament, as the law directs, and praying for such relief as to the house shall appear meet." I 130 ANNALS OF BATH. [1812. It was ordered that the said petition be taken into consideration the 11th day of February, 1813, followhig, and that the Speaker do issue his warrants for such persons, papers, and records, as shall be thought neces- sary by the several parties on the hearing of the matter of the said petition. On Friday, the 18th of December, 1813, the Speaker informed the House of Commons that Messrs. Allen and Graves had not entered into recognizances according to the usage of the House, consequently they suffered the petition to be lost. At the Taunton Assizes, in the following year, Mary Lovett was put on her trial as one of the principal leaders of the disgraceful riot before mentioned. On her ari'aignment, Mr. Sei-jeant Lens observed to the Court, that although the prisoner covild be proved to have been outrageously active, as one of the mob who remained after the Riot Act had been read, yet, from her sex, and the imprisonment she had already suffered, the prosecutors trusted they should not be considered as neglecting their duty, if they declined giving any evidence against her. She was accordingly discharged. From a public journal of the day, we have taken the following extract from the minutes of the Nisi Prius Court of the same session : — The King v. Allen and Cox, at the suit of the Corporation of Bath, for a riot on the day succeeding the late general election. The case being opened on the part of the prosecution, by Mr. Serjeant Lens, Mr. Williams, as counsel for the defendants, made a Jiandsovie and stihmissive apology to the Court, acknowledging their conduct to have been illegal, and mischievous, and unmeritedly insulting to Mr. Phillott, the Mayor, instigated by the heat of the moment, an|d an erroneous 1812.] ANNALS OF BATH. 131 impulse respecting the right of election, and consenting to have a verdict given against them, which was accord- ingly done. The " erroneous impulse" having been achnoivledgcd hy the defendants, the Corporation did not think proper to pursue the matter further, and they were not brought up for judgment. Thus terminated an event, as notable, for the obsti- nate ignorance and folly displayed by the individual under Avhose auspices it was commenced and matured, as for the cool and spirited conduct of the public authorities' who, by checking it in its early bud, preserved the peace of the city, and brought that individual to a humble acknowledgment of his eiTor. The Mayor and Magistrates felt it to be a duty incumbent on them afterwards to express, in the strongest terms, and in the most public manner, the deep sense they entertained of the services of the Bath Cavalry, who were so essentially useful in suppressing the riotous pro- ceedings which disgraced the city on that occasion ; and likewise for their temperate conduct and forbearance, which justly entitled them to the warmest thanks of every well-disposed inhabitant of the city and neigh- bourhood. They offered, in like manner, their grateful acknowledgments to the many respectable persons who so readily came forward as special constables to assist in quelling the riot.* The report of the Committee for the Relief and Discharge of Persons Imprisoned for Small Debts, was read at the Guildhall, on the 7th of December ; and the Committee stated that fifteen unhappy persons had been * In Appendix, No. 8, will be found the letters, mamfestos, and proceedings of Mr. John Allen, and his colleague, Mr. Colleton Graves, on that memorable occasion. I 2 132 ANXAI.S or BATH. [1812. discharged, the sum total of whose debts did not exceed eighty -eight pounds ! It must be a source of pleasing retrospection to the subscribers to that truly charitable institution, when they reflect that, in the course of three years, thirty-six debtors were restored to liberty, and rescued from the gloomy recesses of a prison, whose wives and children were dependent on them for even the common necessaries of life ; and also, that their bounty had been extended to the relief of many other individuals who, during tedious confinements, had been reduced to the most indigent and deplorable condition ; and that, in the accompUshment of those benevolent objects, the whole amount, including every incidental expence, did not exceed £276. At the close of the year, a full-sized marble bust of his INIajesty George the Third, was presented to the Corporation, by a gentleman, who modestly concealed his name; but, (to use his own expressions), " duly appreciated the comfort of a peaceable fire side, and the protection which enabled him to enjoy it, from the activity of the Body Corporate." It was executed by Turnerelli, the sculptor, from a model by that artist which his INIajesty was graciously pleased to sit for. The pedestal bears the following classical inscription : — PR^TORI CORPORIQUE POLITICO BATHONIENSI, AMICITI/E ERGO SIMILACRUM ICONICUM, GEORGII TERTII BRITANNIARUM REGIS EXCELLENTISSIMI. D. D. POSUITQUE AMICUS VERUS. MDCCCXII. 1813.] ANNALS OF BATH. 133 The following Magistrates were elected for the ensuing year :- CHARLES CROOK, Es«.,— Mayor. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esq. JOHN HORTON, Esq. H. HARINGTON, M.D. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. 3 ■-5 HENRY ATTVVOOD, Esq. HENRV PARRY, Esq. MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. JOHN KITSON, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— Cha.mbei(I.ain. GEORGE LYE, Esq. J. F. DAVIS, M. D. J. SLOPER, Esq. G. NORJIAN, Esq. jSHERIFrS. JCONSTADLES. 1813. The commencement of 1813, was characterized by a public meeting for the purpose of taking into consi- deration the distressed situation of the industrious labouring poor, who had been thrown out of work by an early and unexpected approach of severe weather, and thereby prevented earning subsistence for their families. Subscriptions were immediately commenced; and it was truly gratifying to observe with what assiduity the exertions and benevolence of the public kept pace with the advancement of winter, and consequent necessities of the poor. 1^4 ANNALS OF BATH. [1813. While carrying into effect the charitable objects of the meeting, strict personal investigation was the ])lan pursned; and conducted, as it Avas, with judicious discrimination, we need not add, it produced the most beneficial results. Among the liberal subscribers on that occasion, James Stephens, Esq., gave a donation of ten tons of coal. The Canal Company granted permission for one hundred tons of that material to pass through their locks free of expense; and R. Bowsher, Esq., contributed the expence of carriage from the Coal-pits to Sydney-wharf. Thus, by the benevolent aid of the public, 4,578 bushels of coal were distributed to 1,914 families, and 220 blankets to the aged and infirm of both sexes. It was justly observed, by a gentleman at that meeting, that the immense sums annually expended in the kingdom, by way of parochial relief, acted only as an encouragement to idleness, by placing on the same level the worthless and the industrious labourer. And we may here j^ertinently introduce extracts from a pamphlet published by a Mr. Barnard, " On the Poor and Poor Rates," which appeared in 1805, and attracted much attention at the time. He says, — " The national debt, with all its magnitude of terror, is of little moment when compared with the increase of the poor-rates. The poor-rate is the barometer which marks, in all the apparent sunshine of prosperity, the progress of internal weakness and debility. The only rational hope of diminishing those parochial burthens, and of affording a remedy to those evils, must he Jounded htj the education of youth, by the moral and religious habits of mature age, by the improvement of the lahourefs and cottager's means of life, by the increase of his resources, and of , his habits of 1813.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 135 industry and foresight. Without these means, work- liouses, ahns-houses, pviblic charities, and hospitals, may be erected, with increasing and unwearied diligence throughout the land, and yet never keep pace with the progress of indigence and misery." The deplorable state of the poor, and the ruinous modes of their maintenance, were ably exposed by Mr. Whitbread, in the House of Commons, in February, 1807, an allusion to which has already been made. His plans had all the fascinating appearance of warm theoretical humanity ; but it was feared, in so compli- cated and deep-rooted a system, his endeavours Avould be found practically futile ; and they were so. The thoughtless and dissipated poor of this kingdom look on the parochial pay-table as their birth-right, and they claim a title to it without a sense of degradation ; nor do they ever think of any prudent means to prevent their making an application, one day or other, to parish officers. While that principle remains, Ave apprehend that the labours and oratory of enlightened senators will prove abortive. These are facts which every day's experience demonstrates, and which call for our increased energies, in the support of every institution tending to promote the moral, religious, and industrious habits of our poorer fellow-creatures. How far the " Ncav Poor Law Bill" will ameliorate their condition, remains yet to be proved. Amonp- the various channels in which benevolence has been known to flow in this city, there was one which, at this time, claimed the lively solicitude of every feeling- heart, viz. : — that which was appropriated to alleviate the dreadful sufferings of the Russian nation m their conflict with the invading army of Buonaparte. Driven 136 ANXALS OF 15ATH. [1813. from their habitations by the ravages of a Avar, not less remarkable for the atrocity of its motive, than for the murderous activity with which it was characterized, numberless unhappy victims were compelled to fly into wastes and deserts, the sole refuge which remained to the inhabitants of a splendid city, necessarily and heroically devoted to the flames, by the hands of patriotism and policy. The civilized world were under acknowledged obligations to that nation, and more particularly the inhabitants of this country. In London, large subscriptions were made in their behalf; and the same spirit of patriotism diff'used itself over the prin- cipal cities in the kingdom- In this city the Mayor and Corporation contributed to their relief the sum of one lumdred pounds, the members of the city fifty povmds each, and the Reverend Dr. Gardner paid over to the treasurers one hundred and forty pounds, being the receipts of a collection, at the Octagon Chapel, after a sermon by that Reverend Gentleman. Subscription books were also opened at the Town-hall, and the sums subscribed (more than one thousand pounds) transmitted, from time to time, to the committee in London. In the early part of this year the Volunteer Infantry of the county of Somerset, Avere disbanded. To those Avho recollect when the volunteers of this kingdom stood forAA'ard, at a moment of imminent danger, to defend their liberties and their country's cause, it must impart feelings of sincere pleasure to reflect that, by their promptitude in so doing, they assisted in rescuing Britain from an attack which might have been (to say the least) fatally injurious to its internal tranquillity. Four years had now elapsed since another species of force had been formed, and to that force the Rath 181ii.] AXN'ALS Ol 15ATH. 137 Volunteers were invited to transfer their services, and for pecuniary remuneration, to adopt its name and functions ; but, witli the true spirit of vohmteers, they rejected those offers, and refused to forfeit the independence of their character. With such feehngs, strictly adhered to during the whole period, they could not fail to rejoice, that the aspect of political affairs enabled Government to dispense with their services. It was a circumstance well known, that the volunteer force had, for a considerable time, been gradually diminishing in numbers, and many persons were in the habit of claiming exemptions from ballot to the militia who had long ceased to give their due and necessary attendance as volunteers. This diminution of local force naturally engaged the attention of JNIinisters, and induced them to adopt the plan of an extended Local AL'ditia. To the honour of Bath, however, the volunteers of that city (generally speaking) stood to their post until the transmission of an official letter from ].,ord Sidmouth to the Lord Lieutenant of the county, announcing that, as the establishment of the Local Militia precluded the necessity of continuing, under present circumstances, the services of a large part of the Volimteer Infantry of Great Britain, his Royal Highness the Prince Regent deemed it expedient that the Volunteer Infantry of the county of Somerset should, after the 24th of March, be released from their military engagements. His Lordship stated, that it was with the utmost satisfaction he had to dischartj-e an additional duty required of him, by the command of the Prince Regent, viz., — the assurance of the high sense enter- tained by his Royal Highness of their loyalty and patriotism, which they had so zealously and constantly 138 ANNALS Ol' BATH. [1813. manifested in the cause and service of their country, and by which they had established a just claim to its lasting remembrance and gratitude. It should be stated here, that the Rifle Company, commanded by Captain Randolph (and forming a section of the Bath Volunteer Corps), made an offer of their services to continue as an independent company, without expense to Government, and to perform any duty required of them within this district, which offer was acceded to by his Royal Higli- ness the Prince Regent. The old Bathonians, diu'ing the progress of a summer season, were wont to use the following proverb: — " As much at leisure as a Bath turnspit in the month of July;" but certainly it was inapplicable at the present season. And among the visitors who attracted particidar attention, the city was honoured by the presence of Ijouis XVIII., under the title of Count de Lille, with a large suite of attendants. His Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge was also a visitor this year, to whom the Corporation (as usual on such occasions) voted the freedom of the city, which was presented to his Royal Highness in a handsome gold box. The renter of Sydney Gardens seemed particularly desirous to produce something new on this enlivening occasion ; and it is but justice to add, that at all times he used his utmost exertions to gratify the public by the variety of his amusements. The programme, in honour of tlie King's birth-day, certainly did present " something- new ;" and, without doubt, the pyrotechnic ingenuity of S/fftior Vincento de Mortrum was, on the present occasion, at its utmost stretch. We give a portion of the advertise- ment for the entertainment of our readers. It appeared in tliese words : — " The grand scene will be ' truly classical. IHlli.] ANNALS OF liATU. l.'iO and so admirably contrived that the taste of every one cannot fail to be gratified. It will exhibit the ivy tower in the ruins of the old castle, upon whose turrets lowering clouds will gradually descend ; and as they of necessity disperse, the heathen deities will be exposed to view, and commence their operations. Nothing in description can here be detailed to describe its magni- ficent effects — it must be seen to elicit the admiration which it must deserve. In conformity with the mythology of the ancients, Phaeton will descend in a fiery car, whose wheels, in rapid rotation, will set the world on fire ; and the whole garden will appear in one mighty blaze ! And as this impetuous youth is returning to the ivy tower, he will be struck with a thunderbolt by Jupiter, and hurled headlong into the River Po !" Now let us relate the sad termination of this grand mythological scene : — From some unknown cause, the wheels of Phaeton's car failed in their expected rapidity, and "' the world was not set on fire," (or the Thames either), but the whole apparatus fell (as predicted) into the " swiftly-sailing Po !" without even a friendly push from the mighty thunderbolts of Jove. JV/iai became of Phaeton was never correctly ascertained, some siqyposed he was drowned, as the lights were extinguished, and perfect darkness followed. In short (as may be imagined), the whole was a complete failure ; and the company retired, expressing, in no unmeasured terms, the most marked dissatisfaction. JNIany personal squibs were let off on that occa- sion, of which the following may be selected as having less asperity than many others: — 14.0 ANNALS OF J15ATH. [1813. PARTURIUNT MONIES. At Jupiter's ire. And Pliaoton's fire. The ])cojile ^\•itll \\oinlcr ncre big ; But Jupiter Aiiimou, Proved uotliing but gammon. And Phaeton's ear a mere gig. Having alluded to that particular breed of dogs, the turnspit (a species, Ave believe, now almost extinct), a little anecdote relative to them may not be inaptly introduced : — Rather more than half a century ago they were considered the only efficient cooks of the day ; by their exertions, pent up in their little wheel boxes, and trotting round like a squirrel in the cage, the inhabitants of all classes were alone enabled to partake of their roasted joints. It was supposed that, at one time, there were not less than three thonsand of those duck- legged inhabitants in Bath. Early dinners ^vere the fashion in those days ; and the first attempt to change the old custom of " the turnspit," was made by the Hon. Mr. Spencer, brother to the then Duke of jNIarl- borough. He was of a waggish disposition ; and in one of his facetious humours employed a certain number of chairmen to collect all the turnspit dogs in the city together, about twelve o'clock, on a certain day, when they were shut up till four in the afternoon, to the no small confusion of the cooks, and manifest distress of epicures, tradesmen, artisans, and others. The wise men of the day then began to think of smoke-jacks, Avhich they found, to their astonishment, answered two purposes, viz., — to turn the spit and assist in conveying 1813.] AXXAI.S OF BATH. 141 the smoke upwards ! and, as the song goes, " to grind all their smoke into powder besides." The sagacity of those animals was certainly very extraordinary. There was an anecdote related of a witty and learned divine of former times,* who was said to declare that, being at the Abbey one Sunday, Avhen a great number of turn- spits had followed their mistresses (the cooks) to church, a certain chapter in Ezekiel Avas read, in which the word " ivheeV is often mentioned. On the first utterance of the word, the dogs discovered a manifest alarm ; on a repetition, a simultaneous movement took place ; and the ominous word " wheel" being named a third time, they all curled up their tails, and scampered out of the church. The increase of population, in the parish of Bath- wick, became now a subject for consideration to the parishioners, who had been for some previous time contemplating the erection of a new and commodious edifice for the performance of divine worship, the old, small, and inconvenient church, having fallen into a ruinous and useless condition. The subject having been mentioned to the Duke of Cleveland (then I^ord Darlington), his Lordship presented the parish with an eligible piece of land for the purpose, on the South side of New Sydney-place. Circular letters were, therefore, sent to the different proprietors in Bathwick, stating that circmnstance, submitting certain plans, and applying for subscriptions in aid of the funds for the building. A numerous meeting was also held, with a view to carry those plans into immediate eflFect. The object was entered into with much zeal ; and the * liisliop M'arbiuton. 142 ANNALS OF BATH. [1813. sentiments that were delivered by several speakers (not frequenters of the Established Church), did honour to their intellect and liberality of feeling. We cannot conclude this year, without recording, in our pages, the benevolence of the representatives of the city, who placed in the Mayor's hands the sum of five hundred pounds, to be distributed at his discretion for charitable purposes. The Civic Officers for the ensuing year were thus arranged : — WILLIAM ANDERDON, Esa. (4th time),— Mayor. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. JOHN HORTON, Esa. H. HARINGTON, M.D. JOHN PALMER, Esa. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esa. HARRY ATTWOOD, Esa. ( HENRV PARRY, Esa. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esa. MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esa. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esa. JOHN KITSON, Esa. L THOMAS SLATER, Esq Chamberlain. GEORGE KITSON, Esa. WM. CLARK, JuK., Esq. I Sheriffs. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esa. , JOSEPH SPRY, Esa. j Constables. 1S14.] ANNALS OF BATH. 143 1814. The wonderful events which occurred last year throughout Europe, gave an additional stimulus to the incitement and brilliancy of a Bath season. It Avas, indeed, a year marked by a succession of glorious achievements, mainly attributable to the valour and firmness of this country, and by which Russia, Prussia, Austria, Holland, the inferior Germanic States, Por- tugal, and Spain, were emancipated from their thraldom, and France, (all-powerful France) whose aim had been universal sovereignty, Avas everywhere beaten. That noble hero, of the Sister Isle, Wellington, had " bearded the spoiler in his den," and on the 31st of March, 1814, the Allied Armies entered Paris. It is out of our province to attempt even an enumeration of the glorious victories and momentous occurrences which led to that great event ; they have been ably illustrated by the correct and animated pen of Major Sherer, in his Recollections of the Peninsula, and Life of the Duke of Wellington ; and by Colonel Napier, in his History of the Peninsular War. But, Avhat cheering prospects did they not open to our view ! It was impossible, in fact, to speculate coolly and connectedly on that wonderful intelligence. But it reqviired no elaborate elucidation ; we beheld all that we wished for, and infinitely more than we could have expected, at length accomplished. It brought us peace. Our flag would waive in every port of the ocean ; the produce of our industry be received in 144 ANNALS OF BATH. [1814. every market; the buz of content would be heard in every field, in CAery cottage, and at every loom. These were the general feelings and expressions on that occasion. However, amidst these triumphs, it was not for- gotten that our laurels were bedewed with tears, that the victories for which we rejoiced had been bought with blood, dear to us all as countrymen, relatives, and friends. To those who were then shedding tears of sorrow, for departed relations, this consolation was presented, that they died in their country's cause, and in defence of her liberties and riglits, and their names and deeds must ever obtain an honorable mention in the annals of posterity. But, to the result of these events in our own city : — Public notice was issued by the Mayor, that a General Illumination would take place on the 10th of April. The notice was short, and many Avere debarred making the display they wished ; for had every third man been an artist, his genius and labour would have been called into requisition. The appearance on that night, however, was grand beyond expectation. The uniform elegance of the squares, crescents, and principal streets, lighted up under a feeling of enthusiastic fer- vour worthy of the great cause ; and abounding in appro- priate transpai'encies, allegorical devices, stai-s, Corinthian columns, kc, surpassed every former exhibition of the kind in recollection, and testified, in the most satisfactory manner, the loyalty and happiness of the inhabitants. Nor was the characteristic liberality of our fellow citizens less conspicuous. We have found in the preceding year large subscriptions making throughout the kingdom for the suffering Russi^uis, in their 1814.] ANNALS OF BATH. 14.5 conflict with Napoleon, and this year, the same patriotic feelings manifested themselves towards the German nation. Their unparalleled sufFerings were ably set forth at a general meeting which took place in this city. John Parish, Esq., as chairman, advo- cated tlieir claims on British sympathy with feelings that more than once overpowered his utterance. — Various resolutions were adopted, and a subscription determined on, which the Corporation immediately headed by a contribution of £100. That public appeal was crowned with gratifying success, at once honor- able to the donors, and characteristic of British munificence. In this city the subscriptions amounted to £1182 6s. and the whole amount collected in the kingdom for that purpose was little short of one hundred thousand pounds ! What a proud monument of national philanthropy ! An address of congratulation from the INIayor and Corporation, on the success of his Majesty's arms in the Peninsula, was transmitted to the Recorder, (the Marquis of Camden) and presented by Viscount Sidmouth to the Prince Regent. For the present we will suspend further detail of city rejoicings until the announcement of the definitive treaty which occurred in the month of June, and bring to the recollection of our readers the winter of this year, which, like that of the preceding, was marked by particular severity. The thermometer, in this city, at the coldest period in January, was eighteen degrees below the freezing point. In London it was twenty three degrees. The snow fell deeper than had been recollected for many years, and the earth was frozen to such a severe degree, that not a particle had been K 146 ANNALS OF BATH. [1814. absorbed for a length of time, till by the repeated falls, the roads were rendered quite impassable, and the streets dangerous to perambulate. On that occasion the distressed poor were not forgotten, and a large meeting was held at the Guildhall for the purpose of raising subscriptions for their relief. The Corpo- ration gave twenty guineas, and the members for the city the same sum. A general Committee was formed to superintend its distribution, and sub- committees appointed in each of the parishes. These were actively employed in promoting the designs of the subscribers, and gave to them, and the whole city, peculiar satisfaction. They personally visited the habitations of the various applicants, and investigated, with as much accuracy as possible, their different claims and necessities. The amount of the general subscription was £1084 17*. Od., and two-thousand eight hundred and eighty-six families containing nine thousand six hundred and forty-one individuals, were effectually relieved. A balance -of £66 remained on hand, which was handed over to the " Society for the Relief of Occasional Distress," in aid of their permanent fund; and public thanks given to the general and sub-committees for their laudable exertions in the management of that subscription. The committee for the relief and discharge of persons imprisoned in the jails of this city and county for small debts, also issued their report in the early part of this year, which stated, that, through the means afforded by subscribers to that benevolent charity, they had been enabled to set at liberty twenty-one unhappy debtors more, whose families had been pining in want and misery from the' deprivation of 1814.] ANNALS OF BATH. 147 their support; and this by an expenditure not ex- ceeding the sum of £95. It will be remembered that this cliarity was instituted on the jubilee day of 1809. The cause gave energy to the thought, the plan took deep root, and, under the auspices of a generous public, the design flourished and extended liberty and happiness to many of our fellow creatures, who, but for this kin daid, might have been stretched on beds of straw, lamenting their own misfortunes, and the deplorable condition of their wives and families. To those unhappy individuals whose debts exceeded the limits cognizable by the society, the hand of mercy was also extended, and bread and fuel afforded them within their prison walls. The public amusements of the season, which always constitute a leadhig feature in this city, next claim our notice. A grand masquerade was given by the noblemen and gentlemen of the York House Club, in the early part of the season, at the Lower Assembly Rooms. It Avas ostensihly got up to celebrate the recent glorious successes of our allies on the continent, and our own signal victories under Wellington ; but the real intentions of those gentlemen were to give a spirit to trade. The entertainment was on a scale of great magnificence and liberality, and had the desired effect of diffusing life and spirit among the inhabitants, and distributing a considerable capital through every department of trade in the city. While on the subject of the city interests, we must not omit a cause that was heard at the Somerset Quarter Sessions, holden at Wells, this year, in which the Corporation of Bath were appellants, and the parish of Lyncombe and Widcombe respondents. That parish K 2 148 ANNALS OF BATH. [1814. had assessed the Water Works, in Widcombe, be- longing to the Corporation, at a supposed or estimate^ value, and under the sanction of a decision of the Court of King's Bench in Michaehnas term 1811, in a cause, wherein the same parties appeared before that Covu-t. The Corporation resisted the claim, but as the parish in the present instance produced evidence to shew that the waters in question were much greater in value than the suna at which the parish had assessed them, and as the Corporation did not bring evidence to rebut that testimony, the Court decided in favour of the parish, and confirmed the rate. This decision led to an adjustment of the water rents in 1816, at which time they were very unequally assessed, and the rates were altered in 1819. The effect was to increase the rental by about £550. The Corporation do not own the land in which these springs rise ; they pay a ground rent for the reservoirs. Tliey have always possessed the springs on Beechen Cliff (Widcombe) and Beacon Hill (Walcot); and those on Bathwick Down, were vested in them by 9th George III. The hills which surround Bath abound in springs within fifty feet of their summits, and no forcing- apparatus is required for supplying any part of the town. The Corporation were empowered to bring water into the town, by the old Police Act 6th George III., and the supply is not confined to the limits of the city : in 1832, there were two thousand one hundred and ninety tenants paying water rent. The highest rate is £2 15*. and the lowest twenty shillings, except in some courts where several houses have a common cistern, at ten shillings. By a clause in the Kennet and Avon Canal Act, the Canal Company 'are interdicted 1814.] ANNALS OF BATH. 149 from taking water from any of the springs in the parishes of Eathampton. Bath wick, Lyncombe and Widcombe, and Walcot, or in the city of Bath.* On June 2d, the definitive treaty of peace reached the British Court. It was submitted, on the following morning, to the Prince Regent, and his Royal Highness ratified it accordingly. The celebration of this event presented such a week of joyous exhilarating .scenes in this city, as afforded the highest gratification to all who delight to see a large population resting from their labours, and partaking the festive rejoicings consequent on a Avell-earned honourable peace. JMonday commenced by the members of twenty- nine benefit societies (four of Avhich were female) meeting at an appointed rendezvous in Pulteney-street. It was a pleasing spectacle to behold between two and three thousand well-dressed respectable people, adorned with various coloured ribbons, and displaying handsome flags, embellished with loyal devices and appropriate mottos, and each headed by an enlivening band of music. The whole having proceeded in regular order through the principal streets and squares, divided in parties to their several places of worship, where divine service was performed and appropriate sermons preached by their respective ministers ; after which, they returned in procession to their society rooms to dinner. In the afternoon many of the clubs, with their bands, again paraded the streets ; and exhibited, during the day, a busy scene of good order, festivity, and happiness. Tuesday morning the bustle of preparation was again seen in the streets ; and anxious crowds assembled * Sec Report from Commissioners on Municipal Corporations. 150 ANNALS OF BATH. [1814. to witness the approach of the London mails, containing the proclamation of peace. Additional horses, richly caparisoned, had been sent out to be harnessed to the mails at Walcot; but nothing could withstand the enthusiasm of the populace, who insisted they would themselves pei'form that office. Some considerable time was occupied in arranging the procession ; when, about mid-day, it moved forward in a style of regularity worthy the importance of such a cause. Thousands of men and boys led the van, spontaneously formed in regular sections, linked together arm in arm, and proceeded, amidst loud huzzas and the waving of handkerchiefs from every window and roof, down Milsom-street, New Bond-street, High-street, and from thence to the Lamb Inn, Stall-street (at that time the rendezvous for mail coaches). The carriages were adorned with laurels, ribbons, and flags ; and a superb banner was borne in front, inscribed with the words " Peace," " Alexander," " The illustrious Emperor of Russia ;" and the Prince Regent's plume, on a cushion of crimson velvet, followed. The cavalcade was accompanied by bands of music, the principal members of the friendly societies, the boys of the Lancasterian School, and numerous well-mounted equestrians. It is impossible to describe, in adequate terms, the degree of joy which manifested itself on that occasion. But we must not omit noticing, in a particular manner, the unbounded munificence of Mr. John Parish, of Pulteney-street. To the benefit societies he presented a large donation in aid of their festive fund ; a liberal subscription to the intended public fete was attached to his name ; and the keeper of the city prison had orders to regale all its unfortunate inmates, their wives and 1814.] ANNALS or BATH. 151 families, with substantial fare; and the same instructions were given to those of the three county jails. These and other rejoicings fully occupied the Jirst week after the arrival of the definitive treaty. Then followed the public proclamation of that event, the ceremony of announcing which was thus observed : — A car, orna- mented with appropriate emblems, was drawn by a body of chairmen, decorated with ribbons, to the several stations where the proclamation was to be read. In this car were seated the Mayor, the Rev. Archdeacon Phillott, several members of the Body Corporate, and the Town Clerk, P. George, Esq. The proclamation was read at the following stations : — Opposite the Guildhall, at York- house, at the top of Gay -street, at the South end of Westgate-street, at St. James's Churcli, and at the old Bear-corner. The procession was accompanied by the Bath troop of North Somerset Yeomanry, and the City Rifle Corps, who closed the interesting ceremony by a feu cle joie. On the following evening a brilliant illumination took place, and thousands from the sur- rounding neighbourhood poured in to witness its splendid effects. The greatest order and decorum prevailed ; and the most timid female might have passed the streets unprotected and unmolested. It spoke much in favour of the arrangements made by the magistrates, and the peaceable disposition of the inhabitants. On Wednesday succeeding, a large mass of the population of every description sallied forth, some to witness, and others to partake of, what was denominated a " Rural Fete." It was held on Claverton Down, and the expences defrayed by general subscription, to which the Corporation gave fifty pounds. A large amount was soon collected, and a committee of forty-three appointed 152 ANNALS OF BATH. [1814. to arrange the proceedings. The day was propitious, and the immense multitude that assembled in the course of the morning, from all quarters of the country, was computed at not less than twenty thousand ! The supplies consisted of four oxen (one of which was roasted whole), eight sheep, four hundred dozen small loaves, and twenty butts of strong beer. The participation of the food was intended, by the projectors of the festival, to be unlimited, and it was so ; for never, within the memoy of the oldest inhabitant, was such unrestrained, disgusting revelry witnessed as on that occasion. But we must draw a veil over the further occurrences of the day ; and let not the rigid moralist descant too severely on the mismanagement of the select forty-three, or the waste and confusion which took place; let him consider the cause, and indulgently consider it only as an excess of conviviality, an abandonment of decorum ; the tempta- tion to which, on such a joyous occasion, was too powerful for the excited and undisciplined mass to resist. Immediately after that too intemperate display of exultation, followed the more becoming observance of a general thanksgiving, a day of public gratitude to the Great Disposer of human events, for the signal protec- tion given to this kingdom during the progress of a war so fatally disastrous to other European nations. The day, indeed, was observed, in all the churches and chapels (of every denomination) throvighout the city, with due solemnity, and with that eloquence in the pulpit to which the great cause gave inspiration. In the same month of this year, the prorogation of Parliament, by the Prince Regent in person, took place. He said, " The zealous and vmremitting support which I have received from all classes of his Majesty's subjects; 1814.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 153 the consummate skill displayed bythat great commander, whose services you have so justly acknowledged, and the valour and intrepity of his IMajesty's forces by sea and land, have enabled me (under the blessings of Divine Providence) to surmount all the difficulties with which I had to contend. The unexampled exertions of this Country, combined with those of his IMajesty's allies, have succeeded in effecting the deliverance of Europe from the most galling and oppressive tyranny under which it has ever laboured. The restoration of so many of the ancient and legitimate Governments of the Continent, affords the best prospect of the permanence of that peace which, in conjunction with his Majesty's Allies, I have concluded ; and you may rely on my efforts being directed to complete the settlement of Europe, which has already been so auspiciously begun ; and to promote, upon principles of justice and impartiality, all those measures which may appear best calculated to secure the tranquillity and happiness of all the nations engaged in the late war." On the 1st of September, the ceremony of laying the foundation stone of Bathwick New Church took place. It commenced with a procession from the Com- mittee-room, consisting of the rector, churchwardens, and other parish officers, the gentlemen of the committee, and a numerous assemblag-e of inhabitants. On reachintr the site, an approj^riate prayer was delivered by the rector, imploring the Almighty to bless and prosper this pious undertaking. The stone being laid in its bed, a collection of coins, medals, and tokens, were placed therein, tiie inscription plate soldered down, and the ceremony concluded. 154! ANNALS Ol'' BATH. [1814. The following is the inscription : — " Glory to God in the Highest; on Earth, Peace. The most san- guinary conflict ever recorded in the Annals of History had ceased ; and the downfall of Napoleon, the Despot of France, had taken pliice, when the Nations of Europe became united in the bonds of peace. At such a joyful period ; and on the 1st day of September, in the year of our Lord, 1814, the foundation stone of Bath wick New Church, dedicated to St. Mary, was laid. " The Right Hon. the Earl of Darlington, Lord of the Manor. " The Right Reverend Richard Beadon, Lord Bishop of the Diocese. " The Reverend Peter Gunning, Rector. " Mr. Jeremy Wilsher, ) _,, , , -, _ _, > Churchwardens. " Mr. Edward 1 ucker, j " Mr. J. Pinch, Architect. " Mr. James Goodridge, )„.,,. << ^,r T,r Ti f Bmldmg Surveyors. " Mr. William Price, i ° ■' " Mr. Walter Harris, Builder." With the names of thirteen Gentlemen of tlie Committee. The Abbey Church was at this time, by the activity and persevei'ance of Messrs. Davis and Batchelor, the the churchwardens, put into a complete state of repair. The turrets, roofs, and ceilings, of that venerable structure, having been nearly half a century in a state of dilapidation, were on this occasion repaired, but by no means restored to their original beauty and grandeur. The lamented death of Sir Horace ISIann occurred in December. He had been long a resident in this city ; and the zeal with which he entered into the views of all its benevolent institutions, and the abilities he displayed in presiding at their general meetings, endeared him much to every class of society, and made his loss universally regretted. Nor must we omit to mention 1814.] ANNALS OF BATH. 155 that of Harry Attwood, Esq., who died December 4, at Cranley-house, Weston-road. He was a member of the body corporate, and had been twice mayor of the city. As a magistrate, he was firm, impartial, and inflexibly just ; and in social life, liberal and affectionate. Mr. Attwood was the last branch of a family whose name appears in the municipal records of this city for several centuries past. We close the year with the official announcement of peace with America, the definitive treaty of which was ratified by the Prince Regent in Council. Thus we behold again the sword sheathed, and England at peace with all the world. Civic Officers for the ensuing year : — CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esa., (3rd time)— Mayor. WILLIAM ANDEKDON, Esa. JOHN HORTON, Esq. HENRY HARINGTON, M.D JOHN PALMER, Esq. MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq. HENRY PARRY, Esq. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. ■ ? -{ CHARLES CROOK, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. . JOHN KITSON, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— Chambeiii,ain. JOHN SLOPER, Esq. . GEORGE NORMAN, Esq., j Sheriffs. J. F. DAVIS, Esq. 1 cu.ef Constables. GEORGE KITSON, Esq. ' 156 ANNALS OF BATH. [1815. 1815. Tlie early part of 1815 was marked by the great political event of Bonaparte's escape from Elba, and his landing on the 3d of March at the head of one thousand men, between Frejus and Antibes. A proclamation was issued from the King of France declaring him a traitor; and troops were sent to oppose his progress. An Arabian proverb says, " the habitation of danger is on the borders of security," and nothing could have been more illustrative of its truth, than the perfect security in which the whole European continent appeared to be lulled ; when it was suddenly roused by the tremendous explosion of rebellion and war in the south of France. So much were the minds of all classes turned to that great event, that even peace with America, and the corn bill itself (which had occasioned so much rioting in London) had ceased to distract the passions of the populace, and domestic contentions subsided as muior considerations. Proclamations were issued by the French Government calling on the people to oppose Napoleon's progress, but in vain : it was luiimpeded ; and on the 17th we find him within one hundred miles of the French capital. On the 18th he liad reached JNIelun, one day's march from that city, and, on the following day, he entered Paris, without the smallest resistance ! the troops of jNIarshal Ney greeting his arrival with cries of A^ive L'P^mpereur ! The King and his principal friends quitted Paris, 1815.] ANNALS OF BATH. 157 and sought protection from the British army in Flanders. Extensive military preparations commenced in England, Holland, Prussia and elsewhere. Troops after troops were ordered to the coast, and it was estimated that before the lapse of a fortnight, the Duke of Wellington would have under his command in Belgium an army of eighty thousand men. In this state of affairs, war, with all its attendant horrors, appeared inevitable. Lord Castlereagh in the Commons brought forward unanswerable statements, and the veteran Grattan, in a speech that flashed conviction into every bosom, and which did honour to the country that reared him, pointed out in tlie most argumentative, yet brilliant manner, that, de- sirable as peace might be, it would be attended with more ruin and danger to the European Powers than the most inveterate war ; and in the same sentiments most of the opposition members concurred. At length the decisive blow was struck. Dis- patches from the Duke of Wellington reached London on the 22nd of June, announcing the complete overthrow of Bonaparte, on tlie plains of Waterloo, with the loss of two hundred and ten pieces of cannon, two eagles, and two French Generals. The vanquished Napoleon beheld the last desperate efforts of his troops from a scaffolding situated on an eminence near the field of battle. The conflict was of so tremend- ous a description, that few prisoners were made, and the allied army was left in pursuit of the shattered remains of the enemy's force. There remained to Napoleon no hope of being able to rally his defeated troops. It was not expected, that such a signal achievement could 158 ANNALS OF BATH. [1815. have been performed ^vithout the most severe losses, the greatest proportion of which fell on our gallant countrymen, who bore the brvnit of the battle. They won the first trophies of that decisive victory, they sustained the first furious onset of Napoleon's choicest troops, fighting to retrieve their tarnished fame ; to regain the ascendancy of their profession ; to re-establish their chief, to whom they were blindly devoted : they did all that ardent courage, inveterate hate, and enthusiastic confidence in their leader could inspire — and they were once more beaten. Thus terminated the hopes, and thus were crushed, for ever, the gigantic projects of the ambitious Napoleon Bonaparte. — Kingdoms and empires resisting his power had, one after another, fallen victims either to their own want of union, or to a reliance on representations held out by the conqueror which in a short space of time proved delusive and fatal. It was difficult, indeed, at that period of his reign, to find a single spot on the vast continent of Europe, with the exception of Sweden, which was not in some way or other, subject to the decrees of the French emperor ; every Sovereign was either of his creation, or apparently dependent on his will. But Britain was free, and subject to no controul. She had, under the influence of a beneficent Providence successfully resisted the encroachments of the common enemy, and defied his power, and holding that high situation among the nations of the world, did, eventually, under the protection of Heaven, obtain for herself and her allies a solid and honourable peace. We have found it necessary to diverge from our history and go thus far into the details of that glorious 1815.] ANNALS OF BATH. 159 event and its consequences, to introduce to our readers the effect which it produced on the inhabitants of this city. Impressed, as they were, (in common with all their fellow subjects) with a due sense of thankfulness for its important advantages ; the unexampled loss of human life by Avhich that victory was achieved, did not fail to excite their warm sympathy and commiseration. Immediately after the intelligence reached this city, a meeting of the principal inhabitants was convened by the IMayor, for the patriotic purpose of raising a subscription for the benefit of the numerous families of the slain and wounded of the British army. At that m.eeting, it was resolved that books should be laid down at the banks, libraries, and other places in the city, for receiving subscriptions ; and that the rectors and ministers of the several churches and chapels should be requested to preach sermons, in aid of that benevolent purpose. At those places, £634 10s. 6d. was collected, and the total amount subscribed, includ- ing the contributions of some contiguous parishes and villages amounted to £3773 7s. 9(1.* • From the Reports of the London Committee for the Waterloo Subsaiption dated October 27, 1815, the following is extracted : "June 18, 1815, British troops of the line engaged in the battle 40,000 " Hanoverians, Brunswickers, Belgians, and other troops under the command of the Duke of AVelliugton 50,000 90,000 "Killed and wounded of the British, about 10,000 " Ditto of the Auxiliaries in the British line, about 4,500 " Kaied and wounded of the Prussian army, in the previous conflicts of four days, about 22 000 36,500" 160 ANNALS OF BATH, [1815. The Pleasure Baths in the vicinity of Sydney Gardens were this year erected, and have proved in each succeeding one, a high source of gratification to those Avho dehg-ht in the healthful recreation of bathing and swimming. The ground, where they now are, was contiguous to some marl pits ( an unprofitable waste piece of land), and admirably designed to form a connection with the river, which sends a running stream constantly through the baths. They have been much improved of late years, are nearly shut out from public view, and will soon be entirely so, by the continued growth of trees which surround them. The local events of this year have been but trivial, those of more public interest having claimed our attention and particular detail. But we should feel it a neglect of duty, in recording the events of this city, if we omitted to mention the lamented death of Mr. John Horton, an alderman of the city, and thrice in the re- sponsible office of mayor. Devoted from early life to the best interests of his native city, and possessing a perfect knowledge of its concerns, he was justly esteemed one of the most useful and active members of the body corporate. Though verging on the patriarchal age of fourscore years, he felt few of its pains and infirmities, discharging to the last his municipal duties, and enliven- ing the circle of his select friends, by a flow of good spirits and the mild observance of social order. He was a sedulous magistrate, a warm friend, and a truly honest man. The Civic Ofiicers appointed for the ensuing year were as follows : — 1816] AXNALS OF BATH. 161 MORGAN NICHOLLS, Esq.— Mayor. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esa. ] . f JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esu. HENRY PAKRV, Esu. I " | CHARLES CROOK, Esq. WILLIAM ANDERDON. Esq. \ g j EDMUND ANDERDON, Esa. H. HARINGTON, M.D. | | | JOHN KITSON, Esa. JOHN PALMER, Esa. J l THOMAS SLATER, Esq.— Ciia.mberlain. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esa. | Sheeiffs. JOSEPH H. SPRY, Esq. ^ ALEXANDER GRANT, Esq.|(,„^,3j^bles JOHNSON PHILLOTT, Esu.^ 1816. The 18th of January, this year, was the day appointed for rendering public thanks to Ahnighty God for the restoration of peace once more in these reahns; and it was observed in this city with due reverence and solemnity. All the places of divine worship were filled. The Mayor and Corporation, preceded by the Bath Rifle Corps, went in procession to the Abbey Church, where an appropriate sermon was delivered by the Rector. Havino-, at the termination of the last year, noticed the death of a much-lamented member of the Body Corporate, we have now to announce that of the highly- talented Dr. Harington, an alderman of the city, and one of its oldest inhabitants. He departed this life on L 162 ANNALS OF BATH. 1816.] the 15th of January, in the eighty -ninth year of liis age. Descended from an ancient and honourable family, who had long possessed considerable influence and property in the neighbourhood, he had become identified, in a manner, with the city, and appeared a venerable relic of antiquity, amidst its modern refinements. His name in the musical world stands deservedly high as a composer ; and his productions, whether humorous or grave, whether light or sacred, alike display the refined taste of a connoisseur, and the powerful conception of a master. The sublimity and pathetic sweetness of his " Eloi," have thrilled through the hearts of every attentive hearer. His delightful song, " How sweet in the Woodlands," is nearly as familiar to English ears as the national anthem ; and his elegant ballad of " The Witch of Wokey," preserved in Dr. Percy's ancient reliques, affords evidence of Dr. Harington's true feeling for the poesy of other days. Perfectly familiar with classical literature, he was equalled by few as a general scholar ; and his Latin compositions were distinguished by their purity and elegance. His mildness and. suavity of manner, his talents, his acquirements, and a large fund of amusing recol- lections, rendered him a companion at once delightful and instructive. The friends of that venerable and respected gentle- man (who for above sixty years had contributed to the welfare and delight of this city),' resolved on raising a plain but elegant monument to his memory in the Abbey Church, which, \mder a committee of manage- ment appointed by his nearest relations, was shortly afterwards carried into effect. It is in the south aisle of the church, plain and unostentatious ; at the head of it is 1816.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. l63 carved his divine composition of " Tlie Eloi, or Death of Christ ;" under which is the following Latin in- scription : — MEMORI/E SACRUM HENRICI HARINGTON, M.D. EX VERE NOBILI HARINGTINORUM STIRPE DE KELSTON, IN AGRO SOMERSET ORIUNDI ; QUI, NATUS SEPTEMBRIS XXIX., A.D. MDCCXXVII. OBIIT JANUARII XV., A.D. MDCCCXVI. PER SEXAGINTA ANNOS SU^E BATHONIiE SALUTI OMNIBUS OFFICIIS ASSIDUE STUDEBAT, OPTIMAS ARTES AD MUNICIPUM SUORUM DELECTATIONEM ET UTILITATEM EXCOLENS: MEDICUS SOLERS ET FIDELIS : POETA LEPIDUS: MUSICUS SCIENS ET PERITUS: MAGISTRATUS GRAVIS, JUSTUS, ACER: ERGA SUOS AMANTISSIMUS ERGA OMNES COMIS ET BENEVOLUS : TANTA INSUPER SANCTITATE MORUM, UT OMNES ANIMI SUI FACULTATES, QUANTUM HUMANE VIT^. RATIO PATERETUR. DEO DICANDAS ESSE JUDICARET. HOC MARMOR, PECUNIA PUBLICE CONLATA PONI CURAVERUNT AMICI DEFLENTES. Nor must we omit the homage rendered by the city to another distinguished individual, in the unanimous vote of the freedom of the city to Major-General Sir Manly Power. That gallant officer has, with many of his cotemporaries, since paid the debt of nature, having died at Berne, hi Switzerland, July 1826, while return- ing to England from Malta, where he had for six years held the important situation of Lieutenant-Governor. It is a just tribute to departed worth to record his long L 2 164 ANNALS OF BATH. [1816. and distinguished merits ; his often tried bravery in the service of his country during the late glorious war, which (independently of being nearly allied to one of the oldest and most respectable families of the city) must ever render the name of " Power" respected by his fellow-townsmen while the pages of history exist. He has left a widow and three sons to lament his loss (the eldest a captain in the army). INIay they walk in the footsteps of their brave and distinguished parent !* We now return to politics, the least gratifying part of our researches, but they are necessary for the introduction of local matter, and therefore altogether unavoidable. The debates in the House of Commons, on the subject of the Property Tax, created considerable interest in the political world. The Chancellor of the Exche- quer, in taking an expansive financial view of the country, and its resources ; its expences for the present year, and the naval and military establishments to be kept up, estimated the supplies at £26,700,000 ; and expressed his determination to maintain the Property Tax. He proposed that that tax should be levied at 5 per cent, for two years. Mr. Brougham reprobated it as the most inquisitorial and unconstitutional impost that had ever tortured the subject, even in time of war ; and maintained that, to continue its spirit, under any modification, when the British nation was at peace with all the world, was monstrous ! At the peace of Amiens, in March, 1802, it was abolished ; and on the very day when the news arrived of that peace. Lord Sidmouth (then Prime Minister) * A very handsome monument is erected, in the Choir of the Abbey, to the me- mory of that deserving officer. ' 1816.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 165 came down to the house and proposed a repeal of the tax on income. His Lordship said, " As a war tax, I am persuaded it was a legitimate source of revenue; but I have ever considered it in no other light than a war tax, and unnecessary and inapplicable in a time of peace." Mr. Ponsonby, Mr. Tierney, and Sir Robert Heron, followed on the same side. Petitions against its renewal, from every city and populous town in the kingdom, Avere in progress of presentation ; and one from this city in the course of signature at the Guildhall, where it ultimately received the names of two thousand inha- bitants; the county members, William Gore I^angton and ^Villiam Dickinson, Esquires, declaring their in- tention of giving it support. At length that great national question, after long and tedious discussion, was brought to an issue and decided against Ministers, who were left in a minoi'ity of thirty-seven ! They, therefore, announced their intention of discontinuing the war duty on property, and supplying the deficiency by a loan of from six to eight millions. Among other subjects of national interest, was the marriage of her Royal Highness the Princess Charlotte of Wales with Prince Leopold of Saxe Cobourg, which took place on the 2d of May. The Mayor and Corporation voted congratulatory addresses on that occasion, which were presented by the city members, Lord John Thynne and Colonel Palmer, and most graciously received. On June the 4th, the seventy -eighth anniversary of our venerable Monarch's birth-day was celebrated with every demonstration of loyalty and affection. A vast concourse of holyday visitors from the country gave our streets an unusual appearance of animation and gaiety. 166 ANNALS OV BATH. [1816. The Bath troop of yeomanry mustered on tlie occasion, and paraded in Laura-place. The niglit was propitiously fine ; and it was calculated that at least six thousand persons had assemhled to witness the brilliant description of fire-works, and the amusements of Sydney-gardens, that evening. In the early part of July following, a sudden and altogether unexpected alarm took place respecting the silver currency, Avhich originated the preceding day at Bristol. It appeared that a general refusal to receive any of the pla'tn shiUhigs then in circulation, had caused nearly a total stagnation of business in that city ; and the following being market-day here, very serious alarm pervaded every class. The poor were apprehensive of not being able to procure sustenance for their families, whilst the market people were equally under alarm that their meat, vegetables, and other commodities, would remain unsold. In this dilemma, the Mayor and Magistrates invited a conference with the bankers and principal tradesmen, who immediately signed a resolution to take the old silver coin in their usual course of business ; and the INIayor caused handbills to that effect to be promptly distributed throughout the city. This measure succeeded in immediately restoring mutual confidence, and occasioned the renewal of traffic ; and it was sub- sequently sanctioned by an explanatory letter from the Secretary of State to the Mayor of Bath, stating that the defaced coin of the realm would be taken in exchange for the new coinage, as soon as the latter was completed. Adam Smith, in his '•' Wealth of Nations," compares the coin of a kingdom to the highways through it; neither of them, he says, produce any thing ; on the contrary, they are both to be kept i)i repaii- at a certain 1816.] ANNALS OF UATH. lG7 expence ; but they greatly facilitate the conveyance from one place to another, and from one person to another, of whatever the land produces by agriculture, or what active capital has produced by manufactures and com- merce. Pcqicr money he compares to a waggon-way through the air. However, in the early part of 1817, the issue took place. The bankers of the city accepted the office of exchanging the new for the old coin ; and on the 13th of February, in that year, the disti'ibution commenced at the Guildhall. The portion allotted for Bath and its neighbourhood was £24,000, that for Bristol £36,000, and for Frome and Warminster £4,800 each. The supply Avas continued from day to day for a fort- night, so that ample time was allowed to complete the object without the necessity of pressing forward too eagerly to obtain priority ; by which means the exchange Avas effected without difficulty or confusion. On the l6th of October, the interesting ceremony of laying the foundation stone of the " New Bath District National School," took place, at Weymouth- house, which, with its adjoining premises, had been granted (for the purpose of erecting those buildings), upon very liberal terms, by the JNIarquis of Bath. The friends of the institution met of the Council-room in the Guildhall, whence a procession was formed to the Abbey Church, consisting of Sir John Coxe Hippesley (as proxy for the Lord Bishop of the diocese), the IMayor and Corporation, the Marquis of Bath, Lord John Thynne, the Committee of the National Schools of the city, the Clergy of Bath and its vicinity, and many other gentlemen who attended as friends to the under- taking. After divine service, the procession moved on to Weymouth-house, where the children of the Schools, 168 ANNALS OF BATH. [1816. amounting to several liundreds, had been previously arranged round a section of the circular foundation. — The Bishop's proxy was received on the ground by the committee, where, after a luminous expla- nation of the intended buildings by the architect, an appropriate prayer was delivered by the rector of Bath. The foundation stone was then lowered into its bed; containing the following inscription, a brass plate, having been previously deposited in a cavity beneath it : — "On the 16th day of October, 1816", in the 56th year of the rei»n of His Majesty King George the Third, being the fifth anniversary of the formation of the National Society for Promoting the Education of the Poor in the Principles of the Established Church, the Right Rev. Richard Beadon, D. D., being Lord Bishop of the Diocese; the Right Worshipful Edmund Anderdon, being Mayor of Bath ; the Rev. Charles Crook, being Rector of Bath, this inscription was placed under the foundation stone of the Bath District School, in union with the National Society (John Lowder, Esq., being Architect of the edifice), by the Lord Bishop of the Diocese, in the presence of the Mayor and Corporation of Bath, the patrons and institution, the ground being granted for the jiurpose by tlie Most Noble Thomas Marquis of Bath." The worthy baronet, Sir John Coxe Hippesley, liaving fii'st fixed the stone in customary form, then addressed the committee in a speech replete with benevolent wishes for the prosperity of the institution ; and the ceremony concluded with a blessing from the Rector. These ceremonies must ever hold a conspicuous place among the many memorable days Avhich have been dedicated, in this city, to pious and benevqlent purposes. 1816.] ANNALS Ol' UATH. 169 In these times of degenerate feeling on all subjects connected with constitutional attachments, we cannot hail with sufficient gratitude the rise of such establish- ments ; they will form our surest bulwark against the spirit of religious discord which is working mischief around us, and protect, Avith the arms of peace and righteousness, every thing that is venerable and valuable in our country, for its age, purity, and piety. The close of this year was clouded, in Bath, by the sudden deatli of James King, Esq., master of the ceremonies of Cheltenham, and of the Upper Assemby Rooms, in this city, after an indisposition of only a few days. Mr. King was a branch of a highly respectable Irish family, and had greatly distinguished himself in the British army during the American war. On the removal of Mr. Tyson to the Upper Rooms, in 178.5, he was elected master of the ceremonies of the Lower Rooms ; and on the resignation of Mr. Tyson, succeeded to the Upper Rooms, at the commencement of the season 1805, where, and at Cheltenham, he continued to officiate, highly to the satisfaction of the nobility and gentry, to the period of his decease. ^Vith a well informed mind, improved by associating with polished society, IMr. King was proverbially elegant in his person and manners, and ever assiduous in the discharge of his official duties. — Although arrived at the advanced age of seventy years, he possessed all the activity and appearance of the zenith of life. No individual, it is presumed, could have died more lamented by an extensive number of distinguished characters in the higher and fashionable circles of life. In the latter part of November, the election for the new master of the ceremonies occurred at the Upper Assembly Rooms. The mode adopted being by ballot, 170 ANA'ALS OF BATH. [1816. under the direction of a committee ; and the candidates were — James Heaviside, Esq.; Lewis P. Madden, Esq.; George Wyke, Esq. At tlie close of the ballot, the numbers stood thus : — George Wyke, Esq 258 James Heaviside, Esq 195 Lewis P. Madden, Esq 110 On the Monday succeeding, the investiture took place at the Upper Kooms, in presence of at least a thousand 2)ersons of fashion, subscribers thereto. At eight o'clock, the newly elected master of the ceremony, introduced by Sir John Coxe Hippesley and Colonel Courtney, entered the ball-room, preceded by the renter of the rooms, bearing on a salver the ribbon and medallion. Arriving at the upper end of the room. Colonel Courtney addressed Lady Caroline Morrison (seated on the bench of pi'ecedence, with other ladies of distinction), announc- ing the election of Captain Wyke, and requesting her Ladyship, in the name of the subscribers, to iuA^est him Avith the decoration and insignia of office. Her Ladyship accordingly placed the ribbon round his neck, with a suitable complimentary address, which was replied to in feeling terms by Captain Wyke. The ceremony thus ended, the master of the ceremonies proceeded to his duties ; and the remainder of the evening was passed with great hilarity, the time being (of course) unlimited- The medallion (gold enamelled, and enriched with bril- liants) was originally presented to Mr. Dawson, master of the ceremonies in 1777. One side displays a figure of Minerva, over which is the motto — " Decus et Tutamen ;" and under, " Dulce est desipere in loco." 1816.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 171 On the reverse — " Arbiter Elcgantiarum, 1777;" deco- rated with wreaths of laurel. We must now make some allusion to the particular duties of that situation ; and in doing so, shall have occasion to refer back to the memorable da} s of Nash. It was in the year 1704, when improvements in the manners and opinions of the public began to manifest themselves, and Bath to assume the distinction of a fashionable v/atering place, that the office of master of the ceremonies became vacant ; and the well-knoAvn talents of Nash, for the invention of amusement, and proviot'ion of dissipation, recommended him powerfully as a fit successor to that (then) responsible situation. — He was accordingly elected, and invested with the fullest power to order, arrange, correct, and improve the manners of the company, the routine of amusements, and the points of etiquette. These were the arduous and straigiit- forward duties of the aihiter elegantiarum. And, uncontrolled as Nash was, in the authority thus dele- gated to him, it must be confessed, he deserved great credit in having exercised it so entirely for the public good. Under his auspices Bath quickly emerged, from that obscurity in which it had been hidden for ages, to s2)lendour, elegance, and taste.* His successors to the present day, have steered through the changeable tides of popularity, with honour and probity. The funda- mental principles of well-bred gentlemen have been their beacon ; and the conscious feelino- of havino: exercised them justly and impartially, their secure and well-protected anchorage. The latter days of Nash are thus feelingly and ably pourtrayed by the Rev. Richard Warner : — " Those * Vide Warner's History, page 387. 172 ANNALS OF BATH. [1816. sprightly traits of character, which may add grace to youth, become ridiculous and disgusting in old age. The jest, that pleases at twenty-five, will shock at seventy. Nor can the most thoughtless contemplate with pleasure the man who, in the course of nature, must shortly change this being for another, idly busied about the frivolities of gay life. The public now began to treat him with neglect. The great whom he had served with such devotion, rewarded him — as they are acccustomed to remunerate the instruments of their plea- sures — by deserting him in the hour of need. Sickness attacked him, and poverty stared him in the face. — These were evils against which he had provided no defence, and therefore fell upon him with double weight. Sorrow and distress clouded the closing evening of his days ; and reflection came too late for any other purpose than to display to him the disconsolate situation of that man, when he approaches his end, who has spent his whole life in the pursuit of pleasure, and the service of folly. Mr. Nash died at his house in St. John's-court, Bath, February 3d, 1761, aged upwards of eighty-seven, and was buried with great respect and solemnity at the expence of the Corporation."* The author of " The Life of Nash," which was published shortly after his death, omitted a very humorous anecdote, which was told hi/ himself' to Mr. Thicknesse, a gentleman well known in the Bath circles, about the year 1778. It may amuse our readers, and we will therefore record it. Nash was not particularly fond of fighting (nor have we met many that are, when they can prudently avoid it), * Nash's house was the first built in Bath that attracted an3( notice by its external ornaments. It was then, both within and without, a first sight for strangers ! 1816.] ANNALS OF BATH. 173 but yet he knew that a proof his prowess was necessary before he could traverse /)?Vr/ ^/^?'?« T. CLUTTERBUCK, Esq. |^,,„^^, ^o^^stables JAMES SLOPER, Esq. > 1821.] ANNALS OF llATir. 221 1821. The arrival of the festive time of Christinas appeared to have the iiappy effect of reprcssino-, for a while, the angry feelings that had been so long fomenting, by the tedious and protracted discussions on the royal investiga- tion. Private disputants, on either side, had agreed to an armistice, and seemed more engaged with their winter enjoyments, than the quarrels and animosities of party spirit. How long the city remained in this passive state, we shall hereafter see. In referring back to the commencement of the year 1818, when the attention of the Bath public Avas called to the want of sufficient places of worship, for the increased population of the parish of Walcot, we find that the proposition for building a New Free Church, in James-street, met with unqualified ajjprobation ; insomuch that large subscriptions were immediately entered into towards defraying the expence. The building had been some time in progress ; and the committee for conducting it, now thought proper to lay a statement of their labours before the public, and par- ticularly as to the manner in which the contributions had been expended. The subscriptions from the public, in- cluding five hundred pounds from the Corporation, and the Parliamentary grant of four thousand pounds, amounted to six thousand two hundred and fifty pounds. The expences of the foundation and pin-chase of the ground liad, of themselves, swallowed up three thousand pounds ; and an additional sum, of nearly double the amount, was still necessary to complete the building. The 222 ANNALS OF BATH. [1821. original style of architecture proposed was Grecian ; but that having been considered by many not sufficiently ecclesiastical in its character, it was changed for what is commonly known as Modern Gothic. To that change the increased expenditure may be mainly attributed ; but it Avould be an act of injustice to the architect (Mr. John Lowder), if it were not stated that, in changing the style of architecture, with a view of meeting the public wishes, he had not scrupled to sacrifice the whole of his profits, both as architect and builder. The church is surrounded on three sides by ground already built on, which will account for its singular form and internal arrangements, being actually only the section of a church; and yet the whole amount expended in its erection, exceeded twelve thousand pounds ! The committee, therefore, looked forward with confidence, that the liberality which encouraged them to commence that important undertaking, would not permit to languish, for Avant of sufficient means, a work so nearly connected with the glory of God, and the best interests of mankind. We will add nothing further till the time arrives to announce its consecration. The return of the gallant Captain (now Sir Edward) Parry, from his first Polar Expedition, occurred about this time ; and it is unnecessary to say, that the safe arrival of that officer, to his native city, was hailed with joyful greetings by his family and friends. The honours that awaited him, were but a just reward for superior talents and enterprizing spirit. In the first place, the Corporation unanimously voted him the freedom of the city, in a box of heart of oak. It was made from part of Captain Parry's own ship, the Hecia, and was thus embellished : — In the centre of the top, a fine gold oval 1821.] ANNAi.s OF i^\Tn. 223 medallion, beautifully cliascd in relief, represented liis vessel, towed by boats, passing imincnso icc-bergs, with a view of the Griper in the distance, being a copy from a drawing taken during the expedition. The medallion is snrroimded by a rich oak leaf border, and surmounted by a naval crown. The inside of the cover bears the following inscription : — " Presented to William Edward Parry, Esq., Commaiulcr in tlic Royal Navy, by the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council, of the city of Bath, as a token of their liigli sense of the importance of the late discoveries in the Polar Seas, and the many eminent qualities displayed by him during that perilous expedition." It was presented at the Guildhall, March 24th, by John Wiltshire, Esq., the Mayor, in the presence of the Body Corporate, and a large assemblage of citizens. A meeting was also held at the Guildhall, for the purpose of opening a subscription to purchase a piece of plate, to present to that gallant officer on his return fi'om the Polar Regions. The INIayor was called to the chair. His Grace the Duke of Somerset moved the first resolution, in an eloquent speech ; and Sir John Coxe Hippesley, as seconder of that resolution, made many highly appropriate observations, hoping the result of that day would be worthy the object for which they met, and produce a substantial testimonial that might descend to the gallant Captain's latest posterity, as a signal mark of his own intrepid conduct, and the admiration and esteem of his fellow-townsmen. The presentation and description of the testimonial shall be reserved for the connnencement of the succeeding year. The Bath and \¥est of England Agricultural Society likewise voted their Bedfordian gold medal to 224 ANNALS OF BATH. [1821. Captain Parry, wliicli (from the unavoidable absence of that officer) was presented to Dr. Charles Parry, his brother. The following inscription was engraved round the edffe of the medal : — •*»"■ " William Edward Parry, tlic explorer of tlie Polar Sea." It now becomes our pleasing duty to record the celebration, in this city, of the coronation of George the Fourth — the day which rivetted, in grand solemnities, that Sovereign to the people and laws of Great Britain. It was a day of universal and uninterrupted joy ; a day that will be remembered, with pleasure, at distant periods, and for which a space of sixty-one years had not furnished a precedent. At the earliest dawn of day, discharges of cannon were heard, and immediately afterwards the bells from the several towers commenced their enlivening peals. Long before the accustomed hours of business, the streets displayed a scene of active preparation for the evening's grandeur. The banks and principal shops were spontaneously closed ; and, in combination with delightful weather, and animated countenances, every thing foretold a joyous celebration. About eleven o'clock, a municipal procession took place through the principal streets, comprising the Mayor and Body Corporate, preceded by the chikben of the Blue Coat School and a band of music, followed by the parochial and other clergy of the city. Divine service was performed at the Abbey, which was crowded to an unprecedented excess. After the sermon, an anthem was sung by a full choir, under the direction of Mr. Field, the organist. That part of the day's ceremony 1821.] AXNALS or BATH. 225 being concluded, the luglicr classes repaired to Sydney- gardens, Avhere INlr. Farnhani (the renter) had prepared one of those elegant entertainments for which he was so pre-eminent ; and where choice refreshments, delightful music and social convei'sation, served to pass away the remaining part of the forenoon. At six o'clock, the doors of the banqueting-room, at the Guildhall, were thrown open, and presented tables for three hundred guests, Avhich were supplied by Mr. Reilly with every luxury the season could afford. Nor must we omit to state, that while the upper and middle classes of society were partaking the enjoy- ments of the festive board, the poorer were not forgotten. By orders from the Corporation, twelve hogsheads of strong beer were distributed, at as many distinct stations throughout the city ; and the children of the National and Blue Coat Schools were regaled with a comfortable dinner. Neither were the parish officers unmindful of the poor under their care ; and either svipplied substantial meals, or the means of providing them. And that worthy philanthropist, Mr. Parish, with his accustomed generosity, regaled the unfortunate inmates of the jail. Indeed, avc may add, that there was not a poor person in the city, or a charitable institution of any kind, that did not, in some way or other, join in the festivities of the coronation-day. The general illumination, in the evening, was indeed a splendid sight. The inhabitants of INIilsom, Bond, and Union-streets, adopted the novel plan of a grand colonnade, and illuminated arches across their respective streets, which succeeded beyond their expectations, and produced a magnificent effect. The view from Edgai*- buildings down Milsom-street, to the extremity of Old p 226 ANNAI.S OF BATH. [1821. Bond-street, liad all the eiFect of those fairy scenes, the recital of which has so often delighted us in our younger days. It would, however, be a tedious undertaking to attempt an explanation of the devices exhibited in each particular street or building ; suffice it to say, that coloured lamps, stars, ci'owns, and transparencies, were displayed in the greatest profusion and endless variety. The following evening there were two balls in honour of the occasion, at the Guildhall and Sydney- hotel ; and with these ended the rejoicings attendant on the coronation of George the Fourth. The demise of her Majesty Queen Caroline occurred soon after the solemnity of the coronation, at which she had ill-advisedly endeavoured to appear. The excitement evidently produced in the mind of her Majesty, by her disappointment in a participation of the honours of sovereignty, was thought to have been the cause of the brief and fatal illness which almost immediately followed. The liOndon mail, of August 9th, communicated that melancholy event as having taken place on the night of the 7th, at half-past ten. Immediately the bells of the Abbey and other churches were tolled ; and the shops throughout the city were partially closed. The circumstances of her Majesty's return to England, her trial, and manner of conducting herself, must be fresh in the recollection of many of our readers ; and the result of that trial is so recently alluded to in these pages, that it becomes imnecessary to say more on the subject. Previous to her Majesty's death, she expressed an earnest wish to be buried at Brunswick ; and his Majesty's ship Glasgoiv, commanded by Sir Bentinck Cavendish Doyle, had been assigned to convey the body to Cuxhaven. It is a singular coincidence, that Sir 1821.] ANNAI.S OF HATH. 227 Bentinck, was the ofliccr who, on the 28th of March, 1795, liandcd lier JMajcsty the rope to assist her up the side of the Jupiter, when she embarked at Cuxhaven to be married ! Her JMajesty was the daugliter of Charles AViUiam Ferdinand, Prince of Brunswick Wolf- cnbuttel. Her mother was sister of George the Third ; consequently she was the first cousin of her husband, George the Fourth ; and was born in May, 1768 — being fifty-three years of age. AVhat a field was here for reflection ! She, at the bare mention of whose name, but a few months previ- ously, the whole empire was in motion — she, whose faults and sufferings ai-e now mingled only with pity and regret, is gone to appear before that tribunal which cannot err. Her judges and accusers — some have, and all must, one^day follow her to account for their deeds, and in their turn be judged likewise. Her history, her errors, and her sufferings, are now mere subjects of scrutiny to an impartial posterity. In the autumn of this year, the Earl of Liverpool (then First Lord of the Treasury) found it necessary to retire, for a few weeks, from the fatigues of office, to take the benefit of the healing springs of Bath ; and the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council, came to the unanimous resolution of presenting his Lordship with the freedom of the city. Accordingly, on the 22d of December, the presentation took place in the banqueting- room of the Guildhall, the freedom being enclosed in a gold box, of superior workmanship. The Mayor, in addressing his Lordship, stated — " that the freedom of this city was presented to him in testimony of the high sense they entertained of his I^ordship's public services, during a hnig and trying period, no less distinguished by 228 ANNALS OF BATH. [1821. unparalleled difficulties, than by the wisdom and energy of measures which, under his Lordship's auspices, not only ensured security to the United Kingdom, but established the independence of Europe." The Noble Earl modestly replied — That he received with pleasure that mark of approbation of his public conduct, from so respectable a body as the Corporation of the city of Bath ; and added these words : — " If I and my colleagues have contributed to the preservation and independence of Europe, and promoted the prosperity of this country, our best reward is the approbation of our fellow- countrymen." At the termination of the year, public attention was particidarly called to the unfortunate inhabitants of those miserable abodes recently built on that low, swampy spot of ground, called the Dolemeads, and its immediate vicinity. The erection of those cottages, continuing from year to year, became a nuisance to the neighbourhood ; and, at length, a perfect colony of vice and dissipation. To thread the mazes of those wretched dwelling-places, became really a work of danger, whether from the difficulty of approach, or the doubtful characters that inhabited them. However, as it Avould be unjust to say no discrimination Avas due, we find public benefi- cence, as usual, busy in the cause of humanity. The torrents of rain that had fallen for the last two weeks in December, had caused the river to overflow its banks full twelve feet above the customary level ; and the Dolemeads presented one immense sheet of water. It was of that sudden nature, that the inhabitants were, without much previous warning, driven to their upper apartments, and even to the house-tops, from whence they were rescued by boats. Though, happily, the flood 1821.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 229 was not attended with those fatal effects which marked the same occurrence in 1809, yet it was long before those hapless cottagers were restored to a compa- rative state of comfort. In a short time the sum of one hundred and eighty -one pounds sixteen shillings was collected for their relief,, and the disposal of it left to the discretion of the Society for the Relief of Occasional Distress. A committee of that society reported, that the bounty of the public had supplied them with more than ample means for the immediate relief required, and they hoped the public would approve the principle on which they acted ; namely, not to exceed the measure of sufficient relief, by any extent of funds at their dis})osal ; being fully persuaded that, by so doing, it would withdraw the poor from reliance on their own exertions, and lead them to speculate on periodical recurrences of those accidents and applications — an effect of cliarity equally injurious to the public and themselves. From the fore<>oin«: collection, immediate relief was afforded to six hundred and twenty-seven families, in distributions of coals, provisions, and money ; and the remaining sum deposited in the Savings' Bank, to be hereafter ap])licd to the relief of the poor, in the event of any great or sudden distress. The census of the Bath population was taken in June this year ; and the following was the result : — Total of the city and suburbs 46,700 Increase in ten years 8,516 Ditto in twenty years 12,537 Consequent on this increase, and the extent of buildings in the upper part of Bath for some years past, 230 ANNALS Ol' BATH. [1821. great inconvenience was felt in that part of the city, by the tedious dispatch and delivery of their letters ; and complaint was made by certain inhabitants as to the inappropriate situation of the Post-office, in Kingston- buildings. Application was accordingly made to the proper authorities in London, which was immediately attended to; and a large house, near the Grammar School, in Broad-street, taken for the purpose, and arrangements were made for the early delivery of letters, which gave great satisfaction to the city generally. In concluding the events of 1821, we have to record the death of Mr. William INIeyler, a member of the Body Corporate, and a magistrate for the city. He was joint proprietor and editor of the Bath Herald, of which he had been the principal conductor since its first esta- blishment, in 1792. A residence of half a century in Bath, commenced in the infancy of its prosperity, pro- cured him an acquaintance with many literary and scientific characters of the day. His own pretensions to literature were of no ordinary stamp ; and the public have often been favoured with the productions of his pen, both in poetry and prose. Few persons were more deservedly or more deeply regretted. The Annual Election of Civic Officers took place as follows : — WILLIAM CLARK, Esq.,— BIayor. JOHN KITSON, Esq. ED3IUN0 ANDERDON, Esq, G. E. ALLEN, Esq. 1 G. H. TUGWELL, Esq. E. PICKWICK, Esq. JOHN WILTSHIRE, Esq. ABEL MOYSEY, Esq. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. GEORGE LYE, Esq. J L THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— Chamberlain. WILLIAM CLARK, JuN., Esq. 1 sheriffs J. F. GUNNING, Esq. > GEORGE NORMAN, Esq. 1 „,^„ Constables. HENRY MANT, Esq. * 18iil2.] ANNALS OF BATH 2iil 1822. On the 23(1 of January, the subscribers again assem- bled at the Guildhall, for the presentation of the plate voted last year to the gallant C'aptain Parry ; his Grace the Duke of Somerset presided on the occasion. Dr. Charles Parry appeared as the representative of his gallant brother, to whom his Grace addi-essed himself: — He alluded to the accession of renown imparted to the nautical reputation of this country, by tlie progress Captain Parry had made towards the accomplishment of an enterprize so often undertaken, and as often aban- doned ; and enumerated, in energetic language, the various qualities displayed by that gallant and scientific officer. Dr. Parry replied to the Noble Duke in an appropriate speech ; and the meeting shortly afterwards separated. The plate alluded to was a magnificent vase, after the form of the celebrated Warwick vase, but divested of the Bacchanalian emblems, and decorated with others more appropriate to the natm-e of the service Captain Parry was employed on. The singularly bold and beautiful form of the handles was preserved; but the vine, with its tendrils and clusters, was exchanged for the British oak, with its foliage and acorns, forming a rich wreath immediately under the lip of the vessel. On a projection of the handles, is suspended the laurel wreath of triumph. The masks and tiger's skin of the original are entirely omitted ; and the bulrush, intermixed with the lotus, substituted. The vase is supported by four dolphins, and the plinth covered with shells and coral, in 232 ANNALS OF BATH. [1822. imitation of a sea shore. The pedestal is much enriched, and the olive wreath introduced, illustrative of the pacific nature of the enterprize. To avoid the heaviness arising from a square form of the pedestal, it was made octagonal, on the four smaller sides of which are trophies composed of nautical and scientific instruments, and of those implements used especially in the Icy Seas. Two of the large sides of the pedestal contain chasings from original drawings, by Captain Parry ; one representing the Hecla and Grijier covered in for the winter ; and the other, their situation in the neighbourhood of an iceberg. The third side contains Captain Parry's arms ; the fourth, the following inscription : — To WILLIAM EDWARD PARRY, Esq., Commander in tlie Royal Navy, In commemoration of A Voyage of Discovery, performed in his Majesty's sliips Hecla and Griper, under his command, in the years 1819 and 1820, In which he effected a passage through Lancaster Sound, into the Polar Sea; And having discovered many new lands, And passed a winter, of ten months' duration, surrounded by Ice, in the harbour of Melville Island, Returned to Great Britain with the loss of only one man ; Thus carrying the British Flag into Seas over wliich no Ship had yet passed, and displaying, throughout this unprecedented undertaking, A degree of nautical science, intrepidity, perseverance, and humanity, which has reflected a lasting honour on himself, his profession, and his country. This Vase is presented by several Inhabitants of Bath, his Native City, ' MDCCCXXI. 1822.] ANNALS OF BATH. 233 The pedestal is eight inches, and the vase thirteen inches high; the diameter of the latter, at the top, twelve inches. The interior will contain eight quarts ; and the whole weighs three hinidred and sixty-two ounces, or thirty pounds two ounces troy weight. To gratify public curiosity, it was left open for exhibition for some Aveeks ; and the unqualified appro- bation, so universally bestowed on this unique, tasteful, and splendid trophy, must have been particularly grati- fying to Messrs. Payne and Sons, of Old Bond-street, by whom it was designed and executed. Havinir thus had the gratification to record the enter- prising deeds of our gallant countryman, and to notice the handsome testimonial of his fellow-townsmen, it is somewhat remarkable that it should be our melancholy task to place on record, immediately afterwards, the death of his much-respected father, Dr. Caleb Hillier Parry, F.R.S., who departed this life, at his residence in Sion-place, aged 66. Possessing the most vigorous and energetic mind, and adorned with accomplishments of the most varied and rare description, he had, during a period of nearly forty years, sustained, in this city, a brilliant professional and social career; when, in 1816, by an awfid dispensation of Providence, he was suddenly deprived of intercourse with the world around him, and doomed to linger the remainder of his days under the most acute and complicated maladies. Dr. Parry's first professional public effort avus in a communication addi-essed to the Medical Society in London, on the nature and pathological history of certain nervous affections of the head, which tract displayed much genius and original power of observation. In 1797, he published a treatise on a disease called " Angina 234 ANNALS OF BATH. [1822. Pectoris." This essay was received by the profession as an additional indication of Dr. Parry's eminent talents, and is recognised as a work of standard excel- lence. His next publication was one which evinced much general knowledge as a natural historian and physiologist, as well as a masterly handling of the subject : it was a " Treatise on Wool." The object of Dr. Parry in pursuing the series of experiments which he undertook on this interesting branch of natural history, a theme so high in point of national importance, was to ascertain the possibility of producing the finest Spanish avooI, from the Merino sheep in England, being impressed with a conviction of the absurdities of those opinions, which attributed to the climate of Spain, exclusively, the power of producing that wool. And he succeeded in proving the justness of his theory, and in leading Lord Somerville and other distinguished agriculturists to the production of that article, superior in perfection to the produce of the original Spanish breed. Dr. Parry's next publi- cations were " Observations on the Pulse" and a " Treatise on Hydrophobia and Tetanus," in which the respective origins of these generally fatal diseases were most ably traced from observation. But the greatest and most characteristic work of this eminent philosopher and physician was his " Elements of Pathology," published in 1816, which is professionally considered as an almost unparalleled example of great originality and capacity, combined Avith profound research and observation. At the meetings of that useful and enlightened body, the Bath and West of England jVgricultural Society (of wlii^ih he was a Vice President) his reasonings, remarks and commu- 1822.] ANNAI,S Ol' IlATi;. 235 nications, were in the highest degree instructive and entertaining. In short, the death of Dr. Parry was considered by the whole medical profession, and by society at large, as a great public calamity. The funeral at the Abbey was attended by the medical profession of the city, at their own particular request, as a tribute of respect to an individual, who had long possessed their unbounded confidence and affection. A handsome monument was afterwards erected, within the choir of the Abbey church, to the memory of that lamented gentleman, at the sole expence of the medical profession of the city, as a further testimony of their high esteem for the exalted individual whose demise it records. Tlie tablet is surmounted by appropriate emblems, and executed in a manner which reflects great credit on the taste and talents of the sculptor, INIr. T. King, of ^Valcot House. The following is the incription : — H. S. E. CALEB HILLIER PARRY, M.D.R.S.S. VIR PROBUS, CULTOR UEI PIUS, MEDICUS SAGAX. ARTEM QUA POLLEBAT, IN HAC URBE, PER ANNOS FERE, X.L. INGENIO, MORIBUS MULTIPLICI LITTERARUM COGNITIONE, EXORNAVIT : SCIENTIA, NATURE INDAGATIONE PERSPICACI, FELICITER PKOMOVIT. NE TANTO NOMINI ULLA PARS OBSERVANTIiE DESIDERARETUR, AMICI, EADEM ARTE CONSOCIATI, HOC MARMOR P. C. VIXIT ANNOS LXVI. OBIIT IX. DIE MENS. MART. A. S. MDCCCXXII. 236 ANNALS OF BATH. [1822. The unparalleled distress which existed among the peasantry in the south west coast of Ireland this year, from the failure of their potatoe crops, and other unforeseen circumstances, had reduced them to such a state of misery, that famine, typhus fever, and all their attendant horrors, were extending their ravages with an unsparing hand. To such a degree of despon- dency had they arrived, that the unhappy sufferers welcomed even the approach of death in its most frightful form as a means of terminating their miseries, and their lives. In this state of distress, the sad details reached our city, and a meeting was forthwith held at the Guildhall, for the purpose of opening a subscription for their relief. The Venerable Archdeacon Moysey presided. J. G. De Eurgh, Esq., made a brief, but forcible appeal in behalf of his unhappy countrymen. He said, that in the hour of affliction and distress, they looked to England for aid : from the white cliffs of Albion Avould ever be found the genius of charity dispensing the blessings of that heavenly attribute, no matter how far distant the habitations of wretchedness and misery. Hastings Elwin, Esq., pourtrayed the sufferings of the peasantry in those districts, in language that rivetted the attention of his auditoi-s, and excited the deepest sympathy : he stated such to be the extent of that calamity, that the enumeration of its victims, was made, 7iot by families, but by thousands, by Baronies, by Counties ! That gentleman was followed by other able speakers : numerous subscriptions were entered into, and the company separated with the pleasing reflection, that they had laid the foundation of another honourable testimony of ' that extensive charitable fcelhig, which the inhabitants of Bath are ever ready to evince in all cases of public, or private 1822.] ANNALS OK BATH. 237 calamity. In July following, the London Committee addressed an affecting apjjeal to the civic authorities throughout tlic kingdom, urging renewed and increased exertions in behalf of that ill-fated countiy. They stated, that the progress of pestilence and famine had arrived at a most ajjpalling magnitude, that the liberal funds already supplied for their relief, were exhausted, and that nearly two months of accumulated horrors yet remained in gloomy perspective, before the natural sources of their own soil could be expected to mitigate their wretched condition. Our worthy chief magistrate, with laudable alacrity, immediately ordered a re-print of that circular, to be distributed throughout the city, preparatory to an application from house to house, for further subscriptions. The cause was further advocated, and proportionably aided by a circular letter from his JNIajesty, which was directed to be read in every parish church throughout Great Britain. The result of these appeals to the Bath pubhc may be briefly stated. — By private subscriptions, in the first instance, collec- tions at the different churches and chapels, and afterwards from house to house a total sum of £4275 16.9. 8f?. was raised, which was transmitted at different times to the Secretary of the London Committee. — The aggregate amount received by contributions throughout the kingdom was £92,363 18*. Or/., inde- pendent of the innumerable supplies of every description of provisions, which were gratuitously collected and sent from the different sea ports along the whole coast of England, Scotland, and Wales. On the 10th of December, the Consecration of the New Church in St. James's street, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, took place. The day was unusually propitious for the season of the year, and imparted 238 ANNALS OF BATH. [1822. that cheerfulness, universally desirable, at such an interesting and important ceremony. At ten o'clock, the doors were opened, and in a short time, the gallery and body of the church were fiUed, upwards of fifteen hundred tickets having been issued on that occasion. At eleven, the Lord Bishop of Gloucester (acting for our Venerable Diocesan) entered, and Av^as met by the gentlemen of the Building Committee, and a large body of clergy. The Mayor and Corpo- ration took their seats at the same time, in the front of the lower gallery. After the ceremony of conse- cration had been performed, the service for the day was read by the Rev. E. Crawley, Avho was appointed minister of the church, when the Bishop ascended the pulpit and delivered an eloquent sermon suited to the occasion and an impressive charge to the officiating minister. The following contributions, in aid of the funds for erecting the edifice, claim our especial notice : — The Corporation of Bath — £'500. A complete Service of Sacramental Plate, consisting of two Flagons, two Chalices, and three Salvers ; the whole richly chased and highly wrought. On the rim of each being engraved " An Offering of Grati- tude to Almighty God, by a Native of Bath." — The Donor unknown. The Communion Linen by Messrs. Shaw & Son, of the Abbey Church Yard. Fifty Pounds by Robeet Moody, Esq., and £52 10s. by Mrs. Jenkins, of Wells, for the Altar. The Pulpit and Reading Desk by Anonpnous Contributors. Mrs. Mauhiot, of Axford Buildings, Bible, Prayer Book, and two Books for the Communion Table. The Rev. Martin Stafford, a fine toned Bell. The Ornamental Fronts of the Two Galleries by Joshua Watson, Esq., of London, one of the Treasurers of the Society for Promoting Christian Kno\\lcdge. And Philip George, Esq., presented the Committee with the legal expences for the Conveyance of the Ground on which it stands. 1822.] ANNALS OF BATH. 239 III' concluding the events of this year wc have great pleasure in noticing a second present of Plate, to our wortliy townsman, John Smith Soden, Esq., The first was presented to that gentleman some time since, by the Governors of the Bath Eye Infirmary, as a testimony of their approbation of his unremitting, successful, and gratuitous professional exertions as surgeon of that Institution for seven years. The second was from that liberal philanthropist John Tarish, Esq., and bore the following inscription : — To JOHN SMITH SODEN, Esq., Of tlic City of Bath, Surgeon to t!ie Bath Penitentiary aiul Lock Hospital, Who, from the first Institution of tlie Charity In 181G, Has, with eq\ial skill, assiduity anil humanity. Devoted his professional services to its ohjects, witho\it other Reward, than their gratitude and the Puhlic Esteem. This Vase is presented as a Token of Respect and Regard, By his sincere friend, John Parish, November, 1822. The Civic Officers for the ensuing year were as follows : — CHARLES CROOK, Esq.— Mayor. WILLIAM CLARK, Es(i. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Es(i. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. JOHN KITSON, Esu. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. a. E. ALLEN, Esq. G. H. TUGWELL, Esq. ELEAZER PICKWICK, Esq. GEORGE LYE, Esq. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. J. WILTSHIRE, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq — Cuambeiilain. JAMES SLOPER, Esq. IsHERirrs. JOHNSON PHILLOTT, Esq.' T. S. CAM, Esq. T. CLUTTERUUCK, Esq. }Higii Constables. 240 ANNALS OF BATH. [1823. 1823. In referring to the popular subscription concerts of this city, which, after the death of Rauzzini, in April, 1810, had been taken up with great spirit and effect by Mr. Ashe, we find them, at the commence- ment of this year, continued imder the able direction of Sir George Smart and Mr. Loder, the first of an announced series having taken place on the last day of the old year. A new orchestra had been built at the exti'emity of the room opposite to that at Avhich the old one stood, which gave superior effect to the music, and afforded a better vieAV of the performers. The selection did infinite credit to the taste of the directors, and the performers sustained their high reputation in a manner that evinced an emulative desire to give eclat to the undertaking. Upwards of one thousand persons were present, which alone marked it as a brilliant commencement. The Theatre also was maintaining its high rank and reputation at this time, under very able management. It is unneces- sary for us to allude to the essential benefits which such entertainments confer on this city ; they constitute a part of the stajile commoditij of the place, for doubtless without them Bath Avoidd have long since sunk into insignificance. Its healing fountains might have been no less celebrated and resorted to by the valetudinarian, its classic structures, and the loveliness of its site and environs, might have formed no less than at present a theme of praise for the votaries of taste, of quietude, and of pure enjoyments ; but, for the resort of the 1823.] ANNALS OF BATH. 241 wealthy, the fashionable, the influential, of those who seek, and those who disjiense the more exciting attrac- tions of gaiety and splendour, Bath must have possessed a limited share of fascination : and the spirit and industry of its trading and humbler classes, (at present so pre-eminent) would have had far less incitement and scope for exertion. One of the principal events of 1823, as connected with the interests and welfare of this city, was a meeting held at the vestry room in Walcot parish, with respect to the holding Quarterly and General Sessions of the Peace for a particular district in this county, viz., the Hundreds of Bathforum and Wellow, the liberty of Hampton and Claverton, and the city of Bath, instead of the General Quarter Sessions at the county towns in which they are now held, the inconvenience of which was generally and grievously felt. In July, 183 1, the subject was again brought forward, and a memorial was presented to the magis- trates, at the Somerset Quarter Sessions, praying their concurrence in a Petition to Parliament for a judicial division of the county. It was in the early part of this year that the union of the Bath City Infirmary and Casualty Hospital took place, the subscribers and trustees of both establishments having mutually consented thereto. A conmiittce was formed to carry that union into effect, and the first step was to give immediate publicity to their intentions. It was an object, according to the opinion of those most competent to judge, especially calculated to further tlie advancement of medical and surgical knowledge, and no less expedient for the interests of the poor. In the promotion of it, it was not intended to hazard the 242 ANNALS OF BATH. [1823. capital, or establishment of either institution ; they were to remain as before, imtil public generosity should have provided a sufficient fund for building the United Hospital, when both establishments were to be blended in one, lodged under one roof, and subject to one administration. The sum required for the new building was estimated at £5,000 (exclusive of the ground and furniture) of which £3,000 was provided, and a foi'cible appeal was made to the public for further support, to bring that important undertaking to a conclusion. The Corporation contributed £1,000 (including a former subscription of £300, in 1820, when the erection of a new Casualty Hospital was in contemplation) ; the Members for the city, also gave £100, and numerous other sums were immediately subscribed. The local situations of those two Hospitals, previous to their union, being probably only known to the old inhabitants of the city, it may, therefore, be as well to state, that the Infirmary was a large house on the Lower Borough-walls, formerly a tavern, was commodiously fitted up for the purpose, and has since remained unoccupied. The Casualty Hospital was an old house on the north side of Kingsmead-square, which insti- tution owed its origin to a subscription by a few inhabitants of the city, in 1788, for the purpose of providing an asylum, for such labouring people as should unfortunately, in the pursuit of their several avo- cations, meet with injuries of any description. The dila- pidated state of that building, first led to the proposals for erecting a new one, and vdtimately to the union of the two. James Norman, Esq., a distinguished surgeon of this city, was the first projector of the Casualty Hospital and for many years its sole professional support, 1823.] ANNALS OF J5ATH. 243 Public institutions in this city, of any description, were, in former times, very few, and surgical or medical aid difficult to be procured. As the population increased, the necessity of such assistance became more manifest, and in the year 1747, " a scheme was com- menced for supplying the villages of ^Valcot and Widcombe with medicine gratis." That charitable design was called the " Pauper Scheme," which afterwards increased very much, in consequence of which, not only many sick persons were restored to health, but often preserved from distress and ruin. There was a meeting of the contributors to that " Scheme" held at the Bear Inn, the first INIonday in every month, "when and where (as the notices expressed) all well-wishers and patrons of that design were desired to attend, and give their advice and assistance towards promoting and conducting it, in the most proper and effectual manner." It is now our pleasing duty to announce that the unsightly houses, attached to the venerable Abbey, commenced being removed this year. In noticing their demolition, it will be necessary to refer back to " Warner's History of Bath," which, in a clear and able manner, accounts for their erection. It appears that in the parish church of St. Peter and St. Paul there existed one of the most ancient, religious edifices in the city of Bath, called " Stalls Church," so named as being dedicated to St. Mary de Scalls.* " In the year 1573, the four churches — St. Peter and St. Paul, Stalls (with Widcombe appendant), St. Mi- chael's, and St. James, were consolidated into one rectory, under letters patent of Queen Elizabeth, and • Vide Appendix (Warner's History), Ixviii. ci 3 244 ANNALS OF BATH. [1823. the patronage of it vested in the Corporation of Bath. In 1584, the Mayor and Corporation bestowed that consolidated rectory on Sir Richard Meredith. That presentation, however, it should seem, was not the free gift of disinterested patronage ; they expected a return for the favour; and the obligation of the incumbent was to be cancelled by more solid acknowledgments than those of unsubstantial gratitude. The very year of Meredith's presentation, he gave a lease to the JMayor and chief citizens of all the property belonging to the five churches, their church-yards, lands, tenements, and rents, reserving nothing for himself but the vicarage house of Stalls. Availing themselves of this opportunity to apply the lands belonging to the churches to their own use, they immediately began to erect mansions upon the consecrated ground, for the residence of them- selves and their connexions. Stalls Church-yard was, consequently, covered with houses ; and that magnificent fabric, the Abbey Church (justly the boast and beauty of Bath), polluted, disgraced, and disfigured, by the mean residences of private individuals, attached to its venerable walls. From that period Stalls Church declined, service was discontinued there, neglect and time gradually crumbled it into ruins, its remains were removed, and even the remembrance of its exact site is now lost and forgotten." The unsightly buildings in question had, for many years, and during several mayoralties, attracted the especial attention of the Corporation, of which the city records bear ample testimony ; and in the year 1816, on the inauguration of the Chief Magistrate, they were alluded to in a sermon preached by tlie Rev. Francis Skurray, at the Abbey Church ; and which seemed 1823.] ANNALS or BATH. 245 somewhat prophetic of the alterations and improvements that have since taken phice. He said, — " If the predic- tion, ' the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain,' was to be the sign of the times, in its literal acceptation, where should we find its more complete development than in this elegantly constructed city? But there is one improvement still wanting, which, in its connection with religion, is not unworthy of recom- mendation from a place that is occupied by the ambassador of God. We are at this moment assembled within a temple, whose vaulted roof has for centuries reverberated with ' Hallelujah, for the Lord God omni- potent reigneth,' Avhose walls inclose the ashes of piety and heroism to remote ages of antiquity. But, how does it offend the eye of taste, Avhen we consider its beautiful exterior screened from public view by crowded and incongruous deformities ! If it be true that the mind receives, from certain circumstances, a secret sympathetic aid, then a view of this disencumbered temple, rising from the consecrated ground in finished proportions, would have a beneficial operation on the mind of men. Shall improvements appear in every street, and every receptacle of fashion, and the House of God be the solitary exception ? Oh ! furnish, in these days of luke-warmness, a practical illustration to your fellow- citizens, that you really love the habitation of God's house, and the place where His honour dwellcth." V'Nniether that forcible appeal to the authorities was the foundation of all that has since occurred, we are imable to say ; but the following extracts from the city records may prove acceptable and satisfactory : — " %Uh October, 1819. " Resolveii,— That no fnrthor renewals of llie houses in Wade's-passage, adjoining to tlic Alibcy Cliiirch, be granted, and tliat notice thereof 246 ANNALS Ol' BATH. [1823. be given to the several lessees of the same ; and that such renevi'als be withheld, for the purpose of taking douii and removing the houses." " WthJuly, 1823. " Resolved, — That no further renewals of the houses at the bottom of the Market-place, extending from the one occupied by Mr. Hales, near the Grove, to the one occupied by Mr. Webb, in Cheap-street, be granted by this Corporation ; and that notice of this resolution be given to the lessees of the several houses there." With these testhnonials of practical good intended by the Corporate Body, we need only again repeat, that the demohtion of these unsightly houses commenced this year. The premises formerly occupied by Mrs. Wright, at the north-west corner, and the large house in the Grove, then in possession of INlr. Webster, were soon levelled with the groimd ; and Lord Manvers intimated his intention not to renew the leases of his property on the south side of that noble structure ; so there was every prospect that in due time the whole of the houses, which had so long encumbered its walls, and obscured its architectural beauty, Avould be entirely removed, and not a vestige left to mark the spot of their existence. In this happy progress of improvement, Ave leave for the present " the pride and beauty of Bath," and i-eturn to other subjects. The destruction of the I^ower Rooms, by fire, in December, 1820, of which detailed accounts have been already given, induced many scientific gentlemen of the city to turn their thoughts towards the erection of a Literary and Scientific Institution, on the site of those Rooms. It must be acknowledged, that it had been long- since a standing reproach to the enlightened inhabitants of this city, that Bath alone, of all the great towns in the kingdom, should have so long remained without 182;i.] ANNALS OF BATH. 247 such an establislnncnt, which would seem to be cs])ecially (lemanded by tlic pccuhar luiture of her fixed as well as temporary and Huctuatiug population. The object of such building was to provide a place of resort, not merely for the studious, but for the inhabitants of Bath generally, and its visitors: — to supply it with a library of reference, and the means of information in every branch of science and literature: — to provide a suitable apart- ment, in which lectures might l)e given on all subjects which could assist in the instruction of youth ; — where public meetings, for useful purposes, might conveniently be held, and works of art exhibited to excite or demonstrate the progress of the student or professor. Accordingly, a correspondence took place with the noble owner of the ground and ruins (Earl Manvers) on the subject, and the result was, a liberal proposal, on the part of his Lordship, to devote the sum of four thousand pounds received for the insurance of the premises, together with the old materials, estimated at one thousand pounds, towards erecting a suite of rooms on the same spot, for a " Literary and Scientific Institu- tion," and to grant a lease of the building, when erected, at a moderate rent, for a long term of years. As it was reasonably required, on the part of I^ord JNIanvcrs, that certain provisional engagements should be entered into by persons whom his Lordship was satisfied to accept as his responsible tenants ; and that the plan of the building should be submitted to the approbation of his Lordship (by whom it was to be erected), the following gentlemen undertook that office, holdino- their interest in trust for the subscribers : — Sir John Coxe Kippcsley, Rart. ; Sir John Keane. liart. ; Sir John Palmer ^icland, Bart. ; Rev. Thomas Leman ; 248 ANNALS OF BATH. [1823. Francis Ellis, Esq. ; Charles Dumbleton, Esq.; Hastings Elwin, Esq. ; and the Marquis of Lansdowne not only expressed his approbation of the plan, but consented to preside over its interests. A declaration of trust was consequently executed, explanatory of the design, binding the above-named trustees to the execution of it, in conjunction with a committee to be appointed by the subscribers. An abstract of that deed was given to the public, as the best exposition of the objects of the enterprize ; the whole of which being too voluminous for this publication, we shall add only brief extracts of the terms and proposals : — T£RMS. A building to be erected on tlie site of the Kingston Assembly Rooms, according to a plan agreed on, for a term of forty years, from the 24th of June, 1825, subject to the annual rent of two hundred and fifty pounds for the first twenty years, and the annual rent of three hundred pounds for the remainder of the term ; and to cease at the end of any five years, on notice. PROPOSALS. The premises to be appropriated for an establishment for the cultiva- tion and pi-omotion of science and literature, to be called " Tlie Bath Literary and Scientific Institution." And, for the purpose of forming and maintaining such establishment, the trustees propose raising a sum of eight thousand guineas, by sale of four hundred shares, at twenty guineas per share, and an annual subscription of two guineas per share. Then follow various rules and regulations. Such were the outlines of the proposed " Literary Institu- tion ;" and we shall leave to our future records the announcement of its progress. The re-opening of that long-neglected place of worship, Magdalen Chapel, in Holloway (or we should rather say, the restoration of it), became one of the 182a.] ANNALS OF BATH. 249 improvements of this year. The Rev. Charles Crook, rector of Bath, and master of the chapel, directed the dilapidations, which neglect and the unsparing hand of time had occasioned, to be arrested, and the entire building to undergo a complete repair. It was "a measure of much accommodation to the inhabitants resident in that neighbourhood, many of whom were two miles from any place of worship attached to the Established Church. In July, 1824, the chapel w^as opened for the celebration of divine service, the perform- ance of which continued until the consecration of Widcombe New Church, in 18.'33, when it was again closed, and has not since been assigned to any particular purpose. Leland, the antiquary, mentions this chapel in his visit to Bath, in the year 1530. In the account which he gives of his entrance over the Old Bridge, he says — " Or ever 1 came to the bridge, at Bath, that is over Avon, I came down by a rokky hille, fuUe of springes of water ; and on this rokky hille is sette a long streate, as a suburbe to the cyte of Bath ; and in this streate there is a chapelle of St. Mary Magdalen." Its erection, therefore, is of no very recent date ; but the antiquities of Bath are out of our province; they have already occupied the more able pen of the Rev. Mr. Warner. In closing the occurrences of 1823, we have to notice another of those lamentable inundations of the river Avon, the details of which have so frequently occupied these pages. In December, 1822, the attention and benevolence of the inhabitants was especially called to the unhappy state of the wretched Dolemcads, occasioned by an overflowing of the river banks ; and 250 ANNALS OF BATH. [1823. the heavy falls this year gave some cause for appre- hension of a similar visitation ; in consequence of Avhich, the balance in hand from a former subscription was appropriated to the temporary relief of many poor families. In October and November heavy and continued rain occurring, those fears were but too soon verified to a most alarming extent. The rain descended in torrents ; and, on the 1st of November, the Avon had so far overflowed its banks, that the adjacent fields were completely under water, and Southgate-street rendered impassable. The poor people in the Dolemeads were soon obliged to take to their upper rooms ; and their distress- ing cries were distinctly heard. At one o'clock, the water had reached its greatest height ; and the view presented from the Abbey Tower was of the most desolate description. Several of the houses appeared with little more than the roofs above water ; and the Avon rushed onward in its impetuous course, as if to overwhelm everything within its reach. In some instances, the water had actually entered the bed-rooms of the poor sufferers who, as night approached, were seen with lights (beacons of their distress), and heard to call loudly for assistance. The danger became imminent ; but happily, at this crisis, a fisherman, named Nash, accompanied by a friend, procured a boat, and with praise-worthy intrepidity crossed the stream from the South-parade; and, by the most indefatigable exertions, rescued all they could discover; among whom was one poor old man, immersed in water nearly to his shoulders. Immediately after day-light, the same individuals recommenced their benevolent and hazardous under- 1823.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 251 taking. Twenty-nine families, consisting of seventy-five persons, were rescued from destruction by the humane exertions of these and other active men. One poor person, being confined to liis bed by a paralytic seizure, was drowned as he lay in that situation. In Southgate- street, a young woman near her confinement died from excessive friglit. Two poor bed-ridden inmates of Walcot Poor-house were also in a perilous situation, the water having risen within two inches of the bed on which they lay. The overseer in vain offered a reward to any one who would rescue them ; and they were only saved by the persons in the room above breaking through part of the floor and drawing them up. The Old Bridge afforded a singular spectacle during this lamentable catastrophe. An immense stock of timber, in a yard adjoining the river, was forced by the current from its situation, and carried with the utmost velocity against the piers of the bridge, where the whole mass remained immovably fixed. The principal sufferers were the inhabitants of that street, and those houses in ^^'^alcot contiguous to the river, who had immediate relief afforded them ; and liberal subscriptions were made for Nash, the fisherman, and the other individuals so prominent in their exertions, and by whose intrepidity so many lives were saved. These frequent overflowings, with their lamentably devastating effects, at length called for the serious attention of the Municipal Authorities ; and the follow- ing year steps were taken in order to avert, if possible, the constant recurrence of those events. The death of Colonel Glover, formerly of the lltli Regiment of Foot, took place this year, at his residence in Pultoncy-street. That officer (it will be remembered) 252 AISIXALS OF BATH. [1823. commanded the Bath Volunteer Corps, from the year 1798 to the temporary peace of Amiens, in 1802, when the volunteers throughout Great Britain Avere disbanded. Sir WiUiam ^Vatson, then Mayor, took occasion to return that corps the united thanks of himself and brother magistrates, " for the cheerful assistance they had rendered the civil power during a long period of unusual turbulence and anxiety." In the summer of 1803, they were again re-embodied, and the command offered to Colonel Glover, which he de- clined in consequence of ill health. He was a gentleman of the highest integrity, and died at a very advanced age, deeply regretted by a large circle of acquaintance. The decease of Mr. T. S. Meyler, proprietor and editor of the Bath Herald, and one of the body corporate, also occurred this autumn. We may with truth add, that no inhabitant of this city lived more respected, or died more lamented, than that worthy gentleman. In the latter part of March, the Rev. James Pears, A.M., formerly fellow of New College, Oxford, was unanimously elected master of the Free Grammar School in this city, by the patrons, the Mayor and Corporation, and likewise presented to the rectory of Charlcombe, on the resignation of the Rev. Thomas Wilkins. The trustees of the Casualty Hospital had also the gratification to announce a handsome bequest, of five hundred pounds, to that institution, by the late Mrs. Baldwin, of Daniel-street. The Civic Officers for the ensuing ' year were as follows : — 1824.] ANNALS OF BATH. 25.'J CHARLES PHILLOTT, EsQ.-MATfon. CHARLES CROOK, Esu. WILLIAM CLARK, Esu. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esu. JOHN KITSON, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esu. JOHN WILTSHIRE, Esu. I M I 5 1 G f a. E. ALLEN, Esu. G. H. TUGWELL, Esa. E. PICKWICK, Esq. GEORGE LYE, Esu. I WILLIAM TUDOR. Esu. THOMAS SLATER, Esu.— CiiAMBEni.AiN. GEORGE NORMAN, F.su. 1 Sherifis HENRY MANT, Esu. i' R. S. CRUTTWELL, Esu. | Ca.Er Constables. KORKRT SAVAGE. Esq > ROBERT SAVAGE, Esu 1824. In reference to the subject of the floods, the effects of which (so often alluded to) called for the serious attention of the Corporate Body, a numerous meeting assembled at the Guildhall, in the early part of this year, to consider the best means of preventing those frequent inundations. After much discussion, a committee was appointed to invite and receive communications on the subject, either from gentlemen conversant in hydro- statics, or engineers by profession. Accordingly, the " Flood Relief Committee" were occupied several weeks discussing the merits of numerous plans laid before them, the whole of which were highly creditable to the projectors. And it was resolved, that a civil engineer, of the first eminence, should be applied to, to decide on the practicability and the expence of each. Mr. Telford 254 ANNALS OF BATH. [1824. was the engineer selected ; but it finally ended in that gentleman being called on to make his own survey and report. Some weeks were consequently occupied in the undertaking ; in July it was comj^leted and laid before the committee. It is needless to add, that the report was most ably drawn out ; but the whole being too voluminous for insertion here, we shall briefly touch on the causes of those overflowings, and the remedies proposed. Mr. Telford stated, that it was evident the whole economy of the river banks and channel had been totally changed from its natural state ; not with judicious views of perfecting the discharge of flood waters, but for accomplishing local objects, these works uniformly creating material obstructions to the course of the waters. Thus, numerous weirs had been constructed quite across the channel ; mill buildings had been projected into the river, in various places ; bridges, with inadequate water- ways, had been constructed ; in sundry places the channel had been suffered to degenerate from a direct into a circuitous horse-shoe shape ; buildings and rubbish had also, for ages, been encroaching upon and obstruct- ing the river channel, and of course the flood waters ; while most of the low lands, over which those flood waters formerly passed, had been raised by embanked streets, and covered with magnificent buildings (Pul- teney-street and its vicinity, Sydney-place, Bathwick Church, &;c., for instance) ; thus confining the said flood waters to the contracted and circuitous channel Avhich now exists. Those encroachments, and the totally neglected state of the river, as regarded the free egress of the superabundant waters, had indjuced an almost incessant variation of widths and depths. 1824!.] ANNALS OF HATH. 255 The extent and effects of the inimdation of November, 1823, sufficiently demonstrated that no partial measures would ])revcnt a recurrence of the mischiefs then experienced. Under all the circumstances of the case, Mr. Telford was, therefore, of opinion, that the dimensions of the river channel should be enlarged, and its shape and direction improved, from Pulteney -bridge downwards, as far as to conduct the floods to so much lower a level as to prevent the possibility of their accu- mulation annoying the city of Rath, or its immediate vicinity. Having stated the obstructions, their causes, and his general view of the remedies, Mr. Telford proceeded to point them out : — He proposed that a new cast-iron bridge, of one hundred and ten feet width of span, should be thrown across the Avon instead of the present stone bridge ; that a slice should be taken off the convex part of that low land, called the Ham ; that, from opposite Kingsraead-street to opposite Norfolk-crescent, where the channel has three awkward bends, it would be necessary to cut off from the convex and fill up the concave sides of those three different places ; and from thence past the gas-works to about six chains below Locksbrook. Six places require similar operations. INIr. Telford proceeded to point out other alterations as far as Swinford J\,ock and Mill ; and having continued the river improvements to the full extent he conceived necessary for effectually securing the city of Bath, and the extensive and valuable premises of liathwick and VVidcombe, from future immdations. he concluded his report with an estimated expence of those proposed improvements. 256 ANNALS Ol'' BATH. [1824. ESTIMATE. £ S. d. Embanking low lands between the site of an intended Bridge at Bathwick and Pulteney Bridge, deepening and embanking the Channel between Pnlteney and Bath Bridges, as deUneated on the Map and Sections C,174 10 Taking down and re-buUding Bath Bridge, with the houses and wall in Claverton street, also the Quay 9,720 Improving River from thence to entrance of proposed New Cut behind the Dolphin Inn 6,810 New Cut including Sluices and Bridge 6,669 From ditto to and including New Bridge 3,829 12 From ditto to tail of Swinford Mill and Lock 10,314 8 43,517 10 Add contingencies 4,351 Total 47,848 10 It was not till the commencement of 1826 that the " Flood Relief Committee" concluded their labours, in consequence of propositions having been made to the Marquis of Cleveland, Earl Manvers and the River Company, attended with a protracted correspondence arising out of the proposed plans of Mr. Telford. It became evident, from the discouraging replies of those noblemen, and the numerous divided interests, both of individuals and companies, as well as the large sums required for the execution of so extensive a project, that the adoption of it was impracticable, and subscrip- tions entered into to defray the expences already incurred in the prosecution of that public spirited inquiry towards which the Committee had themselves liberally advanced, as well as devoted a large portion of valuable time, thus entitling themselvfes to the best thanks of their fellow citizens. The plans, models and 1824.] AXNAi.s oi- UATH. 257 essays, in tlicir possession were preserved under the expectation tliat, at some future {)eriod, they would prove essentially useful in promoting the interests as well as the reputation of the city. The " Flood Relief Committee" then dissolved. Some improvements, how- ever, took place which greatly facilitated the egress of water after occasional heavy rains, and in some degree checked a recurrence of the evils attendant on high floods. Several houses on the river banks adjoining the bridge were pulled down, and an arch, at the south end, w^liich had been entirely closed by buildings, was thrown open. Slices of the " awkward bends" opposite Green Park-buildings were also partly taken off. The union of the City Infirmary and Casualty Hospital, having been last year finally agreed on, it became now the object of the subscribers, to fix on the most eligible spot for the erection of an appropriate building for the use of the Institution. Accordingly a general meeting was holden at the Guildhall for that purpose. Three plans were ])roduced with their estimates — 1st, for building it in Philip street, adjoining the Old Bridge and river Avon — 2nd, for taking Albion House in the Upper Bristol Road — 3rd, for erecting it in the Borough-walls, immediately behind, and in connection Avith the Infirmary, with a front in Beau- street. Opinions were various as to the eligibility of those places and much discussion took place, when it was at lenoth decided that the latter was the most desirable, and the Committee were directed to carry the plan for the intended building into immediate execution. It appears that the estimated sum, required for that building was five thousand ])ouiids, exclusive K 258 ANNALS OF BATH. [1824. of ground and furniture, of which sum three thousand pounds had been provided. It was, therefore, suggested that a grand musical festival should be given in aid of the funds for its erection, which accordingly took place in June of this year, at the Abbey chvu-ch. The talent engaged on that occasion, and the extent and variety of the projected performances, evidently demon- strated that the highest degree of interest had been excited for its success, which, it was confidently anticipated, would produce a large addition to the funds for that magnificent undertaking. A sermon was also preached by the new Lord Bishop of the Diocese (Dr. Law) to an overflowing congregation, to whose charitable feelings he made a pov\^erful appeal, observing : " that as his first connection with his diocese had commenced in charity, so he ardently trusted that such a career of benevolence might long continue, which . would prove a source of lasting peace and happiness here, and of a blessed immortality hereafter." A proof of the powerful effect produced by his eloquent and energetic discourse may be gathered from the collection made at the doors, which amounted to one himdred and twenty-one pounds. And the result of the festival (including the above collections) produced a 7iet sum of four hundred and nineteen pounds five shilliiigs, Avhich was placed at the disposal of the United Hospital Com- mittee. On Friday, August 6th, the first stone of the intended building in Beau-street was laid, by a lady, the daughter of one of the trustees, a number of coins having been previously deposited in its bed. The interesting ceremony was performed in the most private, unostentatious manner, characteristic of the pin-e views 1824. J ANNAl.S Ol- HATH. 259 of its patrons and supporters. It is delightful, indeed, to contemplate the manifold objects of this institution, and the boundless good which it must dispense. — On the 24th of June, 1826, the union of the two hospitals took place when patients were admitted to the United Hospital, and the receipts and disburse- ments of both institutions consolidated. It affords us much gratification, in closing the events of 1824, to notice, among its early occin-rences, a tribute of respect to our worthy citizen. Captain B. Leigh Lye, by the Officers of the North Somerset Yeomanry, Avho presented hiiTi with a massive Silver Salver, one hundred guineas value. It was of a circular form with a I'ich antique border, the centre chased in relief with appropriate military trophies, encircled with palm leaves and oak branches. The regimental helmet, surrounded with laurel leaves, was introduced, with the Waterloo medal pendant from the shield in the centre, which contains the family arms and motto. The inscription, of which the following is a copy, was beautifully engraved in semi-circles above and below the chasing : — " Presented by Colonel Thomas Stianj;\viiys Horner, and tiic Offieors of the North Somerset Regiment of Yeomanry Cavalry, in testimony of theii- unanimous sense of the zealous exertions and professional ability conspicuously manifested by Captain B. Leigh Lve, as Adjutant of that Regiment, heretofore serving in his Majest\-'s lltli Light Dragoons at the victory of Salamanca, and memorable Field of Waterloo." It was designed and executed by Messrs. Payne aiid Sons, of Old Bond-street, and very generally admired. Colonel Horner in presenting the Plate, ))aid 11 2 260 ANNAI.S OF RATH. [1824. Captain Lye a very handsome and deserved compliment on his professional skill and attention to the duties of the regiment, and bore testimony to the high esteem and regard entertained for him by the whole corps. Captain Lye returned thanks with great feeling and animation. The Marquis of Bath, the Earls Carnarvon, Cork, and Poulett, the INIembers for the county and city, the Mayor, and many of the principal county gentlemen were present. We conclude by recording the death of the venerable Dr. Falconer, who departed this life, at his house in the Circus, at a very advanced age. It may be truly said he was one of the most distingui.shed literary ornaments of the city. His extensive store of erudition did honour to the University from whose fountain it was derived, and gave lustre to Bath, his chosen residence. It was remarked by those of his acquaintance, who were competent to draw the comparison, that his general manner, and sententious, pithy observations, especially in his later years, bore much resemblance to the style and address of Dr. Samuel Johnson. Science and learning are indebted to his pen, for many valuable publications.* * Among wliich, the following are enumerated: — 1. "An Essay on the Bath Waters, &c., by William Falconer, ji.d., 1770, 12mo., reprinted 2 vols., 8vo., 1772, 1774." 2. " Essay on the Water commonly used in diet, .it Bath, by William Falconeh, M.D., 1776, 8vo." 3. " An Account of the Use, Application, and Success of the Bath Waters, in Rheumatic Cases, by William Falconer, m.d., 8vo. 1789." 4. A Treatise on the Nature, Causes, and Constitution of the Bath Water, entitled "A Practical Dissertation on the Medicinal Effects of the Bath Waters." 1825] ANNALS or IJATir 261 The Anmial Election of City Magistrates was as follows : — EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq.-Mayou. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esii. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esu. CHARLES CROOK, Esu. JOHN KITSON, Esu. ^ S; J. WILTSHIRE, Es<». O. E. ALLEN, Esq. j G. H. TUGWELL, Esq. WILLIAM CLARK, Eso. ELEAZER PICKWICK, Esq. GEORGE LVE, Esq. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq Chamberlain. T. C. CAM, Esq. JShehiffs. JOHNSON PHILLOTT, Esq. ^ ROBERT CLARKE, Esq. SIR G. S. GIBBES, I High CoNSTAni.ES. 1825. The year 1825 presents to our notice, the opening of the " Bath Literary Institution" which took place on the 19th of January. The i)rospectus for the establishment of that Institution has been already fully detailed. It is sufficient to say that the plan met with decided and complete success, and, under the management of an able committee, two years completed the structure. On the day above mentioned a large assembly of noljility, clergy, and gentry of the city and neighbourhood met to celebrate its completion ; the Marquis of Ijansdown was called to the chair. His I^ordship said, it had been frequently remarked to him, by visitors, as an anomaly in the topography of ;i citv of sucli eminence, that IJath (deficient in nothing else) should be wanting in an institution 262 ANXALS OF BATH. [1825. whereby the literary acquirements of its youth might be cherished and developed, and vvdiere genius and science might meet their due encouragement. But this omission, his Lordship added, must have been rather the effect of accident than design, and did not discourage him in the anticipation that the present establishment would meet the wishes and support of the inhabitants and visitors, and prove eminently suc- cessful. His Lordship concluded by promising it his best support. Sir George S. Gibbes then delivered an interesting lecture on the advantage of scientific know- ledge and the benefits likely to accrue to Bath, from the establishment of a Literary Institution. The whole proceedings of the day were of a highly interesting character, and afforded the greatest delight to all present. It is well known that when the Institution Avas fii'st projected, there were many who imagined that the literary character of Bath was not sustained by the existing race of its inhabitants, and regarded as hopeless any attempt to interest a sufficient number of persons in the completion of a design which was chiefly destined for scientific and literary purposes. — The event, however, proved, that the fears of those who doubted the stability of the institution were groundless, while the hopes of those, who patronized and supported the undertaking were fully realized ; and Bath stands redeemed from the imputation of being a city devoted only to pleasure and dissipation. They who have attended the meetings of the insti- tution, have candidly acknowledged, that the subjects brought before them have been well' worthy their attention particularly those in the departments of 1825.] ANNALS OF 15ATH. 263 science ami natural history, and have conveyed much valuable (and in many instances) novel and curious information. At the opening of the second session, November 6th, 1826, an elaborate discourse was delivered by the Rev. Joseph Hunter, with a view to point out the connection which existed between the city of Bath, and the science and Hterature of England. — It communicated a large fund of information relative to the antiquities of Bath, and enumerated the remark- able men she has produced, or who have resided from the remotest periods within her precincts. On the first 'part of the subject the ground has been so fully explored by the Rev. JNlr. Warner, that it is unneces- sary to attempt a repetition of it here, and, on the latter, although it is not intended to introduce biogra- phical notices of those eminent men, yet their Jiames and their scientific pursuits may be briefly alluded to. In the first place, among those, who, previous to the eighteenth century, have endeavoured to explain the still mysterious^ origin and causes of our impregnated springs, and have described their healing properties, may be named Jones, Venner, Jordcn, Pierce and Guidot, resident physicians in Bath, though, "adds INlr. Hunter" that all or any of them were great original discoverers can hardly be supposed, but tliey were men who fully came up to the standard of philosophical knowledge in their own age, and maintained, in their day, the scientific reputation of the city. In the eighteenth century were Cheyne and the two Olivers, and lastly, Falconer and Parry, who will probably be allowed to • Dr. naubcncy, of Oxford, lias recently exjilaincd the probable causes whence arises the heat of (he Springs, a> salisfactorily as conjecture will allow, liut the ways of the Abiuj,'lity are past fuulinf,' out, aiul ihe tcnii " mys(f riuKj," may still be used. 264 ANNALS Ol' BATH. [1825. have surpassed all their predecessors, as well in medical science, as in polite and elegant literature. Herschell, the astronomer, was originally a musician at the evening concerts, and resided many years in Eath. It was in this city that some of his most important observations were made ; and here, it is said, he obtained the first glimpse of the planet which bears his name. And here, also, he constructed his first telescope, to which his attention was directed by having accidentally broken the lens of a telescope, which he had borrowed from a friend in the city. In the department of botany, were Dr. Johnson Sole and Stackhouse. In English geology, was Townsend, one of the earliest writers on the science ; and Wolcot, who had collected the various fossils which are to be found in the city of Bath, and published delineations of them. An engineer named Smith, Avho had been brought to Bath for the purpose of superintending the construc- tion of the Coal Canal, was, however, the first to observe how each layer had its own peculiar fossils, and how the disposition of the striata here coincided with the dispo- sitions of those in other portions of the island. This was an original and grand discovery. Smith observed, and Townsend assisted him in methodizing his remarks. In theology, may be named Hales, Chandler, and Bishop Warburton. In history and antiquities, William Prynne, Chap- man, and INIr. Samuel Lysons, bear conspicuous parts. The latter had projected a magnificent work (Iteliquicc 'Romance), which he was prevented completing by a too early and lamented death. 1825.] ANNALS OF HATH. 265 In architecture, Wood. Ill music, Bath ever had its professors, from Liclifield, lutanist to Queen Elizabeth, to Rauzzini. In painting, Hoarc, Gainsborough, Sir Tliomas Lawrence, and (last, though not least in estimation) the two Barkers. The Sheridans, the Linleys, Thicknesse, Graves, Harington, Lee, and Piozzi, all belong to us, and liave aU names in the literature of England ; and through them Bath becomes comiected with some of the greatest names, and most interesting circumstances in modern English literature. In short, observed Mr. Hunter, to enumerate all the inhabitants of this populous city, who have been connected with the light and more elegant literature of England, would be an endless task. For the purpose of this work, sufficient has been said : and it is only necessary to add, that Mr. Hunter's discourse was listened to with great attention, and received with strong marks of applause. We now return to the improvements ; and in recurring to the objects adverted to in our notes of 1823, those of the exterior of the Abbey Church were particularly noticed. About ]Midsunimer, this year (in addition to those improvements), a plan was submitted to the parishioners for improving fhe Interior. It was proposed to enlarge the choir, to build a gothic stone screen to correspond with the building, and add one hundred free sittings. The plans were unanimously approved, and a committee appointed to carry them into execution, under whose management they were ably and satisfactorily effected. On the 25th of December, the Abbey was re-opened for divine service. 266 ANNALS OF BATH. [1825. A chapel attached to the Penitentiary Asyhnn was likewise opened for divine service. It was fitted up with great neatness, and made capable of containing two hundred persons, independent of a screened gallery for the objects of the cliarity. The entire expence of the building, with its equipments and organ, was supplied by the munificent patron of the institution, the philan- thropic Mr. Parish. It must also be mentioned, that an entirely new range of buildings, for the fancy department of trade, leading from the Market-place to Union-street, was now opened to the public, named " The Corridor," being built after the plan of the Burlington Arcade, in London. In the centre is a music gallery, where an excellent band was stationed, at a certain period of the afternoon, which rendered it, if not an agreeable, certainly a novel promenade. The whole has a lively and elegant ap})ear- ance ; and the entrance to the IMarket-place, aided by the modernized fronts of the adjoining houses, forms a conspicuous and attractive portion of that part of the street immediately opposite the Guildhall. The city is indebted to a resident architect (JMr. Goockidge) for this improvement. Various alterations in the ^larket also took place under the orders of the Body Corporate ; and the imsightly houses, on the Widcombe side of the Old Bridge, were levelled to the ground, and a commodious foot-path formed on their site. Although this is still called the Old Bridge, yet tlie original " Old Bridye" was so narrow and incommodious that, in 1754, it was found necessary to be taken down, and, at the expellee of the Chamber, the present one was built ; which, from the multiplied ])opulation, and 1825.] ANNALS Or BATH. 267 consequent increase of communication with Bristol and the West of England, has, in its turn, become too " narrow and incommodious." Such were the improvements of 1825, thus evincing a disposition, on the part of the public authorities, to continue from time to time the embellishments of tiie city, which, for taste and elegance, will long continue to occupy its station as one of the most conspicuous in the empire. A larffe meetinir of the inhabitants (convened at their especial request, by the Mayor) took place at the (luildhall, in December, in consequence of (what is termed) " a run on the banks," the mischievous effects of which, resulting from the prevailing panic, had unnecessarily occasioned the stoppage of many respect- able banking establishments throughout the country. The meeting v.-as remarkable for its numbers, respecta- bility, and unanimity; and a resolution, signed by more than seven hundred inhabitants, was immediately issued, stating that they considered it a duty to the public and themselves, to declare their most perfect confidence in the respective banking firms at Bath, and that they would continue to receive their notes to any amount ; aud a committee of eight gentlemen was appointed to make arrangements for its extensive circulation. The good- feeling thus exhibited by the citizens, in promptly coming forward to allay that feeling of distrust which had so unfortunately spread itself in every direction, was productive of the happiest results. Con- fidence was restored ; and the banks (with one exception, and that but of short duration) sustained no pressure beyond the ordinary routine of business. The conscious- ness of having persevered in the paths which honour pointetl out, was a consolation of no mean value to the 268 ANNALS OF 15ATH. [1825. parties themselves, and a certain passport to the implicit confidence of the public. Hence we observe, that strict integrity will always meet with support when circum- stances require it. iVnd from this event, we are also taught how essential character is to success in life ; we learn the wholesome lesson of never deviating from honourable rules of conduct, when once adopted ; and never to make the dangerous experiment of relaxing in principle and integrity, for one instant, though with the intention of returning to it the next. The attempt has ruined thousands. In the obituary of 1825, is placed the melancholy death of the Rev. John Richards, who dejiarted this life at Ridgeway, Devonshire, whither he had been sojourning for the benefit of his health. He was minister of St. JMichael's parish, in this city. Probably, never was the loss of an individual more deplored, in public as well as private life. In the active discharge of his duties, as a parish priest, he had few superiors. Ever warm in the sacred cause of religion, and labouring hard in his professional duties, he contracted a consumptive disease, which ultimately brought him to the gi-ave. Immediately on the intelligence reaching this city, a public meeting of the parishioners and other friends of the deceased, took place, to consider the best method of testifying their respect for that reverend gentleman. On the 29th of April the funeral took place, the body having been brought from Ridgway at the expence of the parishioners. The procession was on foot, and consisted of a numerous assemblage of parishioners and friends, among whom were more than fifty ladies, of the first respectability. The spectacle was truly imposing ; and never was witnessed a more unaffected display of that grief which the heart feels, and the countenance 1825.] AXXAI.S OF I5AT1I. 269 betrays, at tlie loss of a beloved object. All tbc distinctions Avbich rank, wealth, and talent confer; all differences in religious opinions, seemed to be merged in one common feeling of regret. No noise, no confusion, no indecorous interruption, disturbed the movu-nful train, as it passed through the different streets to St. Michael's Church. The introductory sentences to the funeral service, were chaunted ; and an anthem, effec- tively and gratuitously sung by the principal vocalists of the city. A subscription to erect a monument to the memory of the reverend deceased, Avas immediately afterwards commenced; and the sum of five hundred pounds collected, chiefly in subscriptions of one pound each. One hundred guineas was appropriated for the erection of the monument, and the remainder applied to the education of his sons, under the superintendence of three trustees. The following inscription was placed on the tablet to his memory : — " JOHN RICHARDS, A.M., Vicar of Wcdmorc, Somerset, and seventeen years Curate of this parish ; died at Ridgewav, Devon, April 15, 1825, in the 54th year of his age. — His remains were removed, and buried in the north-west corner of this Church-yard, at the request and charge of his parisliioners. By a vohin- tary contribution of tlie poor, as well as the rich, this Tablet was erected, in gratitude to God, for the invaluable gift, and in sorrow for the loss, of this Christian minister and friend ; «ho, by deep huniihty, bv unbounded charity, by unwearied zeal, by exemplary holiness, with ])Owerful and unaffected eloquence, approved himself as the faithful Minister of God. By his devotion in life, and by his joyful ho])e in ileath, ' He, being dead, yet speakcth.' And when this marble sliall have mouldered into dust, the spiritual house of living stones, ^vhicli he laboured to build up in faith and love, shall endure a monument eternal in the Heavens." 270 ANNALS (H- liATH. [1825. Ill 1825, also, died, at his residence in Marlborough- buildings, Charles Diimbleton, Esq., in his 72nd year. — He had been more than thirty years a resident in this city ; and, at the commencement of the late war, enrolled himself in the Bath Volunteers, under the command of the late Colonel Glover. He received a captain's com- mission in the grenadier company, vv^hich he held until the year 1801 ; and on the renewal of the war, in 1803, when a regiment was raised on a more extended scale, he was appointed lieutenant-colonel ; which situa- tion he continued to hold, v.-ith the highest honour, 'till the coi-ps was disbanded, in 1813. In such high estima- tion were his services held by the magistracy, that the Corporation imanimously voted him the freedom of the city, as a testimony of their sincere regard for his private virtues, and appreciation of his public conduct. The recollection of his many amiable qualities will not soon pass away ; and while those qualities which distin- guished him, are held in deserved admiration, so long will he continue to be remembered as a perfect model of Christian excellence. The Civic Officers for the ensuing year were as follows : — GEORGE EDWARD ALLEN, Esa.,— Mayor. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esa. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. JOHN KITSON, Esq. O. H. TUGWELL, Esq. a -5 JOHN WILTSHIRE, E.sq. WILLIAM CLARK, Esq. E. PICKWICK, Esq. GEORGE LYE, Esq. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— CuAMBEnLAiN. R. S. CRUTTWELL, Esq. |s„^„,„,. ROBERT SAVAGE, Esq. > JOSEPH BARRATT, Esu. 1 u ,. ' ' ^HiGH Constables. THOMAS PHINN, Esq. > 1825.] ANNAI.S Of UATII. 271 1S26. It was at this particular period that great distress prevailed in the manufacturing districts, arising from the considerable decrease which had taken place in the export of British manufacture. The foreign markets were glutted, commercial difficulties had increased to an alarming degree, and had affected so severely the national industry, and thrown so large a i)ortion of the population out of employment, as to threaten annihilation to trade ; and consequently became matter for the serious consi- deration of Government. It had, in fact, reached such an unparalleled height, as to produce alarming apprehen- sions ; and such was the condition of the poor weavers in the districts of Blackburn, Manchester, and elsewhere, that existence was scarcely worth holding. In one town alone, it was said that fourteen thousand persons were not only without employment, but actually destitute of the common necessaries of life. With these appalling facts before them, the inhabi- tants of Bath were not slow in requesting the Mayor to convene a meeting at the Guildhall, for the purpose of takino their distressed state into immediate consideration. The Mayor (G. E. Allen, Esq.) attended promptly to the requisition, and presided himself on the occasion. Sir Alexander Hood, Rev. James Haviland, and Mr. Wilberforce, took prominent parts in the proceedings. Liberal subscriptions were forthwith entered into for their relief ; and the members for the city. Lord John Thynne and General Palmer, headed the list with twenty-five pounds each. In a short time the sum of 272 ANNAI.S or BxVTH. [1825. two thousands four hundred and seventy-nine pounds six shiUings and four-pence was collected ! Nor did our worthy townsmen rest here. In the following year, we find an appeal to the nation at large, his IMajesty's Government having caused a " King's Letter" to be issued (through the Archbishop of Can- terbury), directing that sermons should be preached, on a particular day, throughout the United Kingdom, with a view to the further relief those poor manufacturers. Sermons were accordingly preached in this city, and the churchwardens and overseers commenced solicitations in their own parishes, with gratifying success. The results of those parochial collections were — £. .s. d. By domiciliary solicitations 1,104 2 5 At the churches and chapels 394 12 4 Ui/i'olicifed subscriptions, already mentioned 2,479 G 4 Total subscribed £3,978 1 1 A dissolution of Parliament took place on the 31st of INIay, and on the 5th of the following montli, his Majesty's writs were issued for a new election. This circumstance caused much excitement from its becoming generally known that Lord Brecknock (son of the Marquis of Camden, recorder of the city,) was about to present himself as a third candidate. In a close borough (as Bath then was), where the elective franchise became vested only in a few, elections hitherto had been mere matters of form, and created but little interest beyond wliat might have been expected from the bustle in the town. The merry, peals of the 1826.] AXNALS OF BATH. 273 Abbey, and the still more welcome ceremony of chairing, when a plentiful distribution of silver, by the elected members (so very gratifying to the pedestrian followers), closed the interesting day's amusement. But a strong- feeling in favour of General Palmer was evinced, not only by a large portion of the Corporate Body, but by the inhabitants generally, as well from his long connec- tion with the city, as from a supposition that the great influence of the Marquis of Camden would be success- fully exercised in favour of his son, who (in his own jjersonj was a stranger to the inhabitants. Lord John Thynne was known to be secure. At length, the day of election arrived. Lord John Thynne was proposed by Alderman Clark, and seconded by Counsellor Gun- ning. General Palmer was nominated by Alderman Crook, and seconded by Sir George Gibbes. I^ord Brecknock by Alderman Moysey, seconded by Colonel Cooper. During the progress of polling, every audible vote, given for the gallant General, was acknowledged with the loudest cheers ; while every intimation of a contrary vote was received with hisses and groans ; a decided proof that, if the General was not to be the successful candidate, he was at least the popular one. At the conclusion of the poll, the Mayor (as return- ing officer) declared Lord John Thynne and Lord Brecknock duly elected, General Palmer losino- the election only by one vote. The announcement was received with such a confusion of groans and discordant noises, and such an uproar succeeded for several minutes, as baffled all description ; and not a syllable of Lord Brecknock's speech could be heard. However, the hubbub soon subsided — there was no breach of the peace s 274- ANNALS OF BATH. [1826. — the chairing was dispensed with — and in the course of a sliort time the multitude dispersed. Before leaving this subject, we must not omit to mention a trait of private friendship, in a worthy member of the Corporate Body (now no more), wliich deserves a place in these pages. James Sloper, Esq. (far advanced in years), had only a few days previously, while in London, met with a serious accident, by fracturing a bone of his leg, and was confined to his bed in consequence. But such was his zealous friend- ship for the gallant General, and anxiety to serve him on that occasion, that he hurried from town, at the imminent risk of his life, and was carried to the Guildhall on a cradle, amidst the loud cheers of every one present. The excitement, which these popular commotions generally occasion, having subsided, the rational part of the community again turned their thoughts towards the improvements of the city ; and among those, the most prominent and popular, were a new Free Church, in Walcot parish, another in the parish of Widcombe, and a bridge across the river Avon, to connect the pai-ishes of Walcot and Bathwick. Of the two latter, we shall have occasion to speak hereafter ; of the former, it was obvious that, notwithstanding the recently-built free church, situate in James-street, in the same parish, the want of fin-ther church accommodation was seriously felt by the friends of the Establishment, in the eastern outskirts of the city ; and an application was, accordingly, made to his Majesty's commissioners, for aid towards that undertaking. The result was, their consent to grant two-thirds of the expence, provided the church so built should be capable of accommodating six,teen hundred 1826.] ANNALS OF BATH. 275 persons, one-half being free seats for the use of the poor. This proposition was submitted to a vestry, on the 18th of May, and carried unanimously. A meeting was afterwards held, at which the Lord Bishop of the Diocese presided, for the purpose of settling the very important question of the site of the proposed church ; when his Lordship stated, that he should be happy to receive communications, in writing, from any of the parishioners, pointing out the advantages of the different situations they might suggest ; and, after duly weighing and examining the various arguments in favour of each, he would give an unbiassed and impartial opinion. His Lordship's reason for wishing to settle that knotty point, in the manner proposed, was the difference of opinion respecting it ; and which had, from time to time, created such party feelings among the parishioners, that it became quite impossible to arrive at any correct estimate as to the general sense of the rate-payers. However, his Lordship's friendly interference, and anticipated labours, were happily prevented by the generous offer of a lady (]\Iiss Tanner), who gave a portion of gi'ound, at the back of Beaufort-buildings, West, for the site of the church ; which was gladly accepted by a large majority of the parish, and approved by the Lord Bishop and his Majesty's commissioners. Indeed, it must be confessed, that no site could be more eligible for the inhabitants of the eastern division, standing, as it does, in a situation where both old and young, rich and poor, can conveniently approach it, without the evil of climb- ing the side of an almost inaccessible mountain, where many were desirous the church should be built. Thus far advanced, and books having been opened for receiving subscriptions to assist in defraying the parish proportion s 2 276 ANNALS OF BATH. [1826. of the expences of that building, we shall soon announce the ceremony of laying the foundation. The establishment of a new JNIusical Association took place about this time, entitled " The Bath Anacreontic Society," which held its first meeting at the York House, in the close of last year ; and in which the Avorthy divine, whom Ave have before had occasion to mention (the Rev. JMr. BoAven). took a conspicuous part. When such names as BoAven, BoAvles, Linley, and Anacreon JNIoore associate, original contributions of the most valuable kind may be reasonably calculated on to support the high character Avhich the ncAv society assumed on its fii-st meeting : a society Avhich Avas alone Avanting (since the dissolution of the former one) to complete, for this Athenian city, (as INIr. BoAvles designated it) an unriA'alled range of social enjoyments. In Avliat high estimation the reverend gentleman first alluded to Avas held, may be conjectured from the circumstance of a handsome chased silver salver being presented to him, Avith the folloAving inscription : — " Presented to the Rev. John Bowen, on retiring, after thirty-three years' assiduous attention to tlie ministerial duties of St. Margaret's Chapel, as a tribute of respect and esteem from his late congregation and a few friends." We close the events of 1826, by announcing the death of Mrs. Barnard, relict of Christopher Barnard, Esq., at an advanced age, at her residence in Green Park- buildings. She was a lady of such unbounded liberality, piety, and singleness of heart, that her loss Avas as severely felt by a large circle of friends as by the numerous objects of her bounty. 1826.] ANNALS OF BATH. 277 The following charitable bequests were enumerated in her will : — Bath City Infirmary and Dispensary £1,000 Bath Casualty Hospital 600 Society for the Suppression of Vagrants, in Bath 200 National Benevolent Institution, in Batli 500 Deaf and Dumb Asylum, London .500 Society for Relief of Lying-in Women, in Bath .300 £3,100 Also £400, Three per Cent. Consols, to the rector of Bath for the time being, in trust, to apply the interest to clothe six poor women, of the parish of St. James, not being under sixty-five years of age. The Civic Officers for the ensuing year were as follows : — ELEAZER PICKWICK, Esa.-MAVoii. G. E. ALLEN, Esq. "1 f G. H. TUGWELL, Esu. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. JOHN WILTSHIRE, Esu. WILLIAM CLARK, Esu. CHARLES CROOK, IfcQ. f | ] WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. | -^ | J. H. SPRY, Esq. JOHN KITSON, Esq. J L THOMAS SLATER, Esq Chamberlain. ROBERT CLARK, Esq. i „ Sia GEORGE S. GIBBES, Knt. / J. H. GUNNING, Esq. | chief Constables. J. H. COOPER, Esq. * 278 ANNALS Ol- BATH. [1827- 1827. On the 5th of January, 1827, his Royal Highness the Duke of York departed this life. The decease of that illustrious personage had been daily expected, from the severe dropsical disease under which he laboured ; and for the relief of which he had undergone frequent operations. His Royal Highness's health had, for the previous week, undergone a serious change, and all rational hopes of recovery had ceased. The death of one who has filled a splendid and commanding station, must be at all times full of mourn- ful instruction. The departure of ordinary men, from this scene of existence, is an event only noticed or felt by immediate friends and acquaintances ; but when the possessors of earthly honours sink to the grave, the blow which has struck a single victim resounds throughout a Avhole nation ; it rivets public attention, and touches, as it were, the general heart of the community. So did the death of the heir presumptive to the throne. The place which he held in the affectionate regards of his royal brother and King; the honest intrepidity of his political sentiments, united to a temper which, in the ordinary intercourse of life, was remarkably courteous and gentle ; all combined to excite, in the British public, strong interest in his fate, and cause them to feel even his long-expected death, as a sudden calamity. We may Avith truth add, that the death of his Royal Highness threw a deep and general gloom over this 1827.J ANNALS OF BATH. 279 otherwise gay city, once his favourite abode. On the arrival of the intelhgence, about nine o'clock, on the evening of the 6th, the bells of the different churches were immediate tolled ; and on the following day, the flags hoisted half-mast liigh. The theatres were also shut for one evening ; and, during the following week, the windows of almost every shop in the city were partially closed : thus evincing the sincere participation of the inhabitants of Bath in the general grief of the nation, for the loss of that illustrious Pi'ince. His Royal High- ness was in his 64th year. We have stated that the death of individuals, in ordinary life, is an occurrence only lamented by friends and relations ; and in this opinion we are borne out by each day's experience. But when those individuals, in their course through life, exceed the limits of the beaten path, and pursue an honourable and successful career in the sphere of public utility, they have a just claim on public gratitude. Such was the late James Norman, Esq., for a long series of years a distinguished surgeon of this city. His claims to the consideration of his fellow-citizens were not merely of a private nature ; he Avas the projector, and for many years the sole professional support of the Casualty Hospital ; to the success and prosperity of which, his persevering exertions chiefly contributed. By an unbounded zeal in the discliarge of his professional duties towards the inmates of that establishment, aided by economy in its management, the most effectual relief was afforded to all casualties occurring in Bath and its vicinity, at a period Avhen, from the extensive buildings continually in jjrogress, the most severe and dangerous cases were of frequent occurrence. His active benevolence, also, subsequently 280 ANNALS OF BATH. [1827- established the Puerperal Charity, Avhich affords to numerous poor females, amiually, able assistance in the time of their utmost need, and which continued to the last an object of his most tender solicitude. He had long retired from active life ; but retained, to the last, the respect and esteem of all who knew him, for the unva- i-ying and uncompromising integrity of his character. And to this list of deceased worthies, may be added the late John Thomas, a member of the Society of Friends, who died at his seat, Prior Park, ISIarch 3rd, in the seventy -fifth year of his age. So long as the Great Bestower of health and life was pleased to grant him the possession of these blessings, so long were his useful talents exerted in promotion of public charities ; and a large portion of his ample means were employed in acts of private benevolence. INlr. Thomas was endowed with peculiar natural talents as an engineer, and was one of the earliest members of the committee for connecting the rivers Kennet and Avon, so as to form a water- communication between London and Bristol. His unimpeachable integrity obtained and secured the con- fidence of the various interests with which he had to contend; and his great practical knowledge, and unwearied attention, directed the execution, and effected the completion of, perhaps, one of the best constructed canals in Europe. After he had resigned the superin- tendence of its construction, he gave his disinterested attention to the management of the company's affairs, to almost the last moment of his life. His opinions and advice were eagerly sought. Cheerful and enlivening in conversation — simple and unobtrusive in manner — his society was courted while living, and his death deeply regretted by all classes of the community. > 1827.] ANNALS OF BATH. 281 Died also, in the early part of this year, at an advanced age, AVilliam Clark, 4«Esq., many years a deputy-lieutenant and active magistrate for the county of Somerset, and an alderman of the Body Corporate of this city ; sincerely and deservedly respected. In the summer of this year, the freemen of the city made a final and unsuccessful attempt to extend the western boundaries of the city, by building on the pasture fields, known as the " Bath Common." A meeting at the Rooms took place in consequence, to consider the measures necessary to be adopted in pre- venting encroachments on a spot, Avhich had, from time immemorial, been open for the use of the inhabitants and visitors of the cit}^ The chair was taken by Sir William Cockburn, Baronet. Hastings El win, Esq., spoke at considerable length in opposition to the proposed plan of building on those fields, as detri- mental to the beauty of the city, and to the comfort of its inhabitants. He referred to the decision of Sir Nicholas Hyde, recorder of Bath, in the year I6l9, who decided " that the Common Fields were for the use and enjoyment of the free burgesses inhabiting the city, and should remain so for ever." In 1792, a bill Avas filed in Chancery, by the freemen, for the purpose of compelling the Corporation (as trustees) to let out the land on building leases, but the Corporation themselves declared they had not the power. In 1806, however, the spirit of improvement became extremely active, and applica- tion was made to Parliament to carry the proposed object into effect. In INIarch, 1807, the " Bath Common Inclosure Bill," already noticed in these pages, was brought forward for discussion. Tlie Act was opposed, and successfully opposed. When, therefore, (added Mr. 282 ANNALS OF BATH. [1827. Elvvin,) for more than two hundred years, the lands had remained in their present condition — Avhen the trustees themselves had positively declared, that theij had not the power of hiiilding upon them — lie was really astonished the subject should again be brought forward. It had been stated, that the intended buildings were to be of an entirely ornamental nature ; but if the right of building were once conceded, what security had they that the place would not be occupied by buildings more adapted for profit than ornament ? He had heard, also, it was intended, by collusive measures, to obtain a decree fi'om the Court of Chancery, in favoiu- of the plan ; but this, as well as any further application to Parliament, would be strenuously opposed. Mr. Elwin concluded by moving a resolution, to the effect " that the Bath Common belonged exclusively to the free burgesses and inhabitants, as a place of recreation and enjoyment, and that a committee be appointed to watch and oppose any encroachment by building thereon," which was carried unanimously ; and ivith this meeting ended the discus- sion of a right of civic property, which had been a bone of contention, between the freemen, corporation, and inhabitants, for more than two centuries.* In the year 1822, the splendid edifice and domain of Fonthill, in the county of Wilts, with its princely furniture, relics of art and curiosities, being destined to the hammer, the previovis inspection of the mansion and its imique contents, formed a great attraction to the surround- ing neighbourhood, for the whole summer season. That property having passed into other hands, Mr. Beckford chose Bath as his ])ermanent residence, and purchased two large contiguous houses in Lansdown-cresccnt, which • Vide Appendix, No. 4. ' 1827.] ANNALS Of BATH. 283 he fitted up in a style becoming his Avell-knovvn taste and affluence, and worthy the occasional residence of his noble daughter, the Duchess of Hamilton. From the rear of those houses, and in a regular gradual ascent, Mr. Beckford took on lease an extensive tract of land to the brow of Lansdown, on which spot he purposed erecting a magnificent tower, in the Saxon style of architecture; and in 1823, that and other plans of improvement were commenced. This year the imposing structure was completed. The building is square to an altitude of one hundred and thirty feet from the foundation, where it assumes an octagonal form for twelve feet ; and this is surmounted by twelve feet more of octagonal wood-work of a lantern shape, protected by an iron pillar at each angle, which pillars are richly gilt. This, with a cupola, constitutes the apex of the Tower. From the summit a rich and varied scene presents itself, embracing the meanderings of the Severn, the immense tract of Salisbury Plain, and an extent of country, in every direction, whose limits seem unbounded. As the traveller approaches Bath, this magnificent edifice is distinctly seen for many leagues distant; and when permission can be obtained, the stranger is amply repaid his walk to Lansdown, by the splendid view from its summit, and the elegant embellishments of its interior. In August of this year, the city of Bath was honoured by a visit from her ISIajesty the present Queen Dowager, then Duchess of Clarence, accompanied by the Princess Caroloth of Saxe INleinengen and the Countess of Errol, then INIiss Fitzclarence. At some distance from the city, the royal party were met by a laro-e cavalcade of gentlemen, and escorted into the town ,884 ANNALS OF BATH. [1827- by the Bath troop of Yeomanry. The windows and streets were thronged, from Lambridge to the Royal Crescent, with an immense concourse of spectators, who received her Royal Highness with the most enthusiastic applause. The cavalcade proceeded to the house of the late Sir Hutton (then Colonel) Cooper, in the Royal Crescent ; and on her Royal Highness's arrival, the national anthem was played by the united bands of the Yeomanry and second Somerset INIilitia. In a few moments the Crescent, and fields in front, Avere filled by a prodigious multitude, flags were displayed at all the churches and public buildings, and the bells rang continued peals. The folloAving day, the Mayor, Aldermen, and Body Coi'porate, together with Lord James 0'Br}'en, Lord John Thynne, General Sir Henry Johnson, and other gentlemen of the city, proceeded to pay their respects to her Royal Highness, and deliver an address of congratulation. These gentlemen were severally introduced to her Royal Highness, by Colonel Cooper, and were received with great affability and kindness. The address was read by Philip George, Esq., the town- clerk ; to which her Royal Highness was pleased to return a most gracious answer. The principal object of the royal visit to this " western metropolis," was to inspect its far-famed places of public amusement and resort ; in doing which, every possible mark of attention and respect was paid to her Royal Highness, as well by the public functionaries as by every inhabitant of the city, to whom that honour was accessible ; at which she was pleased to express her marked satisfaction. On the 3rd of the month, her Royal Highness left the city, escorted by the Bath Yeomanry, > on her way 1827.] ANNALS OF BATH. 285 to Longleat, the noble residence of the Marquis of Bath. Our attention is now called to another instance of the precarious tenure of human life. Perhaps few public events, or, we may add, calamities (save the death of royalty), made a more melancholy impression on the reflecting portion of the Bath commvmity, than the death of that great statesman, INIr. Canning. He departed this life on the 8th of August, in the fifty-seventh 5'ear of his age, after only a few days' illness, having previ- ously been on a visit to his mother, then resident in this city ; on which occasion, the Body Corporate presented him with the freedom of the city in a gold box, of chaste and elegant workmanship, which was designed and manufactured by JNIessrs. Payne and Son, of Old Bond-street. His disease, which was dropsy, continued to make rapid progress, in spite of all the efforts of medical skill, watching every turn, and apply- ing, on the instant, every remedy likely to subdue its virulence and mitigate his sufferings. With melancholy interest we state, that in moments of mental aberration, indications were afforded of the cares and anxieties that occupied his thoughts. The broken sentences, and disjointed phrases, that fell from his lips, disclosed that public affairs and his country's welfare were the objects which dimly flitted acx'oss his mind, and claimed its enfeebled and wandering attention. This ceaseless solicitude for the great and solemn trust placed in his hands, manifested itself equally in those moments Avhen he was more calm and collected. At one of those periods, he expressed himself with regard to his own situation, and that of his Sovereign, in a manner at once the most noble and touching. INIr. Cannine S86 ANNALS OF BATH. [1827- succeeded to the Secretaryship for Foreign Affairs on the death of the Marquis of Londonderry, who himself fell a sacrifice to political anxieties and mental exertion. On the 28th of September, the opening of the New Bridge, connecting the parishes of Walcot and Bathwick, took place. The most active preparations had been made for the event, which was considered (and. justly so) an important epoch in the annals of the city improve- ments. Soon after ten o'clock, a large concourse of persons began to occupy the ground leading from Sydney-hotel to the Bridge, as well as every elevated spot and window on the other side, which could com- mand a view of the scene. Camden-place and Walcot- parade were particularly thronged. At eleven, the procession moved forward from the hotel, headed by the committee and a body of subscribers. On reaching the Bridge, Mr. H. E. Goodridge, the architect, presented the keys to Admiral Robinson, the Chairman. The gates being opened, the procession passed through, and the ceremony of naming the Bridge took place. The Oxford mail then drove up with six horses decorated with ribbons, the Union flag was hoisted on a staff planted near the bridge and the band played " God save the King," after which followed a numerous cavalcade of carriages and horsemen ; discharges of cannon closed the ceremony. The workmen, to the number of seventy-five, were liberally supplied with an abundant and substantial dinner, to commemorate the auspicious event. It affords us the highest gratifi- cation to state that, from the commencement to the conclusion of this work, only one accident occurred, and that merely a slight contusion from the recoil of a rope, 1827.] ANNAI.S OF 15i\TH. 287 which kept the sufferer only three days from his employment.* The Bridge is of cast iron, and distinguished hy a character at once combining elegance and stability. — The span is somewhat more than one hundred feet, and the width about thirty seven. On each side of the carriage way, there is a ])avement of six and a half feet wide for foot passengers. Two lodges at each end of the bridge, built with good taste, give additional effect to the symmetry and uniformity so characteristic of that elegant structure. The charge for building the bridge, with the toll-houses, was about ten thousand pounds, (the originally contemplated sum) which was raised in shares of one hundred pounds each. The unobstructed drive which this bridge affords from Bath- wick and Pulteney-street to the London road, and vice versa, in lieu of a circuitous route through the city, its convenience to the inhabitants of Bathwick, and general utility to the city at large, may be clearly demonstrated by stating that the holders of those shares now receive an annual dividend of seven pounds per share. To this great improvement we may add that of lighting with gas the parish of Bathwick, and the out-parts of Walcot, in the line of road from "NValcot church to Lambridge, which subsequently took place, and left in that quarter of the city little more to be desired. The completion of that magnificent establishment " Partis College," erected on New Bridge Hill, midway • In forming the road and excavating the t'ouiulations of the West Pier various Konian funereal relics were discovered, from wliich it was ascertained that the site to the I'^ast of tiic Fosse way and about the point where the Julian way commenced, (which is between Walcot-parade and the River) was used as a place of sepulture, when the Romans were in Britain. 288 ANNALS OF BATH. [1827- between Bath and the village of Kelston, took place this year. It was built and endowed by Mrs. Partis, relict of Fletcher Partis, esq., in pursuance of the charitable design of her husband, as expressed in his will, which was rendered abortive in law, by his death having occurred previous to the expiration of the time required by the statutes of Mortmain to elapse between the execution of a testamentary instrument, containing a devise to charitable uses, and the death of the testator. Mrs. Partis, however, animated by the same benevolent feelings, resolved to cai-ry his princely liberality into effect, and this in a manner in every respect worthy the philanthropic projector. This munificent endowment is for the reception of thirty reduced gentlewomen, members of the Established Church, ten of whom must be widows or daughters of clergymen. These ladies enjoy each the uncon- trolled possession of a separate house, consisting of four rooms, with a small garden attached. Each inmate receives a very liberal provision out of the funds provided by the benevolent foundress for that purpose. An elegant chapel is also erected, in the centre of that beautiful pile of buildings, to which is attached a resident chaplain, with a salary. In order to ensure the accom- plishment of her plan, Mrs. Partis conveyed the grounds and buildings, together with a large sum of money, to thirteen trustees, on whom, after her death, the manage- ment of the charity devolves. The ceremony of consecrating the chapel occurred last year, on which occasion an appropriate sermon was preached by the Rev. Dr. Holland, precentor of Chichester Cathedral, and one of the trustees. The incidental allusions to the munificence of the liberal foundress of the coUeare, 1827.] ANNALS OF BATH, 289 and the delicate but impressive manner in which the reverend gentleman alhided to the situation in whicli the individuals then assembled were placed, excited feelings in the whole audience which will not easily be forgotten The first anniversary of that establishment was on Thursday, April 10, 1827- The foundress, the bishop of the diocese, a numerous body of the trustees, and many other gentlemen, were present. The sermon was preached by the Rev. William Gunning, chaplain to the establishment ; and a suitable prayer offered up for the foundress, in which the congregation participated with marked fervour and sensibility. The Lord Bishop graciously accepted the office of visitor, and the Rev. Chaplain offered his gratuitous services as steward and secretary. Thursday, in Easter week, was then appointed as the day of annual commemoration for ever. In thus briefly noticing the munificence of Mrs. Partis, it may not be irrelevant if (with due respect) Ave touch on what appear to us to be the motives by which this excellent lady has been actuated. We should say — an affectionate remembrance of, and pious regard to, the last wishes of her departed husband ; and an anxious desire to contribute, with her ample means, to the wants of her poorer fellow-creatures. And we may with truth add, " she has given with simplicity, ruled with diligence, shewn mercy with cheerfulness." And when we view the retired, unostentatious manner in which this worthy christian employs the time allotted her in this world, may we not also justly apply these scriptural quotations ? " Charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up — doth not behave itself unseemly — is not easily provoked — thinketh no evil — believeth all things — T 290 ANNALS OF BATH. [1827. hopeth all things — endureth all things." In this just eulogium, we presume not to flatter — we offer no fulsome adulation to one who would spurn it Avith indignation — we know her not but by her good actions and by her name ; and those actions, and that name, shall be handed down to posterity — shall be marked in letters never to be erased, on the records of this city — that each passing stranger, as he reads, may anticipate the welcome promised to the just and merciful — " Well done thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." We shall close this subject by stating, that in the succeeding year the same kind-hearted lady presented to the National Benevolent Institution the sum of one thousand guineas ! We close our annual records, by the relation of a destructive fire, of a terrific description, which broke out on the York-house premises, between two and three o'clock of the morning, on Christmas-day. It was first discovered issuing from the Avindows of a shop in Broad- street, immediately under the large assembly room of the hotel. It was supposed, by some, to originate from one of the numerous flues appertaining to that extensive building; but, whether such was the case or not, is a circumstance which will ever remain involved in obscurity. The devouring flames quickly commu- nicated to the apartments immediately over, forming the superb wing, which was added only a few years previously to that noble hotel. The bells of St. Michael's Church, and the bugles of tlie Cavalry, quickly alarmed the whole city, and drew an immense concourse to the spot. The engines of the different fire-offices arrived with great expedition ; but, notAvithstanding every effort, the flames raged Avith unabated furv, till the 1827.] ANNALS OF BATH. 291 whole wing \v;i.s consumed. Fortunately, the fire was prevented, by a party wall, from reaching the front buildings of the hotel, the principal part of which remained untouched, although the elegant ball-room, with the apartments adjoining, were demolished. On a subsequent examination, the preservation of the hotel appeared almost a miracle, the raging element having left awful marks of the complete destruction with which it threatened every part of the building. If there could be any mitigation of the distress which Mr. Reilly felt on that occasion, it arose, in a great measure, from the sympathy and prompt exertions of his fellow- citizens, by whom he was so much respected. The Mayor (G. E.Tugwell, Esq.), and Mr. Nicholson, High Constable, were on the spot at a very early hour ; and an effective body of police was stationed to guard such part of the property as could be rescued from the devouring flames. The Bath troop of Yeomanry Cavalry, together with a detachment of the Somerset Militia, also materially contributed to the preservation of order. The premises, which were thus destroyed, were about one hundred feet in length, sixty in depth, and seventy in height, and comprised twenty-four rooms, including the ball and supper rooms. The whole of the furniture and effects in that extensive range was destroyed. We are happy to add, that few accidents occurred, the most serious being the fractured arm of a man belonging to the West of England Fire Office; and a few slight contusions experienced by other assistants. The following legacies to the Bath Hospital were registered this year: — T 2 292 ANNALS OF BATH. [1827- Philip Rundell, Esq £450 Richard Selfe, Esq 180 Charles KnatchbuU, Esq 180 Archdeacon Daubeney 100 £910 The latter name will be long remembered as one of the most learned champions of orthodoxy ; and the truly munificent promoter of the erection and endowment of Christ Church, in Montpelier, built expressly for the accommodation of the poor. The Civic Officers for the ensuing year were as follows : — G. H. TUGWELL, Esq.— Mayor. E. PICKWICK, Esa. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esa., JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esa. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. JOHN KITSON, Esq. s ■ G. E. ALLEN, Esq. JOHN WILTSHIRE, Esq. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. J. H. SPRY, Esq. T. F. DAVIS, M.D. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— CHAMBEBtAiN. JOSEPH BARRATT, Esq. jgHERirFs. THOMAS PHINN, Esq. ' T. CLUTTERBUCK, Esq. |c«,^^ Constables. W. T. LONG, Esq. > 1828.] AXXALS OF BATH. 293 1828. In the early part of February, a tragical event occurred in this city, which excited a universal feeling of horror, and formed the prevaiHng subject of conver- sation for a considerable time. It was the murder of a female, named Maria Bagnall, by her fellou -servant, (Richard Gillham,) at a house in INlarlborough-buildings. The wretched man appeared to have been actuated solely by a demoniacal spirit of revenge, from having accidentally overheard the deceased speak unfavourably of him to his mistress. The particulars connected with it were, in the first instance, involved in gi'eat mystery, by the artful and deep-laid plan of the murderer, and were briefly these:— The house was occupied by an elderly single lady, the murderer, his wife, and the unfortunate Maria Bagnall. Early in the evening, he retired to his bed-room, and about midnight (having previously ascertained that his victim «'as below), feigned an excuse of illness to his wife, and proceeded to the kitchen, where he concealed himself behind the door ; and watching an opportunity, as the poor woman entered with a pail of water, struck at her with a bludgeon, which he had secreted for the purpose; and, repeating his blows, at length brought her to the ground ; and, in spite of her screams and struggles, accomplished his purpose by cutting her throat with a penknife. Having effected his diaboUcal intention, and washed the blood from his person, he returned to his bed-room, locked himself in. and, concealing the key, immediately alarmed the police by firing a pistol from 294 ANNALS OF BATH. [1828. his window, stating that robbers were in the house, that they had fastened him in, and implored immediate assistance. Two of the pohce, therefore, watched the front of the house, while others ran round to the back premises, the doors of which they found wide open, and in the kitchen the unfortunate object of his vengeance quite dead, and the floor covered with blood. Various articles were packed up for removal, footsteps traced through the garden, marks of escape over the wall, and other strong confirmations that the murderers had made off towards the village of Weston. Immediate alarm was given, and pursuit in all directions took place. In the mean time, Gillham was released from his bed- room, and proceeded with the police to discover in what way an entrance had been effected. His perfect coolness and self-possession, even when he saw his murdered victim stretched on the floor, and his collected and plausible answers, gave, at the moment, still stronger proof to those present that the house must have been entered from without, and that the murderers, being disturbed, had not time to carry off their booty. How- ever, as inquiry proceeded, circumstances threw some little suspicion on Gillham ; and that " self-possession" (expressing no surprise or horror at seeing his fellow- servant a corpse) partly excited it. At length, the mayor's officers discovered stolen property of his mistress's at an obscure lodging which he rented at the back of Northampton-sti-eet. This led to still stronger suspi- cions, as he had previously denied the possession of any property ; but on being brought before the IMayor, and the stolen goods produced, his fortitude forsook him ; and when remanded to prison, made a full confession of his guilt to the Rev. William Marshall, , the chaplain. 1828.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 295 upon which he was finally committed for trial. The wretched man acknowledged that, such was the astonishing strength with which his poor victim clung round him, and struggled for her life, that he was at one time apprehensive he should not be able to shake her off, or accomjilish his purpose. He wholly excul- pated his wife from the slightest knowledge of his guilt, and declared he had no accomplice. The trial of the murderer took place at Taunton, the 8th of April, before INIr. Justice Littledale ; w^hen all the circumstances w^ere there minutely detailed. — After his Lordship had summed up, the jury, in five minutes, returned a verdict of guilty. He was then sentenced to be hanged on the 10th, and his body to be dissected. He betrayed the greatest apathy during the whole trial, and looked with the utmost indifference on the assembled multitude. An objection was, however, made by the prisoner's counsel, against the admissibility of his confession a,s evidence; and his Lordship, therefore, respited the prisoner till the 4th of June, in order to leave the point for the decision of the twelve Judges ; expressing, at the same time, his full conviction that the confession was perfectly admissible. On the 10th of May, the Judges sat in the Coui't of Exchequer to hear arguments on the case. Mr. Moody, on behalf of the prisoner, contended that his confession having been made luidcr hopes and fears, excited by tiie clergyman who \isited him, ought not to be received in evidence ; and, therefore, that the conviction was illegal. Mr. Follett addi-essed the Court at great length, in support of the conviction. The learned gentlemen having concluded their arguments, the bar and public were ordered to witlidraw. The 296 ANNALS OF BATH. [1828. Judges sat in consultation about half an hour, and then decided that the confession was admissible evidence against the prisoner ; and, consequently, the conviction according to law. When this decision was communicated to Gillham, by the governor of the jail, he did not betray any particular emotion ; but said, it was no more than he expected. Accordingly, on Wednesday, June 4th, the wretched culprit underwent the extreme sentence of the law, in front of Ilchester Jail, the justice of which he had previously acknowledged. He met his fate with tolerable firmness, and died almost without a struggle. His body was afterwards brought to Bath, and consigned to the surgeons of the United Hospital, for dissection as a murderer, agreeably to his sentence. In reflecting on the ignominious end of this ill-fated young man, we have here placed before us the awful results of a vindictive, revengeful disposition. Too true it is, that the feuds and animosities which disturb the intercourse of human life, and compose half its misery, have their foundation in the want of a. forgiving temper ; and Avell it were if the consequences of indulging sucli want of temper Avere felt only in this life ; but the sad consideration is, that by its influence (as in the foregoing case) we may contract a heavy debt of guilt, and become liable to the punishment of an offended God, whose laws we have transgressed, whose authority we have despised, and whose displeasure we have justly incurred. It is enjoined in holy scripture, that the forgiveness of others is the condition upon which alone Ave are to expect (or even ask) from God forgiveness for ourselves. " Let not the sun (therefore) go doAvn on your Avrath." — There is danger, if it be long entertained ; for it then 1828.] ANNALS OF BATH. 297 becomes habitual ; and at last degenerates into settled hatred and revenge. His late Majesty, then Duke of Clarence, having been appointed Lord High Admiral of the Fleet (the first similar appointment for many years, to an office long executed by commission) ; and the Earl of Breck- nock, then sitting as a representative for the city, having been chosen one of his Royal Highness's council, a new writ, for the election of a member to serve in Parliament for this city, reached the returning officer ; and the election took place at the Guildhall on the 18th of February. His lordship again offered himself, and there being no other candidate, was, after the usual ceremonies, declared duly elected. On the night of the 8th of July, an alarming and destructive inundation occiu-red, occasioned by a ti-emen- dous fall of rain, so sudden and powerful, that it appeared as if a huge water-spout had burst over the city, accompanied with thunder and extremely vivid light- ning, and which continued, without intermission, for many hours. The consequences to the parish of Widcombe were peculiarly fatal and destructive. An immense body of water, collected in a reservoir behind a mill contiguous to Widcombe-house, forced a high artificial bank formed at the end, and burst forth with fearful rapidity, spreading destruction on every side ; lofty trees were torn up by the roots, and the rushing of water resembled that of a mighty cataract. The affrighted inhabitants of the adjoining dwellings hurried to their upper stories, the lower part being instantly filled to the depth of several feet. Indeed, it was almost miraculous that the mill itself was not washed away ; and its preservation can only be accounted for, by the 29S ANNALS OF BATH. [1828. spreading of the water, by which its force was prevented from concentrating in one particular spot. The torrent continued its devastating course along Prior Park- buildings ; and, washing down a wall, rushed through the AVhite Hart public-house, across the road into the houses opposite, called Sussex-place. In the lower apartments of one of these dwellings, lay a poor old man and his wife, each of them between sixty and seventy yeai's of age ; and so totally unconscious were they of the approach or existence of danger, that before the least assistance could be afforded, they both perished in their beds. A chairman, at the contiguous village of Weston, ^vhile attempting to remove a grate, to allow the water a freer egress, was swept into the stream and drowned. The soil and trees on Beechen Cliff, were in several places removed by the violence of the storm, and hurled into the valley beneath. The end house, in Camden-street, Walcot, also fell in with a tremendous crash, which was occasioned by the torrents of rain undermining the wall against which it stood. Fortu- nately, it Avas uninhabited, or the consequences might have been very serious. The damage done to private property, both in the city and immediate neighbourhood, by that memorable icaterfall (for so, in its fullest sense, it may be called), was immense, and no accurate estimate could be made. The summer of this year, indeed, was remarkable for its humidity ; and St. Swithin, the patron saint of showers and storms, entered upon his forty days' charter, with right good will ; and for many days afterwards exercised his arrosoir much too prodigally, either for the haymaker, the artist with his sketch-book, or the votary of field amusements. 1828.] ANNALS Ol- BATH. 299 It may not be inappropriate, while on tliis subject, to introduce tlie generally received explanation of the old adage—" If it rains on St. Swithin's-day," .Vc. :— It is said that, in the year S()5, Swithin, bisliop ot Winchester, while on his death bed, was. for his singular piety, canonized by the Pope. He was particular in his desire to be buried in the church-yard instead of the chancel of the minster, as was usual with the bishops at that time, which request was complied with. But the monks, taking it into their heads that it was improper and disgraceful for a saint to lie in the open church-yard, resolved to move his body into the choir, which was to have taken place in solemn procession on the 15th of July. It rained, however, on that day, and continued to rain for forty successive days, so violently, that the monks (in those days of superstition) believed it to have been a judgment from Heaven to avert their design; and, therefore, instead of removhig the body, they erected a chapel over his grave. The autumn of 1828 proved more attractive and lively than is generally the case at that season in Bath, by tiie arrival of the 21st, or Royal Scotch Fusileers, under the command of Colonel Leahy. Successive field- days on Cluverton Down, morning and evening parades, and the performance of their band in the Pump-room and at Sydney-gardens, drew together, from day to day, a numerous concourse of spectators, and kept the whole city in a very happy state of animation. On the 30th of September, the young Queen of Portugal, Donna Maria II., arrived. The far-famed attractions of the city of Bath have been the means of enticing within its walls, at various periods, potentates, princes, nobility, and commoners, of every nation and 300 ANNALS OF BATH. [1828. language under the sun. It is a kind of " lion" within our sea-girt isle ; and, to omit a visitation and description of it, would be to the foreigner a sad blank in the leaves of his otherwise Avell-furnished diary, Avhether devoted to the registry of amusement or splendid scenery ; and, in our own countrymen, an act of barharism never to be forgiven. Thus we observe, from year to year, the eye of curiosity, the language of inquiry, the eager search for the peculiar amusements of the city, occupying every happy countenance as they parade its streets ; and, in the evening, whether in the ball-room, the theatre, the private party, or the promenade, the smiles of the fairer portion of its polished guests and residents, are lighted up with such bewitching fascination, that no wonder the "' sinkings of the heart," and the " sighs of regret," are peculiar features, among our own sex, at the termination of the Bath season. But we are diverging from our history. The young Queen of Portugal was then in her tenth year, having been born April 14, 1819. She attained the throne on the abdication of her father, Pedro d' Alcantara, Emperor of the Brazils (better known since as Don Pedro), and was affianced to her uncle, Don Miguel, on the 29th of October, 1826. She unites, with an agreeable and pre- possessing countenance, a quick intelligent eye ; and, although a native of a tropical climate, a remarkably fair complexion, with very light hair ; and bore, at the time, a strong resemblance to the late lamented Princess Charlotte, when about the same age. Her Majesty was met at some distance by the Bath troop of Yeomanry Cavahy, who escorted her to the city. In front of the York-house, a detachment of the 21st Fusileers were in waiting to receive her with military honours ; and a vast 1828.] ANXAI.S Ol' BATH. 301 number of persons were assembled, who, on her Majesty's arrival, greeted her with loud cheers and waving of handkerchiefs, the band playing the national anthem. Immediately afterwards, the young Queen presented herself at the window, where she continued for some time, expressing her acknowledgments for the enthu- siastic reception she had met with. Her suite comprised forty persons ; among whom were, the Marquis and Marchioness Palmella, Marquis Barbacena, General Sal- danha, Viscount d'ltabayana, Lord Clinton, Sir William Freemantle, secretaries, &c. On the 2d of October, the Mayor and Body Corpo- rate proceeded to present an address of congratulation to her Majesty, a guard of honour from the Fusileers having previously been stationed in front of York-house, with their full and efficient band. Philip George, Esq., read the address ; to which the IMarquis of Palmella (on behalf of her Majesty) made a suitable reply. Her Majesty afterwards proceeded, with her cortege, to visit the various public institutions, and other establish- ments worthy of notice, and returned to the York- house in the evening. After visiting Clifton, and sojourning there two days, on the 5th her Majesty left Bath for London, having been escorted, as far as Melksham, by the Yeomanry Cavalry. The late interesting events in Portugal have natu- rally created a deep anxiety for the future fate of that young and amiable Princess. It is true, she is now seated on throne of her ancestors, the oldest and most constant of our allies — but, in a country lately divided by political and religious dissensions, probably not wholly extinguished; and where, under the powerful influence of the priesthood, the flame may again burst 302 ANNALS OF BATH. [1828. forth with redoubled violence. However, we will not look on the gloomy side of the picture ; but trust that the wisdom and gallantry of her commanders, who (by the blessing of Providence), have placed her on that throne, may continue to watch over her destinies, guide her councils with liberality, and firmly establish peace and happiness in that hitherto distracted country. A handsome presentation of plate to the Rev. AVilliam Marshall, curate of the Abbey parish, occurred in the latter part of 1828, for which, some months previously, a general subscription had been made, as a testimonial of public approbation, for the zealous and faithful discharge of his pastoral duties during a 'period of twenty-five year.s. The articles comprising this splendid proof of esteem, Avere a massive silver salver, with richly chased handles and border, the inscription on it being encircled Avith palm-leaves, and surmounted with ci'est and motto ; a fruit basket, and a complete tea equipage, which were manufactured by Messrs. Payne and Sons, of this city. The salver bore the following inscription : — " Presented by tlie Rector and Parishioners of tlie parish of St. Peter and St. Paul, the Recorder, the Representatives in Parliament, the Gentry and Citizens of Bath, to the Reverend William Marshall, M.A., twenty- five years the exemplary Curate of the Abbey Church ; as a memorial of friendship, and testimony of public respect. " R. M. Payne, i „ cc r, . ,„n„ ,, -r T ; Churchwardens. " Easier, 1828. " James Lea, | The reverend gentleman, in acknowledging that flattering mark of public approbation, said — " that whilst, as a minister of God's holy word, he felt conscious of his own insufficiency, yet he confessed it was, and ever 1828.] AXXAT.S OF I5ATH. 303 would be, a source of the purest gratification, to have been thought worthy of such a testimonial from his parishioners, friends, and fellow-citizens." And at a meeting of the Mayor and Corporation, at the Town-hall, a imanimous vote Avas passed, to present to the reverend gentleman one hundred pounds, as a testimony of their approbation for the exemplary discharge of his ecclesiastical duties. We feel sincere satisfaction in thus placing, jointly on public record, these highly honourable tributes of affection and respect, paid by his parishioners and fellow- citizens of all ranks, to a gentleman, as truly estimable in private as in public life. It was at the close of this year, when the chilling influence of winter, with all its attendant miseries to the destitute, had commenced, that the attention of the benevolent was awakened, and the greatest sympathy excited, in most parts of the kingdom, by the unmerited distress, and, indeed, utter destitution, to which the poor Spaniards were reduced, who had fled their country from political persecutions, and sought })rotection under the British flag, and shelter under British hospitality. In this city a congenial feeling was entertained, a subscription opened for their relief, and in a short time one hundred and twenty-two pounds seventeen shillings and sixpence, transmitted, through the medium of the respective bankers, to the I^ondon committee. Eno-land ! thou land of liberty, we exult in hailing thee as our birth-jjlace ! Here, in this happy country, an asylum is ever found for the wretched outcast ; the poor persecuted being who, under the iron yoke of despotism, incurs the forfeiture of his life by the expression of one liberal opinion. 304 ANNALS OF BATH. [1828. On the 24th of December, Sir John Hutton Cooper, Bart., member of the Body Corporate, Lieutenant- Colonel of the 2d Somerset Militia, Member of Parlia- ment for Dartmouth, and a Groom of the Bedchamber to his Royal Highness the Duke of Clarence, departed this life at Brighton. In his death the city of Bath sustained a great loss. Sir Hutton Cooper was at all times a public benefactor, a supporter of the insti- tutions of the city, a ready and liberal contributor to all its charities, and a warm promoter of its general interests. In social life, his frank, liberal, and cheerful disposition, had obtained for him a more general sentiment of regard than is enjoyed by many. No opportunity was lost, during a life pros- perous beyond the ordinary lot of mankind, of employing whatever means came witliin his reach, to advance the uiterests of those who laid claim to his exertions ; and that benevolence of feeling, which pervaded all his actions, was the distinguishing mark of his character. The intense interest excited by his severe and rapidly increasing illness, sufficiently testified the general esteem in which he was held ; and it is no mean praise to say, that perhaps not one of the many and widely-dispersed friends who deplore his loss, can at once select another to that place in their affections, which tlie death of that amiable man left vacant. Among the charitable donations of this year, was a bequest, of six hundred pounds, under the will of the late Colonel F. Sackville, in sums of fifty pounds, to twelve widows residing in the city of Bath. They were to be residents, of known respectability, each having a family of not fewer than three children, and labouring under sickness, misfortune, and poverty. — 1829.] ANXALS OF BATH. 305 The objects for this charity were to be selected by the governor and directors or trustees, for the time being, of the Bath Infirmary. Also, from Mrs. Custance, late of this city, bequests of one hundred pounds to the Bath United Hospital, and fifty pounds to the Bath Hospital. The Civic Officers for the ensuing year were thus arranged : — WILLIAM TUDOR, Esa.— Mayor. G. H. TUGVVELL, Esq. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esu. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. EDJIUND ANDERDON, Esq. G. E. ALLEN, Esq. f JOHN WILTSHIRE, Esq. E. PICKWICK, Esq. J. H. SPRY, Esq. J. F. DAVIS, Esq. GEORGE KITSON, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— Chamberlain. ■ Sheriffs. J. F. GUNNING, Esq., ) , Sir H. COOPER, Bart., ' ' H. MANT, Esq. O. C. TUGWELL Esq. I Chief Constables. 1829. Our first announcement of this year is the death of John Parish, Esq., in his eighty-seventh year. — This truly good man, whose release from earthly sufferings it is our mournful duty to record, was too well known to our fellow citizens to need a laboured eulogy here. In the most essential qualities u 306 ANNALS OF BATH. [1829. of Christian charity and munificence, his death must leave a void in the city of Bath, that cannot easily be supplied. Great and liberal as were his public charities, they were even less signal than the jprhate munificence in which his generous spirit loved to indulge, the substantial value of which was ever enhanced by the sterling kindness and cordial feeling with which it was exercised. Many who have benefited by his liberal assistance can fully attest the truth of this represen- tation. In short, were it required to produce an example of genuine worth and fervent piety, of kindly feelings, and ample munificence Avhich knev/ no delight beyond that of doing good and which parted freely with wordly riches, to comfort the afflicted, and succour the distressed, we could adduce none more worthy of imitation than that of the lamented John Parish. A plain but elegant monument is erected in the Abbey Church to the memory of that respected man, which bears the following inscription : — " Near this Monument are entombed the remains of John Parish, Esq., formerly a Merchant at Hamburgh, and for the last twenty-five years of his life a resident in the City of Bath. He died February 4th, 1829, aged eighty-six years. Prosperous in his commercial career; he devoted his retirement to the exercise of benevolence and charity. — Followed by the blessings of the poor, he closed a long and useful existence, venerated and beloved ; and when resigning his spirit into the hands of him who gave it, he derived consolation from the sure, but humble hope of a happy immortality, through faith in his Redeemer. May all who read this tribute to his memorv, emulate his virtues." It has been our good fortune at different periods of this narrative, to advert to the establish- ment of national schools ; to point out their beneficial effects ; and to allude to those more immediately 1829.] ANNALS OF BATH. 307 connected with this city. But to evince the benefits they confer on mankind, generally speaking, and confirm the truth of our remarks, when the annual examination of the national school boys took place in 1817 we could not probably adduce a clearer corrobora- tion, or a better practical illustration of their good effects, than one Avhich occurred this year, and to which we rejoice to give a place in our history, being as honourable to those who participated in it, as oratifying to the benevolent individuals who first established those institutions. We have to record that a meeting took place in the early part of 1829, of thirty young tradesmen who had been educated in the national school, for the purpose of presenting Mr. Browning, the master of that establishment, with an elegant and richly chased silver snuff box, bearing the following inscription : — "Presented to Mr. Thomas Browning, the mucli respected Master of the Bath National School, as a trifling token of regard, from several youncr men who formerly had the advantage of his instruction." The Box Avas presented by Mr. INI. Tiley, who said, it would be useless for him to dwell on the merits that had called forth such approbation, but, he must add, that there could not be a greater proof of INIr. Browning's activity and zeal, than the scene then hefore him. The election of a Member for the city to serve in Parliament took place February 13th, this year. Lord Brecknock having again vacated his seat by accepting office as one of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. General Palmer, on this occasion, offered himself as a candidate. He was proposed by r 2 308 ANNALS OF BATH. [1829. Alderman Crook and seconded by Sir George Gibbes. Lord Brecknock was proposed by Alderman Anderdon, and seconded by Alderman Wiltshire. On casting up the votes the numbers were found to be equal — consequently a double return occurred. This circumstance was certainly new in the annals of our borough elections, because the validity of every vote is unquestionable, whereas, in county or other elections, when double returns take place, a scrutiny occurs, and the invalidity of some of the votes has generally awarded the seat to one of the Candidates ; but, in this case, a scrutiny was quite umiecessary. A new Writ was, therefore, the consequence, and the election again took place on the 11th of March. At half-past ten in the morning, an immense crowd had assembled at the Guildhall, com- pletely filling the outer and inner Hall, and extending into the street. At eleven, the Body Corporate, accompanied by tlie two candidates arrived, and the Town-clerk proceeded to swear in the Mayor, and read the proclamation, not one word of which could be heard from the tremendous noise kept up by the populace. At the conclusion of the poll, a majority of two appeared in favour of Lord Brecknock, which announcement was received with such a " universal hubbub" as to baffle all description. His Lordship returned thanks to the electors, but his words were totally inaudible, owing to the incessant hootings of the multitude. The chairing then took place and his Lordship (occasionally throwing silver among the people) arrived at the York House, without receiving any personal injury. A few squares of glass at the Guild- hall and York House constituted the full amount of damage done on that occasion. v 7 829.] ANNALS OF BATH. 309 The ceremony of laying the foundation stone of ^Valcot New Church, occurred on April 2d. Between two and three o'clock, a large number of the officiating clergy, with several subscribers and other gentlemen of the city, proceeded to the spot, Avhen the Reverend Archdeacon Moysey, Rector of the parish, commenced the usual ceremonies on those occasions. The stone being elevated, pieces of coin were deposited underneath, and it was then lowered into its place. The whole was conducted with the greatest order and regularity. The following memorial is inscribed on the plate : — " " To the Honour of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, and to promote the pure Protestant worship of the United Church of England and Ireland, the first stone of this Church i\'as laid, in the name of our blessed Saviour, in the nintli year of the Reign of King George the Fourth, on the 2d of April, 1829. " Charles Abel Moysey, D.D., Rector of Walcot. " Charles Geary, ) „, , , V Churchwardens. " Daniel Howe, j " John Pinch, Architect. " Keeling, Son, and Aust, Builders." The spirit of improvement, which has of late years so decidedly manifested itself in every city, town, and even village in the kingdom, has certainly not lain dormant in Bath ; and new buildings, amelioration of streets and roads, and removal of nuisances, either effected by individuals or public bodies, were visible in every quarter of the city and its suburbs. It is needless to detail the advantages that such improvements confer ; it is sufficient to look at our rival watering-place, Chelten- ham, which has been elevated, in a few years, from an insignificant village, to one of the most important resorts of rank and fashion in the country. .'310 ANNALS OF BATH. [1829. Since the commencement of the projected improve- ments in the immediate neighbourhood ot" the Abbey Church, by the removal of the dilapidated tenements in Wade's passage, propositions from Earl Manvers were taken into consideration by the parish of St. Peter and St. Paul, relative to the removal of certain dwellings contiguous to the Abbey, and situated in Kingston- buildings, on the South side thereof, being his lordship's property. It was unanimously resolved that his lord- ship's proposals should be acceded to ; which were, that on the removal of the said houses, the parish should bound the space by an iron railing, to correspond with the North side, and should pay his lordship an acknow- ledgment, by way of ground-rent, of two pounds two shillings per annum. Independent of these improvements in this part of Bath, the erection of a new Pump-Room, as a private imdertaking, by Dr. Wilkinson, on the site of what was usually called the " Abbey House," was com- menced ; and we shall have occasion to mention, in its proper place, considerable improvements in the interior of the General Hospital, by the introduction of hot air, and a new system of ventilation, as well as the construction of the baths therein, and the supplying the same with the medicinal water from the springs. ]\Ir. Decimus Burton, the celebrated architect, was also applied to by the city chamber, to draw out plans for some magnificent improvements in the public baths. Embellishments at the Guildhall next claim our attention. The walls, ceiling, and the whole interior of the banqueting-room, were beautifully painted, decorated, and new furnished ; and an immense Gothic lamp, of a temple form, suspended at the head of the grand stair- case. The old Town-hall was built after a design by 1829.] AXNALS OF BATH. 311 Inigo Jones, in the year 1625, when he came to view the state of the baths, and stood opposite the Christopher Inn. One upon the present site was begun in 1766, but some difficulties occurring, it Avas never proceeded witli. New plans were afterwards proposed, and the present building was erected in 177.5, under the direction of JNIr. Thomas Baldwin. The plan is excellent, both with respect to external effect and internal convenience. The banqueting-room (already mentioned) is eighty feet long, forty Avide, and thirty-one high, and considered by many to be the best proportioned room in England. Extensive embeUishments at the Great Pump-lloom also took place this year. A large column of beautifully veined marble, surmounted witii a superb classic vase, was erected for the fountain or pump, as an elegant substitute for the three bronzed spouts, through Avhich the water used to flow. The basin beneath was taste- fully and happily conceived, being a sea shell based upon a fragment of rock strewed with sea weed, and encircled by a serpent, from whose mouth the water issues into it. The origin and present state of this Pump-Room forms an important feature in the annals of Bath. In the year 170J. the inhabitants and visitors were accustomed to take their libations in the open air, subject of course, as chance directed, to the vicissitudes of the season. The necessity, therefore, of some kind of shelter for those who drank the water, was soon apparent, and first urged on the notice of the public, by Dr. Oliver in his " Treatise on the Bath ^\'aters," which induced the Corporation (whose property the springs are) to build a covered apartment which took the appro jiriate name of " Pump lloom." It was finished in 1706, and opened ;J12 ANNALS Ol'' IJATH. [1829. under the direction of Mr. Nash, who was, at that time, Master of the Ceremonies. In 1757 the room was enlarged, and, in 1786, embellished with a portico. In ten years afterwards, the whole was pulled down, and the present elegant building constructed, which reflects great credit on the architect, Mr. Baldwin. The attractions of the Pump Room are now, and have been for many years con- siderably enhanced by the performance of an excellent band during the Avinter season, and it may gratify curiosity if we relate the circumstances which led to their formation. But, in order to do so, we must first revert to the time when Bath was of far less extent than at present, and its attractions less refined. If we go no further back than the last century, we shall find that bowling in skittle alleys, cock-fighting, bull- baiting, and other rude and barbarous sports, with dancing on a green to a fiddle and haut-boy, were among the principal amusements of the inhabitants and visitors. In 1702 Queen Anne Avas advised by her physicians to try the efficacy of the Bath Waters, when she brought with her many persons of the first rank and fashion. The amusements alluded to being of too unrefined a nature for the entertainment of such company, his Grace the Duke of Beaufort, (for the gratification of the Regal Visitor, and her suite,) first established balls in the Town-hall, and a promenade in the Orange Grove, where five resident musical per- formers attended. Captain Webster was appointed to act as Master of the Ceremonies, which he continued to do till 1704, when he fell in a duel, and Mr. Nash Avas appointed to succeed him. About this time, a disappointed physician endeavoured to crefite a prejudice 1829.] ANXAl.S Ol' BATH. 313 against the ^\'atcrs, by asserting that they were rendered poisonous from the continued access of toads, and he published a pamplilet to that effect. But this was soon discovered to be nothing more than the result of malice, and only served to stimulate INIr. Nash to further exertions. He accordingly employed seven good per- formers to play in tlie Cross Bath Pump Room, which band he afterwards removed to that of the King's Bath, where they were employed to play every morning from eight to ten during the season, which generally lasted about thirty weeks, and for which each performer received one guinea per week, from the funds subscribed to the balls. On the death of Mr. Nash the Pump Room band lost a kind friend and supporter, and the consequence was, that in the process of time, their funds became drooping and precarious, and the renters of the Rooms considering the " Ball Money" their exclusive property, ultimately withheld altogether that remuneration. It was at this critical juncture (we believe about tlie year 1824) when that celebrated band had attained a degree of popularity unknown at any period of its history, that great fears Avere entertained for its dismem- berment, and it would in all probability have ceased to exist as a musical association, but for the timely inter- ference and liberality of the Corporate Body, who voted an annual donation of £50 for its support, Avhich, with a few adventitious subscribers, and an occasional benefit, now constitute its principal reliance. The Rev. John Bowen, an eminent musical connoisseur, whose name has been already introduced in these pages in connection with the musical institutions of the city, together with the late Reverend Thomas Street and Mr. Baverstock, 314 ANNALS OF BATH. [1829- were for many years the undeviating patrons of that highly attractive performance. Immediately adjoining the Pump-room, on the wall of the private baths, in Stall-street, will be found a brass plate, bearing the following inscription, Avhich was formerly fixed in the wall near the common pump, but taken down many years since, and only lately restored to its present situation. It was to commemorate the charitable intention of Lady Elizabeth Scudamore, who was using the baths in the year 1652, and gave the annual sum of eight pounds, to be paid by the Corpo- ration, as a stipend to a physician, who should afford advice to the poor coming to Bath for the use of the waters* : — " All poor pei'sons, not being conveniently able to maintej'ne them- selves, and resortinge to Bath for cure of their diseases or infirmities, may take notice, that there ought to be a Physitian yearely nominated and appointed by the Maior and Aldermen, who is to give his best advice, from time to time, to ye said poor persons, ■\\ithout any reward from them, there being a salarie provided to that purpose, by the charitable gvift of Dame Elizabeth vi-Countess ScudaiMore." In reference to the above notice, it is necessary to state, that a physician is annually appointed by the Corporation, agreeable to her ladyship's bequest; that he gives the advice required, and admits to Bellot's Hospital, between Lady-day and Michaelmas, those whose cases are proper, and visits them during their stay therein. This hospital is a small Ioav building, situated in Beau-street, and was founded by Thomas Bellot, Esq. (one of the executors of Lord Cecil), in the reign of James the First. It is under the guardianship * Vide Warner's History. » 1829] AXXAI.S OF BATH. 315 of the Corporation, and is appropriated to the use of poor persons coming to this city for the benefit of the water. The number admitted does not exceed twelve ; who have the Hberty of bathin<>; gratis, and an allowance of two shillings and four-pence })er week each person. A poor man and his wife are appointed keepers of that alms-house, who have their residence and a trifling salary. Among the improvements which were taking place at this period, the Corporate Body had not overlooked a very necessary alteration in the Coal-market, by the removal of the weighing-house and machine many feet further back, in order to afford a larger space for carriages to set down or take up at the theatre. This measure had been anxiously looked for, by the public (and inhabitants oft he Saw-close, particularly), as one that would tend to abate many gross and flagrant nuisances. Neither should we omit to mention a most judicious improvement in Walcot-street, by the removal of the gardens in front of the houses in liady mead, by Avhich means the accommodation of foot-passengers was materially promoted by an excellent causeway, of fourteen feet, and the remainder of the ground added to the carriage road. ^Valcot Church, also, received an acquisition, by an illuminated clock, placed to face the Ijondon-road, by which the time can now be ascertained in the darkest night, affording much accommodation to the immediate neighbourhood ; and is tlie first object which meets the traveller's eye, as he enters the city in that direction. The shigularity of the invention, with its unique appearance, produced as many wondering gazers, on the first night of its illumination with gas, 316 ANNALS OF uaTh. [1829- as the bell at St. Dunstan's was wont to do, when the giants, with their pondei-ous hammers, were about to announce the time of day. The most curious part of this useful invention is, that the light is turned off and on, as required, by an ingenious, simple, and unerring motion, from the works of the clock, entirely obviating the necessity of a person either to light or extinguish it. The out-parts of A^'^alcot were, for the first time, lighted with gas in 1829, including Lansdown Crescent, the two wings, and Somerset-place ; and we need not say that, in such elevated situations, the effect is extremely brilliant. In concluding the records of this year, we must notice a charitable collection that was made by the benevolent exertions of several inhabitants of the city, in behalf of the poor operative Spitalfield weavers, whose distress had called forth public sympathy ; and who, from a complication of causes, had been a long while suffering great distress. The sum of five hundred and forty-two pounds two shillings and sixpence, was collected, and in due time transmitted to the treasurer in London. The death of a member of the Corporate Body, John Kitson, Esq., who had filled the civic chair at the time of the late Queen Charlotte's visit, occurred at the close of 1829. In public, as well as private life, he was universally esteemed, kind-hearted, mild, and unassuming; he died as he had lived, beloved and respected. The Civic Officers for the ensuing year were elected as follows : — 1S30.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. .ill JOSEPH HUME SPRY, Esq—Mavob. WILLIAJI TUDOR, Esq. 1 f O. E. ALLEN, Esq. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq. I » I -lOH^ WILTSHIRE, Esq. JOSEPH PHILLOTT, Esq. I ^ I E. PICKWICK, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. ( ^ 1 J. F. DAVIS, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. O. H. TUGWELL, Esq. j (iEORGE KITSON, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.— Cuamberlain. T. CLUTTERBUCK, Esq. | Sheriffs. W. J. LONG, Esq. ' PETER MARRIOTT, Esq. | c„,^^ Constables. G. SPRY, Esq. ' 1830. Heavy and repeated falls of snow marked the beginning of this year. Tlie ground became entirely covered to a great depth ; and a severe frost setting in at the time, the customary sources of labour were entirely blocked up, and great distress existed among the working poor. Under such circumstances, the Mayor and Magistrates, with praiseworthy zeal, com- menced a subscription for the assistance of that class of labourers who were not in the receipt of jjarochial relief, and directed that the money subscribed should be placed at the disposal of the Society for the Relief of Occasional Distress, Avith the assistance of two inhabitants from each of the several parisiies. The Corporation subscribed 318 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. fifty pounds, the Bishop of the diocese tAventy-five pounds, and the Members for the city twenty-one pounds. In a short time, eight hundred pounds was collected. Immediate employment was, therefore, provided for more than one hundred and fifty men in clearing the streets of snow, and the still more dangerous accumula- tion of ice, Avith Avhich the pavements were everywhere incrusted. Bread, coals, blankets, and (in some feAv urgent cases) money, were distributed ; and the greatest possible relief afforded to the distressed poor throughout the six parishes, until the timely interference of Provi- dence restored to them the usual means of providing for their families, by their own honest and independent labour. There was, however, one class of respectable labourers in the city, who, in the days of Beau Nash, were the key-stone to the public amusements he directed, and who began noAV to feel that its increasing size and population had lessened their daily earnings ; and not only impoverished, but threatened to render themselves and families burthens on the parishes to which they belonged. AVe allude to the licensed chairmen, a species of recog- nized functionaries (if we may so apply the term) attached to this city, from time immemorial ; and who, from their useful services, might, Avith justice, claim the protection of its inhabitants, fashionable visitors, and numerous invalids. The establishment of hackney carriages, in the form of a light coach, draAvn by one horse, and denominated " flys," took place in the summer of last year, inider the sanction of the INIayor and Magistrates. A code of regulations for their guidance Avas draAvn out, and " hackney flys" Avere soon in active operation. The 1830.] AXNAI.S OF BATH. 319 subsistence of that useful body of men being rendered, therefore, extremely precarious, by this new arrangement and consequent decrease of employment, a memorial was respectfully submitted by them to the residents and visitors of the city. It stated " their number to be three hundred and fifty, of whom more than two-thirds were married, with large families; that they occupied houses from ten to twenty pounds rent per annum, and contributed their quota towards the assessed and parochial taxes ; that, by virtue of their licenses, they were liable to be called out as special constables, at a moment's notice, and had other restrictions placed on them peculiar to their employments. Under those circumstances, they could not but deeply lament the establishment of hackney flys ; and they looked forward with hope and anxiety to the continued patronage of their kind friends to rescue them from poverty, and all its attendant miseries." This appeal to the kindly feelings of the upper classes, was not without its due effect ; though, of course, it could not check the progress of improve- ment consequent on an increased population. From that period to the present, chairs have been in much less request. Some men have entered into different ti'ades, whereby to gain a livelihood ; others liaAe sought employment elsewhere ; and those that remain have learnt, by sad experience, to place but little trust in their hitherto certain occupation. The number of licensed chairs continues nearly the same, but their bearers are unemployed half the year; and the hay-field, the harvest, and other pursuits, fill up to them the vacuum of a tedious, unprofitable summer season. The magnificent improvements, which were made in the public and private baths during the past year, and 320 ANNALS OF BATH. flSSO. those at the Bath Hospital in tlie present, now claim particular attention. Indeed, it is not too much to say, with respect to the former, that the baths of this city are unparalleled in any city in Europe ; whether as to taste, elegance, convenience, or useful adaptation to every case for which bathing is recommended. Independently of the Hot Baths, in Bath-street, being this year completely refitted, a capacious one, for swimming, Avas constructed, on an elegant and classical design. The dimensions are sixty-one feet in length, twenty-two feet in width, and four feet six inches in depth ; and it contains, when full, six hundred and sixty-six hogsheads of water! To this Bath eight dressing-rooms are attached, with corridors, vestibules, &c. The process of filling commences in the evening ; and at six the following morning the bath is ready for use, and continues open vmtil eleven, at which hour the water is let off, and the bath thoroughly cleansed. The water is supplied from the spring of the King's Bath, in Stall-street ; and chiefly from a capacious reservoir, lately constructed there, to which a steam- engine is attached for pumping the watei- from the King's Bath into that of the reservoir, where it becomes cold ; and is then conveyed from thence to different parts of the bathing establishment, to regulate the temperature of the fresh drawn water. In the centre of the Hot Baths already noticed, was formerly an open bath for the use of the patients of the General Hospital, who were conveyed from thence in sedan chairs. The late improvements in that hospital (which we shall notice in due time) have superseded the necessity of this application of the Bath in question, which is now open to the working classes, at six-pence ISaO.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 321 each ; but, to the poor, when using it medicinalhj, free of all expence. The Cross Bath (thus designated from a cross, which was erected in the centre by the Earl of Melfort, secretary of state to King James the Second, as a memorial of the Queen's bathing in it, in the year 1687) had formerly a pump-room, which was converted into three reclining baths, with a shower bath, and douche or dry pump. By the late improvements, a bath, at any temperature, is now filled in four minutes and a half, and it empties itself in the short space of two. When these splendid improvements were contem- plated by the city chamber, Mr. Decimus Burton, the celebrated architect, was employed to draw out plans for their consideration ; and these, accompanied by his report, were in due time laid before the Corporation. — Some alterations, however, took place afterwards ; and the whole was confided to the superintendence of the city architect, INlr. Manners, of whom it is but justice to say, that he executed the trust reposed in him with a fidelity and professional skill seldom equalled. The cause of the extraordinary heat of the Bath waters is, to this day, merely conjectural ; and never has been, and probably never will be, satisfactorily accounted for. Many arguments and opinions have been urged ; and there are great authorities for each.* It is sufficient for our purpose to know (of which there are indubitable proofs), that these waters have retained their warmth and their virtues through a long course of ages ; and, whatever the cause may be, there are no just grounds to apprehend that their heat, or salubrious qualities, will ever fail. The nae of them, whether internally or * Dr. Daubeney, already spoken of, the last. X 322 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. externally, becomes another subject for consideration, and ought to be cautiously resorted to without the previous advice of a medical man. We will suppose a case illustrative of this opinion, instances of which have more than once happened in this city. A bon-vivant, of about half a century old, who has never yet experienced a determined fit of the gout, fancies he has a little of (what he calls) the flying- gout about him, and takes it into his head to visit Bath, with a full intention to eat his three meals a day and drink his bottle of port in the evening, comme a Vor- dinaire, to keep, as he says, the disorder from his stomach. " What do 1 want with a physician ?" he exclaims ; " I have nothing but a little flying gout about me, and will e'en try a glass or two of the waters every morning, and see how they agree with me." He applies to the pumper accordingly, drinks freely, finds the water very palatable, and his appetite wonderfully increased. His dinner- hour arrives, for which he is perfectly ready ; and for several days perceives no alteration but for the better. He writes to his friends, that the flying, gouty pains have left him ; enumerates all his favourable symptoms, and, except being a little heated, with now and then a swimming in the head, infinitely better for drinking the Bath waters. This gratifying report produces, in return, a haunch of venison ; to partake of which, he invites, on a given day, a few of his old bottle companions. These worthy gentlemen are, of course, very punctual ; when, to their utter dismay, they find that their friend was suddenly seized with a fit that morning, taken to his lodgings, and died in a few hours afterwards. And yet that very person, by proper advice, might, in all probability, have returned home in perfect health, and 1830.] ANNALS OF BATH. 323 lengthened his days by the very medicine which so unexpectedly deprived him of life. Having urged the necessity of taking proper advice before drinking the Bath waters, we cannot leave the subject without relating an anecdote, told some fifty years back, of a rich old bachelor, in this city, well known at the time for his penurious habits, and who was also occasionally troubled with his " flying gouty pains." He, too, like the supposed bon-vivant, ventured every morning to drink a glass or two of the Bath water, on his own responsibility ; but, perceiving that they disagreed with him, and unwilling, for very obvious reasons, to call in professional aid, accosted a medical friend, whom he met in the streets ; and, affecting to enter into general conversation, managed ingeniously to introduce the subject of his own health. " By the bye, doctor," says he, " I have been far from well lately, have very little appetite, bad digestion, and strange swim- mings in my head — what had I better take?" The doctor (who wasted no more words than time) looked at him earnestly — " Take advice, to be sure !" We must, therefore, remind those who intend visiting Bath, with a view to drink the waters, not to begin until they have well considered the probable result ; and, by all means, before doing so, to " take advice." We now arrive at the improvements of the General Hospital, so called from being open to the admission of patients from all parts of the United Kingdom, whose cases* are suited to the healing properties of the Bath waters, with the singular exception, (which has prevailed from the year 1743 to the present time,) of the inhabitants " Vide M'arner's History, page 2%. X 2 324 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. of the city. This exclusion appears to us only to have been made, on a vague and unauthorized presumption, that because the hospital was erected in order to furnish accommodation to persons living at a distance from Bath, it should be devoted to such persons exclvskelij ; a limitation, for which the Act of Parliament aifords no sanction whatever. On the l6th of November, 17-4i{, a general court was held, at which it was resolved " that the inhabitants of this city are excluded admission into the hospital by the Act of Parliament." This decision appears to have been quietly acquiesced in up to a late period, though the legality of the exclusion has been repeatedly questioned. In 1829, when the draft of the amended act was under consideration, the subject was again discussed ; and at a general court, held February 22nd of this year, the following entry was made in the minutes of the proceedings : — " Doubts having been entertained of the propriety of excluding patients resident in Bath from the benefits of the hospital, and the chairman having read the opinion of Mr. Adam (King's counsel), in favour of their right of admission, resolved that the town-clei'k be directed to prepare a clause in the new Act of Parliament declaratory of such right." The clause was prepared accordingly, and inserted in the draft of the bill, but withdrawn after- wards, in consequence of an objection to its introduction by the Earl of Shaftesbury. The amended Act, conse- quently, leaves the question of alleged exclusion precisely as it stood under the old Act. In the early part of 1835, Dr. Barlow, senior physician to the Hospital, addresssed a memorial to the governors against that exclusion ; and a circular was also issued by Dr. Falconer, one of the governors. 1830] AXNA1.S Ol' BATH 325 with a view to prove that the exdusion was not contrary to law, nor contrary to the intention of the founders and original benefactors. On the 1st of May, the subject came under discussion at a general court. The " memorial," and the " circular," were both ably drawn, and contained forcible arguments in support of both opinions. The court decided in favour of Dr. Barlow, thus abrogating the exclusion ; and, we trust, setting the matter at rest for ever. The hospital was opened for the reception of patients in the year 1742. It is now capable of containing one hundred and thirty-three persons, male and female, who are furnished, during the time of their residence in the institution, with every accommodation that the most excellent arrangements can afford. The diet is suited to their respective cases ; and they enjoy the proper administration of the Bath waters, with medicine and every other requisite, under the superintendence and direction of the first medical advice. As the hospital is situated some little distance from the spot where the springs rise, it was found necessary to convey the patients to and from the baths, in chairs constructed for the purpose ; and the inconvenience attending their conveyance through the public streets, had long occupied the attention of the governors of the hospital. To remedy which, it Avas at length proposed, that an application to Parliament should be made, to enable them to construct baths within the hospital, which would greatly conduce to its benefit, and the health and convenience of the patients ; and that the medicinal waters should be supplied from the springs by means of a steam-engine, with aqueducts, tunnels, and other works. Accordingly, negotiations were carried on, ;i26 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. arrangements made, and contracts entered into, with the Body Corporate (to whom the springs and public baths belong), for the necessary supplies, when the aid and authority of Parliament should be obtained. An , Act Avas, tlierefore, passed in the session of this year, which received the Royal Assent on the 29th of May. It was intituled — " An Act for altering: and amending; an Act passed in the twelfth year of the reign of his Majesty King George the Second, for establishing and well-governing an Hospital or Infirmary, in the city of Bath; and for constructing Baths therein, and supplying the same with water from the Hot Baths in the said City." The Act gave power to the governors, their managers, or agents, to break up the pitching and pavements, and undermine, as far as might be necessary, in Union, Stall, and Bath-streets, according to the plan of the intended course laid down for the construction of the culverts ; but not to alter the direction of any public sewer, gas, or water pipes, or to damage them ; and if, inadvertently damaged, then to be immediately repaired. It likewise enacted — That, in order to prevent the contamination of the water by the escape of gas, the most effectual measures should be taken to prevent such escape ; that the gas-pipes should be laid, at least, three feet distant from the water-pipes ; but if gas should be found to escape, then immediate notice to be given to any company, or person, who shall have laid down such gas-pipes, requiring them, within twenty-four hours, to stop and prevent any further escape, whether signified to them in writing, or by verbal message, under a penalty not exceeding five pounds, for every day after the expiration of the twenty-four hours from the time such notice was given, during the timp the gas was 1830.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 327 suffered to escape. It further enacted — That it should be lawful, for the president and governors, to examine the pipes, conduits, and gas apparatus, in order to ascer- tain whether such contamination be occasioned by the escape of gas ; and that the cost and expences should be borne by those persons who laid down the gas-pipes. It also directed — That the steam-engine, which shall be erected by virtue of the Act, shall be constructed on the principle of consuming its own smoke, so as to prevent the same from occasioning any nuisance. And a penalty, not exceeding five pounds, may be levied on the president and governors, in t/ieir corporate capacity, if it is not so constructed ; and such steam-engine may, likewise, be abated as a nuisance. Such were the principal clauses in the Act relative to the new improvements in the hospital ; and it must be acknowledged, that the establishment bears a high pre-eminence over similar institutions elsewhere, being not less remarkable for the appropriate adaptation of its internal arrangements, than for the neatness and ingenuity of their mechanical contrivance. The baths are fitted up with every convenience which a variety of cases can require. There are means of administering the waters in all its forms ; the plunging, the rechning, the dry pump or douche, and every description of bath ; and the temperature of the whole is regulated by the admission of more or less cold water from the reservoirs above. Tlie patients arc conveyed instantly from the batli to their beds, by which the many evils, resulting from a sudden change of temperature (as in the former mode of conveyance from the baths) are entirely avoided. The steam-engine, also, affords the means of conveying hot air over the house ; which, passing through flues, 328 ANNALS OF BATH. [ISSO. preserves a uniform temperature throughout the esta- blishment, which is regulated by thermometers suspended in various parts of the apartments, wards, and passages. A free circulation of air is, also, obtained by apertures in the upper parts of the wards ; and, as the air enters by graduated measure at the bottom, it rises as it becomes rarified, and passes through those apertures, thus keeping up a regulated current of air, to the preservation of health and cleanliness. These advantages were expressly studied, on account of the excellent effects which result from residing in a steady tempe- ture while under the influence of the Bath waters. — Nor should we omit to mention, the highly ingenious and mechanical contrivance by which the domestic arrangements of the household are carried on. Pipes, for the conveyance of steam, are distributed in every direction, the clothes are cleansed thereby, and dried in the laundry by hot air ; and in the kitchen, an apparatus, on a modern and superior construction, is fixed, by which all the culinary processes are carried on. In short, the whole constitutes an establishment unequalled by any other in the kingdom ; and is well calculated to arrest the attention, and draw forth the admiration of every casual visitor. The philanthropic views of the first founders of this establishment, and the praise-worthy exertions of those who, from year to year, have superintended its arrange- ments, and watched over its welfare, cannot fail to produce the most lively sensations of gratitude from all those who have shared its benign influence. When we consider the extent of country which this establish- ment, under its liberal regulations, is intended to embrace, the numerous pitiable objects that enter its IS.'JO.] ANNALS OK BATH. .'J29 walls, and the return of those same objects, in due time, cleansed, made whole, and, with renovated health, to their families, what a train of heart-cheering reflections is it not calculated to produce? Nature has, indeed, been liberal in conferring such attributes on Bath, greater, perhaps, than any city in Europe can boast. And, within our own knowledge, it has been a theme of gratitude to the Almighty from hundreds of our fellow-creatures, who have felt the influence of those healing springs. Art has, without doubt, produced much ; but, without those blessed gifts of nature, or rather of Providence, the ingenuitv of man would have availed but little. On the l6th of April, the ceremony of laying the foundation stone of the intended new church, at AVidcombe, took place. The parties composing the procession (which was headed by the Lord Bishop of the diocese) were received on the ground by the high constables, T. Watchurst and F. Hedger, Esquires ; and, after the usual ceremonies had taken place, the stone was lowered to its destination ; after which, the Lord Bishop offered up a devout prayer for the success of the xmdertaking. The following is the inscription engraved on a brass plate affixed to the upper surface of the stone, viz. : — " To tlic honour of God tlie Fatlicr, the Son, and Holy Ghost, and to promote the Protestant worship of the United Church of England and Ireland, the first stone of this Church was laid, in tlie name of our blessed Saviour, on the 16th day of April, in the year of our Lord 1830, in the eleventli year of the reign of King George the Fourth, and the sixth year of the translation of the Lord Bishop of Bath and Wells. " Charles Cuook, Vicar. " Rowland Mainwaring, i ., T tir I Churchwardens. " John Wright, I " G. P. Manners, Architect. " James Chappell, Builder." 330 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. The bells of the Abbey and Widcombe Churches rang merrily on the occasion, throughout the day ; and, at the conclusion of the ceremony, the workmen were reeraled with a substantial meal. Thus, through the liberality of the Corporate Body, who voted five hundred pounds towards the erection of the above church, the Lord Bishop of the diocese, and his Majesty's Commissioners for Building Churches (who advanced three hundred pounds beyond the usual two- thirds which they were empowered to furnish), was an example set to the well-wishers of the Established Church, wjiich was liberally followed up by the opvdent inhabitants of the city and its environs ; and a commo- dious church commenced in that populous parish, capable of containing twelve hundred pei'sons, of which six hundred and thirty were free sittings. We shall shortly have to announce its consecration. Before leaving the present subject, we cannot omit noticing a presentation of plate to the worthy curate of Walcot parish. We have already had occasion to communicate a similar tribute of respect to the exemplary curate of the Abbey parish ; and it is an acknowleged truth, that no two men have more deservedly won the respect and esteem of their parishioners and fellow- citizens. It is true, preferment has not reached them, " from the east or the west ;" but they have heeded it not. Secure, in their own conscientious feelings, of having served their God with pious zeal, and discharged their duty to their respective parishes, Avith unremitting- attention to their interests, the names of the Reverends Gains Barry and William Marshall must be indelibly written in the hearts of those who have profitted by their spiritual instruction, and those who have had the happiness to possess their private friendship. IS.'JO.] ANNAI.S Ol' ISATII. 331 On the 28th of JNlay, the presentation of phite, to the former gentleman, took place. It consisted of a massive silver salver, which bore the following in- scription : — " Presented bv the Parishioners of the parish of Walcot, to tlic Rev. Gaius Bahbv, Curate, in testimony of their sincere esteem and respect, for the zealous, assiduous, and affectionate soHcitudc he has evinced, during a period of thirty-five years in the discharge of liis laborious ptustoral duties; more especially for his unremitting attention to the spiritual and temporal ■\\ants of the Poor. " Chahles Geary, )/-,,, , ^ Lhurclnvardcns. " Daniel Howe, J " Bath; Enster, 1830." To this very handsome testimonial, the Reverend Mr. Barry returned a brief, but suitable and impressive reply. The declining state of his Majesty's health had been, for some time, a general and an anxious theme of conversation among his loyal subjects ; but it was not until the spring of this year, that any alarming symp- toms had presented themselves ; and the first intimation publichj given of his Majesty's dangerous state, was in a message to the House of Lords, presented by the Duke of WclUngton; and which was read by the Lord Chancellor, to the following purport : — That " his Majesty thought it necessary to inform the House, that his severe indisposition rendered it inconvenient and painful to sign, with his own hand, those public instru- ments Avhich required the sign manual ; and, relying on the dutiful attachment of Parliament to concert, without delay, the means by which he might be relieved from that pain and inconvenience, by providing for the discharge of that important function of the Crown, 332 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. without detriment to the public interest." The address, which was, of course, a dutiful compliance with his Majesty's message, was then put and carried. But a short interval elapsed between that necessary Parlia- mentary measure and the mournful intelligence of the King's demise, which reached this city on the evening of June 26th, and was officially announced, by the public authorities, on the following morning ; that " his Majesty, King George the Fourth, expired, without apparent pain, on the morning of the 26th of June, in the 68th year of his age, and the eleventh of his reign." The intelligence of his Majesty's decease caused deep affliction to his faithful and loyal subjects, to whom he was endeared by the anxious desire which his Majesty had uniformly manifested to promote the welfare of his people. Since arriving at the exercise of supreme power, he had pursued one unvaried course of splendour and utility. Assuming the reins of Govern- ment, when the state of the Continent presented hardly one spot on which the hopes of philanthropy could find a resting place, he was enabled, by the vigour of his measures, and advice of his council (developing the energies of a mighty nation), so to change the face of Europe, as to bestow on it, and on England, a peace the most solid and lasting, that the old world had enjoyed for nearly a century before. In short, the passing events in the regency, and reign of George the Fourth, gave to that monarch a proud and permanent pre- eminence over that of, perhaps, any monarch of England who had reigned before him. If we recal to our remembrance the various incidents of his Majesty's early days, when, to the vigour of youth, a manly, graceful exterior, prepossessing address, 18^0.] ANNALS OF BATir. 333 and a particularly handsome person, was united an unlimited command of fortune, we may be led to remark, that a very close attention to rigid moral restraint could hardly have been expected ; particularly, when sur- rounded, as he was in those days, by many who were more anxious to flatter and obey his will than advise and regulate it. But, in maturer years, when the welfare of a mighty empire was in his charge, and the cares and responsibilites of government pressed heavily on his mind, the moral excellence of his Majesty's character shone forth ; it was then that an enlightened nation felt the full value of a brave, honourable and upright monarch ; and it tvas now they had to deplore that monarch's loss. Immediately after this melancholy event, the Privy Council issued orders for proclaiming his late Majesty King of these realms, by the style and title of King William the Fourth, which was accordingly done with the usual ceremonies. And, on the 1st of July (after every mark of respect had been paid to the memory of the illustrious deceased), the ceremony of proclamation took place in this city, with unusual splendour and enthusiasm. The procession consisted of the North Somerset Yeomanry, preceded by their band; the Civic and Parochial Authorities, in twelve carriages and four ; boys of the Blue Coat School, constables, heralds with banners, and about seventy gentlemen's carriages, besides a nume- rous cavalcade of equestrians. It was, by far, the most splendid procession, as to numbers and arrangement, that had taken place in this city for many years ; and had the elements been more propitious (for it rained in torrents nearly the whole time), the attendance would, no doubt, have been increased by many thousands. In the evening 334 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. the usual display of fire-works, on such occasions, took place, and wherewith to drink his Majesty's health was distributed in different parts of the city. An address of condolence and congratulation, from the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council, was presented to his Majesty, by the Mayor, J. H. Spry, Esq., accompanied by the members for the city ; and an address also, from the same body, Avas presented to Queen Adelaide, by the Lord in Waiting. The members of the Bath and West of England Society, for the Encouragement of Agriculture, Arts, &c., also presented a loyal address on the same occasion, through his Grace the Duke of Wellington, as Vice-Patron (in the absence of the Marquis of Lansdown, President) which was most graciously received. In August, an entire new organization of the Walcot police took place, having for its model those plans lately established in London, and which have proved so highly beneficial to the metropolis. They were clothed in the same description of uniform, and subject to the same rules and regulations, printed forms of which were issued for the instruction of the constables, with extracts from the " Amended Walcot Police Act," for their particular guidance. The formation of the police commenced in the year 1792, in the thirty-third of the reign of George the Third ; when it became expedient to apply to Parliament for an Act to improve that part of the parish of Walcot which was not within the jurisdiction of the city of Bath ; as, in many parts, it had become incommodious and unsafe for passengers, being very ill-paved, and not sufficiently cleansed, lighted, and watched; and also subject to various nuisances, encroachments, and obstructions : the several statute 1830.] ANNALS OF BATH. 335 laws, which had been, from time to time, passed for the internal comfort and safety of the city, not affecting the out-parts of Walcot parish. To remedy these defects, an Act of Parliament was obtained, by which twenty- nine commissioners were appointed to carry into execu- tion its various enactments. In order to qualify them- selves for the office, they were required to swear that they were resident householders in such parts of Walcot parish, not within the jurisdiction of the city of Bath, and were actually in possession of freehold or copyhold estates (either in their own right or in right of their wives), of the annual value of one hundred pounds ; or, for a term of years, exceeding sixty, of one hundred and fifty pounds per annum ; or, entitled to a personal estate of the clear value of three thousand pounds. In 1825, an Act was passed to amend the former Act, and received the Royal assent on the 20th of IMay. By this, many provisions of the previous Act were repealed, and others substituted better calculated to meet the changes and improvements of the times. The qualification of a commissioner was increased to four thousand pounds personal property, over and above the amount of his debts ; such commissioner to be elected by a plurality of votes, at a vestry meeting duly convened, and every voter to be assessed to the value of twenty pounds per annum. These and other salutary provisions in the amended Act, contributed daily to the improvement of the out- parts of Walcot. An effective police was established, and the hordes of beggars, which daily infested the streets (within their jurisdiction), were speedily removed. The addition of gas lights, also, tended not a little to the improvement and security of the parish. 336 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. In 1801, a similar Act of Parliament was passed for the parish of Bathwick, whereby thirty-eight commis- sioners were appointed to execute its various provisions ; the qualifications for which office were the possession of freehold or copyhold estates to the yearly value of sixtif pounds, or for a term of years exceeding forty, of the yearly value of one hundred and fifty pounds, or of a personal estate of the value of one thousand pounds over and above their debts. There was a clause, also, introduced for regulating the passage of carts, &:c., from the Kennet and Avon Canal, through Pulteney-street, to guard against the inconvenience that might arise to the public when that canal was open, by the misbe- haviour or carelessness of the drivers of waggons or carts passing over Bridge-street into Bath, and which clause subjects the drivers to a certain penalty for every such neglect. The subsequent communication Avhich took place between the river and canal, rendered in some measure that clause unnecessary, as wharfs are now established contiguous to Sydney -place and at the Old Bridge, where the barges discharge their cargoes ; and goods are thence conveyed into the heart of the city, without the necessity of a circuitous round by Pulteney- street. Great improvements were now in contemplation, by the JNIarquis of Cleveland, on his property in this parish; the whole of the tenants, occupying gardens and cottages, from the bottom of Grove-street to the extremity of the Villa Fields, having received notice to quit their respective possessions, with the intention, on the part of his lordship, to convert that entire tract of ground into ornamental walks and plantations, similar to those in the Victoria Park. 1830.] ANNALS OF BATH. 337 The astonishing improvement of property, in the parish of Bathwick, inchidmg the ornamental villas, streets, and other substantial dwellings, M'hich have risen up with such rapidity, within these few years past, is, probably, a more convincing proof of the increasing prosperity of the city, than any which can be produced in other parts of its suburbs ; and shews what may be accomplished by the united efforts of talent and perseverance. To the penetrating mind of Sir William Pulteney, may be attributed the commencement and ultimate success of the improvements in this quarter. He began by erecting a bridge of communication between Bath- wick and the city, and projected their more intimate union by the erection of the spacious and elegant range of buildings whicli occupy the intermediate space, comprising the line of Pulteney-street, Laura-place, and Aygyle-biuldings, with their lateral branches. The streets on the direct line, he lived to see completed. The spot, where these edifices now stand, was previously a swampy piece of ground, always overflowed when the river was above its banks ; and the approach to the ferry was attainable only down Slippery to Boatstall- lane ;* and a solitary footpath led to Bathwick Church. " The Villa-fields" were then called " the Villa-gardens;" a place of recreation for the towns-people; and the " Villa." or banquetting-house, still remains. The person who contracted to build Pulteney -bridge, was named Reed ; but the speculation proved so bad, that he Avas entirely ruined. About the year 1804, in consequence of an unsound foundation, one of the piers of that bridge gave way ; and it became necessary to take • VV'Iiich name speaks for itself. Y 338 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. down and rebuild the whole west end, a temporary bridge being erected during its progress. It may be worthy of remark that, before Pulteney-street was built, the population of Bathwick was so small, and the intercourse with the city so trivial, that tenants could not be found to occupy the shops on the bridge ; and notv a single shop is let for a larger sum than was, at that time, required for the whole. The rents on that bridge now amount to about four hundred pounds per annum. An old Bath Guide, in detailing the amusements of the city, contains the following passage : — " The other amusement is Spring Gardens,* near the New Bridge,f which, considering their contiguity to so great a city, are very delightful ; and afford, to all conditions of people, a very rational amusement. About the middle of April, public breakfasts begin at these gardens, on IMondays and Thursdays, which continue all the season ; and, during the time the company remain, they are entertained with a good band of music. INIr. Purdie, the proprietor, is a good citizen, and spares no expence to render his gardens worthy of that encouragement they merit. JNIr. Purdie keeps, also, an excellent lodging and boarding-house, in Orange-court, the back apart- ments of which command a view of the gardens. The inhabitants of Bath, or strangers, who choose to walk in these gardens, have them always open, by subscribing half-a-crown for the season." As we proceed in the details of each succeeding year, political as well as private events, as they occur, will claim our attention, so far as they bear on the particular interests and welfare of the city. We, accordingly, notice that, in the early part of 1830, * Where Johiistone-street now stands. f Pulteney-biidge. 18:30.] ANNALS OF HATH. 339 numerous meetings of the different Bath parishes took ])lace, pursuant to pubHc notice, " to consider the ])ropriety of memorializing the Chancellor of the Exchequer, for a repeal or abatement of the house and window- taxes." The result was, that memorials were agreed on, and their objects urged, in a personal confer- ence, bv a deputation, who should proceed to liOndon for the purpose ; accordingly, the following gentlemen were requested, and undertook, to fulfil that office : — Major- General Palmer, member for the city ; NVilliam Dickin- son, Esq., and Sir Thomas Lethbridge, Bart., members for the county ; Henry Godwin and Thomas Kingsbury, Esquires. On the 15th of Eebruary, the Right Honourable the Chancellor of the Exchequer was pleased to receive the deputation. The memorials having been previously presented for that gentleman's perusal, the various grievances complained of were fully entered into, and the oppressive nature and bearings of the law, as then in operation, pointed out ; together with the distressing effects it produced. The subject of vexatious and harassing; surcharo-es was then discussed. The Chancellor called for instances, which were immediately produced. Upon which he said, " that whatever form of relief Government contemplated, it was not then for him to state it to the deputation as individuals, but that certain measures were under their consideration ; and that the representation then made, should have every attention consistent with the general and existing state of the country. And as for those particular cases of surcharge, attciidcd with uncertainty as to construction of the law, he would be ha])py to render every assistance ; and would take care that relief should be afforded, if the Y 2 340 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. cases came fairly ^vithin the limits of the relief required." The deputation then retired. It would be an act of injustice to the gallant General, to Mr. Dickinson, and Messrs. Godwin and Kingsbury (Sir Thomas Lethbridge being unavoidably absent), were we to omit noticing the zeal with Avhich they carried into execution the trust reposed in them. In the words of Addison, we shall take leave to say, " 'Tis not ill mortals to cominaiid success." but we hesitate not to add — they deserved it. On the 31st of September, his Royal Higlmess Prince Leopold (now King of Belgium) visited this city, attended by his secretary. Baron de Stockmar. As soon as his arrival was made known, the sheriffs (Messrs. Clutterbuck and Long) waited on liis Royal Highness, on behalf of the Mayor and Body Corporate, to request he would be pleased to accept the freedom of the city ; and also to tender their services in shewing his Royal Highness the public establishments, and whatever else might be worth his notice. Accordingly, on the following morning, his Royal Highness, accompanied by his Worship the Mayor, proceeded to the inspection of the different buildings ; and afterwards repaired to the Guildhall, where a considerable body of respectable citizens awaited his arrival. The IMayor then presented his Royal Highness with the freedom of the city, in a handsome gold box, which the Prince received with the most polite condescension ; and replied nearly in these words : — " Mr. Mayor, though a lapse of some years may have weakened the recollection of past events, it will, nevertheless, be present to you all that, by one of the severest dispensations of Providence, I was for ever deprived of domestic happiness, and removed from that IS.'JO.] AXNAI.S or BATH. 341 hijrli station in which I could not but have exercised a comparative influence over the affairs of this great nation ; yet, though my destiny has been changed, my feehngs of warm and sincere attachment to this country remain unaltered ; and it will ever give me the greatest hap|)incss to contribute, in any way, to its welfare and prosperity. Mr. Mayor, and gentlemen, I thank you sincerely for the honour you have conferred on me." It may be worthy of remark, that this allusion to the death of the Princess Charlotte, was the first instance of his Royal Highness adverting to that calamity in pnhlic ; and it was made in the same saloon in Avhich his late Majesty communicated the afflicting intelligence to the city. His Royal Highness then proceeded to visit the Assembly-rooms, Sydney-gardens, Beckford's Tower, and Prior Park ; and on the 2.Sd, left the city on his way to Malvern. His Royal Highness expressed himself much pleased with his short visit , and observed that, with respect to the public baths, they were not equalled in splendour and convience by any of the most celebrated on the Continent, all of which he had seen ; and the general attractions of the city drew forth his unqualified admiration. In November, a neat and commodious suspension bridge across the river Avon, at the termination of Cirosvenor-buildings, was completed and opened to the public. It was planned by, and constructed at the sole expence of, Thomas Shew, Esq., on whose property it stands. The structure is of free-stone and wrought-iron. The entire span is one hundred and sixty feet. The river span i.s about one hundred and thirty feet ; the centre of which rises thirty feet above the margin. The 342 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. ornainental effect of the bridge instantly strikes the eye ; and its utility is demonstrable from the circumstance of its uniting the extremities of Walcot, Bathampton, and Bathwick parishes, by a pedestrian access, which otherwise could not be attained but by a long circuitous route. The delightful walks which this bridge enables the pedestrian to accomplish are, indeed, infinite and unbounded. The beautiful scenery which unfolds itself in every direction, is enchanting to the eye of a picturesque traveller, and affords a rich display of subjects for his prolific pencil, particularly as the stranger turns towards the village of Bathhampton, whose cultivated valley, in contrast with the sterile hills which encompass it (bearing evident remains of Roman encampments), present the varied effects of light and shade, in endless succession. We now arrive at one of the most extensive improvements that has taken place in the city of Bath for a long series of years, certainly within the scope of our records ; and in this remark, we are borne out by the general approval and interest ivhich the " Royal Victoria Park" has created ; the increasing- beauty and importance of which, render some brief account of its origin \ery desirable, were it only as a most gratifying portion of our local history. The plan for those improvements originated with Messrs. J. Davies and T. B. Coward, who were the original devisers, suggesters, and promoters, of that undertaking ; and who, with a few respectable individuals, principally engaged in business, attended a select meeting at the York-house, in the autumn of 1829, for the purpose of taking into consideration a proposed plan, having in view the general welfare of the city. The number then 1830.] AXNAI.S OF BATH. 343 present did not exceed twenty ; and the projected plan was, to afford some additional attraction to the city, by the formation of ornamental plantations, walks, and rides, in that part of the outskirts caUed " The Common Fields," the property of the freemen of the city. At that meeting, resolutions were passed, and a deputa- tion appointed to wait upon the Body Corporate, and to confer with the freemen, in order to obtain their sanction to a plan, which was subsequently approved by them, and adopted. The IMayor (William Tudor, Esq.) signified his personal concurrence in the measure ; and his full persuasion that the members of the Body Corporate would render every facility in their power, consistent with their duties as trustees of the estate. The result of the conference with the freemen proved highly satisfactory; and, after a friendly discussion of the subject, they came to a unanimous resolution m fevour of granting the land required, reserving a yearly rent for the same, " after the rate of six pounds per acre, agreeably to admeasurement." The resolution alluded to is here subjoined: — " We, tlic undersigned Freemen of tlie City of Batli, understanding tliat it is in contemplation to make drives and walks tlirougli tlie Common Fields, beg to express our approbation of tlie same, and to hope that tlie plan may be carried into ctfect ; feeling assured that it will materially add to the welfare of the city, as also to the comforts of its visitors and of the inhabitants generally." This resolution was signed by fifty-four freemen. The i)lan thus proposed having obtained the appro- bation of a large majority of that body, was next forwarded to J. H. Spry, Esq. (mayor-elect for the year 1830), who promptly laid the same before the Body Corporate ; the liberal support of whom will best appear 344 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. by an extract from a letter, dated December 5th, 1829, addressed by Philip George, Esq., town-clerk, to Mr. John Davies, chairman of the provisional committee : — " The letters, with the plans for making a drive and shady promenades, in the Town Common, were yester- day, at a common hall, submitted to the consideration of the Corporation ; when they entered into a unanimous resolution to give their cordial support to the scheme, and appointed a committee to co-operate with the deputation in making the necessary arrangements for its execution. They also voted a donation of one hundred pounds towards the immediate outlay, and one hundi-ed pounds per annum towards the contingent expences." This gratifying communication was thankfully acknowledged by the provisional committee. The approach through the Crescent-fields, com- mencing at Queen's-parade, appeared the next most desirable object to attain, in order to bring the accommodations of the Park within the limits of the city, by affording to the inhabitants a more ready access. This circumstance being made known to Lady Rivers (whose property includes the whole of the Crescent- fields), her ladyship, in the most prompt and kind manner, offered every facility tOAvards the accomplish- ment of the undertaking ; and, without hesitation, gave a grant of the land required, subject to such restrictions as might prevent any future misappropriation of the same. The provisional committee, thus far advanced in their undertaking, invited a general meeting of the nobility, gentry, inhabitants, and visitors of the city, to lay before them the result of their negotiations, and, solicit their co-operation in effecting so desirable an improvement. 1830.] ANNALS OF BATH. 'M5 On the 1st of January, of the present year, a public meeting took place, at which the Mayor presided. The attendance was most numerous and respectable. \^arious resolutions were proposed and agreed to, with a view to the adoption of the plans suggested ; all of which exhibited a spirit of enterprize, of liberality, and of civic patriotism, seldom equalled, and never surpassed, in this our far- famed city. The advantages which shady promenades and agree- able drives confer on any town or city, are too obvious to require enumeration. On the Continent, there are few places of any eminence but possess them ; and if we look at home, we shall find the introduction of them, forminff one of the chief attractions of several other places of public and fashionable resort. Hence the frequent regrets and surprise that a city, like this, so unrivalled in the elegance of her buildings, and the refinement of her entertainments, so celebrated for the beauty of her immediate and neighbouring scenery ; and, above all, for the acknowledged virtue of her springs, should so long have remained destitute of public walks and rides, where the pedestrian might enjoy his shaded noon-day walk, or the invalid a retired drive, unmolested by the dust and other inconveniences of a turnpike-road To supply the deficiencies complained of, the imdertaking projected by those gentlemen first suggested itself; and the present eligible ground was fixed on, as possessing every advantage requisite for such a purpose. By its proximity to the city, its easy and gentle ascent, and the extensive and richly-diversified prospects of the surrounding country, no spot could have been more admirably adapted for recreation, or 346 ANNALS OF BATH. [1830. afford a wider scope for the taste and genius of the embellisher of rural landscape. To JMr. Edward Davis, a resident architect of eminence, the just meed of praise, hitherto so liberally bestowed, in a great measure belongs. He it was who so happily blended the luxuriance of nature with the classic proportions of art, as at once to render the Bath Park an ornament to his native city, and a lasting memorial of his own cultivated taste. The 21st of October announced the arrival of the Duchess of Kent, accompanied by her illustrious and interesting daughter, the heiress presumptive to the Throne. A congratulatory peal of bells welcomed the Royal party to the city and immediately the Sheriffs, with the blaster of the Ceremonies, waited on her Royal Highness, to request she would honour the city by inspecting the public buildings and receive an address from the Body Corporate. To these solicitations her Royal Highness graciously assented, and prepara- tions were made for receiving the Royal party with every demonstration of respect. The Mayor and Body Corporate were in attendance, and a large assemblage of ladies of the first respectability. On the arrival of the Royal Visitors at the Guildhall the Mayor (J. F. Davis, Esq., M.D.,) addressed her Royal Highness in terms of warm congratulation on her visit to this city, and on the health of the illustrious Princess, her daughter. Her Royal Highness returned a kind and flattering reply. It was on the occasion of this visit that an auspicious epoch, for opening the new improvements, presented itself to the Committee, and a request was made to her Royal Highness that she 1830.] ANNALS OF 15ATH. 347 would be pleased, on her inspection of the different public buildings, t!kc., to make the first circuit of those improvements. Accordingly, on the 23d, the Royal Visitors, attended by the Mayor, the Lord Bisliop of the Diocese, Lord James O'Bryen, and several other distinguished characters, with a numerous train- of followers, entered at the approach near Queen's-parade, and after taking the circuit of the drive, her lloyal Highness expressed the gratification which herself and the Princess had derived from their visit to the city, and signified her desire, that in future the newly formed pleasiu'e grounds should be designated the " Royal Victoria Park."* An anonymous benefactor presented, this year, two hundred pounds to the Bath United Hospital ; one hundred pounds to the Bath District Benevolent Institution, and one hundred pounds to the ]\Ionmouth Street Society. From another unknown benefactor, also, a donation occurred of one hundred pounds to the Asylum for Female Children. Miss Catherine Mayhew, and Frederick S. IMayhew, Esq., of the Vineyards, in Walcot parish, left by Will, three thousand two hundi'ed and forty four pounds eighteen shillings and eight-pence, the interest of which to be paid to six poor men, and six poor Avomen, residing in that parish, Avho do not receive parochial relief; the Churchwardens (for the time being) acting as the Trustees. • The whole space laid out is .%l)out ten acres, and between £7,(1(10 and X'il,OOU was raised by siibscrijition, for inclosir},' and i>lanting it. The Park Committee pay, as a lient, the sum wliieli was deducted from Gibbons (the Fanner's) rent, on account of the assignment of these ten acres. 348 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. At the Annual Election of Civic Officers the under- mentioned Gentlemen Avere named : J. F. DAVIS, Esq. M.D.—.Mayor. E. PICKWICK, Esq. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. GEORGE KITSON, Esq. WILLIAM CLARK, Esq. J. SLOPER, Esq. J. H. SPRY, Esq. CHARLES PHILLOTT, Esq., CHARLES CROOK, Esq. EDMUND ANDERDON, Esq. f ? G. H. TUGWELL, Esq. | G. E. ALLEN, Esq. j THOJIAS SLATER, Esq.,— Chambeblain. H. MANT.ESQ. > SHERIFFS. G. TUGWELL, Esq. f ROBERT SAVAGE, Esq. ^ ^m^^ Coxstablfs. W. J. LONG, Esq. S 1831. Subjects of painful and pressing interest rivetted public attention at this particular period, and among those, which unfortunately characterized this eventful year, Avere the open acts of violence daily committed in the agricultural districts by the destruction of property and the necessaries of life. That the classes who were thus driven to such desperate measures had long laboured under privations of the severest kind, was unhappily too true, but the destruction of property, and of the means of human subsistence, was not the mode by which those sufferings could be allayed. The evil, however, became at length so serious, 1831.] ANNALS OF BATH. 349 that the especial interference of his JNIajesty's Govern- ment was called for : prompt measures were resorted to, and those dangerous proceedings at once met an effectual check. It was thought expedient, notwith- standing, on the part of Government, to recommend to the public authorities precautionary measures for the preservation of peace, but, in this city, they were wholly unnecessary, as the most perfect tranquillity and good order prevailed. In attentively considering the condition of the labouring poor, it becomes evident that it is not more a duty of benevolence, than a matter of self-interest, that all those who possess power and affluence should especially attend to their wants and comforts : should protect them from oppression, and from that extreme destitution which makes the poor man reckless of character, a hater of the classes above him, a plunderer of his neighbour's property, a lover of disturbance, and a ready instrument to execute the designs of the more crafty contrivers of mischief and confusion. Emanating from such reflections, and guided by a benevolent desire to aid in the cause of humanity, a large meeting of the inhabitants took place at Weymouth House, at the termination of the last year, when a most useful and commendable Society was formed for the purpose of employino- labourers belonging to the six Bath parishes, who might be thrown out of work during hard frosts in the winter season. In alluding to the practical adaptation of the plan, Mr. John Duncan ably addressed tlie meeting. He said, " It was proposed to give such a direction to the energies of the Society, that the poor might be able to gain an honorable subsistence, without sinkino- 350 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831 into the degradation of habitual mendicity : that they might not be obhged to solicit from the hand of charity, that which they were willing to earn by the exertions of their own labour. In this country a dreadful spirit had gone abroad, but he was rejoiced to say that in Bath no instance of riot or destruction of property had occurred. He was happy to say, that in this city, the spirit of honest industry was in gratifying exercise. The rigours of winter did not entirely dry up the channels of employment, some might always be made available, and the object of the intended Society was to think and mercifully calculate for the poor, who Avere not able, or not in the habit of using foresight for themselves." Dr. Parry " considered the measure particularly desirable at the present moment. Viewing the situation in which all England was placed, and taking advantage of our local tranquillity, it was a time well adapted to set an example worthy of imitation in other large towns and cities." Various resolutions were adopted : Committees and Sub-Com- mittees formed, and, in a short time, every thing was arranged to bring the Society into active operation. The Right Honourable Lord James O'Bryen consented to become President of the Institution, and the Most Noble the Marquis of Cleveland, with that munificence which has characterized his whole life, transmitted to the Honorary Secretary one hundred pounds for its use, expressing his readiness to become one of its patrons. In April, the committee laid their first report before the public ; and they had the gratification to find that the benefit, which they had been the means of commu- nicating to the labouring poor, during the winter, had produced universal satisfaction. 1831.] ANNALS OF BATH. 351 It is a pleasing fact to state that, without any exception, the means of employment provided were eagerly sought, and received with much apparent gratitude ; and the committee encouraged the hope, that the same benevolent feeling which had so amjily supplied the pecuniary resources, and added comfort to the otherwise cheerless home of the industrious labourer, would be continued each succeeding year ; and, by giving permanence and vigour to the Bath Employ- ment Society, would produce, for the labouring classes, the invaluable blessings of comfort and content. Among the various benevolent institutions recorded in the history of this city, may be now added a highly praise-worthy charity, called the " Samaritan Fund" which was established this year, under the management of a committee, of which Sir William Cockburn. Rart., was president. It was formed in connection with that noble institution, the Bath United Hospital, and designed for the i-elief of distress among those patients dependent on their labour for support ; who, being discharged from the hospital, and in a state of convalescence, were unable to resume their accustomed labour. The principles on which the association Avas formed, gave full security against abuse or misappropriation ; and the well-proved judgment of those who have undertaken to administer the fluids of the society, is an ample guarantee that, whatever means may be placed at their disposal, will be judiciously and beneficially applied. Before Ave proceed to the interesting and serious portion of the records of this year, we must introduce to the notice of our readers, a species of public enter- tainment which this city may call peculiarly her oiou, and which lays just claim to originality. 352 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. It needs not, at this time, the pen of the historian to record that Euphrosyne, and her train of gay attendants, have long selected this city as their chief abode, and held despotic sway in its circles ; that here have been displayed, in an endless variety of forms, all that could please the eye or gratify the taste ; these, in themselves, would amply contribute to the best interests of the city, even did not the medicinal vir- tues of its far-famed springs establish its pre-eminence over all competitors. To diversify these amusements, occasionally becomes an act of policy in those Avho undertake to cater for public gratification ; for the eye will tire, and the appetite will satiate, with constant repetition. The novel species of amusement to which we allude, is that now well established, and extensively patronized annual Dramatic Fete, the first of which was held at the Bath Theatre, on the 23d of April, 1824. Each succeeding season, this splendid fete has been repeated ; and, as it forms by far the most prominent featvn-e in the round of attractions which a Bath season ])resents, we will now endeavour to describe it. The Theatre, on this occasion, is entirely devoted to the species of entertainment which the name bespeaks, the whole area being laid out as a magnificent saloon. Suspended immediately over the proscenium, is a chandelier of bronzed metal, twelve feet high and six in diameter, and containing three hundred fleur-de-lys jet lights, which diffuse a rich, though soft brilliancy, to tlie most remote corners of the building. On entering the Theatre, the ante-room is discovered, fitted up as a splendid marquee ; its floor being covered with crimson cloth, which extends the whole length of the lobbies and stair cases ; and the entire area of 1831.] , ANNALS OF BATH. 353 the pit is covered by a platform, on a level with, and forniing a continuation of the proscenium. The saloon above is set apart for refreshments, and the gallery for spectators only. The subordinate decorations of the interior are extremely elegant, varying eacli year, according to the taste of those who kindly undertake the management and superintendence. The company begin to assemble at nine ; and, in the space of half an hour, the Theatre becomes filled to the verv roof. A humorous dramatic piece then commences (generally of one act), which is performed sometimes by professional gentlemen ; and at others by amateurs. After this the curtain rises, and ranges of tables are discovered, extending down the sides and across the centre, loaded Avith delicacies of every description. — After the national anthem, by the entire vocal strength of the Theatre, the company leave their boxes, and the area, extending in length nearly one hundred and twenty feet, soon becomes filled, the whole of which presents to the eye one rich and gorgeous scene. All shades and tints, from the glowing hues of oriental costinne, " to s})otless white and solemn black," — rich military and naval uniforms, and every costume that fancy or caprice can invent, are here displayed. The remainder of the night is passed in the giddy mazes of the dance ; and the national anthem, by the orchestra, closes the exhilarating scene. It has been repeatedly asserted, by those competent to judge, that this splendid fete is not surpassed, in magnificence and brilliancy of effect, by any of those Avitnessed either in London or the Continental capitals. We have been thus minute in the description of the chief characteristics of this splendid annual fete, z 354 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. because, as a public entertainment, it interests a large portion of the trading community and inhabitants of the city ; and from its peculiar attractions, and over- flowing support, ranks highest among the amusements of the season. To enable our readers to judge of the accuracy of this assertion, it is only necessary to mention, that the celebrity of this prominent feature in the amusements of Bath, is by no means confined to a determinate local I'ange ; that visitors from remote districts of the county contribute to its eclat, and that the applications for tickets invariably exceed the possibility of accommoda- tion. Added to this unequivocal testimony of its high estimation, in the year 1828, a few residents in the city presented the worthy individual who has so kindly (of late years) undertaken its superintendence, with a hand- some piece of plate, bearing an inscription indicative of their gratitude for his exertions in contributing so essen- tially to the interests of the city. Important subjects now press for consideration; and, among others, the great measure of Parliamentary Reform had become a topic of deep and absorbing interest throughout the whole extent of his INIajesty's dominions. Petitions, praying the adoption of such a measure as should effect the full and efficient reform then contemplated by his Majesty's Government, were hurried to the capital from every quarter ; and in this city, numerous meetings were held for the same patriotic purpose ; forming, perhaps, the most enthusiastic indi- cations of popular feeling, in favour of that grand measure, that were ever called forth by any previous event. There were those, certainly, who considered the contemplated measures of Government' of too sweeping 1831.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 355 and destructive a nature ; and thought that the envied and boasted constitution of our country would be shaken to its foundation ; nay, even annihilated ! These various and conflicting opinions, form no part of our local history ; events, as they have occurred, and the circum- stances which led to them, are all that we are called upon to notice without the necessity of entering on political disquisitions, or disputative arguments on principles of Government, or the right or tvroug administration of public affairs. At length, the termination of the debates on that great question was announced — Ministers were defeated — and the result was, an immediate dissolution of Parliament. " The King of England (says De Lolme) has need of no other weapon, no other artillery, than the civil insignia of his dignity, to effect a dissolution of the Parliament. He steps into the middle of them, telling them they are dissolved — and thei/ are dissolved. He tells them, they are no longer a Parliament, and they are no loiig-er so. A dissolution instantly puts a stop to their warmest debates and most violent proceedings. The wonderful words, by which it is expressed, have no sooner met their ears, than all their legislative faculties are benumbed. Though they may be still sitting on the same benches, they look no longer on themselves as forming an assembly. As if some strange weapon, or a sudden magical effort, had been exerted in the midst of them, all the bonds of their union are cut asunder, and they hasten away, without having so much as the thought of continuing for a single minute the duration of their assembly." z 2 356 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. Thus then was the Royal PrerogatiA^e exercised. On the 22d of April the House of Lords met as usual, but under such a state of excitement, that it was almost impossible to pourtray the irregularity and confusion which burst forth. The Duke of Richmond, with a view of preventing any unpleasant collision, moved the enforcement of a standing order, which requires Peers to be seated on their own seats, a Noble Baron being on that appropriated to the Earls. Instead, however, of calming the storm, that motion only increased its fury. The Marquis of Londonderry, vmder the effects of considerable excitement, rose twice or thrice to address the House, attempts were made by his friends to dissuade him, but, without effect, for though they endeavoured to hold him down by his arms and skirts of his coat, he started on his feet, and darting across the table, in a tone of fury exclaimed — "What, then, the Noble Duke is to be the hero of this coup cVetat V The order of the day was loudly called for, and complied with. The Earl of Mansfield then rose to address their Lordships, and entered at considerable length into the to])ic of Reform. While his I^ordship was still speaking, the large folding- doors leading to the House Avere thrown open, and his Majesty entered. The King advanced to the Throne with a firm step. He wore the Crown, and, under his robes, an Admiral's uniform. His Majesty did not appear in the slightest degree agitated, probably he was not aware of what had occurred Avitliin the walls of the House. The sight at that time was very imposing, when it is considered that the three Estates of the realm were assembled on perhaps the most important occasion in the history' of this country. 1831] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 357 The act of prorogation was then proceeded with, and his Majesty read the speech, in a firm, distinct and audible manner. The following was the principal topic : '* My Lords and Gentlemen, '• I have come to meet you, for tlie purpose of proroguing this Parliament, with a view to its immediate dissolution. I have been induced to resort to this measure for the purpose of ascertaining the sense of my people, in the way in which it can be most consti- tutionally expressed on the expediency of making such changes in the representation, as circumstances may appear to require, and which shall bo founded on the acknowledged principles of the constitution, and may tend at once to uphold the just rights and prerogatives of the Crown, and to give securities to the liberties of my people." " My Lords and Gentlemen, " In resolving to have recourse to the sense of my people, in the present circumstances of the countrv, I have been influenced only by a paternal anxiety for the contentment and happiness of my subjects : to promote which, I relv confidently on your continued and zealous assistance." As soon as his Majesty had concluded, he descended from the Throne, and retired. The Members of both Houses then dispersed. On the following day, the 23d of April, Parliament was dissolved by procla- mation according to the usual forms. \Vrits were forthwith issued for the election of new members, to be retin-nable on the 14th of June. The effects which this dissolution produced were powerful and electric, and followed by simultaneous meetings in every city and town in the kingdom. Addresses were proposed and agreed to by the various parishes in Bath, expressing their devoted attachment to liis Majesty's sacred person, and gratitude at the wisdom and firmness displayed by his Majesty in the consti- tutional exercise of his Royal prerogative in dissolving 358 AlStNALS OF BATH. [1831. the late Parliament, which had refused to pass the measure, introduced by his JNIajesty's Ministers — a measure so ardently desired, and so calculated to maintain the real dignity of the throne, and to restore that balance between the three estates of the realm, which is a fundamental principle of the British con- stitution."' On Saturday, ]May 8th, the election for this city took place. The candidates were. Lord John Thynne and Gen. Palmer, who entered the Hall and took their seats by the IVIayor. They were received by the populace in a manner expressive of the well-known political sentiments of each ; with displays of disapprobation for one party, and enthusiastic acclamations for the other. The authorities, in vain, waited for silence ; and, amidst the din of noise and uproai', the Town-clerk commenced reading the precept, and the usual Acts of Parliament At length, ]\lr. Alderman Tugwell rose, and proposed Lord John Thynne as a fit and proper person to repre- sent this city in Parliament. Mr. Gunning, in a speech of considerable length, seconded the nomination. Sir George Gibbes briefly proposed Major-General Palmer. Mr. Norman seconded the nomination, observing — " that, with regard to the present system, and the present instance, however desirous a Corporate Body might be of acting on the best principles; however honourably and gratuitously the members might be returned, it could never, with any show of reason, be contended that thirty men should possess the exclusive right of returning members for this large and opulent city. The measure in contemplation would, among others, remedy this defect. It would supersede a system of representation, which presents innumerable anomalies,' would prove the 1831.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 359 means of repairing those dilapidations which time had effected in the pillars of the constitution, would protect the Crown, and would preserve the nation from anarchy and confusion." There being no other candidates, the Mayor declared Lord John Thynne and Major-General Palmer duly elected. The members then returned thanks ; after which, the usual chairing took place. The procession moved from the Guildhall a little after twelve, amidst a dense mass of people, who lined every street through which it passed ; and nothing could exceed the demonstrations of attachment towards the popular member, or the adverse feeling which manifested itself towards the other. When those feelings are confined to expressions alone, arising from any popular cause of excitement, offensive language may be readily passed over ; but when the fair limits of electioneering freedom are exceeded, and missiles throivn (as occurred in this instance, one or two of which sti-uck the Noble Lord!), we blush to record the cowardly, unmanly act ; and confess that it left a stain on the proceedings of the day, which, though emanating from the lowest rabble, no excuse could possible palliate. His lordship declined proceeding further, and alighted at the White Hart. The procession then moved forward towards JNlilsom- street ; and, arriving at the house of Messrs. Coward, a scene presented itself of unusual occurrence in the ceremonies of electioneering. A barrier had been formed by the populace completely across the street ; and several persons, who had contributed towards the presentation of a handsome goblet to General I'almer, were waiting his arrival. Mr. H. Coward then stepped forward, and addressed the General thus : — " General 360 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. Palmer : the friend of the people ! the defender of their just rights — the King and the Constitution ! I present you with this goblet of wine, that you may pledge yourself here, in the face of the people, to support the bill, the whole bill, and nothing but the bill." To which the General immediately replied : — " Gentlemen, you have taken me by surprise, in this act of kindness ; and, with most grateful feelings, / do pledge myself here, in the face of the people, to support the bill, with all my heart, with all my soul, and with all my strength." The cavalcade then continued its route to General Palmer's house, in the Circus, when the people, giving him abundance of hearty cheers, quietly dispersed. The goblet and salver had been purchased by a subscription, of one shilling each, from one thousand political friends. Oak branches formed the handles ; and a medallion, descriptive of the King presenting his people with the Reform Bill, surrounded by the rose, shamrock, and thistle, was tastefully and appropriately introduced. On the 11th of JNIay, the election for the repre- sentation of the county, took place at Ilchester. when Colonel Gore Langton and Mr. Ayshford Sanford were returned without opposition. On the same evening. Colonel Langton entered the city. ^\t the suburbs he Avas met by a large body of the inhabitants, accompanied by music and appropriate banners. The horses having been taken from the carriage, a band of volunteers occupied their place ; and the whole party advanced in procession through the different streets, to the V/hite Hart, amidst the confused din of church bells, fire-arms, and deafening huzzas. From the windows of the hotel. 1831.] AXXAI.S OF HATH. 361 the Colonel addressed the assembled crowd ; after wliid), they quietly and spontaneously dispersed. In the summer of this year, the different county Militias were directed by Government to assemble, for the purpose of twenty -eight days training ; and in May, the Second Somerset Militia arrived for that purpose in this city. In general appearance, they were fine-grown hardy young men ; and Sydney-gardens was appointed for their drilling parade, while they usually assembled for muster in the area in front of the hotel. Their clothing and accoutrements had been supplied from old militar}' stores, of at least five-and-twcnty years standing; and the antiquity and grotesque appearance of these habiliments, drew many smiles from the good-humoured countenances who wore them, as well as from those who, from curiosity, had assembled to witness their evolutions. They certainly presented no proofs of the masterly taste and cut of a Stultz, but rather seemed to have been manufactured by the hand of some mathematical knight of the thimble : who, like his brother professor, in Laputa, through an error in his multiplication, made Gulliver's clothes of such unreasonable dimensions. On the score of economy, even the frugal Mr. Hinne could have had no reason to find fault ; Government wisely abstaining from any unnecessary expence, when it Avas evident that, for the few days their presence would be necessary, the mere forms of a military drill were sufficient for those who, like the heroes of the sock and buskin, were to " strut and fret their hour upon the stage, and then be seen no more." The " marchino- and counter-marching, the " right and the left-about,"' the " mark-time," and the " double quick," of the impatient drill-serjeant, contrasted with the calm endurance and 362 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. unconscious mistakes of the more patient recruit, produced such a series of impleasant concussions, and such a jumbling of pirouettes and confused whirlings, that the greatest merriment was afforded to the specta- tors, and (as far as was consistent with mil'iUtru dignity), enjoyed by themselves. Upon the whole, as a military body, they certainly wore a very whimsical and amusing- appearance ; and, doubtless, they were not a little rejoiced when the time arrived to return to the tillage of their native soil. In referring back to the year 1822, it will be seen that the poor peasantry of Ireland had found warm advocates of their cause in this benevolent city, and that large sums had been collected to assist in alleviatinj)- the unparalleled distress under which they then laboured. Again, we find the hand of charity extended towards that unhappy land, in the same beneficent cause. On the 3rd of June, a meeting was held at the Upper Rooms, for the purpose of collecting subscriptions in their behalf — in behalf of thousands of our fellow- creatures, perishing under the two-fold scourge of famine and pestilence. The venerable Archdeacon INIoysey presided on this, as the last, occasion. He alluded, in forcible terms, to the circumstances which had given rise to that appeal, to the success which it appeared destined to experience, welcomed, as it was, by demonstrations of that proper Christian feeling, which looked not to the religious creed of the poor sufferers, but regarded them only as human beings in distress, Avhom we were bound, by the laws of religion and humanity, to succour. He observed, that the record of their good deeds, on that occasion, Avould be registered with Him, by whom no benevolent actions are unseen or forgotten. They were 1831.] ANNALS Of 15ATH. 368 not assembled for the discussion of religious controversy — they were the followers of Him, who causeth the Sun to rise equally upon the evil and the righteous. He begged them to consider the sufferers as their brethren, if not in faith, yet living under the same Govcnnnent, and, by stretching forth the hand of protection and relief, they would recommend themselves to Him, who was the certain rewarder of all good deeds. A. Stanley, Esq., read to the meeting a mass of correspondence, corroborating the details of the sufferings which the dreadful ravages of famine and typhus fever were heaping on the miserable population of those districts. Sir William Cockburn moved the first reso- lution. J. P. Duncan, Esq., seconded it in a speech of great animation, feeling, and eloquence. He reminded them of the scriptural assurance — " He that giveth to the poor, lendeth to the Lord ; and he will repay it a hundred fold." Though (said ]Mr. Duncan) it might appear ill-timed, and out of place, to quote profane writers, after the scripture had been mentioned, he would say to them, in the v/ords of the first of English poets, when speaking of mercy : — " The ([uality of mercy is nut strained, It (Iroppctli, as the gentle rain, from heaven, Upon tlie place beneath ; it is twice blessed ; It blesseth him that gives, and liim that takes. It is an attribute to God himself! And earthly power doth then sliew likest Gods, When mercy seasons justice."* And our liberality (said IMr. Duncan) will be but justice to Ireland, and mercy to ourselves. The Rev, • We cannot but tliink, that such a truly Christian sentiiucnt couhl need no apo- Jogy lor ils appropriate use, and even sacred association. 364. ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. Messrs. Jervois, Fenwick, Pears, and Wilson, followed in succession ; and delivered impressive appeals in behalf of their distressed fellow-subjects. We believe it was the celebrated Dr. Watts, who (though of a most exalted mind, was of a very dimi- nutive stature) was wont to say, that he never did an act of kindness to a fellow-being in distress, that he did not always fancy himself an inch or two taller; and, without doubt, the meeting assembled had similar exalted feelings, for never were the springs of charity more freely unlocked ! Never did the sacred streams flow more liberally, or more purely ! uncontaminated with party virulence, of either a political or religious cast. Charity is, indeed, a tender and delicate plant ; it cannot live in the hot temperature of angry declama- tion ; the gentle tones of unassuming language, and mild solicitation, will aid its growth far more quickly and effectually. The conciliatory strain of the speakers on this occasion, and the result, fully corroborate the truth of this observation, the total amount of subscrip- tions being one thousand three hundred and seventy- eight pounds six shillings and eight-pence. On Tuesday, the 21st of June, his Majesty opened the first session of the new Parliament, in person. He was accompanied by the Queen and principal oflficers of state ; and, at two o'clock, his Majesty ascended the throne. The usher of the black rod summoned the members of the House of Commons, who appeared, headed by their Speaker, at the bar. His Majesty tlien, in a clear audible voice, read his most gracious Speech ; the most important portion of which was as follows : — 1831.] ANXAI.S or BATH. 365 " My Lords and Gentlemen, " I have availed mvselt' of the earHest opportunity of resorting to your advice and assistance, after the dissolution of the late Parliament. Having had recourse to that measure, for the j)urpose of ascertaining the sense of mv ])eople on the expediency of a Reform in the Representation, I have now to recommend that important question to your earliest and most serious consideration, confident that, in any measures v,hkh you may prejiare for its adjustment, you will carefully adhere to the acknowledfred principles of the Constitution, by which the prerogative of the Crown, tlie authorities of both Houses of Parliament, and the rights and liberties of the people, are equallv secured." Never was tlie public mind so intensely occupied, as with the proceedings of the newly-assembled Parlia- ment, upon whose decision the futiu'e fate of the empire so much depended. His Majesty recommended " the important question to tlieir most serious consideration ;" confiding in their " careful adherence to the principles of the Constitutioil," by which " the lloyal prerogative, and the liberties of the people, are secured." There was, indeed, mucli for deep and " serious consideration ;" for, we believe, no form of government on record has been more deservedly extolled, by the ablest political writers, than the English Constitution, wliich is justly said to hold the political balance, with the most scrupu- lous equality, between the Sovereign and his subjects. Discussions in the House of Commons, on the all- absorbing topic of Parliamentary reform, now followed each other in rapid succession ; and, on the 21st of September, an exhausting debate, on tlie great question, took place ; which was protracted to the late hour of half past five in the morning. The principal speakers aguiihst it were — Mr. \Vynn, Sir Charles AVetherell, and Sir Robert Peel : fur it. Mr. Crampton, Mr. R. Grant, 366 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. and Lord John Russell. At length, the gallery was cleared for a division, when there appeared — For the question Hi5 Against it 236 Majority in favour of the bill... 109 A loud cheer followed this annunciation. The Reform Bill having been once read in the House of Lords, on the 6th and 7th of October, the adjourned debate, on the second reading, was resumed. The Duke of Sussex ; the Lord Chancellor ; the Earls of Roseberry, Radnor, and Grey ; the INIarquisses of Lans- down and Hastings ; Lords Barham, Plunkett, and Holland, supported the bill. The Dukes of Gloucester and Wellington ; the Earls of Falmouth, Harrowby, Carnarvon, and Eldon ; Lords I^yndhurst, Tenterden, Wharncliffe, and Wynford, opposed it. At half-past six in the morning, the house was cleared for a division ; when there appeared — For the second readino- 1.58 & Against it 199 'to Majority against it 41 On the Lord Chancellor declaring the state of the numbers, no expression of feeling took place ; and their Lordships immediately adjourned. The intelligence reached this city, hj express, early in the afternoon of October the 8th, and Avas generally received with feelings of the deepest regret. By an early hour, on Monday morning, the 10th, notices were issued, recommending an early meeting of those inhabitants favourable to reform, to express tlieir feelings on the occasion ; to assure their patriotic friends, ♦• 1831.] AXXAI.S OF UATII. 367 the ministers, tliat they considered them as repuhcd only, and not co/iquered; and that they had the voices and tlie confidence of tlie majority of the nation on their side. Accordingly, on Thursday, the 13th, following, a public meeting took place in the large area in the front of Sydney-hotel. It was, probably, one of the most numerous that had ei'cr occurred in this city. A hustings had been erected in front of the Hotel, for the several speakers on the occasion, which included E. A. Sanford, Esq., one of the county members ; General Palmer, member for the city ; and several gentlemen of the first respectability. A procession of the different trades, with their banners and insignias of their calling, proceeded to the meeting. As they advanced down Pulteney-street, with their bands playing, and an immense tide of inhabitants slowly and orderly following, the effect from the hustings was grand beyond description. The whole of the spacious area, and every contiguous space visible to the eye, presented an animated mass, which was estimated at not less than twenty thousand. The windows were crowded in every direc- tion ; and the different bands of music, playing as they advanced, tended altogether to create feelings of powerful and peculiar interest. The chairman (Captain R. Mainwaring) briefly opened the meeting, by requesting silent attention to the numerous speakers who were about to address them, and wdio would fully explain the objects for which they were then met ; soliciting, at the same time, in very earnest terms, due obedience to the laws of the land. The mcethig was then addressed by E. A. Sanford, Esq., member for the county ; Henry Godwin, J. T. Houlton, 368 AN'NALS OF BATH.» [1831. Thomas Kinosbnry, Alexander Falconer, G. Stallard, and J. C. Spender, Esquires ; Colonel Chambers ; Captains T. F. C. Mainwaring and Hunter Brown ; and Mr. William ]\Ietford. Several resolutions were passed, and a loyal address to his Majesty agreed on. " praying that his Majesty would be graciously pleased to continue in office his present ministers, in whose firm- ness and integrity they had the fullest confidence ; and entreating his Majesty to exercise his royal prerogative in such manner as, in his wisdom, he might deem meet, that the opposition, Avhich had so fearfully endangered the peace of the country, and security of property, might be overcome." The address was transmitted to tlie Earl of Camperdown for immediate presentation ; and a letter, was received from the Noble Earl afterwards, by the Chairman, stating that '* his Majesty was pleased to receive it most graciously/' The meeting then dissolved. The vast assemblage moved from the groimd in the most peaceable and regular manner ; the procession of the trades passing off in the same order they observed in approaching it. As the immense throng moved from the gTound, the coup (Pce/l was magnificent in the extreme ; the multitude, at one time, occupying the whole length of Pulteney-street. Tlie banners and flags, as they waved above the heads of the dense dark multitude slowly lessened in the distance, the animated music fell more and more faintly on the ear ; and the spectator was forcibly I'eminded of the chivalrous proces- sions of ages, long since passed. In the previous details of the reform meeting in this city, it will be seen in what manner the failure of tliat measure in the House of I^ords was received, 183J.J ANNA I. S O]' KATH. .'}69 it will be seen that as citizens no body of men could have been more urgent in their appeals to his Majesty, more respectful and peaceable in their lan- guage, or more loyal and determined to uphold the dignity of the Crown, or the patriotic efforts of his Majesty's Ministers. Would that, for the sake of public tranquillity, we could announce the same happy disposition and feeling, in the conduct of a neighbouring and largely populated city. We must, however, place on record, to a certain extent, the serious riots which occurred there, as they form a kind of " opening scene" to the occurrences which were attempted afterwards in this city, by a lawless set of plunderers, but effectually prevented by the timely and energetic conduct of the magistracy and inhabitants. It had long been notorious that Sir Charles Wetherell, the Recorder of Bristol, had, by his deter- mined hostility to the principle of reform, become extremely unpopular in that city, and his intended visit on Saturday the 29th of October, in his judicial capacity, had for some days previously been regarded with serious apprehension. With a view to obviate any popular commotion, the magistrates determined on bringing Sir Charles into the city at ten o'clock in the morning, instead of the afternoon, as usually arranged, but their intention could not be kept secret; the hour appointed for Sir Charles to make his apjjcarance, became known the previous evening, and the intelligence spread like wildfire over the city. The consequence was, that a general excitement pre- vailed among the lower classes, who poured out in dense masses from St. Phillips, and the neighbourhood of Lawford's-gate, to meet the object of their political A a 370 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. hatred. About half-past ten Sir Charles was seen to approach at a rapid rate in a chariot drawn by four greys, and on stopping at Totterdown, for the purpose of being handed into the Sheriff's carriage, he was instantly saluted by the most deafening yells, groans and hisses. In his progress towards the Guildhall, although accompanied by a cavalcade of gentlemen, and a large posse of constables, he was assailed by numei'ous expressions of disapprobation, occasionally with stones and other missiles from the multitude, which continued to increase in density and bad feeling. On arriving at the Guildhall, it Avas with the greatest difficulty that Sir Charles could alight, from the pressure of the immense multitude, but, after the lapse of a few minutes, he was handed out in safety, and proceeded to take his station on the Bench. The doors of the Hall were then thrown open to the populace, and in a few minutes the area was completely choked up. The forms for opening the Commission then commenced, but the noise and confusion occasioned by the populace became deafening and incessant, notwithstanding the Recorder's threat to commit persons so offending. In this tumultuous manner the usual preliminaries were gone through, and the Court adjourned till eight o'clock on JNIonday morning. The Recorder then with- drew from the Bench. In his progress from the Hall to the Mansion House in Queen-square, Sir Charles was again greeted with hissing and groaning, and when he reached that place, a few stones were thrown, and a lamp or a window of his carriage was broken. We pass over the different affrays between the constabulary force and the populace, which were con- tinually occurring during the day. till about four 1831.] ANNALS or BATH. 371 o'clock, when the scene began to assume a more formidable character. Unadvisedly, a considerable por- tion of the constables retired to their homes to refresh themselves, and the mob taking advantage of this temporary retreat, commenced a furious attack on the Mansion House. The iVIayor came forward, and, in conciliatory terms, implored them to disperse, and not reduce him to the necessity of reading the Riot Act, and calling to his aid a militarj^ force. But a con- ciliatory address to a reckless mob, was but adding fuel to the fire, and his Worship was pelted with stones for his pains. The Riot Act was then read, but it was totally disregarded, and the mob perceiving the Aveakness of the force opposed to them, rushed on the few remaining constables, disarmed, beat, and completely put them to flight. Then commenced a general attack on the Mansion House, which they speedily entered, and but for the arrival of two troops of Dragoons, the building would have been set on fire. It was at this critical moment that Sir Charles Wetherell effected his retreat through the adjoining premises. The mob continued to increase, notwith- standing the arrival of the cavalry, and clustering like bees on the adjoining walls, cheered the troops with enthusiasm. Under the protection of the military, the constables again collected in considerable numbers, and several of the most daring of the mob were taken prisoners. In the manner thus described the rioting continued in Queen Square till midnight, when a party of the rioters disappointed by the restraint which the troops imposed on them, proceeded to the Council room where they commenced offensive operations. Orders were then given for the cavalry A a i> 372 ANNALS OF BATir. [1831. to charge, and a scene of the greatest confusion took place. The people, dismayed, ran in every direction through the streets pursued by the soldiers, and several received severe sabre cuts. These prompt measures had for the time their desired effect ; the soldiers paraded the streets, the mob separated, and thus ended the events of Saturday. On Sunday morning, the people again began to assemble, at an early hour, in Queen-square ; but appa- rent quietness being observed, and the prospect of further rioting having subsided, the troops were with- drawn for refreshment, having been thus actively employed for nearly twenty-four hours. Their with- drawal was the signal for a re-commencement of hostilities ; and the mob proceeded into the interior of the Mansion-house, when the w^ork of destruction began. Wearing apparel, bed and table linen, china, furniture, &c., were either stolen or wantonly destroyed ; the wine- cellars were forced, a large quantity of the contents drunk, and they became madly infuriate, regardless alike of what mischief they committed, or what risk they incurred. The scene, at that moment, was of the most depraved and horrible description ; all ages, of either sex, were to be seen greedily swallowing the intoxicating liquors, and rolling on the ground dead with drunkenness. The troops wei-e speedily replaced ; but they had not to deal with rational beings, and stones, brick-bats, and other missiles, flew at them in all direc- tions. No magistrates were on the spot to take the responsibility of ordering them to fire ; and the Com- manding-officer having withdrawn his troops (Fourteenth Light Dragoons), they were replaced by the Third Dragoon Guards. On the retirement of the former. 1831.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. fJTS they were followed by a large portion of the mob, who continued their assaults upon them along the Quay and over the Draw-bridge, till arriving at St. Augustine's- back, when, being provoked beyond further forbearance, they turned round and fired several shot at their assail- ants, and loss of life was the result, 'i'he mob, however, nothing daunted, still continued to follow them ; and, in College-green, further firing occurred. This was about eleven o'clock on Sunday morning; and it was truly awful to reflect on the scenes that were passing at the time when divine service was about to commence in the different places of worship. ^About two o'clock, a mob, by no means numerous, proceeded to the Bridewell, for the purpose of rescuing the prisoners, an object which they speedily effected ; and then set the building on fire. At the same time, a large party of rioters proceeded to the New Jail, a strong-built modern erection, of ten years' standing, which cost nearly one hundred thousand pounds; and, procuring hammers from an adjoining dock-yard, its massive locks were soon broken to atoms, and more than one hundred prisoners liberated. The mob then set fire to that extensive pile of buildings, the conflagration of which Avas truly awfid. The wings, however, being built exclusively of stone and iron, were but little injured. As soon as the work of destruction was here completed, the rioters divided themselves into parties, and proceeded to the toll-houses at Princes-street Bridge, the Wells, and St. Philip's, all of wliich tiiey soon destroyed. They then proceeded to the Gloucester Prison-house, the Bishop's Palace, and the Mansion-house : the torch was applied, and the whole fell a prey to the flames ! By twelve at night, the range of lu)uses in Queen- 374 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. square, from the Mansion-house to the middle avenue, including the Custom-house, and all the back buildings in Little King-street, were one immense mass of fire. In this manner the mob swept aAvay one whole side of Queen-square, and then proceeded to another, commenc- ing at the Excise-office, at the corner. From thence the flames extended to the houses of the parallel streets, including many of the principal wine and spirit stores. The whole city, in fact, seemed panic-struck ; and it may be truly said, the portion alluded to was, on that night, given up to plunder. '• At the eleventh hour," the military were ordered to clear the streets, which they did very effectually, numbers being killed and Avounded. The casualties, received into the hospital, up to twelve o'clock, on Monday, consisted chiefly of sabre cuts and gun-shot wounds, amounting to sixty-four. Having thus detailed the leading events of that lamentable occurrence, we must now proceed to shew the effect it produced in this city. The strides of destruction attending that riot, as they followed each other with appalling rapidity, Avere hourly communicated here ; and groups of the lowest rabble, ripe for plunder, consisting chiefly of grown-up boys, were collected at the White Hart, on Sunday evening, listening, with savage satisfaction, to the detailed accounts of their victorious brethren. As the evening closed, the crowd increased ; and with them, their noisy tumultuous proceedings. This they consi- dered the " opening scene" of a tragedy to be enacted here, similar to the fatally successful one at Bristol ; and they were not Avithout hopes of assistance from the belligerents of that city. > 1831.] ANNALS OF BATH. 37.5 About seven o'clock, Captain Wilkins, of the Bath troop of Yeomanry Cavalry, who had been applied to by the Bristol magistrates for assistance, arrived in Bath to collect liis men, and rested at the W^hite Hart. — Thither he was followed by an increasing mob, who greeted him witli tlie most opprobious epithets ; and expressed, in very significant terms, their decided intention of opposing his progress. In vain he pointed out, that he vvas compelled, as a matter of duty, to repair to Bristol with his troop. They insisted he should not go ; while the gallant Captain expressed his determina- tion to do so. Symptoms of serious mischief then began to shew themselves ; and some of tlie most darine" of the mob, endeavoured to follow him into the White Hart, the doors of which were immediately closed. Then commenced an attack on the windows, wliich were demolished without mercy ; and, in many instances, the frames shared the fate of the glass. Not satisfied with this, they proceeded to a faggot-pile in the neighbour- liood ; and, returning to the scene of action, commenced demolishing the shutters of the lower windows; and some of the mob effected an entrance into the premises. There, however, they met with a ivarmer reception than they calculated on, a charge being made by the imnates, not with the bayonet, but with part of the " hatlerie de cuisine" red-hot kitchen pohcrs, previously prepared, which had an admirable effect in causing the assailing party to turn quickly round, and beat a precipitate retreat; in effecting which, some few were partially singed on that part where the " seat of honour" is supposed to be situated. By this time the magistrates had sworn in about three hundred special constables, who immediately 37(> ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. dispersed the mob, and took several into custody. — Tranquillity was restored ; and, at two o'clock in the morning, the streets were entirely cleared.* It should be mentioned, that intelligence of this preliminary moremeiit was immediately sent to the proper authorities ; but the exertions of the police were suffi- ciently required at the Town-hall, where large bodies of vagabonds had assembled, and seriously threatened an attack there ; but, being effectually checked, they amused themselves by occasionally breaking a few windows only. For this reason, assistance was not sooner afforded to the White Hart. On the following morning (Monday), active and efficient steps were taken by the Mayor and Magis- trates, to prevent a recurrence of the preceding night's disturbances ; independently of which, a simultaneous assemblage of persons, of all grades of respectability in society, crowded to the Guildhall, to enrol themselves as special constables. At three in the afternoon, a meeting was held to concert measures for the due pre- servation of the public peace. George Kitson, Esq., the Mayor, addressed the meeting with much energy ; and, after deprecating the dastardly outrages of the preceding evening, suggested the following plan : — That the city, which is divided, on ordinary occasions, into three police districts, should now be sub-divided into eight, with thirty special constables to each ; and that each sub- division should be relieved, by a similar number, every * At the following Spring Assizes, at M'ells, the trial of William Richards, James Smith, and Jacob Milsom, took place, for having riotously assembled, and begun to destroy and demolish the White Hart Inn, Bath. They were found guilty. Sentence of death was recorded, and they were ultimately transported for life. 1831.] AXXALS OF BATH. 377 four hours ; each party of this force being headed by one gentleman as their captain. He then proposed, that the force so formed (together with all the tithingmen and police) should take their respective stations, and commence patroling at six that evening. By the adoption of this plan, he believed, that any attempt at riotous proceedings, whether from the " belligerents of Bristol," or the canaille of our own city, would be effectually resisted and quelled. In pursuance of this measure, therefore, the arrange- ments immediately took place ; and the consequence was, that not the slightest attempts at any renewal of disturb- ance occurred ; the constabulary force were held in constant readiness to act, but were never afterwards called on. The following notice was afterwards issued from the Guildhall : — "The Magistrates are highly gratified by the zeal and energy evinced by all classes of the inhabitants, in aid of the Civil Power, in the protection of property and the preservation of the peace. — They have the satisfaction to announce to the public, that a large permanent constabulary force has been arranged, on a system cal- culated effectually to prevent a recurrence of the scene which disgraced our city on Sunday last. The Magistrates offer their grateful thanks to their fellow-citizens, for their prompt and efficient assistance in restoring and maintaining the peace of the city. " George Kitson, Mayor." The heart-sickening details of the atrocities perpe- trated in Bristol, to which Ave have necessarily devoted so large a space, leave us no room for any comments of our own on those proceedings ; nor. indeed, would it be 378 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. possible to animadvert upon such scenes of teiTor and devastation, without the danger of imputing bhime where it was not due. We Avill, therefore, turn to our own city, and observe, with triumpliant satisfaction, that she is indebted, for her tranquilhty and protection, (under Providence) to the hrmness of her magistracy, and the spirited unanimity of lier citizens, unaided by any miUtary power, or the display of a single military weapon. On November the 12th, an address, a copy of which is subjoined, numerously signed by the nobility, gentry, and tradesmen of the city, was presented to George Kitson, p]sq., mayor, by a deputation of the citizens, of whom Captain Sir Thomas Fellowes, R. N., was the chairman, viz.: — " To George Kttson, Esq., Mayor of Bath. " Sir, — Wc, the undersigned Houschoklcrs and Inhabitants of the City of Batli, beg to return you our wannest thanks for the very prompt, decisive, and able manner in \vhich you, and your brother Magis- trates have, upon the occasion of the late disturbance, exerted j'ourselves for the maintenance of the peace of the City. It is certain ' that tlie prosperity and interests of Bath depends on its peace ;' and we arc quite satisfied that the excellent regulations which you have adopted, in con- formity with the law, are abundantly sufficient for all the purposes of protection. We are resolutely determined to defend those '^^■ho live among us, not only from violence, hut also, we trust, from the fear of it ; and \\e jiledge ourselves, individually and collectively, to come forward whencvei' it may be necessary to put down any attempt to disturb the public peace." Unwilling to break the thread of the preceding narrative, so interesting as a local detail, and so lament- ably destructive in its effects — the celebration, in this city, of his Majesty's coronation lias been reserved for 1831.] ANNALS or BATH. '379 the condiuling records of 1831. It had been proposed, in the first instance, by the Corporate Body, that the sum of one hundred pounds should be given to the United Hospital, in lieu of illuminating the public buildings, as a more sensible appropriation of their funds, and they recommended to the inhabitants to apply, to similar purposes, the money which they would otherwise expend on the occasion. But this plan did not meet general approbation ; and the Corporation, finding that orders had been issued by Government for illuminating the public offices in London, connected with its service, came to the resolution of following its example; and the intelligence was publicly announced in the city. This decision determined a point on which the h)ha- bitants had experienced some little perplexity. Accord- ingly, on the morning of the coronation, Thursday, September 8th, the usual demonstrations of loyalty began, the day was observed as a close holyday, and all public business suspended. The Body Cor])orate and citizens, generally speaking, attended divine service, at their respective places of w^orship ; the children of the Blue Coat School proceeded to the Abbey, each wearing a coronation medal, susjjended by a blue ribbon round his neck. The day, which partook of the usual varied character of that uncertain season, became, towards the evening, sufficiently fine to produce a most splendid illumination ; and it was gratifying to find, by the various loyal devices, that political prejudice formed no part of the feeling attending the celebration. Indeed, it may be said, that while the voice of joy, revelry, and fervent loyalty, resoimded throughout every quarter of the city, it was in the highest degree satisfactory to learn, that (with unc exception, we believe in the 380 ANNALS 01" BATH. [1831. Corridor) not. an act of disorder or indecorum occurred, on the part of any individual of the immense population which crowded the streets. On the SOtli of October, the King, in person, prorogued tlie Parliament. In alluding to the political state of the country, his Majesty said: — " I am, at length, enabled to put an end to a session of unexampled duration and labour, in which matters of the deepest interest have been brought under your consideration. In the interval of repose, which may now be afforded to you, I am sure it is unnecessary for me to recom- mend the most careful attention to the preservation of tranquillity in your respective counties. The anxiety which has been so generally manifested by my people, for the accomplishment of a constitutional reform in the Commons House of Parliament, Avill, I trust, be regulated by a due sense of the necessity of order and moderation in their proceedings. To the consideration of this important question, the attention of Parliament must necessarily again be called at the opening of the ensuing session ; and you may be assured of my unaltered desire to promote its settlement, by such improvements in the representation, as may be found necessary for securing to my people the full enjoyment of their rights, which, in combination with those of the other orders of the State, are essential to the support of our free Consti- tution." Parliament was then prorogued to the 22d of November, and subsequently to the 6th of December. In the winter of this and the succeeding year, an important alteration took place at the entrance into Bath, on the Upper Bristol Road, by the formation of a new road through the fields contiguous to the river, thereby avoiding Newbridge-hill; and, not only' reducing the 1831.] ANNAI.S or BATH. :j81 distance, but affording a pleasant and almost level drive out of Bath for nearly six miles. Newton Bridge was also widened, by the erection of a collateral arch, skilfully attached to the old one, and the causeway at each end was elevated by a series of dry arches, giving the road on either side a safe, easy, and gentle ascent, instead of an abrupt and perilous approach to a narrow ill-con- structed bridge, that would not admit the passage of two carriages abreast. This road was opened to the public without any additional expence of toll ; and, like many other public benefits, has not even yet been duly appreciated. Died, at his residence in this city, in the early part of the year, Charles Phillott, Esq., having nearly com- pleted the 85th year of his age. He was senior member of the Corporation, and four times filled the office of chief magistrate, with undeviating uprightness and acknowledged ability. Few men have departed hence whose loss in society has been more severely felt, and none whose memory will be more fondly cherished by those to whom he was more immediately related. Departed this life also, July 3rd, at an advanced age, Abel Moysey, Esq. He represented this city in Parliament in 1774, 1775, 1780, and 1784; and was mayor in 1792, and 1810. He was also a Welsh judge, and deputy remembrancer for the Court of Exchequer. Mr. Moysey came to Bath at ten years of age, with his father, the well-known Dr. Moysey (grandfather of the present Archdeacon), who settled in Kingsmead- square, as an eligible situation for the practice of a young physician! Theie were, then, no houses above Queen-square, and \V^alcot Church stood in the fields. The gentleman, whose death we now record, was an .'582 ANNALS OF BATH. [1831. honourable and worthy member of society, and passed, to his forefathers at a patriarchal age, having nearly reached his 87th year, much respected and regretted. By the census, taken this year, of the population of Bath and its suburbs, the total amount was ascertained to be 50,802, of whom 21,035 were males, and 29,765 females ; being a total increase, in ten years, of 4,103. The parishes comprised within the Parliamentary boundary, under the Reform Bill, furnish (separately and together) the following amount of population : — St. James's 5,848 St. Michael's 3,526 St. Peter and St. Paul 2,666 Walcot* 26,023 Bathwick 4,035 Lyncombe and Widcombe 8,704 Total 50,802 The Annual Election of Civic Officers was thus aiTanged : — GEORGE KITSON, Esq.— Mayor. J. F. DAVIS, Esa., M.D. -, CHARLES CROOK, Esa. E. ANDERDON, Esa. G. H. TUGWELL, Esq. J. SLOPER, Esa. JOHNSON PHILLOTT, Esq. f E. PICKWICK, Esq. I WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. 2 J. ■ S ^ w 'ILLIAM CLARK, Esq. GEORGE NORMAN, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq Chamberi.aiv. P. MARRIOT, Esq. 1 GEORGE SPRY, Esq. /S'"^""-fs. B. L. LYE, Esq. ) „ H. GIBBES, M.D. f "''■" '-'"'^^^'"■'=^- • This appears to include tlic population of the ilctadied part of Walcot, which not within tlic Parliamentary boundary. The error must be trifling. 1832.] AXXAl.S OV ISATH. 383 1832. Among the many Societies for the suppression of vice which have been formed from time to time, various have been the modes resorted to for accom- pUshing, or rather contributing to this object. The most rational, and without doubt, the most effectual association against vice is that of example. It is a passive, but a most influential mode of tuition. E.r(/?)iple was the means employed by our Saviour. He neither per- secuted nor punished, and we are certain it is the best persuasive for a professor of the Christian religion to use, in his endeavours to improve mankind. Impressed Avith this view, on the 6th of February, 1832, a general meeting was held, in this city, for the purpose of establishing a Temperance Society, auxiliary to an Association in London for the same purpose. Sir William Cockburn was Chairman on that occasion. The meeting was attended by many families of the first respectability in the city, and a great number of persons addressed it. Whatever ridicule may have been thrown upon these Societies, either by periodical works, or by individuals, it is impossible for the man who has a spark of patriotism, benevolence or Christian feeling in his bosom, to contemplate the dreadful depravity of the lower orders, in this particular vice, without a sensation of horror, and an ardent desire for its removal. To the innnoderate use of ardent spirits, has been traced the greater portion of the pauperism, misery, disease and crime, which have so fearfully overspread this once happy and comparatively moral land. In this view of those fatal effects, the minister 384 ANKALS OF BATH. [1H32. of the gospel, the medical man, the parochial officer, the moralist and the private observer in every sphere of life, unhesitatingly concur. The rags, the filtli, and the emaciation which encounter the eye in the streets of the metropolis, and in every large town of the three kingdoms, are in most instances, the certain symptoms of this baneful, and debasing habit. Who then, that contemplates the extent to which this direful custom prevails, and the irresistible bondage in which it holds its victims, would not readily promote any scheme, or society, that had the least chance of abating or suppressing it ? The Parliamentary Report of the Committee of Inquiry into drunkenness, which is drawn up in a masterly manner, displays the rc.'mote and existing causes, and the effects of an addiction to ardent spirits, in a luminous point of view. A few extracts from that Report will prove that drunken- ness, in its present gross extent is attributable entirely to the existence of shops, for the sale of this poison, which in the metropolis have actually assumed the character and name of gin palaces ! and to the alluring temptations Avhich they present. In the CAddence of a very intelligent witness (Mr. Wilson, of "\^"estminster, an old resident there) we have the following remarks: — " The poor wretched girls who live by prostitution, and who are the best customers to the gin shops, mostly die off in four ycnrs. Four or five generations have passed away during the fourteen years I have lived there." From the evidence of Mr. Gell, the Coroner for Westminster, it appeared that out of twenty-five cases of sudden death, on which inquests were held, twenty of them were in a previous state of' intoxication. — 1832] ANNALS f)F HATH 385 Dr. Ellis, physician to the Hanwell Lunatic Asylum, stated that, out of twenty eigiit cases admitted the previous year, nineteen were decided drunkards. With these plain facts before us, it is needless to point out the urgent necessity for such associations, and we need only remark that the cause of temperance was taken up in this city, with a zeal and enthusiasm, wdiich in every Avay did honor to the philanthropic exertions of its supporters. In short, the tide of intemperance has been arrested, hundreds have already joined the ranks of sobriety, and nine hundred and thirty one inhabitants of the city are enrolled as members of the institution. In many of their families, happiness has been substituted for disorder, and the strongest incentive to crime destroyed. On the 27th of April, the consecration of Widcombe New Church, dedicated to St. Mark, took place. The morning was auspiciously fine. At eleven, the Lord Bishop of the Diocese, attended by his son, the Reverend Chancellor Law, was met at the west door by the churchwardens and a large body of Clergy, and pro- ceeding up the centre aisle to the communion table, the ceremony of consecration was commenced. At the conclusion divine service was performed, and an appro- priate sermon preached by the Reverend Charles Crook, vicar of the parish. The interior of this admired structure presents on every side the appearance of lightness, convenience and comfort. The body of the church is divided into ten arched compartments sup- ported by Gothic pillars. A handsome gallery projects from three sides of the building, and at the western end is the choir, on the panels in front of which is the B b 386 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. following inscription, with the Royal Arms emblazoned in the centre. " This Church, wliioli is capable of accommodating twelve liundred persons, was built in the year 1831, by subscriptions, aided I)}' a Grant from liis Majesty's Commissioners for Building Churches and Chapels. In consequence of such Grant, six hundred and thirty sittings arc hereby declared to be free and unajipropriated for ever. " Charles Chock — Vicar. " Joseph Lahge, 1 /^i i i .> ,, Ti A } Ohurchwardens. " KoBERT Ashman, J The following liberal contributions were made to the church in aid of its heavy expenses. Two tasteful and appropriate altar chairs, by INIr. Manners, the architect ; the communion plate, by Robert Ashman, Esq. ; altar and prayer books, with the black hangings used in Lent, by T. P. Clarke, Esq ; the bible, by the Reverend T. S. Sawbrida:e : the velvet coverinfj for the communion table by F. Hedger, Esq. ; and the linen for the same by Mr. George Shaw, Abbey Church Yard. On the following day, the same ceremony took place, at the N^ew Church, Walcot, dedicated to our Saviour, after which an impressive sermon was preached by the Rev. C. M. Mount. In point of architectural beauty, both externally and internally, this church is generally considered to be unrivalled by any ecclesi- astical structure, of modern date, in this part of the county. The tower forms a beautiful object to the surrounding neighbourhood and reaches to a height of one hundred and twenty feet. The interior consists of three divisions, a choir and two side aisles, the latter of which are provided with galleries. In the design of the East window with the pulpit, reading desk and altar lHfi2.] AXNAi.s oi- iiATir. ;}87 piece, the architect has been very successful, and the wliole presents a striking effect from tlic Avcstern entrance. Beneath the floor is a spacious crypt, for the reception of the dead. The chmx'h contains seven hundred free sittings, and four lunidred rented seats. We close our account of this structure with noticing a munificent donation from a gentleman of the parish (\Villiani Hooper, Esq., of East-hays), who presented a peal of eight bells for the tower of the church, which were especially cast for the occasion, the estimated cost of which was about six hundred pounds. We may remark, in allusion to this particular and somewhat uiuisual gift, that in times of yore, when visitors resorted here solely for the benefit of its healing waters, hells were considei-ed a most lamentable grievance ; and, on the other hand, the I'age for them, at one time, was so great, that the churchwardens of St. Michael's mort- gaged the profits of the pew-rents in order to purchase fwo additional hells; and when St. James's Church was rebuilt, in 1728, Harrison, the proprietor of the Lower Rooms, offered to give tAvo hundred pounds to\vards a new organ, if the wardens would suppress the bells, which offer Avas refused ! The Parliament, which had been prorogued on the 20th of October, 1831, was again assembled on the 6th of December. The election of that Parliament took place amid such general excitement, that the success of the ministry was reduced almost to a certainty. The declared intention of the dissolution had been to obtain from the people a House of Connnons pledged to support the Reform Bill ; and the test by which candidates were generally tried, was their determination to support that ])articular measure. Even, therefore, if ministers had » b 2 388 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. been inclined to take advantage of a longer interval, their reforming adherents were too impatient to leave them any chance of retaining their popularity, unless they introduced anew, and without delay, the bill which had been lost in the House of Lords; and were prepared, at the same time, to exercise the Royal Prerogative, in so modelling that house, as to fill it with a majority favour- able to the popular innovations which were in prospect. The King opened the session in person. In allusion to the Reform Bill, his Majesty said: — " I feel it to be my dutj% in the first place, to recommend to your most careful consideration the measures which will be proposed to you, for a reform in the Commons House of Parlia- ment ; a speedy and satisfactory settlement of this question becomes daily of more pressing importance to the security of the state, and to the contentment and welfare of my people." The address, which was moved and seconded, in the Upper House, by the Earl of Camperdown and Lord Dinorben ; and, in the Lower, by Lord Cavendish and Sir F. A'incent, did not produce any division. Debates, on the motion for the second reading of the Reform Bill, occupied the attention of the House of Commons until the 18th of December, when the House divided, and it was carried by a majority of 324 to 162. The length of the preceding session, the shortness of the prorogation, the knowledge that all resistance to the second reading would be ineffectual, and that when the bill had passed that stage, the proceedings of Parlia- ment would be suspended, occasioned the absence of many members of both parties. The House, immedi- ately after the division, adjourned for the Christmas holy days, till the 17th of January this year. 18.'}2.] ANNAI.S Ol- HATir. ^}S9 On tlic assembling of Pailianicnt after the recess, the discussion of the Keforni Bill was renewed. And, on the 23rd of March, that hill jinulhj passed the House of Commons. The division gave a majority of 116 for the third reading; there being ^55 for the motion, and 239 for the amendment moved by Lord Mahon, that it should be read a third time that day six months. In the House of Lords, the bill was read the first time on the 26th of IVLarch. The second reading was moved on the 9th of April ; and the debate was continued on the 10th, 11th, and 13th. On the 14th of April, the House divided at seven o'clock in the morning ; when the second reading was carried by a majority of nine ! the numbers being — contents, 184; non-contents, 175. The majority, by which the second reading of the Reform Bill had been carried in the House of I^ords, was nnich too insignificant to give ministers any confi- dence of being masters of it in the committee. They had, nevertheless, gained much. After the Easter recess. Parliament again met on the 7th of May. The House of Lords went into committee on the Reform Bill. On the motion, " that the discussion of the disfranchising clauses should be postponed to that of the enfranchising clauses," ministers were left in a minority of thirty-five. The further consideration of the bill having been |)ostponed. Earl Grey proceeded to the King, and tendered his IMajesty the alternative, of either arming the ministers with the powers they deemed necessary to enable them to carry through their bill (which meant a power to create wiiatever peers they might deem requi- site) or of accepting their resignation. His Majesty did not decide immediately, on a matter which was thus 390 AXXALS OF HATH. [1832. unexpectedly submitted to him ; but, in the course of the following day, he informed Lord Grey that he had determined to accept his resignation rather than have recourse to the alternative which had been proposed. The ministers and their adherents immediately resigned, en masse. On the 9th, Earl Grey announced to the House of Lords, and Lord Althorp to the Commons, that the Ministry was at end, and that they held their offices only till their successors should be appointed. Earl Grey said, that the late division had reduced him to the necessity, in common with his colleagues, either at once to withdraw from his IMajesty's service, or to tender to his Majesty advice which then appeared justified by the peculiar circumstances of the case, with a view to carry into effect the measure of reform ; and, finally, in the event of this advice being rejected, most respectfully to tender to his Majesty the offices which they held. The last alternative, after much consideration, he and his colleagues had adopted. In the House of Commons, Lord Althorp had no sooner announced the resignation of Ministers, than Viscount Ebrington gave notice, that he would, next day, move an address to the King on the state of public affairs, and that he would move a call of the House ; that, as his Lordship said, " he might guard against back-sliders and time-watchers, and show the people who were their honest and consistent representatives, and who had proved recreants from their duty," In pursuance of his notice, Lord Ebrington, on the 10th of May, rose and addressed the House at considerable length, and concluded Avith the following motion : — " That, in the progress of that great national measure, 18.'J2.] ANNAI.S or BATH. 391 the Reform Bill, the House of Commons considers itself bound in duty to state to his Majesty, that his subjects are lookinf;- with the most intense interest and anxiety ; and they cannot disguise from his Majesty that, taking any step which would impair its efficiency, must be productive of the greatest disappointment. That this House is, therefore, impelled, by an attachment to his Majesty's person and throne, humbly, but most earnestly, to implore his INIajesty to call to his councils such persons only as will carry into effect, unimpaired in all its essential provisions, that bill for the reform of the representation of the people, which has recently passed this House." Considerable discussion took place on Lord Ebrington's motion. The House divided — and it was carried by a majority of eighty; there being 288 for, and 208 votes against it. However opinions might differ as to the necessity or propriety of this measure, it was considered a pro- ceeding within the constitutional powers of the House of Commons ; but it was accompanied, throughout many parts of the country, with measures and declara- tions which went much farther, and bore on the face of them the plain language of intimidation. The Political Unions convoked large assend)lies in the open air, which, being called together in the heat of political animosity, in many places, particularly in the metropolis, framed and sanctioned the most violent resolutions, which threatened an entire dissolution of society. In this city, an assemblage (the nucleus of which was a junction of the several Unions of Frome, Bradford, Holt. Trowbridge, Tw^erton, Bitton, Oldlands Common, and others, to about twelve thousand members) took place on the -itli of .Tune: which, in point of numbers. 392 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. was wholly unprecedented in the memory of the oldest inhabitant. It was calculated that the muster, on that occasion, fell little short of fifty-five thousand ! and, in fact, from the immense length of time which the passage of the procession occupied, we should be disposed to consider the estimate by no means over-rated. It was announced as " a public meeting of the members of the Bath Political Union, and the inha- bitants of Bath generally, for the purpose of voting an address to Earl Grey on his retirement from office ; and also an address of thanks to the majorities of the House of Commons for their strenuous sup])ort of the Reform Bill, but particularly to the two hundred and eighty- eight members who voted on Lord Ebrington's motion." The weather proving extremely propitious, at an early hour man)' persons arrived from distant places ; and, as the morning advanced, the principal roads leading to the city were thronged with the members of imions and spectators, from the surrounding country, who were hastening to the spot appointed for the formation of the intended procession. By twelve o'clock, the whole space from the front of Sydney-hotel, and extending a considerable distance up Hampton-road, was thronged with members of Political Unions from various towns and districts ; and immense numbers crowded the spacious pavements of Sydney -place and Pulteney-street. At a quarter before one, the necessary arrangements having been made, the procession advanced ; and, taking a circuitous route through the principal streets of the city, reached their destination at two o'clock. The spot, judiciously chosen for the transactions of the day, was the rising ground on the High Common, which was gratuitously lent for the 18;J2.] - ANNALS OF HATH. 393 occasion by the renter. The bulk of the audience occupied the upper jrortion, so that all could command a view of the hustings ; and a gentle southerly wind aiding those who were at a distance, the various speeches were distinctly caught by the larger portion of the spectators. John Allen, Esq., was called to the chair. The meeting was addressed by J. T. Mayne, Esq. ; T. Edridge, Esq. ; Colonel Jones, and several others ; whose speeches, in moving the varions resolutions, Avere divested of that violent revolutionary language which marked the metropolitan unions ; and, though disjilaying great firmness in the cause of Parliamentary reform, bespoke moderation in the modes of accomplishing it. The resolutions having been put and carried, the meeting gradually and peaceably dispersed. On the 9th of May, the King, so soon as he had accepted the resignations of Earl Grey and his colleagues, sent for T>ord liyndhurst, who seemed to him (as having been his last chancellor) the most fitting person, to whose advice he could have recourse. Lord Lyndhurst imme- diately waited on the Duke of Wellington. His Grace said, he was willing to make any sacrifice, and encounter any degree of obloquy, which might extricate his Sovereign from the embarrassment produced by the demands and resignations of the ministers. On the 12th, his Grace waited on the King, and received his Majesty's commands to form a new ministry ; his IMajcsty distinctly stating, that they must assume the reins of government on an midcrstanding to carry through an extensive plan of reform. The new ministry was evidently to be sought among the enemies of the bill, Avhether they were its absolute or its modified opponents ; and innumerable obstacles 394 ANNALS OT BATH. [1832. presented themselves. His Grace found tliut, tlioiigii many leading men in the House of Commons entertained a strong opinion against the creation of peers, there Avas an equally strong impression among those to Avhoni he applied (as likel}' to be useful in so critical an emer- gency), either that they ought to have nothing to do with a modified bill, or that no ministry would be supported by the Lower House, or by the country, which did not undertake to carry a measure of reform, no less searching- and efficient than the existing; bill. The Duke of Wellington was, therefore, under the necessity of communicating to his IMajesty, on the 15th, that the commission, with which he had been entrusted, had faded. The same evening. Earl Grey received a communi- cation from his Majesty ; the natural inference being, that he and his colleagues were to be recalled to power. Both Houses adjourned till the 17th. On the 18th, a good deal of angry and desultory skirmishing occupied the House of Lords. The Earl of Harewood asked Earl Grey, whether it was yet settled that ministers were to continue in office? Earl Grey answered, that, in consequence of having received the King's request to that effect, and in consequence of now finding himself in a situation which would enable him to carry through the bill, unimpaired in its efficiency, he and his colleagues cont'mved in ojfice. He, therefore, moved, that the committee on the bill should be taken on Monday. The Earl of Carnarvon repeated a question put by liord Wharncliffe, whether it was intended to create peers ? Earl Grey replied — " That is a question which the Noble Earl has no right to put, and Avhich I certainlv will not answer." The motion for ii'oing; into the committee was then asj-reed to. » 1832.] ANNALS OF MATH. 395 But, altliDUgh ministers refused to give any answer to the question, it was soon known that this pov.er must have been assured to them, at least, as an alternative of another expedient. Sir Herbert Taylor, in the name and by the authority of the King, wrote a circular note to the opposition peers, stating his JNIajcsty's wish that they should facilitate the passing of the bill, by absenting themselves from the house when any important part of the measure, to which they could not consent, might be under discussion. Such a request, coming from such a quarter, was not only weighty in itself, but necessarily implied, after all that had taken place, that his Majesty desired it, as the only means of avoiding the creation of a large number of peers. During the remainder of the discussions on the bill, not more than thirty or forty peers attended at any one time, and the natural conse- quence was, that the bill passed rapidly through the Up])or House ; and on the 4th of June, ica.s jlnaJhj read a third time, and pa/ised. The creation of twelve peers, by Queen Anne, in 1712, for which Lord Oxford was impeached, is the only instance in history of a measure like the one at this time contemplated. Burnet, in " The History of his Own Times," vol. 2nd, thus speaks of it: — " But the Court, finding the majority of the House of Lords could not be brought to favour their designs, resolved to make an experiment that none of our Princes had ventured on in former times ; a resolution was taken up, very suddenly, of making twelve peers all at once ; three of these were called up by writ, being eldest sons of peers, and nine njore were created by patent." The feeling was so strong against this creation of peers by Queen Anne, that Lord Sunderland, on this 396 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. express ground, six years after, brought in the famous Peerage Bill, to restrain the King altogether from increasing the peerage. AValpole and Steele, who made excellent speeches against the bill, admitted the violent and unconstitutional nature of this measure of the Queen. It appears, therefore, that in all English history, there is only one precedent for Earl Grey's scheme ; and this one, though only carried to the extent of twelve peers, was the ground of impeachment against the minister, and the cause of a bill beinjj broueht in to abolish the King's prerogative altogether, as being destructive to the independence of Parliament. It has been stated that, on the 4th of June, the Reform Bill finally passed the House of Lords, and was transmitted forthwith to the Commons, desiring their concurrence to its amendments. On the 7th, the bill received the Royal Assent. The intelligence reached this city about the middle of the following day ; and was received, by a large body of the inhabitants, with unbounded gratification. Various modes of rejoicing took place ; and an application was made to the Civic Authorities, to name a day for a general illumination to celebrate the important event. On the day that completed the passing of the Irish and Scotch Reform Bills, the different trades of the city walked in procession, bearing various emblems, banners, and devices. The weather being extremely fine, a large concourse of spectators assembled to witness the cere- mony, which, aided by the accompaniment of some excellent music, produced a very gay and enlivening effect. Plans had been formed, on a most extensive scale, for supplying a public dinner to the whole' poor popula- 1832.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 397 tion of the city ; but, upon mature consideration, it was found totally impracticable, consistently with the peace and tranquillity of the city ; and the idea was, there- fore, abandoned. In certain districts, however, dinners were given to a limited number of the poor, under the superintendence of some benevolent gentlemen, which were conducted with good order, and produced much satisfaction. On the 25th of June, his Majesty honoured Ascot Races with his presence ; and was received, on the ground, with every mark of enthusiasm and loyalty. While his Majesty (in occasional conversation with his Royal Consort and suite) was intent on the proceed- ings of the day, and enjoying the animated scene, an atrocious attack was committed on the Royal Person, by a ruffian habited in the garb of a sailor, who threw a stone with great force, wliich, taking effect, struck his ]Majesty on the head, and stunned him for the moment. The culprit was instantly seized and secured. His appearance was of the most wretched description, similar to that of the wandering mendicants who gain livelihoods by imposing on the credulity of the public. He had a wooden leg, of the most rude construction. On his examination, he told an unconnected tale, of disappointments, of distress, and of grievances unre- quited, which he was determined to revenge on the person of his Majesty ! There appeared no doubt, from the hostile spirit disjilayed by the prisoner, that he would not have hesitated in using a more deadly weapon, could he have produced it ; and that his treasonable intentions w^cre not more seriously attempted, was a source of congratulation throughout the country. With a promptitude highly creditable to the Mayor 398 AXNAI.S OF BATH. [1832. and Corporation of this city, a public meeting was imme- diately convened ; and an address of congratulation to his Majesty, on his providential escape, resolved on. On the 27th, a deputation, consisting of the Mayor of Bath, Lord James O'Brien, Sir William Keir Grant, and Colonel Gore Langton, member of Parliament for the county, attended a levee, and presented the address, which his Majesty received with marked condescension. At the latter end of August, the prisoner (Dennis Collins) was tried at Abingdon, for a treasonable assault on his Majesty ; was found guilty of the act, with an intent to do his INIajesty some bodily harm, and sentence of death, for high treason, was immediately passed on him. He was, ultimately, made an object of Royal clemency ; and, being considered an insane person, was ordered under confinement for life. We now arrive at the onerous task of detail ina- the progress of an epidemic disease which appeared in Bath in the autumn of this year. It was toward the end of 1831, that the much-dreaded complaint, called " Cholera INIorbus," first made its appearance in the north of England. And his IMajesty's Privy Council (on its appearing in London) having called on all magistrates, resident clergymen, and persons of influence, to exert themselves in promoting cleanliness and ventilation in their respective neighbourhoods, and in using every possible means to check the progress of tlie disease, the Mayor and Authorities of the city, and of the division of Bath- forum, cordially responding to that appeal, recommended forthwith a general subscription, with a view to meet the expences unavoidable in providing an effectual safeguard against the introduction and diffusion of so formidable a pestilence. A subscription, accordingly. 1832.] ANNALS OF 15ATH. 399 commenced, and the sum of eight hundred and forty- two poiuids twelve shillings was finally collected, to which the Corporation contributed fifty pounds. A provisional Board of Health was established, and com- mittees formed to carry into efFect the precautionary measures of cleansing, white-washing, and removing nuisances. A proclamation was also, afterwards, issued for a ffeneral fast and dav of humiliation, to be observed throughout the United Kingdom, to offer up prayers and supplications to the Divine Majesty for averting those heavy judgments which our manifold sins had deserved ; and to remove from us that grievous disease with which several places in the kingdom were visited. Whether this malady, known as cholera morbus, was contagious or epidemic, was a subject on which professional writers have never agreed ; but, though the cause of the d'mea.He, and its Jaws of transmission, could not be satisfactorily explained, its history at least was, to a considerable extent, known. Not even the plague ever struck such universal terror into the inhabitants of this earth, as the gradual and mysterious approach of the cholera. For some years it was confined to the climate in which it ajjpeared to have been generated ; and then, like a destroying angel, traversed nearly the whole globe, sparing neither age nor sex. On the burning plains of India, and in the frozen regions of the north, its victims Avere seized with the same unerring fatality. The first serious notice taken of it was in 1S17, when a malady of a peculiar character made its appearance at Jessore, in Bengal. In the space of a few weeks, ten thousand persons fell victims to it 400 ANNATES OF BATH. [1832. in that single district ! It soon extended its ravatics throughout Bengal, few towns or villages in an area of several thousand miles escaped the invasion, and the mass of population was sensibly diminished. It extended eastward also, along the coast of the Asiatic continent, and through the islands of the Indian ocean to China and to Timor, and continued for several years to ravage the interior of that thickly populated country. At the same time it was extending its ravages to the westward. In 1818 it made its appearance in Bombay, and broke out anew in 1819, 1820, and 1821. — Ascending the Persian gulph, it spread on one hand, from Busheer into Persia, and on the other, up the course of the rivers Tigris and Euphrates into Asiatic Turkey. It continued during the succeeding years to wander about in different provinces of Persia, and, in 1830, broke out with renewed violence on the western shores of the Caspian sea. It soon ravaged Georgia, and made its appearance in Astracan, thence it ascended the Volga, and crossed over to the Don, and, spreading northwards, reached Petersburgh, and Archaufjel in the month of June. Holdino- a western course, and entering Poland, it broke out at Warsaw in April 1831, at Dantzic, in JMay ; at Berlin, in September ; at Hamburgh, in October ; and, on the 29th of the same month, reached this country and made its appearance in Sunderland. From that town, it extended to Newcastle, North Shields, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Hitherto the Legislature had been silent, when, as if by magic, (without apparently having alighted on any intermediate space) the disease suddenly npjyeared in London ! Immediately bills were hurried through 1832.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 401 both Houses of Parliament, vesting in the Privy Council very ample powers to direct sanatory measures, and authorizing assessments to be levied on the towns, parishes, or counties where the disease might shew itself, to cover tlic necessary expences. Its first appearance was among the crews of the vessels in the river Thames, and its first victim, a man wlio had been employed in clearing out a Collier recently arrived from Sunderland I Next, it appeared in various parts of Lambeth, Southwark, Limehouse, Ivotherhithe and KatclifFe. ^\. Central Board of Health was immediately formed in London, and the Privy Council was empowered to establish similar Boards in all parts of the kingdom, and to direct the formation of hospitals for the reception of the sick. Every day brought intelligence of its appearance in a new quarter, and the malady soon spread itself over the whole kingdom, including in its sphere, the poor, squalid population of Ireland. In this progressive state, Bristol was at length attacked, and amongst the dense mass of that thickly populated city and suburbs (amounting to more than one hundred and three thousand inhabitants) it spread with fearful rapidity. The contiguity of the disease to Bath, became naturally a constant and anxious theme of conversation, though it was spoken of with great caution, and rarely alluded to by the press, from the probability that luine- cessary alarm would be created, and a large portion of its wealthy inhabitants and visitors driven from the city. At length, on Saturday, the 28th of July, an unequivocal case of Spasmodic Cholera occurred on the c c 402 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. New Quay, which terminated fatally, and an official notice from the Mayor reached the Secretary to convene a meeting of the provisional Board of Health to adopt such measures, as might, under the circumstances of the case, be considered necessary. On the Monday follow- ing, a large meeting took place at the Guildhall, consisting of the parochial authorities, magistrates, clergy, medical and other gentlemen of the city, Avhen it was unani- mously resolved " That the Lords of the Privy Council be solicited to establish a Board of Health for Bath, (furnished with legal authority to act) comprising the magistrates of the city, and those acting for the Division of Bathforum, the officiating clergy, with twenty inhabitaiits of Walcot, ten of AATdcombe, eight of St. Michael's, nine of St. James, eight of Bathwick, and six of St. Peter and St. Paul, to whom should be added the parochial authorities for the time being." \\'ith that promptitude so proverbial in our public offices, the legal constitution of the board reached the Mayor by return of post, and a public meeting, on the 3rd of August, notified it to the respective members. On the 19th, intelligence reached the Board that the epidemic had appeared in the contiguous village of Twerton, two miles from the city on the Bristol road, and it is needless to say, that the information only served to increase anxiety and add vigour to the energies of the constituted authorities. At this period, five cases had been reported. A Committee was now appointed to assemble daily, and receive reports from the different parochial boards, with whom they were in constant commimi- cation, and those reports were deUvered in, weekly, to the General Board from which the Committee 1832.] ANNALS Ol" BATH. -103 was formed. 13y tliis arrangement, the machinery of the whole was kept in active operation ; and the most efficient measures, for checking the progress of the disease, were always under consideration. Burial places were appointed, exclusively for cholera cases. Persons were stationed at the entrances of the city, to watch the ingress of travelling mendicants, and the receiving or mumping houses were continually under inspection. The benefits arising from a careful observation of these vagrants, cannot be placed in a clearer point of view, than by stating that, in Walcot alone, jive hundred and fhirii/-nine vagrants were passed through that parish during the prevalence of the epidemic, without locating in the city. From the 23rd to the 28th of August, nine had died of the disease. At the period of these deaths, the prospect of increased sickness became every day more gloomy and apparent. It is true, jmhUc'itu was avoided, with a view to prevent alarm ; the knowledge of its existence even, was confined to the medical men only, and those who were appointed to carry into effect the provisions of the Orders in Council, and the necessary measures attendant on them. It became, therefore, a subject for serious consider- ation, to determine as to the propriety of establishing a hospital, either to receive sick patients, or as a house of observation and recovery. Certain of the physicians were opposed to hospitals for the removal of patients under the disease; and the opinion of Dr. Macann, of London, Avho had been sent to Bilston, in Staffi:)rdshire, (where it then raged to a dreadful degree), Avas quoted in corroboration. On the other hand, the surgeons appointed by the parish of Walcot, were in favour of c c 2 404 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. such houses. Their views were taken from practical knou'ledge (as far as opportunity had been afforded them) ; and tliey justly observed, that, to attempt to treat patients suffering rmder an epidemic disease, in places where filth, confined air, and all the unfavour- able circumstances of poverty existed, with the same advantage as in proper places of reception, was quite impossible ; and they, therefore, pointed out the actual necessity of establishing houses of reception, either for separating the sick from the healthy, or vice versa, and where persons could be properly treated and attended to. These representations left the Board of Health no alter- native ; and applications to the parish vestries, for the necessary sums to enable them to carry the orders of the Privy Council into execution, formed the next step. Of the six parishes, yb?roceed further with the steps pursued by the Central and Parochial Boards, in their various precautionary measures ; but we must allude to the good effects which arose from the prompt attention of the medical men to arrest the disease in its preliminarv form of diarrhcea, which were the means (under Divine Providence) of preserving, in such a manifest degree, the health of the city. It will be evident, that if assistance to the poorer classes, unable to pay for medicine, had not been promply afforded, the melancholy catalogue of deaths iiere recorded, would have been swelled to at least three times its amount. On the 17th of October, the last case was reported ; and on the 23rd, the Board of Health were enabled to announce publicly, that the cholera had ceased to exist. The nurses at the house of reception were discharged ; and possession of the temporary building, taken for a liospital, resigned to its proprietor. The number of cases were seventy-four — the deaths from them, forty- nine.* In the report of the Bath Board of Health, to the public, we find the following passages : — " It is, indeed, a subject which claims from us all the gratitude and thanksgiving due to an All-wise Creator, who, while he * For a more detailed account of the progress of the Epidemic in Bath, vide — " Main- waring's Narrative," published by Sleyler, Abbey Church-yard, 1833. 406 AXNALS OF BATH. [1832. chastises on the one hand, graciously spares on the other ; and,in answer to our supplications, tempers judgment with mercy. In this city, these mercies have been extended to a manifest degree. The population consists of more than fifty thousand ; and the registered deaths by the epidemic, out of that number, amount, in eighty-one days, to only forty -nine I These are even less than occur among those of our fellow-creatures who, in the common course of nature, from old age, prolonged sufferings by disease, and the casualties incidental to human life, are annually removed to another world." The disease throughout the country gradually disappeared in the course of this autumn ; and, after // HAD disappeared, every one was surprised that so much apprehension had been entertained ! The cholera left medical men as it had found them ; confirmed in their own most opposite opinions, or in total ignorance as to its nature, its cure, or the causes of its origin, if endemic, or the mode of ti'ansmission if it were infectious. In Great Britain, as elsewhere, it fixed its residence among the most needy and squalid classes of the community ; and, although instances occurred of its attacking persons in a higher sphere of life, thev were too few to affect the general law which it seemed to follow, in a course which could often be traced to particular causes. Before we leave a subject, which has occupied so much of our space, we must not omit to notice the alarming and distressing extent to which that disease had visited the neighbourincf village of Paulton. In a period nf sixteen days, there were two hundred and twenty-nine cases; of whom, in eight days, forty died. To assist in alleviating the state of destitution to Avhich 1832.] ANNAI-S OF BATH. 407 the poor villagers were reduced, a subscription took place in this city, and the sum of foin* hundred pounds was collected, and immediately transmitted. Resuming our details on the progress of the " Re- form Bill," and the peculiar interest excited by the entire change of national representation which ensued, we find the Parliament prorogued, on the 16th of August, by his Majesty in person. In that part of his ^Majesty's speech which adverted to the subject of reform, he said — " The matters which you have had imder your consideration, have been of the fii-st importance ; and the laws in particular, which have been passed for reforming the representation of the people, have occupied, as was unavoidable, the greatest portion of your time and attention. In recommending this subject to your consideration, it was my object, by removing the causes of just complaint, to restore general confidence in the legislature, and to give additional security to the settled institutions of the state. This object will, I trust, be found to have been accomplished." The Lord Chancellor then, by command of his Majesty, prorogued the Parliament to Tuesday, the l6th of October following. After the rising of Parliament, the great objects of public attention were, the registration of the new consti- tuency, imder the Reform Bill; and the preparations for the general election, which was to follow as soon as that registration was completed. Candidates were in the field, and the canvassing and registration were makino- quiet and simultaneous progress. Although the questions were numerous, which arose on the interpretation of the Act. and difficulties occurred in proving the value of j)remises, the professional gentlemen. 408 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. to whom this judicial duty was entrusted, made it in general a rule to decide doubts in favour of the claimants. They chose to run the chance of admitting a man who had no franchise, rather than exclude one who, in the end, might prove a good qualification. It was only in cases where an election was to be contested, that the parti- cular claims were examined with rigid accuracy. The opposing candidates then became opposing litigants ; and the process of registration was, in some instances, drawn out to a great length. It was impossible, at this time, for any man to view the political situation of the country with either a real or affected indifference. Each political party may have the same end in view, and be equally anxious for the same general advantage ; but, when these variations of sentiment meet in contact, they are too apt to induce the holder of each to mark the other as an adversary ; whereas they do but seek the same goal by a different track. These feuds advance step by step ; and the end is, that the comfort of families, and the general harmony of society, is disturbed. Such was the case in this city ; the walls of which, in every quarter, as well as the columns of the public journals, bore ample testimony that Bath was likely to be the scene of a fierce and determined contest. Few are insensible to the passing transactions of his country, and each forms his own opinion upon them. Affairs and occurrences in life are perpetually changing ; and it becomes the conduct of every wise man to adapt himself to them ; not to be too hasty in forming an opinion, and when formed, never to be so influenced by that opinion, as to imagine that he who differs from him must necessarily be an enemy to the rights 1832.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 409 and liberties of Englishmen. This is, unhappily, too much the case. At lengtli, the registration of the new constituency having been completed all over the kingdom, Parliament was dissolved on the 3rd of December, and the first general election under the Reform Act commenced. The writs were returnable on the 29th of January, 1833. The nomination of the members for the city of Bath took place in the Orange-grove, on the l6th of December ; a commodious hustings was erected for the occasion, to which the committees and friends of the different candidates were admitted by tickets. The candidates, in the first instance, were John Allen, Esq. ; Robert Blake Fostei-, Esq. ; Henry William Hobliouse, Esq. ; General Palmer ; and John iVrthur Roebuck, Esq. The two former having withdrawn, the remaining three were left to contest the field. These, with their respective friends, made their appearance on the hustings about ten o'clock, amidst mingled clamour and cheers. The Mayor (William Clark, Esq.), Town Clerk, and other members of the Corporation, arrived soon after. As the clock struck eleven, silence was called by the crier. The Town Clerk having read the Sheriff's precept, and the Mayor's proclamation, liis ^^'orship was sworn to make a due return, and the Act of Parlia- ment against bribery and corruption was read. The JMayor afterwards addressed tlie meetintj, obscrvinsr, in the first ])lace, that it was of the greatest import- ance to the city of Bath, and the Avelfare of its inhabitants, that the election should be conducted without any breach of public tranquillity. He trusted that, in the matters relative to the election each party would afford its political opponents fair 410 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. pla)', the true characteristic of Englishmen, and concluded by stating, that whatever his political feel- ings or views might be, he should act to the best of his ability with the utmost impartiality, looking neither to the right hand nor the left, meting out the same measure of justice to either side. Henry Godwin, Esq., then proposed Gen. Palmer as a fit and proper person to represent this city in Parlia- ment ; and W. J. Ijong, Esq., seconded the nomination. Henry William Hobhouse, Esq., was proposed by A. R. Prior, Esq., and seconded by Capt. Rowland JMainwaring, R.N.* J. A. Roebuck, Esq., was proposed by William Hunt, Esq., and seconded by John Allen, Esq. — The candidates then severally addressed the meeting at great length ; when the INIayor put the question, and the shew of hands was declared to have fallen on General Palmer and Mr. Roebuck. His Worship then announced that a poll was demanded on the part of Mr. Hobhouse, and that the voting would commence on the following Wednesday, at nine o'clock. The novelty of the situation in Avhich the inhabitants of this city were placed, and the anxiety for the success of the candidates, shewn by their respective supporters, created the greatest possible ferment during the two days of polling. Business Avas completely suspended ; a communication was constantly kept up between the committees of each candidate and their coadjutors, who were watching the progress of the poll at the booths in the several parishes, and much excitement prevailed. On the evening of Thursday, in particular, when a * It was so arranged, in consequence of the death of Mr. Orchard, senior, whose son was named for that purpose. Mr. Orchard was seized with sudden illness, while sitting on the huslings, and almost immediately expired. 4.11 1832.] ANNALS OK BATH. ,uajority for Mr. Roebuck (the popular candidate) was announced, thousands of spectators, friends ot that .entleman, assembled to receive the welcome tidmgs ; and the air was rent with deafening acclamations.- The statement, at the final close of the poll, appeared thus : — Palmer ^'*^" Hobhouse ^'^^^ Roebuck 1'^^^ On Friday, the Mayor, attended by the public functionaries, proceeded to the hustings, to reckon up the votes. This process occupied a full hom% when his Worship declared, that the choice of the elector^ had fallen on General Palmer and Mr. lloebuck, and hat they were duly elected to represent the city of Lath in the first Reformed Parliament. Tremendous cheermg followed this announcement. The members were then drawn, in a barouche with six horses, profusely decorated with ribbons, to the Circus, preceeded by bands of music, and an immense concourse of spectators; after which they quietly dis- persed, and trancpiillity was restored.* . The separate and aggregate nu.be. of voters, ftunished by the different parishes in the borough of Bath, in 1832, is shewn in the following statement :_ 317 St. James osg St. Michael qg_ St. Peter and St. Paul ^'^^ Wakot „jQ Bathwick „,- Lyncombe and Widcombe Total 2,825 412 ANNALS OF BATH. [1832. In regard to the machinery of the measure, it worked much more smoothly than liad been anticipated. Even in the most populous places, tlie polling, when not interrupted by riots, was concluded within the two days allowed by the Act ; and no time was expended in examining votes. The name was in the reoister, and that was sufficient. With regard the measures which the machinery produced, we have neither ability nor inclination to touch on them ; it would, impercep- tibly, lead us into a political labyrinth, from which we should never extricate ourselves, and which we have studiously endeavoured, throughout these pages, to avoid. There is one subject, however, that may be briefly alluded to ; which is, that those who, at an election, have given their suffi'ages to an unsuccessful candidate, some- times seek a defence by asserting that they are not represented! Eut, we may ask, if their party were predominant, would they allow that same defence to their adversaries ? It is in itself wholly inadmissible. By the constitution, each representative is returned by the majority of a determinate class of his fellow-citizens ; to whom, in vulue of their ascertained and presumed qualifications, as electors, the laws assign the privilege and responsibility of giving their voices for themselves, and as the organs of those who have not the privilege of voting assigned to them. Tlie act of the majority of these electors is, consequently, the act of the whole, for which the representative holds his seat in the national Parliament. It has been observed, that the columns of the puMic journals bore ample proof that the election of members to represent this city in Parliament, would be severely 1832.] ANNALS OF BATH. 413 contested ; and the state of the poll, at its final dose, evmces that it was so. It is a curious fact, that, in the year 1777, there were only two weekly newspapers in Bath, viz. — The Journal, and The Chronicle; these were not at that time considered, or resorted to, as vehicles for political controversy, but gave, indiscriminately, the material parts of the London news, without joining any party or principles ; the editors conceiving that, whatever might be their opinions in private, it was unnecessary to betray them in their periodical publications. AVe remember an anecdote told of a French Papist, who kept a coffee-house at Southampton, in the year 1745, and who had the custom of all the military men on duty there. Being sti'ongly urged to own his religion, and subscribe towards raising men to crush the Scotch rebels (and, unwilling to lose this custom), he never could be prevailed upon to say more than " Je suis un coffee- man — dare is my guinee." Wc doubt whether our worthy editors, of the present day, would find it the most profitable or convenient course, to adopt the silence and precaution of the wary Papist ; for the public do, certainly, now look to the press as the organ of their political sentiments ; to take a decided part in the politics of the day, to defend the principles and fight the battles of the party they professedly espouse. "Without the aid of politics, and a well-digested " leading article," our editorial friends might well exclaim, with Hamlet:— " How weary, stale, flat, and improfitable, seem to ?/* all the uses of this world." We close the records of the year, by announcing the death of Edmund iinderdon, Esq., an alderman of the city, and one of his Majesty's justices of peace for 414 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. the county. Mr. Anderdon twice served the office of mayor, and was very assiduous in the discharge of his magisterial duties. At the Annual Election of Civic Officers for this city, the following gentlemen were elected for the year ensumg WILLIAM CLARK, Esu.— Mayor. GEORGE KITSON, Esq. CHARLES CROOK, Esq. G. H. TUGWELL, Esa. E. PICKWICK, Esq. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. J. H. SPRY, M.D. J L O ■-5 f J. F. DAVIS, M.D. JAMES SLOPER, Esq. JOHNSON PHILLOTT, Esq., GEORGE NOR.MAN, Esq. THO.AIAS C. CAM, Esq. THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— Chambehlain. ROBERT SAVAGE, Esq., } WILLIAM J. LONG, Esq. ' > Sheriffs. T. AI. CRUTTWELL, Esq. } R. P. GEORGE, Esq. )^"'^' Constables. 1833. The crime of incendiarism, in the agricultural districts, still continued, though to a less extent than marked the two preceding years. An offence, probably, more heinous never )et stained the calendar of guilt, or the character of man. The deliberate midnisjht assassin is not more to be dreaded ; for th^ unsus- 1833.] AXNALS OF BATH. 415 pecting inmates of a quiet and peaceful cottage may become sudden victims to the devouring element. Nor is its guilt confined to this; it is blackened with the foulest ingratitude towards that beneficent power which mercifully causes the earth to teem with food and fruits for the support of man, and of the living creation. — Singular as it maj' appear, in no case \vhere that atrocity has been traced, could any adequate cause for such savage and malignant revenge be discovered ; neither has it appeared that the miscreants have been objects of distress beyond what resulted from their own depraved course of life. On the 5th of February, the first session of the new Parliament was opened by the King in person. In alluding to the disturbed state of the country (particu- larly Ireland), his Majesty said: — "Never at anytime did subjects of greater interest and magnitude call for your attention." * * * " Jn this part of the United Kingdom, with very few exceptions, the public peace has been preserved ; and it will be your anxious but grateful duty to promote, by all practicable means, habits of industry and good order amongst the labouring classes of the community. On my part, I shall be ready to co-operate, to the utmost of my power, in obviating all just causes of complaint, and in promoting all Avell- considered measures of improvement." * * * " But it is my painful duty to observe, that the disturbances in Ireland, to which I adverted at the close of last session, have greatly increased. A spirit of insubordi- nation and violence has risen to the most fearful heieht, rendering life and property insecure, defying the authority of the law, and threatening the most fatal consequences, if not promptly and effectually repressed.'" 416 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. The lamentable condition in which a great propor- tion of the clergy in Ireland were placed, by those alarming disturbances, called for the especial attention of the public. The illegal abstraction of their incomes had occasioned the severest privations, and many were even destitute of the common necessai'ies of life. A meeting was, therefore, held in this city, to assist in relieving, by pecuniary contributions, those persecuted ministers of the gospel who, for many months past, had been supported by the hospitality of friends, or by assistance from other sources. The appeal to the Bath public was not made in vain ; and that noble spirit of charity, for which our city is so deservedly celebrated, was manifestly shewn by the immediate collection of nearly one thousand pounds, which was forthwith trans- mitted to be applied to the purposes for which it was subscribed. The sincere friends of the Established Church must ever derive gratification, not merely from alleviating the distresses of its faithful and pious ministers, but also in acknowledging and rewarding their zealous exertions. With these views, we place on record the presentation of a handsome silver salver to the Rev. E. Wilson, late curate of St. Michael's Church, on leaving the pastoral care of that parish to take on himself a new and distant charge, as principal of the college founded by Bishop Wilson, in the Isle of INIau. It bears the following inscription : — " To tlie Rov. Edward Wilson, M.A., Fellow of St. John's College, Cambridge, and late Curate of St. Michael's, Bath, this Salver is presented by members of his congregation, and other Christian friends, in testimony of the affectionate regard which they entertained for one, whose ' simplicity and sodly sincerity' so eminently exhibited in his ministerial faithfulness, 1833.] AXXAI.S OV BATH. 417 Christian devotediicss, and bright example of all that is ' lovely and of good rcjjort," have won the admiration and esteem, not only of themselves, but of the inhabitants at large, of the City of Bath. 1833." The chaste design of the salver met %vith general admiration. The first public political meeting, lield in this city since the passing of the Reform Bill, took place on the 29th of April, for the purpose of petitioning Parliament for a total Repeal of the House and Window Taxes. It was held at the Guildhall, and the Mayor, (William Clark, Ksq.,) in virtue of his office, occupied the chair. The speech of his Worship, on that occasion (emanating from a late member of a close borough corporation), de- serves a place on the records of this city ; and displays at once an enlightened mind, and a liberality of sentiment, higlily honourable to himself, and flattering to those numerous and respectable individuals who signed the requisition. " Gentlemen, (said his Worship.) I have tlie honour to occupy this chair, in compliance with a requisition, numerously and respectably signed, by the inhabitants of this city, for the purpose of peti- tioning the House of Commons for a total Repeal of the House and Window Taxes. As the requisition involved one novel feature, inasmuch, that it appealed to me, as chief magistrate, to convene the first public meeting, on a political subject, since the passing of the Reform Bill, at which I must, of necessity, preside, I considered it my duty to give the subject that grave consideration which its importance demanded, and the result is — that I have laid down this rule of action, that while I occupy the civic chair, whenever any influential body of my fellow-citizens are of opinion that I, as Chief Magistrate, can render them any assistance in the Dd 418 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. attainment of a public object, it is my duty to throw my own judgment into the back ground, and consider myself not the chief magistrate of a party, but of all my fellow-citizens." The requisition (he remarked) could not be couched in more appropriate language. The petition, which dwelt largely on the subject for which it was convened, received three thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine signatures in the course of the day ; and, the same evening, was forwarded to London, to the members of the city, for immediate presentation. Other meetings, of public interest, also occurred this year ; one of which was held at the Sydney -hotel, to petition Parliament for the introduction of a modified system of Poor Laws into Ireland, under the supposition that it would create a stimulus to trade and industry, and place in possession of Government the means of dispensing with all oppressive taxation. A third, was the first anniversary meeting of the " Bath Friendly Society," formed last year, and enrolled in accordance with the Act of Parliament for the regu- lation of Benefit Societies. The object of tliis institution is, to establish safe principles for the management of friendly societies, and to secure the industrious classes against the abuses and disappointments too often occa- sioned by the defective constitution and management of benefit clubs in general. Aided by the sanction of various Acts of Parliament, and governed by calcula- tions founded on data of ascertained correctness, the design of the society is, to assure to each member a weekly payment and medical aid during sickness, or an annuity after the age of sixty-five, and a sum of money at death. 18'J.'3.] ANN'Al.S OF 15ATII. 419 The first proposals for the formation of a society of this description, for the city of Bath and its inimediate neighbourhood, were made in the autumn of 1831. It was announced that the society would not be regularly formed, nor the establishment considered perfectly secure, uidess (at least) two hundred persons, of both sexes, should offer themselves as members within twelve months. Within that time, two hundred and Jiffy did enter their names, and paid their respective contribu- tions. To elucidate, further, the benefits arising from this society, we must refer our readers to the rules and regulations for its government ; but, we may fairly state that, among the various institutions in this city, for purposes of benevolence, none will be found more worthy of public patronage than this ; which, while it proposes to secure to the industrious classes the means of relief and comfort during the afflictions and decay of life, elevates their character, by grounding that assistance upon the exercise of their frugality and foresight. An interesting meeting, also, took place tliis year, at the Sydney-hotel, to establish a Horticultural Society for the city of Bath. Two plans wei-e submitted to the meeting for discussion. One, by Messrs. Kent and J. F. Goodridge, comprehending a botanical and horticultural garden, for Bath and the western counties, and to include a botanical arrangement of British plants, and also for general horticulture and scientific experiments connected therewith ; requiring, of course, a considerable capital and a large sum for its support. The other emanated from Mr. Walters, of Batheaston, and required only an annual subscription of ten shillings for the exhibition of flowers, fruit, &c., at stated periods during the year. The latter ])roj)osition was resolved on, the society was D d 2 420 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. established, and the success of the first year's display, in Sydney-" ardens, so admirably calculated for such exhi- bitions, and which were crowded to an vuiprecedented extent, gave convincing proof that it would form a powerful attraction, in the various seasons for flowers, fruit, and vegetables ; and every succeeding exhibition seems to have outvied the foi-mer, in beauty, arrange- ment, and brilliancy of effect. To the excellent arrangements of the committee, who have had many difficulties to contend with, and unpleasant duties to perform in enforcing those rules of the society, which are so essential to its existence and stability, the public are indebted for the vminterrupted enjoyment of one of the most rational and refined recreations which have ever been established in this city. Parliamentary proceedings occupy but little of our attention this year ; they were chiefly directed to the subjects of the suppression of disturbances in Ireland, of the regulation of the Irish Church, and of the Aboli- tion of Slavery The Reform Bill itself remained untouched, with the exception of a resolution which was agi'eed to, for the purpose of giving the decisions of election committees immediate effect upon the re- gister, by adding to, or striking from, the poll-books, the names of any voters in respect of whom circum- stances might call for either measure. The excitement of the Reform Act had evidentlv sent into the House men of violent and destructive opinions ; but the most imprudently bold attempt, in the first session of a reformed Parliament, was made by Mr. Faithful, member for Brighton, who (on the l6th of April) moved, that '• the revenues of the Established Church of England should he ajipropriated to the relief 1S33.] ANNALS OF BATH. 421 of the nation .'" Lord Althorp's remark was, " That the House could not expect him to reply to such a propo- sition.' However, Mr. Cobbett having seconded the motion, the question was put, and not one solitary " aye" was pronounced in its favour. On the 29th of August, his Majesty closed the session in person. °Our last notice of the improvements in contempla^ tion. on the exterior of the venerable Abbey, and of those actually commenced, was in 1S23; since which period, the several houses belonging to the Corporation, attached to the walls of the Abbey, whose leases expired, have been from time to time speedily removed. This year, we find nearly the whole razed to the ground, and the Corporation in treaty for the purchase of the entire row of houses at the bottom of the ISIarket-place, with a view of completing those admirable improvements which have been long in such active progress.* These arrangements having been communicated to Lord Manvers, his Lordship gave instructions to his agent, to acquaint the Mayor that he would immediately carry into execution a similar improvement on his side the church, to the full extent originally proposed, provided a specific agreement was entered into, by the Corporation, to form a carriage-road through the Orange-grove to the Parades, whenever its accomplishment should be prac- ticable. This proposal was subsequently agreed to by the Corporation. In the spirited and liberal continuation of the exertions displayed by the Body Corporate, directions were also issued for the restoration of the pinnacles of the choir, nave, and transepts ; and also the pinnacles and pierced parapets of the aisles. Flying buttresses were directed to be placed at the west end, in the situations • Vide Frontispiece. 422 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. left for them when that portion of the fabric was built. The ponderous dial, also, was to be removed, and fixed over the window of the north transept, from well-founded apprehensions that its weight might, in the course of time, endanger the safety of the tower. The machinery connecting the clock and the hands, is extremely inge- nious, and reflects much credit on INIr. Lautiei-, the mechanist. The rods which convey the power are seventy-five feet in length, the horizontal rod is the full length of the transept, and is supported on friction rollers, so skilfully constructed, as to covmteract the action of heat or cold on metallic bodies. In alluding to the pinnacles of the choir and other parts of the Abbey, the word " restoration'''' has been particularly used ; and in explanation of that term, we must beg leave to quote a Avell-written " Epitome of the History of the Bath Abbey Church," as well as papers " concerning the restorations and improvements thereof, by the late ]\Iayor, William Clark, Esq." He says, — " Restoration is the motto and polar star of the Corporation ; but it must be borne in mind, that the term restoration is one to which some latitude must be alloAved. It may be strictly construed to mean literal restoration ; or it may be extended to imply that enlarged and liberal restoration, or rather those additions to parts of the edifice which, it may be inferred, from a variety of evidences and circumstances, would have been made by the founder and his successors, if they had not been counteracted by the various events of the times in which they lived. In the works on the nortii and south aisles of the choir, literal restoration is adhered to. These aisles wei'e covered with leaden roofs in 1520, and denuded thereof, by Henry the Eighth, about 1539 : and 1833.] ANNALS or BATH. 423 supplied, in 1558, by Peter Chapman, Esq., and others, with the late heavy parapet wall, and stone and Avood roofs, in the shape of a X, having the aqnednct at the base of the V ; one wing of which, leaning on the windows of the choir, caused them to be deprived of the glass to the height of five feet, and in lien thereof to be built up with stone, ruining the proportion of the windows, and rendering the inside of the choir less lightsome. The other wing of the V rested against the ponderous parapet wall, which obscured the fine bases and proportions of the beautiful flying buttresses. These heavy parapet walls are now being partly removed, the stone blocking up the windows taken out, and replaced with glass, and the roof covered with lead, which is placed in the identical grooves of the lead roof of 1520. This part of the work is absolute and mere restoration, in which it is not possible to err. It is also proposed to take down and lower the present stone and wood roofs of the transepts and choir, which have a higher elevation than the original lead roofs removed in the time of Henry the Eighth. These roofs now spoil the propor- tions of three sides of the tower ; inasmuch as, on the transepts, they are two feet higher than the old lead ones; and, in consequence of such additional height, the fine mouldings and rich corbeilles, from which the shafts of the tower spring, are obscured by being placed under the roof The only side of the tower which has its just proportions, is the western. There the corbeilles and mouldings are visible, in consequence of the mode- rate elevation of the lead roof erected by Bishop Montague. By replacing these roofs with lead, at their original elevation of 1520, the whole of the ornaments of the four sides of the tower will bo visible, and the 424 ANNALS OF GATIi: [1833. tower itself restored to its original proportions. These Avill be also ' restorations,' in which no error can take place, as the grooves of the old lead roofs are most conspicuous ; and, consequently, the ancient elevation is sure to be correctly ascertained. With respect to the improvements and restorations heretofore mentioned, there has scarcely been a difference of opinion, as they generally come within the scope of the term ' literal restoration.'' " Thus far ilr. Clark. With regard to the rich decorations, termed " pin- nacles," already spoken of, a great diversity of opinion existed, as to their architectural uniformity with the other portions of the building ; and the erection of them was suspended until the opinion of Mr. Garbett, the eminent architect of Winchester, could be obtained, whose experience, in ecclesiastical architecture, has justly established his professional character. After a personal examination of the building, that gentleman delivered in his report to the Body Corporate, stating his decided opinion, that it was the original intention of the architect that pinnacles should have been erected ; and that those already placed on the north transept, by the city architect, JNIr. Manners, were in strict uniformity with the edifice. The " pinnacle warfare"' was, therefore, concluded ; and, in addition to those on the choir, nave, and transepts, it was directed that the same ornaments should be placed on the four turrets of the main tower, as well as on the eastern and western staircases. The great West door was beautified, in 1617, by Sir Henry Montague, Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench, with elaborate carvings of the Arms of the See, impaling those of Montague. These were repaired and recarved at the expence of the Corpo- 1833.] AXNAl.S Oi- 15AT11. 425 ration, by jNIr. James Jones, of this city, in a manner highly creditable to that able sculptor, and a brass plate, commcniorating these circumstances, lias bee;i placed behind one of the shields. Having detailed the operations in progress on the roof, transepts, and tower of the Abbey, the base now claims our particular attention. Time and neglect, for many succeeding years, had heajied together round the exterior of its walls large quantities of dirt and rubbish, which, from causes unknown, were allowed to remain, till they had been ultimately levelled and covered in with pavement. Here, also the labour and expence of restoration commenced, and workmen were employed to clear away those accumulations, and restore to public view, the architectural symmetry and beauty of the base of the building, in doing which, they discovered that the two buttresses nearest the great window at the East end are founded on the bases of four half columns ; in connection with which are to be traced other vestitres of an ancient and extensive building. The workmen also employed on the North side the Abbey, discovered further remains of the ancient fabric, on the site of which the church is founded, which are some pavements of the basement of the old building, in very good preservation. These newly discovered and interesting relics were closely inspected by a gentleman of extensive antiquarian knowledge, and a professor of a northern Univei-sity. After inspecting the numerous lloman remains which are deposited in the Literary Institution, and connecting them with the recent discovery, com- mencing at the coupled shafts at the south buttress of the front : " their Roman origin, (he said), was very evident, being only half columns in thickness, and in 426 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. connection with a wall of hewn stone, cotemporaneous with them, and above which the base of the Gothic buttress projects nearly four and a half inches. This projection of the Gothic structure might seem to infer that the builders of that edifice were not aware, that they were founding on a Roman remain as a sub- struction, were it not common to find such slight deviations in their buildings, and where no attention is paid to the appearance of the rubble work, whicla is seen in close connection with these columns. This rubble answers completely to the opus iiicertum of PHny, of which so many examples occur at Rome. The question which arises is this: were the coIuudis allowed to remain and rubble work built round them ? or, were they and the rubble work cotemporaneous? It is a strong presumption in favour of the columns never having been removed, but being in their original sites, that their curvatures have fitted to them the remains of plinths, also in situ, so as to have formed some variety of that kind of temple termed ' peripteral, the remains of other colunms now covering up behind, seem to confirm this notion. Then the connection of the colunms with the hewn stone wall, above which the buttresses project, is also in favour of their not having been removed. And lastlj^ the columns having been sunk with the opus incertum behind them, seem to render it most probable that the latter is of the same age with them. Tlie appearances at the north buttress are nearly the same. Both the measures of the parts of the columns remaining, being nine inches in height of base, and eighteeen in diameter of the lower part of the shafts, shew that they come nearer to Roman Corinthian than to any other order." In the Bath and 1833.] ANNALS Ol- liATll. 427 Cheltenham Gaxetle, of September 3rd, of this year, a letter appeared, addressed to the Editor, on the same subject, and corroborative of the same opinion, under the signature of " Civis," whicli displays much ability, and shews the writer to have been well conversant with antiquarian subjects. In describing the character of the fragments discovered : he says, " it is unquestion- ably Grecian or Roman, and there can be no doubt, some building, of a semi-circular form, once stood in this place, and that these remains, part of such original structure, were, in consequence of their position, adopted as the solid foundation of a more recent elevation. — It is well known that a temple, dedicated to Minerva, was erected, in this city, by the Komans, at a very early period after their arrival, and common fame has placed this temple exactly where these columns stand. Objections to this opinion arise from the fact, that the remains of such a temple existed to a late date (1582) in another site, and that the undoubted frag- ments, now preserved in the Institution, were dug up in the year 1790. a little to the north of the King's Bath. A further objection is found in the circumstance, that the present fragments materially differ from that rich Corinthian style which characterized the temple of Minerva, and from the scale on which it was built. The altitudes of these columns, if com- ])lcted, can, upon Palladio's scale of nine and a half modules, only have been about thirteen feet six inches, while the known columns of that temple must have had a height of about twenty four feet. It has been said that these remains cannot have the antiquity ascribed to them, because, the buttresses above are of a comparatively recent structure. Of this, however. 428 ANNALS Ol' BATH. [1833. we kno'.v nothing. We do know, that in 1616, they were 'repayi-ed at the charge of Francis AlHn,' but to repair, is not to build, and tlie probability is, that such repairs went not much beyond the surface, while the mass of stone work remained behind in its original solidity. This sui'face projects over the real foundation, and beyond these pillars, which were then, perhaps, buried in the earth, and may have been unknown, even to those employed in the repairs of that year, since which period there is no evidence of any alteration having been made. AVithout entering at all into these debatable points, there seems no very material objection to the opinion advanced in a former Gazette, that they were of Roman origin, and were, at a very early date, appropriated by the Saxons in the construction of one of their primary churches. It is not necessary to attempt any very precise distinction as to the nature of the Roman edifice, whether it ^vere peripterc or peristijle, both of them meaning, in general, square or oblong buildings, having columns, on all the four sides, the columns in the former being on the outside, in the latter, within. In describing the original building as having been peripteral, we do not, indeed, much elucidate the character of the present ruins : as though there were peripteral temples of a round shape, the term itself relates not to their form, but only to the distribution and position of the columns, which surround them." As to the existence of Roman buildinijs in this city, writers, on the subject, seem to be unanimous. Brewer, in his '• IJeauties of England and Wales," page 179, says : " Nor are we entirely destitute of proofs, that edifices of considerable splendour were really erected by the Romans in this island. At Bath, (aqntc soli.s) 1833.] AXXAI.S OF BATH. 429 have been discovered, and are there preserved with due care, many fragments of decorated stone buildings, consisting of parts of columns, pediments, cornices, friezes, &c. The most considerable portions of these are supposed to have belonged to two temples, of much architectural elegance, one being of the Corinthian order."* Warner, also, (page 21) writes: " Fortunatel)-, for the lovers of antiquities, some remains of these walls were discovered about five years ago, in digging an excavation, for certain intended buildings on the site of the Borough AValls, opposite to the Hospital, and from what was then laid open, it evidently appeared that the whole woi'k had been finished in a style of incomparable masonry. At the depth of eleven feet, the workmen reached the foundations of the oh/ Roman icalls, forming the bed or basis of those of later date." Again, more recently, in excavating the foundation for the west pier of Bathwick Bridge, and forming the road, various Roman funereal relics were discovered, from which it was ascertained, that the ground on the east of the fosseway, and about the point where the Julian way connnenced. (that is between Walcot Parade and the river) was used as a place of sepulture, when the llomans were in Britain.f In a M.S. communication by the late Reverend Thomas Leman, of the Royal Crescent, to IMr. Norris * An account of these interesting vestiges will be found in a publication by Mr. S. Lysons, intituled " Remains of two Temples, and other KomaD Antiquities, dis- covered at Bath." + The author derived his knowledge of these particulars from the late Blr. Barratt, of this city. 130 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. Brewer, he states the " Fosseway," (although adopted through the whole of its course by the Romans), was first, probably, a British road, as it forms a connection between so many of the British towns. " It took its rise, (he says), on the north eastern coast of Lincolnshire, and ran through Lincoln, Leicester, Claychester, Ciren- cester, Bath and llchester to the seaport of Seaton, in Devonshire." Sufficient has already been advanced to establish the fact, that Bath was the site of some splendid Roman edifices, and with respect to the present Abbey, the fragments of a column among the architectural remains found on the north side the Abbev, correspond- ing exactly in architecture with those on the eastern side, clearly demonstrates they are the remains of a previous edifice, whether Roman, or Saxon, or hoth, and on that site. Bishop Oliver King, founded the present Abbey Church. " Civis," in his communication, before mentioned, says : " Li 149.'5, Dr. Oliver King succeeded to this See, and, in 1.500, he peremptorily decreed that the expenditure of the revenues of the Prior and Convent should be reduced, and the residue actually expended in erecting a New Church." Before we leave the exterior of this noble edifice, we must explain in what manner the structure itself, and the ground contiguous to the east, west, and north sides of the Abbey, became the property of the Corporation, and how that adjoining the south side became vested in the family of the present Earl Manvers. In 1539, the Abbey, after subsisting eight hundred and sixty three years, was surrendered to the King's Commissioners, who sold all its materials, glass, lead, iron, bells, (Sec. All the monastic estates, including 1833] AXNALS OF BATH. 431 Prior Park, then ])riii<>ino- to tlie Abbey six hundred seventeen pounds two shillings and three-])eiiee, were granted to Humphrey Colles, for the sum of nine hundred and sixty two pounds seventeen shillings and four-pence, who disposed of the site and buildings of the priory to Matthew Colthurst, Esq. After his decease, in 1.560, Edmund, his son, made the city a present of the " Curcass of St. Peter .s Cliurdi" with the ground on the east, west, and north sides, the whole of which is still the property of the Corporation. He sold the Abbey house on the south side, with its precincts, &c., and the Prior's Park, near Coombe Down, to Fulk Morley, Esq., from whom the Abbey estate, through the Duke of Kingston, descended to the present Earl JManvers. The praiseworthy improvements of the exterior being now in active operation, we leave them for the present, and conduct our readers to the infer/or. pointing out, in particular, the monumental chapel of Prior Birde. It would be difficult to conjecture what could have been the views of former conservators of this venerable pile, in besmearing and clogging up, with white-wash and ochre, some of the most beautiful specimens of Gothic sculpture in the kingdom ; yet, such has been the case for a succession of years ! Could it have been their jriety or their ta.ste, or both combined ? Britton, in his history of the Bath Abbey Church, thus remarks on this beautiful oratory : " The lamentable state to which this interesting and beautiful chantry is reduced, cannot but excite regret, and even some degree of indignation. Besides having one side broken away, the remainder of the paneling and sculpture is partly filled up, and obscured by repeated coats of 432 ANNALS Ol- BATH. [1833. whitewash. Tlie whole interior is filled with modern pews, and other parts are cut into and injured by monumental slabs affixed to the surface." On the same subject, in Warner's history, (page 250), will be found, " Unfortunately this little elegant building has suffered severely from bad taste, a great part of its northern tracery having been cut away to make room for the clumsy, mis-shapen, wooden seat called the Bishop's tlirone." To remove the deformity and disgrace attend- ing these sacrilegious depredations, so often remarked on, and so clearly pointed out, the Corporate Body, Avith conmiendable zeal, resolved on the restoration of Prior Birde's Chapel. In the progress thereof, it became necessary to remove a large quantity of masonry and plaster, as well as the gallery and pews, whicli brought to view a window of exquisite workmanship, and some of the most elaborate Gothic sculpture which the eccle- siastical architecture of England can boast. It disclosed, also, glai'ing evidences of the cupidity of those to whom the interests of that building Avere formerly confided ; it appearing that, for the purpose of merely fixing monumental tablets to the walls, large holes were recklessly bored through the most finished portion of the sculpture ! For the restoration of the above, nearly three hundred pounds were required, towards which the Cor- poration contributed largely : and. with the assistance of various spirited and pious benefactors, and under the direction of Mr. Edward Davis, architect, the Avhole was soon completed. Other improvements Avere also in contemplation for the interior ; and a plan was brought forAvard for consideration, for re-pcAving the church and removing the unsightly and incommodious galleries, as 1833.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 433 well as tor roducino- tlie monumental tablets to some- thing like symmetrical order, by cropping off their ridiculous exuberances and excrescences, in accordance with the plan adopted in Winchester Cathedral, by which the orderly arrangement of the moiuunents in that edifice has been so judiciously effected, that not a family comiected with them has had the slightest cause of complaint. For the present, ^ve may take leave of the Abbey improvements, and introduce two events which occurred at the fall of this year ; if not of general interest, yet gratifying beyond measure to the individuals who were so highly honoured with those substantial marks of public approbation. The first of these was the presentation of a splendid silver vase to Colonel Horner, commanding the North Somerset Yeomanry Cavalry, by the officers of that corps. The design was taken from an original vase, discovered in the year 1769, in Adrian's villa, at Rome, by Gawen Hamilton, the English painter. The original, which is of the most beautiful veined marble, was sent home by that gentleman, and deposited at Stowe, the seat of Lord Temple ; and it still remains in the Buckingham family. The vase noAV alluded to, stands (with its pedestal), nearly two feet high, and is remarkable for the beauty of its ornaments. The handles are entwined with the trunk of the vase, in a mass of well-grouped foliage, springing from which are several branches of vine, in full bearing, interlaced over the body of the work. Winged genii are disposed in graceful attitudes, holding grapes and tendrils. Other rich and elegant embellishments complete this beautiful copy of ancient design. The vase stands on a square E e 434 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. silver pedestal ; on the tablets of which are military emblems, Colonel Horner's family arms, and the foUow- inscription : — " Presented to Colonel Thomas Strangways Horner, who has been thirty years in Command of the North Somerset Yeomanry Cavalry, by the Officers of the Regiment, as a tribute of respect and esteem. — MDCCC.XXXIII. The vase was presented to the Colonel by Captain Leigh Lye, as adjutant of the regiment, in the name of his brother officers ; and he alluded to the circumstances under which it was given, in a speech of much energy and manly feeling. Colonel Horner (evidently over- powered by his feelings) expressed his heartfelt gratifi- cation at such a handsome and unequivocal memorial of their friendship, which (he said) was far more charac- teristic of their liberality and kindness than his poor deserts. The second was tlie presentation of a handsome silver inkstand, at the Guildhall, to the Secretary of the Board of Health, " for (as expressed by the worthy chair- man, Mr. Kitson), the valuable services he had rendered the city of Bath, by his philanthropic exertions, as Honoraiy Secretary to the Board of Health." The private and unostentatious manner in which this mark of esteem was produced, the motives which suggested it, and the truly flattering expressions which accompanied its presentation, have left an indelible recollection on the mind of the individual so highly honoured, and whose " exertions," (if such they may be called.) were quite inadequate to this liberal estimate of their efficiency. Tlie inkstand was nnich admired for its design and 1833.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. 43.5 execution. The outline assumes the form of a Grecian scroll, supported by feet at each termination. The chasing, which is elaborate, is representative of the water lily, with its flower tasefully introduced in occa- sional groups. On the plinth is elevated a pedestal, in corresponding taste (engraved with the Secretary's armorial bearings), which supports the vase, wnth a cover for wafers. The cover is surmounted by a well- conceived model of the " good Samaritan," beautifully executed. In addition to the central vase, are two others, having, on the top of each, the anchor and cable, as emblematic of the naval profession. The stand bears the following inscription : — " Presented to Captain Rowland Mainwarino, R.N. by a few of his ft'llow-citizens, as a slight memorial of esteem and regard, for valuable services rendered, by him, in the cause of humanity. Bath, October, 1833. It Avas manufactured by Messrs. Payne and Son, of Old Bond-street, in this city, on whom it reflects the highest credit. It might justly be considered an act of ingratitude if, on this occasion, it were omitted to mention a similar display of kindly feeling towards the same individual, while holding the office of churchwarden for the parish of Lyncombe and Widcombe, in 1829 and 1830, by the presentation of an elegantly-formed silver fruit-basket, tastefully ornamented, with an appropriate inscription. AVhen, in the reminiscences of bye-gone days, the fore- going circumstances shall bring to his recollection that he had, in his own sphere, at one time or other, rendered himself somewhat useful in society ; it will be no small E e 2 436 ANNAT.S OF BATH. [1833. matter of gratification to remember, that liis kind friends of Widcombe were the first to make him sensible of it ; and a subject of unspeakable pride to reflect, that he has been able to hand doAvn to his posterity such handsome testimonials of the high approbation of his fellow- citizens. In the year 1830, a society was established in London, with a view of preventing juvenile vagrancy, and substituting useful, healthy, and profitable employ- ment, for an idle and disorderly course of life. Captain E.P. Brenton, R.N., was the original designer and active promoter of that institution. At first, and for some time after its foundation, the limited state of the funds necessarily confined its operations to a few ; but, as its benefits became more apparent, encreased confidence and patronage was the consequence ; and, as soon as their resources justified the measure, an establishment, under the name of " The Brenton Juvenile Asylum," was opened at Hackney Wick, Avith a certain portion of land attached, where boys, under an able and vigilant superintendant, receive the advantage of moral and religious instruction, combined with a system of agricul- tural labour and manual employment, calculated to form habits of general usefulness and industry. After this preparatory discipline, they are apprenticed, ^vith their free consent, and that of their parents and guardians, to respectable individuals in our colonies, unless provided with suitable situations in the United Kingdom. The success of that experiment, induced the society to form a similar establishment at Chiswick, for girls, which is subject to the same rules and regulations as the boys' society, at Hampton Wick; and, to extend their utility to other towns and cities in the kingdom. 1833.] ANNAI.S or BATH. 437 Accordingly, on the 28tli of November, of this year, a meeting was hekl at the Rooms, for the purpose of forming a Branch Society in this city, the objects of which were ably set forth and advocated by Captain Brenton ; and the result was, a strong conviction in the minds of his audience, of the utility of such an institu- tion ; which, by the aid of many benevolent individuals, was speedily and efficiently formed. The first year's report was laid before the Bath public hi xMarch, 1855; and it was highly gratifying to the ])arents and patrons of those boys, who had been committed to the protection of the parent establishment, to learn that the whole had arrived safe at their desti- nations, and were apprenticed to useful trades and occupations, under the guidance and protection of the Colonial connnittees. Six at the Cape of Good Hope, and three at Montreal and Quebec* At Cape Town, there is a school established for the instruction of the children under the auspices of the Society, three times a week ; and a popular library is forming, in order that they may obtain every useful information and instruction from that source. At these two parent establishments, there are at present one hundred and sixty children training in habits of industry, in the principles of religion, and in moral discipline ; and above three hundred are, at this time, in a way to gain an honest livelihood in the colonies, having been apprenticed there upon such terms as to secure their future success in life, if their own conduct deserve it. Respectable committees are there formed, the members of which act as guardians to the young emigrants, watch over their interests and • The Report detailed fully tlie n.ames of the boys, in what c.ipacity apprenticed, masters' names, rcbidence, trade, or occiipati'jn. 438 ANNALS OF BATH. [1833. their comforts during their apprenticeship, and will see them safely launched into life. Many letters have been written by these children, to their parents and friends in England, giving most gratifying accounts of their happiness and welfare. The usual way of binding- children, in Canada, is this : — the master, together with the usual covenants of lodging, clothing, &c., enters into another, that if the apprentice (being a male) shall behave properly during his apprenticeship, he shall receive, at its expiration, a new suit of clothes, a pair of oxen, yoke for the same, an axe, and any other small matters that may be thought of, to enable him to go on his land ; or, in lieu of these, a certain fixed sum in money — from sixty to eighty, or a hundred dollars. In the case of females, the covenant usually is, to give a bed and bedding, a cow, a spinning-wheel, new dress, &c., as it is supposed she will immediately marry, a circumstance which occurs so often, if of good character, that it is considered almost a matter of course. In the case of apprentices to trades, the bargain usually is, for the master to pay the apprentice so much per month in lieu of clothing ; and, at the expiration of his time, to furnish him with a certain quantity of tools. If prudent, the apprentice generally saves enough to set himself up in a small way, in some part of the province. Enough has been said to demonstrate the utility of such an association ; for it is clear, that where thousands of children, of both sexes, are suffered to grow up in idleness, without the knowledge of any trade or profes- sion, they will necessarily prey on the more honest and industrious part of the community. Their numbers, too, will constantly increase, and keep pace with the increase of population ; so that, if we do not make an IH'.iS.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. 439 effort to add to the number of industrious people from tlie ranks of the poor, tlie number of the hitter will be increased by the natiu-al means, as well as by the gradual pauperism of the next class in society.* In the obituary of this year, we notice the death of James Sloper, Esq., one of the justices for the city, and member of the Body Corporate. For upwards of half a century, he i)reserved the respect and esteem of all his fellow-citizens; it, therefore, recpiires no ostentatious panegyric to record his many solid virtues, excellent qualities, and worthy traits of character. Among the bequests and donations of the year, was that of one hundred pounds to tlie Bath United Hospital, from INIiss Elcock, through the hands of Archdeacon Moysey. The late Charles Goston G. A. De Blanchy, Esq., bequeathed, for the use of some charitable institution, the sum of one hundred pounds, the interest to be appropriated thereto in perpetuity. The widow of that gentleman, therefore, directed it to be paid to the treasurer of the Bath General Hosi)ital, for the use and benefit of that invaluable establishment. Mrs. Martha Moore, who died about fifteen years since, bequeathed to the Bath Hospital one hundred pounds, on the death of her sister, JMrs. Hannah Moore, which having taken place, was accordingly paid over. And Joseph Gowcn, P]sq., of Eondon, left a legacy, of one hundred pounds (free of duty), to the Bath Penitentiary Asylum. • The IMerarij Gazette, of Slay, 1834, tlms remarks, in recomnicncliiii; tliis Society to public pntronage :— " In all the views of our fellow.beings around us, there is none more pitiable and distressing, than to witness the depravity of children, before reason has begun to operate, or discretion to guide ; and when we recollect that this depravity is not inherent in them, or of their own seeking, but tlie creation of circumstances, over which tliey can have no controul, we the more earnestly implore tlie liapiiicr orders li> join in this endeavour (o open tlic gates of virtue to their approach." 440 ANNALS OF BATH. [1834. The Annual Election of Civic Officers for the ensuing year, took place as follows : — JOHNSON PHILLOTT, Esu—Mayor. WILLIAM CLARK, Esy. G. H. TUG WELL, Esq. E. PICKWICK, Esq. WILLIAM TUDOR, Esq. J. H. SPRV, M.D. J. F. DAVIS, M.D. GEORGE KITSON, Esq. GEORGE NORMAN, Esq. THO.MAS C. CAM, Esq. S 1 R. S. CRUTTWELL, Esq. ^ I R. CLARKE, Esq. L THOMAS SLATER, Esq.— Chamberlain. B. L. LVE, Esq. | H. GIBBES, M.D. | Sheriffs. T. G. INMAN, Esq. ) WILLIAM CHURCH, Esq. ( (^"■^"^"""a-les. 1834. On the 4th of February, Parliament was again opened by his Majesty in person ; the most interesting portion of whose speech, for local consideration, was the following : — " The reports, which I will order to be laid before you, from the commissioners appointed to inquire into the state of Municipal Corporations, into the administration and effect of the Poor LaAvs, and into ecclesiastical revenues and patronage, in England and Wales, cannot fail to afford you mvich useful informa- tion, by which you will be enabled to judge of the 18i34.] ANNAi.s oi- BATH. 441 nature and extent of any existing defects and abuses, and in wliat manner the necessary corrections may. in due season, be safely and beneficially applied." Tiie first of these measures claim our early notice. However desirable the remodelling or reform of these municipal bodies may be, owing to cliange of circumstances, the advancement of time, and increased knowledge in society, it was confidently predicted, that neither in the administration of public business, nor in the appropriation of its funds, would there be any discovery that" should prove, in the slightest degree, prejudicial to the character of the Bath Corporation ; and the sequel has proved that, " if the select body be the only interested party, the superintendence of those funds has been as comj)lete as can be desired." The report of the commissioners commences with the limits of the city and civic jurisdiction, and the addition to those limits by the " Boundary Act," Avliich was added for the purpose of Parliamentary representa- tion, including tlie parishes of Bathwick, of Lyncombe and Widcombe, and the whole of that part of the parish of ^^'alcot which lies between the city and the parish of Charlcombe. It then proceeds with its history, and different charters ; by which, it appears that, upon the proclamation of James the Second, for restoring surren- dered charters, that of Elizabeth was resumed, and continued to be acted under, until tlie 12th of February, 34 George the Third, when a new charter was obtained, confirming, in most parts, that of Elizabeth, and extending the civil and criminal jurisdiction into part of the adjacent parish of Bathwick. And these are now the governing cliarters. The title and constitution of the Corporate Body, 442 ANNALS or BATH. [1834. Avith the modes of electing the Mayor, Recorder, Aldermen, and Common Council, Chamberlain and Assistant Chamberlain, Town Clerk, Bailiffs, and Chief Constables, with the various duties of those several functionaries and those of the subordinate officers, are fully and clearly explained ; as well as the admission of free citizens, either by servitude, gift, or purchase ; with their privileges. In reporting on the state of the police, the commis- sioners particularly point out the neglected parish of Lyncombe and Widcombe, and recommend a conso- lidation of the City Board of Commissioners with those of Walcot and Bathwick, and an extension of their jurisdiction over part of Lyncombe and Widcombe. They say, — " It is impossible that the independent bodies, from whom these separately derive their authority, should not materially interfere with the efficiency of each other, in a space by no means too extensive to be brought under the complete superintendence of a single board." * * * " The parts of Lyncombe and Wid- combe, which are near the bridge, are very densely inhabited ; and a great number of small houses have been built there within a few years. Great incon- venience is stated to arise from the Bath police having no power to go beyond the bridge ; and disturbances are said to arise on that side of the bridge, in consequence of there being no regulations for lighting it." The report then exhibits a comparative view of the amounts carried to the credit and debit of the Chamber, from the years ending October, 1801, to the same date of 1832, and adds : — " It has been, of course, impossible for iis to undertake anything like an audit of the expenditure of such large sums, as pass annually through the hands 1834.] ANNALS Ol' BATH. -443 of the Corporation of Bath, in the period allotted for our inquiries ; we have, therefore, contented ourselves with a general review of the whole. The accounts are audited annually, before they are passed ; and all bills are approved and signed by two members of the Corporation (usually the JMayor and one of the other magistrates), before they are paid." * * * " On all extra- ordinary occasions, a special committee is apjiointed. A bye-law provides, that no member of the Corporation be allowed to vote on any question affecting property belonging to the Corporation, either at the hall or in any committee, in which he shall be j^ei-^otialli/ interested^ In conclusion, the commissioners state: — " We feel ourselves bound to add, that all the books wei-e sub- mitted, unreservedly, to our inspection ; and every disposition manifested, by the officers of the Corporation, to facilitate our inquiries, as far as we expressed a wish to make them. The free citizens derive no direct benefit fi-om any part of the Corporate funds, except from the Bath Common ; and have no access to the accounts, or controul over the expenditure. If the select hodij is to be considered as the ordy part interested ill them, the sujjerintendence appears to he us complete as can be desired." Reverting to the improvements of the Abbey, which occupied our attention last year, we find the stone roofs of the choir, and north and south transepts, replaced with lead, according to an original plan, by which they are considerably lowered and now corres- pond with the nave of the church, which underwent the same operation, hi 1814. It is singular enough that the present roof, has been turned into the identical grooves made for the old leaden roofs, which were taken 444 ANNALS OF BATH. [1834. off and sold by the King's Commissioners in 1539! — The weight of lead at present on the church amounts to upwards of eighty tons ! In the contemplated arrangements for the interior, already noticed, one principal feature will be a splendid organ, to correspond in every respect with the style and magnitude of the building, the powers of the present organ being far too limited for the extent of the church, as Mell as the instrument itself being in a bad state of repair. The screens which inclose the choir are to be entirely removed, and the north and south aisles, as well as the transepts appropriated to pews and free seats. The splendid improvements which have been so long in progress on the exterior, and around the Abbey, have imparted an entirely new appearance to that quarter of the city ; and the contem- plated measure of connecting the North and South Parades with Bathwick and Widcombe, by means of a bridge across the Aa'oii, will not only enhance the property in those neighbourhoods, but add greatly to the beauty of our much-admired city. Indeed, as a local improvement, it cannot but be regarded as in the highest degree beneficial, connecting, as it will, one particular district (Widcombe) with the city, by a respectable, safe, and ornamental approach, which is at present only attainable by a circuitous route over the Old Bridge (at all times ineligible for female pedestrians of respectability) ; or, by endeavouring to avoid Scylla, falling on Charybdis, and wading through that reproach to the neighbourhood — the filthy, odious, Dolemeads. In short, the alterations that have taken place in that quarter, have (even now) so completely changed the features of the place, by opening an extensive prospect 1834.] ANNAf.S OF BATH. 445 round Claverton-hill and elsewhere, that the absentee of a twelvemontli would scarcely recognize the spot. When the improvement, sought by the erection of the bridge, is completed, and its advantages shewn to the public, we may confidently anticipate that little else will be desired. Tiie revival of that long agitated measure, the rebuilding or enlarghig St. Michael's Church, now took place ; and the decisive measures which were adopted, gave every prospect of a satisfactory termination. It was, indeed, " a consummation devoutly to be wished," and had occupied the attention of the parishioners for more than twenty years. On the 13th of February, 1812, a vestry meeting- was held at that church, to take into consideration the propriety of enlarging or rebuilding the said church ; and, sixteen years afterwards, at INIidsummcr, 1828, a similar meeting was convened for the same benevolent purpose. It was then proposed, that the churchwardens should be empowered to expend the sum of three hundred pounds to erect an additional gallery on the south side, and enlarge that on the north ; but the opponents to the measure denied its necessity ; and the proposition, like the previous one, was negatived by a large majority. The plan, however, was not altogether abandoned ; and, in the early part of the present year, a project was devised for rebuilding the church by voluntary suhscriptions, and a provisional committee Avas formed to consider the practicability of the design. The mode of accon)plishing that object, now assuming a more palatable shape, the necessity of the measure was no longer denied; and many of those who, on former occasions, had opposed the project, on this occasion gave it their warm support. 446 AJJNALS OF BATH. [1834. Indeed, it cannot be denied, but that the situation of the parish claimed peculiar consideration. The popu- lation of St. Michael's parish, at the census of 1831, was three thousand five hundi-ed and twenty-six, and the accommodation for those in professed union with the Established Church, amounted only to five hundred sittings, of which eighty alone were eked out of the narrow miserable aisles for the use of the poor ! By the plan produced, it was proposed that the new cliurch should accommodate twelve hundred persons, and that four hundred and fifty of the sittings should be free ; and the estimated expence was about six thousand pounds. The committee, in pursuance of their object, sought, in the first place, a more eligible spot for tlie erection of the building, but without success. They next conferred with the Corporation, and received their consent to rebuild the church on the space it already occupies, together with the contiguous burying-ground, subject to which arrangement they contributed the sum of one thousand pounds. His INIajesty's Commissioners for Building Churches, also offered one thousand pounds to the subscribed fund ; which, after much negotiation, the committee was reluctantly obliged to decline. It appears that the commissioners have not any discretionary powers, in reference to particular cases, but are tied down by the letter of the iicts, which give them their authority. Hence arose difficulties, which, in the exercise of that authority, must, in subduing them, have led to arrangements so materially altering the whole relative position of the parish, in the affairs of their church, that the committee felt constrained to decline their profered aid. This untoward circumstance, though it increased the deficiency in the funds for rebuilding the church. 1834.] ANNALS OF BATH. 447 did not abate the zeal of tlie committee, or of the friends of the EstabUshed Church, in meeting their pecuniary difficulties. The contributions had been so liberal, and the necessity of the measure so pressing, that, on the 25th of September, a vestry meeting was held for the purpose of obtaining the sanction of the parishioners to take down the old church, and commence forthwith the new structure. Various resolutions, for carrying into effect the objects of the undertaking, were proposed and unanimously carried ; and the sentiments delivered on that occasion, by the several speakers, were responded to by the feelings of the whole assembly. It might, justly, be considered a dereliction of duty, were we to omit recording, on this occasion, an extract from one of those speeches, emanating, as it did, from a gentleman dissenting from the forms of the Established Church, and which displayed a high sense of religious feeling, well worthy the imitation of his fellow-christians. Mr. Henry Godwin, in moving the second resolution, remarked : — " And here I shall be forgiven, if 1 urge it as the bovmden duty of the members of the church, to come forward upon this occasion. If they really wish to uphold the church, the best proof of their sincerity will be to rally round her, and aid her by their support. Nor shall I hesitate to appeal to the Dissenters also, as having their duty to do as Christians. Are we not all tainted with the same moral disease ? All exposed to the same penalty of mortality, and alike destined and hastening to the grave ? Do not all believe, or profess to believe, in the same common salvation ; and are we not all expectants of the same glorious immortality ? Ami to be trammelled down by bigotry from aiding in so good a cause ? I consider bigotry and Christianity as anta- 448 AXXALS or bath. [1834. gonist principles — they can never coalesce. Shew me. the man that is a bigot : and, whether under the garb of a puritan, the vestment of a priest, or the ermine of a judge, I should say of that man, ' How dwelleth the love of God in him?' If I remember that the Dis- senters had their Owens, their Baxters, their Doddridges, and their Watts, I forget not that the Churchmen can point us to some worthies also ; they had their Ushers, their Leightons, their Jeremy Taylors, and their Paleys. Let us, then, di-op all party distinctions, and soar to higher regions, where the name of Churchman and Dissenter, of Conformist and Non-conformist, will be wholly and for ever unknown." The undertaking, which thus met such general approbation, will (as more than one speaker observed) prove a great benefit to the city, as a local improvement, and liighly advantageous to the cause of religion. In Warner's History, we find that church thus noticed: — " St. Michael's Church is injudiciously placed at the point of junction of two thoroughfare streets, and its ser\-ices are continually liable to the noise and disturbances of passing carriages. Equally unfortunate witli the choice of situation, has the builder been, in the plan of his edifice, since it forms a complete anomaly in architecture. In the year 1720, the parishioners deter- mined on erecting a new church, tlie old one being reduced to a state of disservice and ruin. Mr. Wood, the architect, Avas accordingly applied to on the subject ; who immediately drew an elegant plan for the new edifice, and presented it to the vestry. But a difference of sentiment taking place at this meeting. Wood's terms were rejected, and an inferior artist, named John Harvey, was entrusted with the erection of the new structure. 1834.] ANNAI.S OF BATH. •t49 \\'<)ocl, who may be supposed to have felt sore on tliis occasion, indulged his spleen in criticizing the architect and his performance, in his ' Essay towards a Descrip- tion of Ihith." 'I'he strictures are somewhat severe : but. at the same time, they must be confessed to be suffi- eiently just. ' The work (he says) was carried on by the above-mentioned John Harvey, and in a taste so peculiar to himself, that the ver>' workmen, to mortify him, declared that a horse, accustomed to the sight of good buildings, was so frightened at the odd appearance of the church, that he would not go by till he was hood- winked. The inside of the body (continues Wood) of this whimsical fabric, is nearly sixty-three feet in length, almost thirty -seven in breadth, and has only a timber floor to separate the living from the dead ! The roof, too. is a piece of work of a very uncommon kind, for the building is spanned at twice, to throv.' the weight of the whole covering towards the centre of its beams, and to make a lodarment for dirt and snow directlv over the very middle of the church. Thus, one absurdity, or rather iniquity, accompanies another: for a timber floor, and a 31 roof for the body of the church, are artful contrivances for the benefit of trade, and time will demonstrate it in this structure.' The buildinsr was begun in 1734. and finished in 1742; and the expence was paid from a fund raised by voluntary subscription, and a parish rate. General Wade, also, added consider- ably to it. by a very handsome donation. On the 21st of April, 1835, the foundation stone of the new church was laid, with the usual impressive ceremonies, which were performed by the venerable Bishop of the Diocese ; and from the numbers and respectability of those who assembled to \\ itness them. F f 450 ANNALS OF HATH. [1834. it was evident that the interest felt for this long-desired plan was not in the least diminished. A copijcr box, containing thirteen specimens of the gold, silver, and copper coinage, of the present reign, was de))osited nnder a brass plate, bearing the following inscription : — " Other ibimdatiun tan no man lay, tlian that is laiil, which is Jesus Christ." — 1 Cor. ili. 1 ] . " St. Michael's Church, Rebuilt by Voluntary Subscriptions. " Tho foundation stone of this Church was laid the 21st day of April, A.D. 1835, In the fifth year of the reign of William tiie Fourth. " George Henry Law, Bishop of tho Diocese. " Rev. Charles Crook — Rector. '■ Rev. John East — Curate. " Robert Sa.xty, 1 ™ , ^ „ } Churchwardens. " John Stothert, J " George Philip Manners — Architect. " David Ausi — Builder." Following this event began the work of demolition ; and in the progress of it, the envious nature of Mr. Wood's strictures on the incapacity of poor .Tolm Harvey, soon developed itself. The church of St. Michael's was, without doubt, " a whimsical fabric ;" but tlie malignity of Wood's remarks, in other respects, Avas now made sufficiently apparent. Those " artful contrwances for the benefit of trade," which he alluded to, appear to have stood the test of time far better than other parts of the building, while the wall-plates and ends of the principal beams were in a considerable state of decay. The " miquitou.s' M roof also, was, generally speaking, in good preservation, as well as the " iimher floor," though the beams which supported it were mucli affected with 1831.] AXNAl.S Ol- HATH. -451 dry rot. This \v;is attributable only to an insnllicient circulation of air throughout the confined parts of the undcrstructure (or crypt), a defect certainly in the " contriver's" judgment. Hut it must be borne in mind that St. Michael'.s Church was erected nearly a century ago, when that " builders curse," the dry rot, was scarcely known : therefore the criticisms of Wood, if they savour not of malice, may at least be called prema- ture and uncharitable. The matter, however, is set at rest. The general and insatiable thirst for impi'ovement lias thus early comjaleted that which the unsparing hand of time would itself have performed; and the fabrics of Mr. Wood, Avith all other earthly tenements, must, at some imknown })eriod, be alike mingled in the same common dust. In immediate connection with the foregoing subject, we find, on the 27th of May, a numerous body of the laity of 15ath and its vicinity, assembled at the Rooms, for the purpose of petitioning the King and both Houses of Parliament to preserve to the Established Church its rights and privileges, and to maintain inviolate its union with the state. ^Vhen the most undisguised declara- tions were daily making, by her enemies, of a determi- nation not to desist until they had completely effected her destruction as a national establishment — when, it was avoAved, at a public meeting, in Manchester, " that the Church of England was an enemy to religion, and that it ica-s Ihe'tr duti/ to exierm'mate it ;" it created no sin-prise, that the meeting noAv under notice should take place ; and the worthy chairman (Johnson Phillott, Esc|., the Mayor) .said, that if the members of the Estabhshed Church had remained silent at such a juncture, it would have argued either the most culpable apathy, or the K f 2 452 ANNALS OF BATH. [1834. basest cowardice ; and he should have lield Inmsclf a traitor to the best interests of his country, if he had refused compliance with the requisition. Sir William Cockburn, Sir Thomas Fellowes, Colonel Daubeney, ]Messrs. BorthAvick, Gunning, and Jeffs, addressed the meeting at considerable length ; and a more fervent display of zealous attachment to the Established Church could not have been uttered, breathing, at the same time, the mild language of good-will towards those who chose to follow, in peace, the course which their own honest, conscientious views might dictate ; which, however hostile, in principle, to the tenets of the Established Church, were not mixed with this declared warfare for its destruction. In our own city, where can be adduced a finer instance, of an ardent desire to uphold the church, than by an appeal to the Dissenters, from a Dissenter, at the vestry meeting of St. Michael's Church ! And mark well the religious sentiments of that appeal ! Nay, more — the Reverend Mr. Jay, that truly pious and upright minister of the dissenting congregation, at Argyle Chapel, who has been so zealously and usefully employed, in his Great Master's cause, for more than forty years, refused to join in a petition to Parliament setting forth the grievances of Dissenters, because he conceived inrmy parts of it to be intemperate and xmne- cessaiy. The petition embraced, in its details, the substance of the various resolutions for maintaininff, inviolate, the rights and privileges of the chin-ch, and its union Avith the state, for the purpose of Avhich tlie meeting was convened ; and it was presented to his INIajesty by his Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester; to the House of Lords, by the Marquis of Camden ; and to the House of Commons, by William Miles, 1834.] ANNALS OF BATH. 453 Esq., one of the members for the Eastern Division of the county. Indepciulcntly of those open acts and declarations of the " Destructives," Trades' Unions were formed, for the pm'pose of intimidating and compelling' masters to submit to exorbitant payments for the services of their journeymen. Tiiose associations, in the metropolis and other large cities, became alarmingly numerous, causing a partial suspension of many branches of trade, and creating jireat distress wherever their influence extended. The effects of those combinations, however, were but slightly felt in this city ; and, ultimately, by the firm- ness of the masters in resisting such arbitrary demands, the operatives throughout the country were brought to a sense of their errors and their folly. In the political arena, opposing views produced the usual succession of contests ; and the combatants, on either side, were violent and determined. The Irish Tithe Question caused a division in the Cabinet ; and the retirement of Earl Grey, from the fatigues of office, created a great sensation in the country. The two most important events of this session, afliecting our local interests, were the repeal of the House Duty, and the Poor Law Bill, which, on August 8tli, became the law of the land. On the 15tli of the same month. Parliament was prorogued by the King, in ])crson. Before we close this unpretending volume, the beautiful domain of Prior I'ark demands our attention. Indeed, the improvements which have been lately introduced there, call for particular relation ; and its interesting origin may be briefly touched upon. The delightful situation of Prior Park, aided bv tlie diver- 4.54 ANNAI.S OF 15ATH. [1834. sified combinations of nature and art, form one of the principal attractions of the inquiring visitor ; and the embelUshments now in progress, in the grounds and mansion, under the direction and refined taste of its present owner (perfected by a residence in the Papal territories, and those parts of Italy which contain the finest specimens of ancient grandeur) Avill remove the disgrace it has so long sustained, and renew the celebrity of a spot, lieretofore imrivailed for classic taste and beauty. The founder of the present mansion was Ralph Allen. It is related, that the postmaster of Exeter, journeying one day over a dreary heath in Cornwall, was suddenly overtaken by a thunder-storm ; and, seeking shelter in a small cottage by the road side, met a hospitable reception from the himible host, father of that same Ralph Allen. Perceiving, by the shrewdness of his son's conversation, latent marks of genius, the postmaster ))roposed taking him vnider his protection ; an offer which was gladly acceded to, and he returned with him to Exeter, accordingly. As his education proceeded, superior talents soon developed themselves, and he was appointed principal assistant in the duties of the Post-office. It so happened, that his patron had formed a scheme for establishing cross-posts over England, in the prosecution of which young Allen's pen and intellects were especially employed ; but, his master failed in tlie completion of it. Allen, however, persevered ; and, possessing a much clearer head, ulti- mately succeeded in carrying that great national undei'- taking into execution. By that profitable enterprizc, he amassed, in the course of time, a princely fortune, and became purchaser of the " Prior's Park," so called from having been the pro])erty of the former jjriors of Bath ; 1834.] ANNALS OF I5ATII. 455 which, upon the suppression of monastic estabhshments, was made over, in the reigh of Henry the Eighth, to a pei'son named Coles, who became possessor of various other })ortions of monastic property, in this part of the country. The ancient Gothic l)ui]ding of the Priors still remains, and is used as an infirmary for the students of the present establishment. In 174;j, a magnificent mansion was erected, the design of which the classic JMr. Wood states himself to have produced, as well as to have been the superintending architect ; though, it is more than probable, that he must have had some design of Palladio closely in vieAV. JMr. Wood describes the mansion of Prior Park, with its wings, as inscribed within three sides of an octagon, about a quarter of a mile in diameter. The extreme length of the building (including the open arcade and covered galleries, which connect the mansion with its wings), extends from eleven to twelve hundred feet. The south-east front is in the Ionic order of architecture, the north-west in the Corinthian. The whole building is in the chaste and massive style of Palladio ; and solid blocks, of the beautiful free-stone of Bath, foi-m the materials of which it is built. From the centre projects one of the finest porticos in the kingdom, being fifty-four feet in length, and tAventy-one in de])th ; and consisting of a pediment, supported by ten large Corinthian columns. The view from this portico is of the most interesting and beautiful descrip- tion. A deep vale, richly wooded, and terminated by a sheet of Avater, over which is thrown an elegant Palladian bridge, forms the fore-ground ; while, at some distance beyond, and far beneath, a ])anoran)ic view of the citj' 456 ANNALS OF BATH. [1834. of Bath is displayed, backed by the imposing heights of Lansdown. There are few situations xuiiting such a variety of natural and picturesque beauties. Allen is said to have been simple in manners and dress, strictly upright in his worldly transactions, and of a liberal disposition ; and to have borne his great pros- perity with much humility. It Avas a favourite and just maxim of Frederick, King of Prussia, that accident may first lift a man from the ground ; but that, once raised, the vigour of his own wing can alone sustain him. JNIr. Allen's perse- verance verified the truth of that maxim. During his life. Prior Park became the resort of many literary men and wits of the age, particularly Pope, who was a frequent visitor ; and Fielding is said to have written the celebrated novel of " Tom Jones," while sojourning there ; and to liave modelled his character of " AUworthy" from the virtues of his worthy host. After the death of Ralph Allen, Prior Park became the property and resi- dence of Bi shop A Var burton, his nephew by marriage, and subsequently it passed to the late Viscount Hawarden ; who married, for his second wife, the daughter of Philip Allen, Esq., by Avhom his I>ordship inherited the estate. It was afterwards purchased by JMr. John Thomas, a member of the Society of Friends, whose death we have recorded in 1827. Ostentation certainly formed no part of this purchaser's object here ; for it will scarcely be believed that, on taking possession of that splendid mansion, JMr. Thomas divided it, by stone partitions, into three parts — one he occasionally let, a second he shut up, and only inhabited the third, to avoid the heavy charge of Government taxes ! and he also hewed down a magni- ficent row of elm trees leading to the mansion, to assist 18;34..] ANNAI.S Ol- BATH. 457 in completing the purchase of the estate ! It is said, that the spirit of Ralph Allen was disturbed by that piteous outrage on the exquisite skill and taste of W^ood, and " dooni'd, for a certain time, to walk the night" in the unfrequented portions of the building. If, however, the frugality of John Thomas amounted, in some instances, to parsimony, he was, nevertheless, a worthy man, kind-hearted, and truly charitable. In 1829, this classic pile, with the surrounding- estate, was purchased by Dr. IJaines, the Roman Catholic Vicar ^\])ostolic of the western district ; and is intended as a college for the instruction of youth of that persua- sion. It is purely a secular college, having no connection Avhatever with any of the religious orders, as certain publications have erroneously stated. The eminent abilities of Dr. Raines soon conferred a celebrity on the CvStablishment ; and it became necessary to enlarge the building to a great extent. The eastern wing- contained, in its original state, a spacious billiard-room, with a beautifid octagon adjoining, a green-house, and various appendages, forming together a building of above two hundred feet in length, and varying in depth from twenty-two to fifty. The greater part of this edifice has been preserved, and worked up into the design of the present wing, which contains a lecture-room and chapel, a spacious school-room, various class-rooms, and rooms for recreation ; a dormitory the whole length of the building, and a certain number of private bed-rooms for the prefects and masters. Several additions are intended to be made to this wing, at a later period, agreeably to a design for the synnnetrical completion of the two wings. The western wing originally comprised the stabling and various ofKces, which have almost 1'58 ANNALS OF BATH. [1834. entirely disappeared in the extensive edifice now nearly completed. This edifice is intended as a college for the higher studies, on the plan of a university. It comprises a Doric gallery, one hundred and fifty feet in length ; a staircase, rich in architectural design ; a library and exhibition-room, seventy feet by thirty ; fifty private apartments, and several public rooms and offices. — Considerable additions are intended to be made, also, in this wing, according to the design above-mentioned. Independent of the extensive improvements in the interior — fountains, a botanic garden, and a spacious flight of steps leading from the portico to the grounds, are also amonp- the late embellishments and interestin<>- features of this magnificent domain. Among the charitable bequests this year, was a legacy of £500, from Francis J. Browne, Esq., late of Frampton, Dorset, to the Bath Hospital. JMiss Ellcock, a second donation, of £100, to the United Hospital. The Reverend Martin S. Smith, to the Bath General Hospital, £200 ; the United Hospital, £200 ; NatJoDjj] School, £100 ; House of Protection, £100, all free of legacy duty. And the Reverend James Sugden, to the Bath United Hospital, £500 ; and the Bath General Hospital, £500, both free of legacy duty. The Civic Officers for the ensuing year, were — GEORGE NORBFAN, Esq Mayor. GEORGE KITSON, Esq. AVILLIAM CLARK, Esq. THOMAS C. CAM, Esq. JOHNSON PHILLOTT, Esq. G. H. TUG WELL, Esq. E. PICKM'ICK, Esq. WILLIAM TUUOK, Esq. J. H. SPRY, Esq., M.D. .T. F. DAVIS, Es(i., M.D. -> THOMAS SLATER, Esq.,— Chamueulain. T. M. CRUTTWELL, Esq. i ^ R. S. CRUTTWELL, Esq. ROBERT CLARKE, Esq. K. F. GEORGE, Esq. f S"'^'"r'^^- WILLIAM EVANS, Esq. , RICHARD T. GORE. Esq. [^'"'^' Constadl is;}-!..] ANKALS ()!■ liATH. io[) Witli these details, we conclude the " Annals or IJath." In taking a cursory review of local transactions comprised in tlie previously unrecorded space of thirty- four years, avc believe that all the events which have occurred, and the improvements which have taken place, have been, in a more or less degree, alluded to, in proportion to the interest of the event, and the im- poitance of the undertaking. In the progress of completion, the author has been fully sensible of the difficulty of his task, and of his own insufficiency, to blend scientifically and compile a work, embracing such varied and interesting matter, in such a manner as to expect a moderate share of approbation. He undertook it with diffidence, and has accomplished it as accurately as his resources and abilities would permit. If he has failed to produce a work imparting general interest- yet, as a locaf publication, he hopes to have succeeded. To the later residents, many of the subjects here detailed must be entirely new ; to those of longer stand- ing, they may recal the recollection of interesting events, and revive youthful impressions, which a constant succession of scenes and occurrences may have jjartly obliterated. To others, he hopes they may serve to beguile the tedium of a gloomy hour, and convey fo all, some amusement, and viuck useful instruction. In his political allusions, he has endeavoured to profit by the maxim of a worthy divine, that " Man is the creature of extremes ; the middle path is generally the wisest course, but there are few wise enough to follow it." 460 ANNALS OF BATH. [18.34. The iiiitlior will borrow his conclusion from the Reverend 11. Montgomery ; and take to himself the enviable feelings which that talented poet describes, when he bade adieu to his native city ; and Avhich the author has himself deeply imbibed, by a residence of twenty years, amidst the enjoyment of health, compara- tive happiness, and extensive friendship. " And now, farewell ! perchance for aye, farewell ! Queen of the West! from olden time renowned. Few are thy smiles that, with my future hlend. Though ne'er hath kindly word, or look of love. Forgotten hcen ; but, treasured in the heart, They still are felt; and if, in after years. Haply again I view thy green-crown'd hills. Thy time-worn Abbey, thy religious towers. And move a stranger througli thy voiceless streets. And watch thy spirit-stars — this fareieell hotir^ On mem'ry's pensive wing will back return. To waken thought ; and, like a moonlight scene, The past he eolour'd with ronumtic gleams." FINIS. APPENDIX. APPENDIX. No. 1. •• So.MK time- before Mr. Wood's .leatli, wlii.'li \vas in May, IT^H, he laid out a plan for ereetini; a most beautiful ]>ile of building, called tlie ' Kings Circus,' two-thirds of which is now actually Hnishcd, an.l the greater ,.art inhabited. The rest of the houses are building ; and when it is completed^ it ^^•ill be, perhaps, (.no of the most elegant piles in Europe, of a modern work, especially. The street leading to it, iiom Queen-scpiare, is called 'Gay-street,' which is cpiite finished and inhabited. " Leading from Gay-street to Lansdowii-road, upon a spot of ground belonging to the Corporation (formerly called Town Acre), is now erected a very neat row of buildings, with a spacious paved terrace before the front, raised by a flight of steps above the common wny ; this is called ' Edgar s-building.s' after a King of that name, mentioned in the traditionary history of city. And from thence to the General Hospital, two new streets are now building, upon groun.l of Mr. Milsoni's, wliich streets are to bo called ' Burton-street," and ' Milsom-street.' " There is also a new row of buildings, lately erected, at the upper end of Broad-street, called ' Bladud's-bnildings,' ^^•hich makes a very hand- some appearance ; and every house has two fronts, Avliich command very extensive prospects, particularly that to the south-east. Just above these buildings, is a row of houses, built in a field called ' Vineyards,' wliich, from a mixture of brick and stone, is called Harlequin-ro;\-. " Kingsmead streets and square, Avon-street, Beaufort-square, and several houses adjoining, have all been built within these tliirty years.— The houses in Lady-mea.l, «hich lead from Walcot-street (in St. Michael's parish) to Walcot Church, have all been built within these few years ; and so have many houses at the lo«er end of Horse-street, on a spot of ground contracted for by the late Ml-. Bradley, ^vhicb make a great addition, as well as ornament, to the street. 464 APPENDIX. " The jilacc 1ms increased, «-itliin these few years, prodigiously in its inhabitants, as a great number of gentlemen have taken houses and reside here all the year ; therefore the city is become one of the most polite and agreeable places in England. " The late Act of Parliament, relating to Bath, is strictly adhered to ; as the streets every night are extremely well lighted by lamps, and the city in general is kept very clean. Here is, also, a regular watch every night, in case of accidents. " The Corporation (whose chief study is to make every thing as agreeable as possible) have lately pulled down the north and south gates, and purchased several old houses, in order to render the streets and avenues in and to this city more extensive and commodious. " The houses within the city walls (which are .said to have been built by King Alfred, about the year 900), have, wthin these late years, been very nnicli imju-oved, and made convenient for trade as well as tlio rccc])- tion of strangers. '■ The prices of lodgings arc as follows : — From January 1st to March 1st, seven shillings per week, each room; from March 1st to June 1st, ten shillings per week ; from June 1st to September 1st, seven shillings per week; from September 1st to January 1st, ten shillings per week — and servants' rooms in proportion." " The principal coffee-houses here are kept by Messrs. Morgan and Stevens. The first is situated in the Orange-grove, and is generally called ' Morgan's Coffee-house ;' the other fronts the North-parade, and is called the ' Parade Coffee-house,' and is a very ])leasant room, especially in the spring." PUBLIC CONVEYANCES. " Flying machines to London, in one day ! from the beginning of April to Michaelmas, set out from the White Lion, in the Market-]ilace, and White Hart, in Stall-street, every night at eleven o'clock, and arrive in London the next evening. Passengers to ])ay one ])ound eight shil- lings each. " Machines, in Ik-o dai/s, from Bath to London, three times a week. The books for each machine are kept at the respective Tuns they set out from, where places are to be taken ; except the machine from the Bear, places for which are to be taken at the Shakespear's Head, in Westgate- street. where the books are kept." APPENDIX. 465 No. 2. Extracts from his Majesty's Declaration on War with France, 1803 : — His Majesty's earnest endeavours, for the preservation of peace, having failed of success, ho entertains the fullest confidence that he shall receive the same support from liis Parliament, and that the same zeal and spirit will be manifested bv his people, which he has experienced on every occasion when the honour of his Crown has been attacked, or the essential interests of his dominions have been endangered. During the whole course of the negotiations which led to the preli- minary and definitive treaties, it was his Majesty's sincere desire, not only to put an end to the hostilities which subsisted between the two countries, but to adopt such measures, and to concur in such propositions, as might more effectuallv contribute to consolidate the general tranquillity of Europe. To a system of conduct thus open, liberal, and friendly, the proceed- ings of the French Government aflxird the most striking contrast. Among other nolations of the existing treaties, they bad recourse to the extraordinary measure of sending over to this country a number of persons, for the professed purpose of residing in the most considerable sea-port towns of Great Britain and Ireland, in the character of Commer- cial Agents or Consuls. These persons could have no pretensions to be acknowledged in those characters, as the right of being so acknowledged, as well as all the privi- leges attached to such situations, could only be derived from a commercial treaty, and no treaty of that description was in existence between his Majesty and the French Republic. There was, consequently, too much reason to suppose that the real object of their mission was by no means of a commercial nature ; and this suspicion was confirmed, not only by the circumstances that some of them were militari/ men ; but, by the actual discovery that several were fur- nished with instructions to oliftdn tJie aoundimis of the harhoiirn, and to procure military surveys, of the places where it was intended they sliould reside ! His Majesty felt it his duty to prevent their departure to their respective places of destination, and represented to the French Govern- ment the necessity of withdrawing them. And it cannot be denied, that 466 APPENDIX. the circumstances under M'liioli they were sent, and the instructions A\hich were given them, ought to he considered as decisive indications of the dispositions and intentions of the Government hy whom they were employed. Again, whilst his Majesty was actuated hy the most liberal and friendly sentiments, with a view to the general peace of Europe, he was called on, by the French Government, to evacuate the Island of Malta ; and the altemative presented by that Government was in language the most preremptory and menacing, viz. : — " The evacuation of that island, or the renewal of vcar !" The conduct of the First Consul to his Majesty's Ambassador, at his audience, in presence of the Ministers of most of the Sovereigns of Europe, furnishes another instance of provocation, on the part of the French Government, -ii-hich it would be improper not to notice on the present occasion ; and the subsequent explanation of this transaction, may be considered as having the effect of aggravating instead of palliating tlie affront. Under these insults and provocations (and many others mentioned in his Majesty's declaration, which our limits wll not permit us to detail), his Majesty, not without a due sense of his dignity, has proceeded wth every degree of temper and moderation to obtain satisfaction and redress, while he has neglected no means, consistent with his honour and the safety of his dominions, to induce the Government of France to concede to liim, what is, in his judgment, absolutely necessary for the future tranquillity of Europe. His efforts, in this respect, have proved abortive ; and he has, there- fore, judged it necessary to order his Ambassador to leave Paris. In having recourse to this proceeding, it has been his Majesty's object to put an end to the fruitless discussions Mhich have too long subsisted between the two Governments, and to close a period of suspense peculiarly injurious to the subjects of his Majesty. His Majesty has thus, distinctly and unreservedly, stated the reasons of those proceedings, to which he has found himself compelled to resort. He is actuated by no disposition to interfere in the internal concerns of any other state ; by no projects of conquest and aggrandiaement ; but solely by a sense of what is due to the honour of his Crown, and the interests of his people ;— and by an anxious desire to obstruct the furtlier progress of a system, which, if not resisted, may prove fatal to every part of the civilized world. APPENDIX. No. S. m Frcuih account of tlic battle of Trafalgar, I'roiu the Monitew : — '■ FIRST BULLETIN OF THE GRAND NAVAL ARMY. " Head Quarters, Cadiz, October 25, 1805. " The operations of the Grand Naval Army in the Atlantic, second to those of the Grand Imperial Army in Germany. " The English fleet is annihilated — Nelson is no more. Indignant at being inactive in port, whilst our brave brethren in arms were gaining laurels in Germany, Admirals Villcneuve and Gra\-ina resolved to put to sea, and give the English battle. They were superior in number, being forty-tive to our thirty-three ; but what is superiority of numbers to men determined to conquer? " Admiral Nelson did every thing to avoid a battle ; he attempted to get into the Mediterranean, but \\e pursued and came up with him off Trafalgar. The French and S]ianiards vied with each other who should first get into action. Admirals Villeneuve and Gravina were both an.xious to lay their ships alongside the English Admiral's ship, the Victory. " Fortune, so constant always to the Emperor, did not favour cither of them. The Santissima Triuadada was the fortunate ship : — in vain did the English Admiral try to evade an action ; the Spanish Admiral Oliva prevented his escape, and lashed his vessel to the British Admiral. " The English Admiral was one of one hundred and thirty-si.\ guns, the Santissima Trinidada was but a seventy-four. " Lord Nelson adopted a new system ; afraid of combating us in tlie old \\ay, in which he knows we have superiority of skill (as was proved by our victory over Sir Robert Calder), attempted a new mode of fighting. " For a short time it disconcerted us ; but what can long disconcei't his Imperial Majesty's arms 'i " We fought yard-ann to yard-arm — gun to gun. Thi'ee hours did we fight in this manner. The English began to be dismayed — they found it impossible to resist us. " But our brave sailors «ere tired of this slow way of gaining a victory, they rushed to board : the cry was — ' A I'abordagc !' Their im- petuosity \\as irresistible. G g 2 468 APPENDIX. " At this moment two ships, one French and one Spanish, boarded the Temeraire — the English fell back in astonishment and afFri<;ht — we ruslied to the flag-staff — struck do^vn the colours — and all were so anxious to be the bearer of this intelligence to their o«ni ship, that a great many jumped overboard ; and the English ship, by this unfortunate impetuosity of our brave sailors and their allies, was able, by the help of two more ships that came to her assistance, to make her escape in a sinking state. " Meanwhile, Nelson still resisted us ; it was now who should first board, and have the honour of taking him, French or Spaniard. Two Admirals, on each side, disputed the honour — they boarded his ship at the same moment. Villeneuve flew to the quarter-deck. With the usual generosity of the French, lie carried a brace of pistols in his hand, for he knew the Admiral had lost an arm, and could not use liis sword. He offered a pistol to Nelson, they fought ; and, at the second fire, Nelson fell. He was immediately carried belo^\' ; and, \\\th the accustomed French liumanity, attended by Oliva, Gra\'ina, and Villeneuve. "■ Meanwhile, fifteen English ships of the line had struck, four more were obliged to follow their example, and another blew u]). Our victory was now complete, and we prepared to take possession of our prizes ; but the elements were this time unfavourable to us, a dreadful storm came on ; Gravina escaped to his own ship at the beginning of it. The Commander in Chief, Villeneuve, and a Spanish Admiral, were unable, and remained on board the Victory. The storm was long and dreadful ; our shi]is, being so well mancBUvred, rode out the gale ; the English, being so much more damaged, were driven ashore, and many of them wrecked. " At length, when the gale abated, thirteen of the French and Spanish line got safe into Cadiz ; the other twenty liave, no doubt, gone to some other ports, and will soon be heard of. " We shall repair our damages as speedilv as possible, go again in jHU-suit of the enemy, and attord them another proof of our determination to wrest from them the empire of the seas ; and, to comply « itli bis Imperial Majesty's command, of ships, colonies, and commerce. " Our loss was trifling, that of the English innnense. " We have, however, to lament the absence of Admiral Villeneuve, whose ardour carried him bevond the strict bounds of prudence ; and, by compelling him to board the English Admiral's ship, prevented liim from returning to his own, after Iiaving acquired so decisive a victory. " We wait with impatience the Emperor's order to sail to the enemi/'s shore — annihilate the rest of his navy — and thus complete the triumphant work we have so brilliantlv begun. " APPENDIX. 469 No. 4. CITY OF BATH. At a iiicctini; of tlio Krcfineii of Bath, held at the White Hart, the 5th thy of Aujiust, 1789, pursuant to i>uhhc advertisement, to sign a petition or remonstrance, respecting the division of the monies in the hands of the Corporation, belonging to the Freemen, and on other special affairs relative to their interests in the Common, '• It was uesolvei), '• That it being reported, by the Comnuttce of Freemen, that no answer had been received from the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council, to the petition and remonstrances presented to them on the 25th day of May last, as trustees for the improvement of their property in the Commons, it was agreed that the following remonstrance be signed and presented to the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council ; and that Messrs. Charles Davis, Robert Clement, Thomas Horton, Samuel Elkington, Thomas Woolley, James Trinmell, William Elkington, John Palmer, James Willis, Edward Mullins, James Bealc, John Brooke, and Heniy Edward Howse, or any seven of them, shall be a committee. " Resolved, •■• That the committee shall, and they arc hereby empowered, fully to act, in taking such measures as shall be thought necessary in the vigorous prosecution of tliis l)usiness ; and we hereby undertake and promise to support the committee ; and each, and every of us, whose name is here- under set, do consent, promise, and agree, to pay his proportion or share for or towards defraying the e.\pences already incurred, or that shall here- after be incurred therein. " Resolved, " That we will not accept a compromise, or receive any part of tlie monies in our trustees' liands, until a particular account is rendered, and the whole arrears discharged. " Resolved, " That the following remonstrance, and these resolutions, shall be published once in each of the Bath papers." The following is a copy of the remonstrance, which was delivered by the Committee of Freemen to the Mayor and Justices in open court, on Monday, the 10th day of August, 1789, and which was signed by a great majority of the Freemen : — 470 APPENDIX. " BATH CITY. " The respectful rcmunstvance of the Freemen to the Mayor, Alder- men, and Common Council, of the city of Batli. ^ " Gentlemen, " We, whose names are hereunto subscribed, freemen of this city, in behalf of our fellow-freemen and ourselves, proprietors of the estate in the parish of Walcot, called ' the Commons,' beg leave to address you, our trustees, on the subject of its income and improvements. " It is always usual, in concerns belonging to a great number of proprietors, for the person acting as treasurer annually to state an account of the receipts and disbursements, and divide the balance. It appears this mode has not been adopted in our case for several years past ; for, though the freemen liave received an annual dividend, we understand ^here is a balance in hand, nearly equal to tliree years' rent of the estate. We, therefore, request that an account, from the year 1768, be fairly and clearly made out for the inspection of the freemen, or a committee whom they shall appoint, in order to ascertain the balance and dividend due ; and that the same method be pursued every year in future. " We beg leave, likevrise, to observe, that it is generally thought our estate is at this time capable of great improvements. The buildings of this city have been gradually extended quite to the bounds of the Commons ; and we have lately seen an adjoining piece of ground, not more than one acre, and apparently of little value, by the judicious and well-timed conduct of its present o\\Tiers, so highly improved, as to produce a ground- rent far exceeding the income of the Commons, though containing upwards of niiiely-five acres. On this head we cannot help mentioning the very eligible situation of the Commons for building, the convenience of lime- stone on the spot, plenty of water, and other advantages. And if the whole estate may be thought too extensive to be covered with buildings, we conceive a part may be rendered much more beneficial to the freemen than at present, by being let out for gardens or pleasure grounds. " We are sorry to find that an address, presented to you on the 25th of May last, in the form of a petition and remonstrance, signed by ciglity- nine freemen (which, on account of its subject-matter and decency of expression, was undoubtedly entitled to an answer, if signed by a few only), has experienced a diff'erent treatment; at the same time that we desire to pay a becoming attention to that respect which is due to a Corpo- rate Body, and from wards to their trustees, we cannot be ignorant that we have a right to an account of the rents and profits of our estate ; and, with a full persuasion of the reasonableness and propriety of our applica- APPENDIX. 471 tion, fouiuletl on this right, as well as a sense of duty to secure the privi- leges of freemen to our successors, it is our intention to act «ith steady firmness, moderation, and perseverance ; trusting, nevertheless, that the principles of equity, reason, and sound policy, will prompt you to give us a speedy and satisfactory answer, and influence your conduct in a manner worthy the character of faithful guardians. " We also request, that you will direct your Town Clerk, or his Deputy, to deliver to Mr. William Burge, our solicitor, upon his paying a reasonable satisfaction for the same, a true copy of the deed or award by wliich the Commons A\ere conveyed and assured in trust for the freemen of Bath, that it may be known how far }our powers will extend to let the Commons on building leases, or for the improvement of the same, without the aid of Parliament. " We are, Gentlemen, with due respect, " Your most obedient Servants." In 1792, the freemen, supposing their rights to be usurped, and their interests in the Commons neglected, filed a bill in Chancery against the Corporation, charging them with neglectful misconduct, and retaining seven hundred pounds of their money, refusing to account for the same, and likewise pra^-ing they may be removed as trustees, and others more proper appointed in their room. One of the clauses in the bill was as follo«-s : — " That on or about the 28th day of January last, 1792, Charles Davis, James Beale, Edward Mullins, and John Palmer, builders, did cause a i)roposaI, in writing, directed to the said defendants, to be delivered to the Mayor of the said city, whereby they, the said Charles Davis, &c. &c., declared they were ready to contract immediately, with the said defendants, for a certain piece of ground on the line with Marlborough-buildings to the Bristol-road, one hundred and forty feet in depth to the boundary eastward, being part of the said Commons; and would engage to leave an opening of eighty feet from the south end of Marlborough-buildings, and to take a lease thereof for ninety-nine years, for building ; and they did thereby offer the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds per annum for the same. The said rent to commence at Lady-day next, or as soon after as possession could be had ; and have since offered to give them one thousand guineas a year for the whole Commons, to be secured in the usual manner. Plaintiffs further charge, that the said proposal was afterwards laid before the said Corpo- ration at large ; and, notwithstanding the said piece of groimd so proposed to be taken up on a building lease, as aforesaid, at the time such proposal was 472 APPENDIX. so delivered, was, and still is, of trifling annual value, and tlie same did not then, nor does now, produce the sum of ten pounds per year, or any- thing near that sum ; yet the said defendants neglected or refused to comply with the terms of the said proposal, or to let tlie whole out at one thousand guineas a vear." The answer to this clause of the complaint was : — " That the legal estate, in and over the lands called the Bath Common, remains in the heir of the surviving trustee ; but which \\as the survivor, or who his heir at law now is, they do not know ; and that the said lauds, called the Bath Common, being never, to their knowledge, conveyed to these defendants, that they cannot, before such conveyance made to them, make any valid lease of all or any part of the same ; and, being advised that they could not make any legal building leases of the Bath Common, for building houses thereon, it became useless to say or do anything for or towards the granting of any such lease thereof." The Recorder of Bath (Earl Camden) being aj)plied to, gave it as his opinion, that such building leases could he. granted ; but, to obviate every difficulty, recommended them to petition Parliament, which, on being presented, was lost by a majority of twenty-eight in a counter petition, as already alluded to. And thus the matter ended, until the year 1827, when it was again revived, and met with no better success. APPENDIX. 473 No. .:>. On the 3rd of April, 1806, Mr. Windhaiii ])rocecJrcl to unfold his jilan for military defence. " The House were now to consider how to jjut the niiUtary establish- ment of the country upon a better footing tiian it now was ; and how to provide, not merely against temporary, but permanent dangers. The first great thing in his mind was, to create or provide for the existence and maintenance of what is called an army — a body governed by Uims of its own — a body that has no profession but arar, and -i^hose great object is to destroy the enemies of its country. Our heads were filled with Icvies- en-masse — with armed citizens — with notions of eight hundred thousand men in arms ! We thought only of getting a number of men together, in any way, and then we thought we had made up an army! But it was not a difficult thing to prove tiiat an army, without military law, was a solecism. Its very existence depended upon it. Let us (said he) talk with some caution of the strength of nations without armies. Masses had seldom or never done much. They might be very valuable, but they were like the iron in the mine ; but of little advantage till brought into some useful state by the hand of the manufacturer. Look at the battles of Marengo and Austerlitz. Look at the advance of Buonaparte to Vienna ! Were there no inhabitants with strength in their limbs, or courage in their hearts, animated by loyalty, and a detestation for the invader ? But he proceeded through such a population, unmolested and unopposed. That this country, from its public spirit, its love of liberty, and its indignant feelings towards the usurper, would do more, was a sentiment very generally entertained ; but he would not rest the safety of the country upon it. Look to Switzerland, a country and people peculiarly calculated to resist invasion ; — men of powerful strength and stature,- proverbially courageous, warmly attached to their country, and deemed almost invin- cible. But that country was conquered. We ought, therefore, on every consideration, to be especially careful of our regular army. If ever a French anny should land in this country, there would be no less than one hundred tliousand men of our national military force, that could never possibly have seen a battle till the very time when they would have to engage in one. He would now proceed to state those measures by which ij-i APPENDIX. lie tliouglit the object lie had in view would be best provided for. There were but two ways in which wc could raise men — choice or Jhire, cither bv bounty or by ballot. All our late schemes to obtain men had been defective, wWch arose from our leaving the military life destitute of jiroper advantages. Wc had been driving a false trade, and taking goods to market not worth the money we asked. What was then to be done ? Why, make the military life more desirable — and one thing that would assist us was, altei'ing the nature of the serrice to a limited term. It would improve the discipline, by getting a better description of men into the service. There would be no want of recruits, when the trade was fair — there could be no objection to a good advertisement ; let recruiting liave fair pla\', let it travel about as well as the ' Additional Force Bill.' So far, therefore, from fearing any diminution of our army, in consequence of the privilege proposed, he felt convinced that the loss would be nothing to the gain, from a knowledge that, at the expiration of the appointed time for service, every soldier would have a right to claim his discharge. The fittest time, lie thought, for the jieriod of military service, was secen years — after the first seven, a soldier should be entitled to his discharge, and some privile(/es. If he should \\ish to renew his services for a second term of seven years, he should have an increase of pay, and at the expiration of that — a. pension for life:' After entering into a long and able detail, as to the inefficiency of an irregular and compulsory armed force, when compared with a regular disciplined armv of half tlieir numbers, Mr. Windham concluded : — " That he should move for a bill, which wa-s merely an accommodation of what had been called the ' Lcvy-en-Massc,' of 1803, to the present position and circumstances of the country." Which, after much discussion between Lord Castlcreagh, Mr. Fox, Mr. Yorke, General Tarleton, and others, leave was given to bring in a Bill to repeal the Act of the iltli George III. APPENDIX. 175 No. 6. Mr. WUitbrc'iul, in liis spoci'h in the House of Commons, on the Poor Laws and Education, on tlic l.'Hli of Fcbriuiry, 1807, tlins allndcd to Mr. Lancaster : — " I cannot help noticing to the House, that this is a period particu- larly favourable for the institution of a national system of education ; because, Aiithin a few years, there has been discovered a plan for the instruction of youth, which is now brought to a state of great perfection ; happily combining rules by which the object of learning must be infallibly attained with expedition and cheapness, and holding out the fairest prospect of eminent utility to mankind. The meritorious jierson, \\ith whom parts of the plan of education to ^\liich I have alluded have had their rise, is well known to many members of tliis House, and to a large part of the nation ; and he has had the high honour of the Royal sanction and support, and is patronized by persons of the first distinction in the kingdom. The person I allude to, is Joseph Lancaster. I know that he has been the object of much opposition, from bigotry and prejudice; but I believe him to be, on every account, deserving of encouragement anroaching wiicn vun will be seriously called ujion to answer these questions, and strictly account to your injured, instdted, misrepresented, and starring fellow-citizens, for your conduct. " You have again heard the mock call to assemble for the jjurpose of electing vour representatives for this city. Will you obey the call, like men '. Or, will you once more neglect it, like slaves ? " if anv thing can excite a, just sense of the value of your elective rights, the weight and application of the taxes, the increase of sinecure places and unmerited pensions, the absence of our gold, and the ])lanting of an army of foreigners in the heart of our country, must |)roduce that effect. '• If vou will come forward, on the day of election, and dcjnite me bv vour voices, I will spare no pains in my endeavours to recover for you 478 APPENDIX. your almost forgotten rights ; and to rcscuo, from tlic pilfering grasp of your oppressors, those privileges of which tliey have so long deprived you. " I am, &c. " PhiUp-sti-eet, October 3, 1812." " JOHN ALLEN. After the proceedings of the first day, the populace retired to their homes, and Mr. Allen issued the following animated manifesto : — " To the worthy and indcjiendent Freemen of the City of Bath. " Gentlemen, " The result of this day's poll has been most glorious in the cause of freedom ; the state of that poll has placed me and my honourable friend, Mr. Graves, in a decisive majority, to the corrupt influence of the borough- mougering faction. Let us not, however, relax our efforts ; the era of your libei'ty has now commenced ; let us only hope to attain its meridian bright- ness, to the comfort, the happiness, and the real interest of yourselves and posterity. The iron chain of corruption has been broken ; shew, by your acts, that you are worthy to be free, and it is anniliilated for ever. Attend to-morrow morning, at eleven o'clock, to give your suffrages for the attain- ment of this great end, to Mr. Graves, and your " Faithful Friend and Servant, " Bath, Wednesday evening, 8 o'clock." " JOHN ALLEN. Thus stimulated, the people assembled at the time appointed ; the tumult increased ; and the consequence of it has been already stated. Nothing intimidated by the attack on his person, Mr. Allen sent a letter to the Mayor, on the evening of the same day, which he afterwards printed, with the following additional head to it, viz. : — " It being mv determination to bring the whole proceedings of the mock election, at Bath, and the imprisonment of my fellow-citizens, before a court of justice, I take the earliest opportunity of communicating to the freemen and inhabitants of this city, a copy of a letter (to the best of my recollection, the original being mislaid) sent to the Mayor, on Thursday, the 8tli instant, to which I have not received an answer." " TO THE MAYOR OF BATH. " Sir, " As I cannot suppose you was privy to the \'iolent and gross assault connnitted tliis day on my person, and on the persons of many of my peaceable fellow-citizens (some of whom, I have just been informed, are in confinement), «ho wcxe peaceably and constitutionally assembled with APPENDIX. 479 me, to exercise those riglits secured and dear to us, as Eiiiilishnicii, by our glorious constitution. As I cannot suppose tiiis, I must suppose that the wanton outrage on the public j)eace, which has been exercised by three members of your Body Corj)orate, aided by their constables, can only be accounted for by concluding it was the heat of ignorance and inexperienced youth, or made use of as a pretext for introducing a military force (which, Sir, \<)u kno«-, is contrary to the existing laws of elective franchises), and thereby prevent my ])roceeding to a poll of the freemen, or enter on a f;iii-. free, and public discussion of their rights and privileges. " As it is not my intention to relinquish the exercise of the right of peaceably assembling my fello\\--citizens, to receive their suffrages on this occasion ; and as I am most desirous to preserve public peace and good order, I have to, request you to grant me the use of the Public Hall for that purpose ; and that you will be pleased to liberate from confinement those persons who mav have im])roperly resented the unwai'rantable attack made upon them ; which, I am sure, vdW tend much to restore the peace of the city. Your early rc]>ly will much oblige. Sir, " Your faithful Servant, " JOHN ALLEN." This letter was followed by a legal notice, served on three of the Body Corporate, and James Huniby, constable, to inform them that a writ would be sued out for the assault on the ,Sth of October instant, with a stated damage of one thousand pounds, unless they produced a coi)y of the warrant to authorize such trespass and assault. — Dated Oct. 1-t, 1812. The Mayor \vas likewise served with a ])rotestation from the sworn citizens, for refusing their proffered votes for John Allen and S. Colleton Graves, Esquire ; expressing a belief that the law allowed them the ri"ht and privilege to proceed, in common with any other sworn citizen, by whatever name called, to give their votes for two sufficient persons to serve in Parliament, to represent this city ; and to protest against the doors of the Guildhall being shut against them, in violation (as they believed) of the ancient laws, rights, and privileges of the citizens of Bath. Signed and sealed, the nth of Octolier, 1812, by TIMOTHY THOMAS PERKY, JOHN HIBBERT, JAMES HULBERT, ^' CHAHLES MARCH, } In the ])resence of John Sturge, HeNKY HlNE. > Free Citizens. 480 APPENDIX. Soon after these proceedings, Mr. Graves left Bath, to forward the business of presenting a petition to Parhanient against the Bath election ; and, on the 12th of November, he sent a letter to Mr. Allen, for the inspection of the committee of freemen. The substance of the contents were as follo^\'S : — " London, November 12, 1812. '• The Coiporation of Bath are very much alarmed, and have con- sulted Garrow, Pell, Jekyll, and one other, whose name I forget. They have all given different opinions, and are to hold a consultation on the subject immediately. From what I am able to collect, the right of the freemen to vote will be established, and we shall be the sitting members. " We mav consider success as absolutely our own, unless we let the matter drop ourselves. I believe it is all safe. " Yours, &c. " S. C. GRAVES." Soon after the receipt of this letter, Mr. Allen set out to London himself, witli the promise to write to the committee every information lie could obtain, which promise (as we are informed) was never redeemed. Immediately after the presentation of the petition, Mr. Allen returned to Bath, to prepare evidence ; and remained at his house, in Philip-street, for that purpose. On Januarv •!•, 181.3, a printed address, to the freemen of Bath, was issued bv S. Colleton Graves, Esq. : — « TO THE FREEMEN OF BATH. " January itii, 1813. ■• A full investigation of your claims to the elective franchise, has taken place ; and, from that investigation, it appears that the right of electing members of Parliament, for this city, was invested in the com- nionaltv, not in the freemen alone, and continued so till the year 1 706, when a decision of the House placed it in the select bodv who now exercise it. The exclusive right of electing members of Parliament seems to have been then usurped, from the commonalty, by the select bodv ; and the verv strange decision that confined it there, was contrarv to a great mass of evidence. But as it has been confirmed by an Act of Parliament, you have no reniedv against its operation, in the usual course of election petitions." Mr. Allen's " submissive apologv" was accepted, his •' erroneous impulse" aclcno^\■ledged, and thus the matter ended. APPENDIX. 481 No. 9. Subscriptions, for Charitable and other purposes, by the Inhabitants and Visitors of Bath, independent of the Local Institutions. From 1800 to 1834. Vear. Cause. To what purpose applied. Provisions, Clothing, or Money. 1800. High price of Provi- sions, and great Distress. Relieving tlie Poor nf tiip nitv 60,000 quarts of Soup. 200 barrels of Rice. y)V \,l\.\Z V_/ 1 1 y ••.■■••■• 200 sacks of Potatoes. 317 tons of Coals. £ s. d. 1801. 1802. Tlio samp Tin* *s{1T110 2,053 13 4 Battle of Copenhagen. Rehef of Wounded and Widows of the Slain 536 1802. Definitive Treaty of The Hospitals, in Amiens. lieu of an Ilhuni- nntion 343 8 3 1803. Renewed War with ll.ltiVli ............... In aid of Equipping France. the Volunteers of the City, and for otherpurposes con- nected therewith.. 2,511 10 1805. Battle of Trafalgar. Relief of Widows, Orphans, and Wounded 2,150 G 2 1809. Overflowing of the Relief of the Suf- n Ivor A von ferers 3,495 4 3 180!). Jubilee of Geo. III. Relief of Debtors I'dnfiuud in the City and County Jails 1,2.00 8 Carried forward £12,380 10 H h 482 APPENDIX. Year. Cause. To wliat purpose applied. Provisions, Clolhing, or Money. £ s. d. Brought forward... 12,380 10 1811. Stagnation of Trade, Relief of the Indus- nrifl SpVPrP Wp.l - trious Poor 902 2 9 <111U t jVj V CUT TT Cit tlier. U^ ^Vy UO Mr V/V/J ••••••»•• 1811. Distress of the British Pi-isoners in France. Their Relief 501 1811. Distress of the Portu- guese, from the consequences of War. Their Rehef 300 1812. Total loss of his Ma- Relief of the Widows jesty's ships Saint George, Defence, and Hero. and Orphans 1,000 1812. Victory of Sala- Relief of the Widows manca. and Orphans 200 1813. Severe Winter. Relief of the Indus- 4,578 bushels of Coals. Distress of the Rus- trious Poor 220 Blankets. 1813. Their Relief 1,290 sian Nation, from the consequences of War. 1813. Given by the City Members. For casual Distress.. 500 1814. Distress of the Ger- man Nation, from the above cause. Their Rehef. 1,182 G 1814. Severe Weather. RcUef of the Indus- trious Poor 1,084 17 Carried forward... £19,340 15 9 APPENDIX. 483 Year. 1815. 1816 1819. 1820. 1821, 1822, 1826 1828 1829 1830 1831 1832. Cause. To wliat purpose applied. Battle of Waterloo. Severe WeatliiT. Great Distress in the Scilly Islands. Severe Weather. Overflowng of the Avon. Unparalleled Distress in Ireland. Distress of the Weavers in the Northern Districts. Distress of the Spa- nish Emigrants. Distress of the Weavers in Spi- talfields. Severe Weather. Great Distress in Ireland. Appearance of an Epidemic in Eng- land. Brought forward • . • Relief of Widows, Orph.ans, and Wdunded Relief of the Iiidus- ■ triousPoor Relief of the Inlia- bitants Relief of the Indus- trious Poor l*rovisioiis, dotIiin;4, or Aloney. Relief of the Inha- bitants of the Dolemeads Relief of the Suf- ferers Their Relief.. Their Relief.. Their Relief.. Rchef of the Indus- trious Poor Their Relief. Cleansing and Pre- cautionary Mea- sures ill this City... £ ». d. 19,340 15 9 3,773 7 9 2,277 I.') 500 1,715 881 16 4,275 16 8 3,978 1 I 122 17 6 542 2 6 800 1,378 6 8 842 12 Carried forward... £40,428 14 11 484 APPENDIX. Year. Cause. To what purpose applied- Provisions, Clothing, or JMoney. 1832. 1833. Distressing Visitation of Cholera at Paul- ton. Distressed state of the Irish Clergy. Brought for ward... Rehef of the Suf- ferers Tlieir Relief-. i, s. d. 40,428 U 11 400 1,000 Total £41,828 14 11 .MEYLER AND SON, PRINTERS, BATH. ITMIVFRSTTY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY University of California SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY 405 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90024-1388 Return this material to tfie library from which it was borrowed. Forir THE LIBRARY UNIVERSn Y OF CALIFORNIA 000 452 776 690 B3M2