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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 50730 ***
+
+Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this
+      file which includes the original illustrations.
+      See 50730-h.htm or 50730-h.zip:
+      (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/50730/50730-h/50730-h.htm)
+      or
+      (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/50730/50730-h.zip)
+
+
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive. See
+      https://archive.org/details/fleetitsriverpri00asht
+
+
+Transcriber's note:
+
+      Text enclosed by underscores is in italics (_italics_).
+
+      Text enclosed by equal signs is in bold face (=bold=).
+
+      A carat character is used to denote superscription. A
+      single character following the carat is superscripted
+      (example: y^e). Multiple superscripted characters are
+      enclosed by curly brackets (example: w^{ch}).
+
+      A letter with a macron accent (straight line over the
+      letter) is enclosed by square brackets and preceded by
+      an equal sign; for example, a "d" with a macron is
+      signified by [=d].
+
+      A letter with a tilde character above it is enclosed by
+      square brackets and preceded by a tilde; for example, an
+      "m" with a tilde is signified by [~m].
+
+      The OE-ligature is represented by [OE].
+
+      The letters "u" and "v" are mostly interchanged; as, e.g.,
+      "in haruest time" and "vnder a bridge".
+
+      Some of the spelling is very old, and often phonetic (they
+      wrote as they heard it spoken, dialects and all).
+
+
+
+
+
+THE FLEET.
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+THE FLEET
+
+Its River, Prison, and Marriages
+
+by
+
+JOHN ASHTON
+
+(Author of "Social Life in the Reign of Queen Anne," "Dawn of the
+Nineteenth Century," &c., &c., &c.)
+
+Illustrated by Pictures from Original Drawings and Engravings
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+New York
+Scribner and Welford
+1888
+
+
+[Illustration: VIEW OF MOUTH OF THE FLEET _circa_ 1765. (_Guildhall Art
+Collection._)]
+
+  _Frontispiece._
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+This book requires none, except a mere statement of its scheme. Time
+has wrought such changes in this land of ours, and especially in
+its vast Metropolis, "The Modern Babylon," that the old land-marks
+are gradually being effaced--and in a few generations would almost
+be forgotten, were it not that some one noted them, and left their
+traces for future perusal. All have some little tale to tell; even
+this little River Fleet, which with its Prison, and its Marriages--are
+things utterly of the past, entirely swept away, and impossible to
+resuscitate, except by such a record as this book.
+
+I have endeavoured, by searching all available sources of information,
+to write a trustworthy history of my subject--and, at the same time,
+make it a pleasant book for the general reader. If I have succeeded
+in my aim, thanks are due, and must be given, to W. H. Overall, Esq.,
+F.S.A., and Charles Welch, Esq., Librarians to the Corporation of the
+City of London, whose friendship, and kindness, have enabled me to
+complete my pleasant task. It was at their suggestion that I came upon
+a veritable _trouvaille_, in the shape of a box containing Mr. Anthony
+Crosby's Collection for a History of the Fleet, which was of most
+material service to me, especially in the illustrations, most of which
+were by his own hand.
+
+I must also express my gratitude to J. E. Gardner, Esq., F.S.A., for
+his kindness in putting his magnificent and unrivalled Collection of
+Topographical Prints at my disposal, and also to J. G. Waller, Esq.,
+F.S.A., for his permission to use his map of the Fleet River (the best
+of any I have seen), for the benefit of my readers.
+
+JOHN ASHTON.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+  The River.
+
+                                                                  PAGE
+  CHAPTER I.
+
+  Course of the Fleet--Derivation of its Name--The River of
+  Wells--The Fleet choked up--Cleansing the Fleet--The
+  Fleet Navigable--Wells--Ponds and Pools                            1
+
+  CHAPTER II.
+
+  Water Supply of London--The Fleet to be Cleansed--Smell
+  of the River--Prehistoric London--Antiquarian
+  Discoveries--Cleansing the Fleet--Fouling the River--Rivers
+  rising at Hampstead--The Tye-bourne--The West-bourne--Course
+  of the West-bourne                                                13
+
+  CHAPTER III.
+
+  Course of the Fleet--The Hampstead Ponds--Rural Fleet--Gospel
+  Oak--Parliament Hill--Kentish Town--Brown's
+  Dairy--Castle Inn--St. Pancras Wells--Burials at St.
+  Pancras--the Brill                                                25
+
+  CHAPTER IV.
+
+  Battle Bridge--King's Cross--The Dust-heaps--St. Chad's
+  Well--St. Chad's Well-water                                       39
+
+  CHAPTER V.
+
+  Medicinal Waters--Spas--The White Conduit--White Conduit
+  House--White Conduit Gardens                                      53
+
+  CHAPTER VI.
+
+  Sadler's Discovery--Miles's Musick House--A Man Eats a
+  Live Cock, &c.--Forcer, the Proprietor--Macklin on
+  Sadler's Wells--Actors at Sadler's Wells--The Pindar of
+  Wakefield                                                         67
+
+  CHAPTER VII.
+
+  "Black Mary's Hole"--Its Disappearance--Bagnigge Wells--Nell
+  Gwyn's Houses--Bagnigge House                                     77
+
+  CHAPTER VIII.
+
+  Bagnigge Wells--The Organist--Different Proprietors--"Punch"
+  on Bagnigge Wells--Decadence of the Wells                         87
+
+  CHAPTER IX.
+
+  Cold Bath Fields Prison                                           99
+
+  CHAPTER X.
+
+  The "Cold Bath"--Cold Baths--Sir John Oldcastle--Archery--Tea
+  Gardens--Small Pox Hospital--The Pantheon--Lady
+  Huntingdon's Chapel--Lady Huntingdon                             111
+
+  CHAPTER XI.
+
+  The Spencean System--Orator Hunt--Riot in the City--Riots--End
+  of the Riots                                                     127
+
+  CHAPTER XII.
+
+  Fighting--Hockley-in-the-Hole--Bear Baiting--Bear Gardens--Bull
+  Baiting--Sword Play                                              137
+
+  CHAPTER XIII.
+
+  Mount Pleasant--Saffron Hill--Old House in West
+  Street--Fagin--Field Lane--Thieves                               153
+
+  CHAPTER XIV.
+
+  Bleeding Hart Yard--Ely Place--John of Gaunt--Ely
+  Chapel--Turnmill Brook--The Fleet--Holborn Bridge                163
+
+  CHAPTER XV.
+
+  Lamb's Conduit--Clerkenwell--Fleet Market--Rye-House
+  Plot--Fleet Bridge                                               179
+
+  CHAPTER XVI.
+
+  Alderman Waithman--John Wilkes--Ludgate Prison--Sir
+  Stephen Foster                                                   193
+
+  CHAPTER XVII.
+
+  Bridewell--Montfichet Castle--Fuller on Bridewell--Ward
+  on Bridewell--Howard on Bridewell--Bridewell Prison--
+  The City and Apprentices--Mother Cresswell--Bridewell
+  Court Room                                                       205
+
+  CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+  Alsatia--Whitefriars--Deaths in the Fleet--Ben Jonson and
+  the Fleet                                                        223
+
+
+  The Fleet Prison.
+
+
+  CHAPTER XIX.
+
+  History of the Fleet Prison--Female Wardens--Settlement of
+  Fees--Liberty of Prisoners--Filthy State of the Fleet--A
+  Quarrelsome Knight--Preference for the Fleet Prison--Sir
+  John Falstaff--Cardinal Wolsey                                   229
+
+  CHAPTER XX.
+
+  Prisoners--Puritans--Bibliography of Fleet Prison--A
+  Warden's Troubles                                                243
+
+  CHAPTER XXI.
+
+  The Warden of the Fleet--Purchase of Wardenship--Bad
+  Discipline--Boundaries of the Fleet--Preference for the
+  Fleet                                                            255
+
+  CHAPTER XXII.
+
+  Complaints of the Warden--The Warden keeps Corpses--Huggins
+  and Bambridge--Castell--The First Prisoner
+  in Irons--Acquittal of Huggins and Bambridge--Bambridge
+  and his Prisoners--Chapel in the Fleet Bagging                   265
+
+  CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+  Admission to the Fleet Prison--The _Humours_ of the Fleet        279
+
+  CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+  Garnish--The "Common Side"--Howard's Report--Regulations
+  of the Prison--Gordon Riots--Burning of the
+  Fleet Prison--Fleet Prison Rebuilt--The "Bare"--Racket
+  Masters--A Whistling Shop--A Mock Election
+  "_Dum Vivimus, Vivamus_"--Number of Prisoners--Destitution       293
+
+  CHAPTER XXV.
+
+  Escape of Prisoners--A Gang of Forgers--Abolition of
+  Imprisonment for Debt--Prisoners Object to move--Opposition
+  to Removal--"The Last Days of the Fleet"--Sale
+  of the Fleet Prison--Begging Grate--Richard Oastler              313
+
+
+  Fleet Marriages.
+
+
+  CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+  Illegal Marriages--Cost of Marriages--_Peculiars_--Suppression
+  of Irregular Marriages--A Fleet Parson's Reflections--Fleet
+  Parsons--An Heiress Married                                      327
+
+  CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+  John Gaynam--The Bishop of Hell--Edward Ashwell--John
+  Floud--Walter Wyatt                                              339
+
+  CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+  The Lilleys--Fleet Parsons--Parson Keith                         351
+
+  CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+  "The Bunter's Wedding"--Fleet Parsons--Exchange of
+  Wives--Singular Marriage--Irregular Marriage                     363
+
+  CHAPTER XXX.
+
+  A Runaway Marriage--Fortune's Married--Illegal Marriage--Fleet
+  Marriage Registers--Extracts from Registers--End
+  of Marriages                                                     375
+
+  INDEX                                                            386
+
+
+
+
+  [Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+  LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
+
+
+                                                                  PAGE
+
+  SHEPHERD'S WELL, HAMPSTEAD                                        22
+
+  THE FLEET, KENTISH TOWN                                           28
+
+  VIEW OF THE VALLEY OF THE FLEET AND HIGHGATE CHURCH,
+  FROM FORTESS TERRACE, KENTISH TOWN, SEPT. 28, 1845                29
+
+  THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN                                     30, 31
+
+  OLD HOUSE, KENTISH TOWN, SUPPOSED TO HAVE BEEN NELL
+  GWYNNE'S                                                          33
+
+  THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN--BROWNE'S DAIRY FARM, SEPT.
+  21, 1833                                                          34
+
+  CASTLE, KENTISH TOWN ROAD, 1848                                   35
+
+  THE BRILL                                                         37
+
+  BATTLE BRIDGE                                             40, 41, 42
+
+  DUST HEAP AT BATTLE BRIDGE                                        45
+
+  ST. CHAD'S WELL                                                   49
+
+  THE WHITE CONDUIT                                             54, 62
+
+  STONE IN THE WHITE CONDUIT                                        57
+
+  WHITE CONDUIT GARDENS (INTERIOR)                                  64
+
+    "      "       "    (EXTERIOR)                                  65
+
+  THE PINDAR OF WAKEFIELD                                           75
+
+  BAGNIGGE HOUSE                                                    82
+
+  BAGNIGGE WELLS, NEAR BATTLE BRIDGE, ISLINGTON                     85
+
+  A VIEW TAKEN FROM THE CENTER BRIDGE IN THE GARDENS OF
+  BAGNIGGE WELLS                                                    88
+
+  WAITER FROM THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE
+  HUMOURS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS                                         89
+
+  THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE HUMOURS OF
+  BAGNIGGE WELLS                                                    89
+
+  A BAGNIGGE WELLS SCENE; OR, NO RESISTING TEMPTATION               90
+
+  THE BAGNIGGE ORGANIST                                             91
+
+  THE ANCIENT RIVER FLEET, AT CLERKENWELL, 1825                    100
+
+  SOUTH VIEW OF THE COLD BATHS                                     113
+
+  THE SMALLPOX HOSPITAL IN COLD BATH FIELDS                        118
+
+  VIEW OF NORTHAMPTON OR SPA FIELDS CHAPEL, WITH THE
+  COUNTESS OF HUNTINGDON'S HOUSE ADJOINING                         124
+
+  FAGIN, THE JEW                                                   159
+
+  FIELD LANE NEGOTIATIONS; OR, A SPECIMEN OF "FINE DRAWING"        160
+
+  ELY HOUSE 1784                                                   169
+
+  END OF HOLBORN BRIDGE, TAKEN FROM THE SOUTH, AND PART OF
+  HOLBORN HILL, JUNE 2, 1840                                       175
+
+  HOLBORN BRIDGE                                                   177
+
+  LAMB'S CONDUIT, SNOW HILL                                        181
+
+  FLEET MARKET, FROM HOLBORN BRIDGE                                187
+
+  BRIDEWELL BRIDGE                                                 207
+
+  WOMEN BEATING HEMP                                               213
+
+  PASS ROOM, BRIDEWELL, 1808                                       215
+
+  THE ARREST                                                       228
+
+  BAMBRIDGE                                                        273
+
+  A PRISONER IN IRONS                                              274
+
+  THE COMMON SIDE OF THE FLEET PRISON                              278
+
+  THE FLEET PRISON                                                 296
+
+  RACKETS IN THE FLEET PRISON, 1760                                303
+
+  A WHISTLING SHOP IN THE FLEET, 1821                              306
+
+  AUTOGRAPH DONE AT THE PARLOUR NO. 1, PALAIS DE LA FLETE,
+  THIS 24 DAY JUNE                                                 311
+
+  FARRINGDON STREET AND THE FLEET PRISON                           322
+
+  GROUND PLAN OF FLEET PRISON                                      323
+
+  SECTION OF THE PRISON                                            323
+
+  EXTERIOR OF THE GRATE                                            324
+
+  A FLEET WEDDING                                                  362
+
+  THE SAILOR'S FLEET WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT                         364
+
+  ILLUSTRATIONS WILL ALSO BE FOUND AT PAGES           171, 172, 184,
+                      280, 294, 304, 307, 308, 319, 335.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+_The Fleet:_
+
+Its River, Prison, and Marriages.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+Only a little tributary to the Thames, the River Fleet, generally,
+and ignominiously, called the Fleet _Ditch_, yet it is historically
+interesting, not only on account of the different places through
+which its murmuring stream meandered, almost all of which have some
+story of their own to tell, but the reminiscences of its Prison stand
+by themselves--pages of history, not to be blotted out, but to be
+recorded as valuable in illustration of the habits, and customs, of our
+forefathers.
+
+The City of London, in its early days, was well supplied with water,
+not only by the wells dug near houses, or by the public springs, some
+of which still exist, as Aldgate Pump, &c., and the River Thames; but,
+when its borders increased, the Walbrook was utilized, as well as
+the Fleet, and, later on, the Tye-bourne, or twin brook, which fell
+into the Thames at Westminster. In the course of time these rivulets
+became polluted, land was valuable; they were covered over, and are
+now sewers. The course of the Fleet being clearly traceable in the
+depression of Farringdon Street, and the windings of the Tye-bourne in
+the somewhat tortuous Marylebone Lane (so called from the Chapel of
+St. Mary, which was on the banks of "le bourne," or the brook[1]). Its
+further course is kept in our memory by Brook Street, Hanover Square.
+
+The name of this little river has exercised many minds, and has been
+the cause of spoiling much good paper. My own opinion, backed by many
+antiquaries, is that a _Fleet_ means a brook, or tributary to a larger
+river, which is so wide, and deep, at its junction with the greater
+stream as to be navigable for the small craft then in use, for some
+little distance. Thus, we have the names on the Thames of Purfleet,
+Northfleet, and Southfleet, and the same obtains in other places.
+Its derivation seems to be Saxon--at least, for our language. Thus,
+in Bosworth's "Dictionary of the Anglo-Saxon Language," we find,
+"Flede-Fledu: part. _Flooded_; _overflowed_: tumidus[2]: Tiber fledu
+wearð[3]--the Tiber was flooded (Ors. 4. 7)."
+
+Again, the same author gives: "Fleot (_Plat_ fleet, m. _a small river_;
+_Ger._ flethe. f. _a channel_). _A place where vessels float_, _a bay_,
+_gulf_, _an arm of the sea_, _the mouth of a river_, _a river_; hence
+the names of places, as _Northfleet_, _Southfleet_, _Kent_; and in
+London, _Fleet ditch_; _sinus_.[4] Soes Fleot, _a bay of the sea_.[5]
+_Bd._ 1. 34."
+
+Another great Anglo-Saxon scholar--Professor Skeat, in "An Etymological
+Dictionary of the English Language": "Fleet, a creek, bay. In the names
+_North-fleet_, _Fleet_ Street, &c. Fleet Street was so named from the
+Fleet Ditch; and _fleet_ was given to any shallow creek, or stream, or
+channel of water. See Halliwell. M.E. _fleet_ (Promptorium Parvulorum,
+&c., p. 166). A.S. _fleót_, a bay of the sea, as in Soes Fleot, bay
+of the sea. Ælfred's tr. of Beda, i. 34.[5] Afterwards applied to any
+channel or stream, especially if shallow. The original sense was 'a
+place where vessels float,' and the derivation is from the old verb
+_fleet_, to float, &c."
+
+The French, too, have a cognate term, especially in Norman towns,
+as Barfleur, Honfleur, Harfleur, &c., which were originally written
+Barbe_flot_, Hune_flot_, and Hare_flot_: and these were sometimes
+written Hareflou, Huneflou, and Barfleu, which latter comes very near
+to the Latin _flevus_, called by Ptolemy _fleus_, and by Mela _fletio_.
+Again, in Brittany many names end in _pleu_, or _plou_, which seems to
+be very much like the Greek [Greek: pleô]: _full_, _swollen_, which
+corresponds to our Anglo-Saxon Flede; Dutch Vliet.
+
+But it has another, and a very pretty name, "THE RIVER OF WELLS,"
+from the number of small tributaries that helped to swell its stream,
+and from the wells which bordered its course; such as Sadler's
+Wells, Bagnigge Wells, White Conduit, Coldbath, Lamb's Conduit,
+Clerkenwell--all of which (although all were not known by those names
+in Stow's times) were in existence.
+
+Stow, in his "SURVEY OF LONDON" (ed. 1603, his last edition, and which
+consequently has his best corrections), says--
+
+[Sidenote: "_Riuer of Wels._]
+
+[Sidenote: _Decay of the Riuer of the Wels._]
+
+[Sidenote: _Parliament Record._]
+
+[Sidenote: _Riuer of Wels bare ships._]
+
+[Sidenote: Patent Record. _Mils by Baynards Castel, made in the first
+of King John._]
+
+[Sidenote: _Turnemill Brooke._]
+
+ That the riuer of Wels in the west parte of the Citty, was of
+ olde so called of the Wels, it may be proued thus, William the
+ Conqueror in his Charter to the Colledge of S. Marten le Grand
+ in London, hath these wordes: I doe giue and graunt to the same
+ Church all the land and the Moore, without the Posterne, which
+ is called Cripplegate, on eyther part of the Postern, that is
+ to say, from the North corner of the Wall, as the riuer of the
+ Wels, there neare running, departeth the same More from the
+ Wall, vnto the running water which entereth the Cittie; this
+ water hath beene long since called the riuer of the Wels, which
+ name of riuer continued, and it was so called in the raigne of
+ Edward the first; as shall bee shewed, with also the decay of
+ the saide riuer. In a fayre Booke of Parliament recordes, now
+ lately restored to the Tower,[6] it appeareth that a Parliament
+ being holden at Carlile in the yeare 1307, the 35 of Edward the
+ I. Henry Lacy Earle of Lincolne, complayned that whereas, in
+ times past the course of water, running at _London_ vnder _Olde
+ bourne_ bridge, and _Fleete_ bridge into the Thames, had beene
+ of such bredth and depth, that 10 or 12 ships, Nauies at once
+ with marchãdises, were wõt to come to the foresaid bridge of
+ Fleete, and some of them to Oldborne bridge: now the same course
+ by filth of the Tanners & such others, was sore decaied; also by
+ raising of wharfes, but specially by a diversiõ of the waters
+ made by them of the new _Temple_, for their milles standing
+ without _Baynardes Castle_, in the first yeare of King _John_,
+ and diuers other impediments, so as the said ships could not
+ enter as they were wont, & as they ought, wherefore he desired
+ that the Maior of London, with the shiriffs, and other discrete
+ Aldermen, might be appointed to view the course of the saide
+ water, and that by the othes of good men, all the aforesaide
+ hinderances might be remoued, and it to bee made as it was
+ wont of old: wherupon _Roger le Brabazon_, the Constable of
+ the Tower, with the Maior and Shiriffes, were assigned to take
+ with them honest and discrete men, and to make diligent search
+ and enquirie, how the said riuer was in old time, and that they
+ leaue nothing that may hurt or stop it, but keepe it in the same
+ estate that it was wont to be. So far the record. Wherupon it
+ folowed that the said riuer was at that time cleansed, these
+ mils remoued, and other things done for the preseruation of
+ the course thereof, not withstanding neuer brought to the olde
+ depth and breadth, whereupon the name of riuer ceased, and was
+ since called a Brooke, namely Turnmill or Tremill Brooke, for
+ that diuers Mils were erected vpon it, as appeareth by a fayre
+ Register booke, conteyning the foundation of the Priorie at
+ Clarkenwell, and donation of the landes thereunto belonging, as
+ also by diuers other records.
+
+ "This brooke hath beene diuers times since clensed, namely, and
+ last of all to any effect, in the yeare 1502 the 17th of Henrie
+ the 7. the whole course of Fleete dike, then so called, was
+ scowred (I say) downe to the Thames, so that boats with fish
+ and fewel were rowed to Fleete bridge, and to Oldburne bridge,
+ as they of olde time had beene accustomed, which was a great
+ commoditie to all the inhabitants in that part of the Citie.
+
+ [Sidenote:_Fleete dyke promised to be clensed; the money
+ collected, and the Citizens deceiued._]
+
+ "In the yeare 1589, was granted a fifteene, by a common Councell
+ of the citie, for the cleansing of this Brooke or dike: the
+ money amounting to a thousand marks collected, and it was
+ undertaken, that, by drawing diuerse springes about Hampsted
+ heath, into one head and Course, both the citie should be serued
+ of fresh water in all places of want, and also that by such a
+ follower, as men call it, the channell of this brooke should be
+ scowred into the riuer of Thames; but much mony being therein
+ spent, y^e effect fayled, so that the Brooke by meanes of
+ continuall incrochments vpon the banks getting ouer the water,
+ and casting of soylage into the streame, is now become woorse
+ cloyed and that euer it was before."
+
+From this account of Stow's we find that the stream of the Fleet,
+although at one time navigable, had ceased to be so in his time, but
+we see, by the frontispiece, which is taken from a painting (in the
+Guildhall Art Gallery) by Samuel Scot, 1770 (?) that the mouth of the
+Fleet river, or ditch, call it which you like, was still, not only
+navigable, but a place of great resort for light craft.
+
+The name "River of Wells" is easily to be understood, if we draw again
+upon Stow, who, in treating of "Auncient and present Riuers, Brookes,
+Boorns, Pooles, Wels, and Conduits of fresh water seruing the Citie,"
+&c., says--
+
+ "Aunciently, vntill the Conquerors time, and 200 yeres after,
+ the Citie of London was watered besides the famous Riuer of
+ Thames on the South part; with the riuer of the WELS, as it was
+ then called, on the west; with water called WALBROOKE running
+ through the midst of the citie into the riuer of Thames, seruing
+ the heart thereof. And with a fourth water or Boorne, which ran
+ within the Citie through LANGBOORNE ward, watering that part
+ in the East. In the west suburbs was also another great water,
+ called OLDBORNE, which had his fall into the riuer of Wels:
+ then was there 3 principall Fountaines or wels in the other
+ Suburbs, to wit, Holy Well, Clements Well, and Clarkes Well.
+ Neare vnto this last named fountaine were diuers other wels,
+ to wit, Skinners Wel, Fags Wel, Loders Wel, and Rad Well; All
+ which sayde Wels, hauing the fall of their ouerflowing in the
+ foresayde Riuer, much encreased the streame, and in that place
+ gaue it the name of Wel. In west Smithfield, there was a Poole
+ in Recordes called HORSEPOOLE, and one other Poole neare vnto
+ the parish Church of Saint GILES without CRIPPLEGATE. Besides
+ all which they had in euerie streete and Lane of the citie
+ diuerse fayre Welles and fresh Springs; and, after this manner
+ was this citie then serued with sweete and fresh waters, which
+ being since decaid, other means haue beene sought to supplie the
+ want."
+
+Here, then, we have a list of Wells, which are, together with those I
+have already mentioned, quite sufficient to account for the prettier
+name of the "River of Wells." Of these wells Stow writes in his
+deliciously-quaint phraseology:--
+
+[Sidenote: "_Fitzstephen. Holy well._]
+
+ There are (saith _Fitzstephen_) neare London, on the North side
+ special wels in the Suburbs, sweete, wholesome, and cleare,
+ amongst which _Holy well_, Clarkes wel, and Clements wel are
+ most famous, and frequented by Scholers, and youthes of the
+ Cittie in sommer evenings, when they walke forthe to take the
+ aire.
+
+ "The first, to wit, Holy well, is much decayed, and marred with
+ filthinesse laide there, for the heightening of the ground for
+ garden plots.
+
+ [Sidenote: _Clements well._]
+
+ "The fountaine called S. Clements well, North from the Parish
+ Church of S. Clements, and neare vnto an Inne of _Chancerie_,
+ called _Clements_ Inne, is faire curbed square with hard stone,
+ kept cleane for common vse, and is alwayes full.
+
+ [Sidenote: _Clarks well._]
+
+ [Sidenote: _Playes by the Parish Clarks at Clarks well._]
+
+ [Sidenote: _Players at the Skinners well._]
+
+ "The third is called Clarkes well, or Clarkenwell,[7] and is
+ curbed about square with hard stone, not farre from the west
+ ende of Clarkenwell Church, but close without the wall that
+ incloseth it; the sayd Church tooke the name of the Well, and
+ the Well tooke the name of the Parish Clarkes in London, who
+ of old time were accustomed there yearely to assemble, and to
+ play some large hystorie of holy Scripture. And, for example,
+ of later time, to wit, in the yeare 1390, the 14 of Richard the
+ Second, I read the Parish Clarks of London, on the 18 of July,
+ playd Enterludes at _Skinners well_, neare vnto _Clarkes well_,
+ which play continued three dayes togither, the King, Queene, and
+ Nobles being present. Also the yeare 1409, the 10 of Henrie the
+ 4. they played a play at the _Skinners well_, which lasted eight
+ dayes, and was of matter from the creation of the worlde. There
+ were to see the same, the most part of the Nobles and Gentiles
+ in England, &c.
+
+ [Sidenote: _Skinners well._]
+
+ [Sidenote: _Wrestling-place._]
+
+ "Other smaller welles were many neare vnto Clarkes well, namely
+ _Skinners well_, so called for that the Skinners of London held
+ there certaine playes yearely playd of holy Scripture, &c. In
+ place whereof the wrestlings haue of later yeares beene kept,
+ and is in part continued at _Bartholomew tide_.
+
+ [Sidenote: _Fagges well._]
+
+ "Then was there Fagges well, neare vnto _Smithfield_ by the
+ _Charterhouse_, now lately dammed vp, _Tod well_, _Loders well_,
+ and _Rad well_, all decayed, and so filled vp, that there places
+ are hardly now discerned.
+
+ "Somewhat North from _Holy well_ is one other well curbed
+ square with stone, and is called _Dame Annis the Cleare_, and
+ not farre from it, but somewhat west, is also one other cleare
+ water called _Perillous pond_[8], because diuerse youthes by
+ swimming therein haue beene drowned; and thus much bee said for
+ Fountaines and Wels.
+
+ "_Horse poole_ in _Westsmithfield_, was sometime a great
+ water, and because the inhabitants in that part of the Citie
+ did there water their Horses, the same was, in olde Recordes,
+ called _Horspoole_, it is now much decayed, the springs being
+ stopped vp, and the land waters falling into the small bottome,
+ remayning inclosed, with Bricke, is called _Smithfield pond_.
+
+ [Sidenote: _Poole without Cripplegate._]
+
+ "By S. Giles Churchyard was a large water, called a _Poole_. I
+ read in the year 1244 that Anne of Lodburie was drowned therein;
+ this poole is now for the most part stopped vp, but the spring
+ is preserued, and was cooped about with stone by the Executors
+ of _Richard Wittington_."
+
+    [Footnote 1: The name of this church has been Latinized as
+    "Sancta Maria de Ossibus"!]
+
+    [Footnote 2: Swollen.]
+
+    [Footnote 3: The real quotation in Orosius is "þa wearð Tiber
+    seo eâ swa fledu."]
+
+    [Footnote 4: A bag, or purse, a fold of a garment; a bay,
+    bight, or gulf.]
+
+    [Footnote 5: I cannot find this quotation in "Boedoe Historia
+    Ecclesiastica," &c., in any edition I have seen, but in 1.33.
+    I do find Amfleet, and in John Smith's edition (Cambridge,
+    1722) as a note to Amj-leor he says "Vulgo Ambleteau or
+    Ambleteuse, about 2 miles north of Boulogne"]
+
+    [Footnote 6: The Records were kept in the Tower, and at the
+    Rolls Office, in a very neglected state, until they were
+    removed to the present Record Office in Fetter Lane.]
+
+    [Footnote 7: This is the only one left whose position is a
+    matter of certainty.]
+
+    [Footnote 8: Afterwards known as "Peerless Pool," an unmeaning
+    cognomen.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+London, for its size, was indeed very well supplied with water,
+although, of course, it was not laid on to every house, as now, but,
+with the exception of those houses provided with wells, it had to be
+fetched from fixed public places, which were fairly numerous. When the
+waters of the Fleet, and Wallbrook, in the process of time, became
+contaminated, Henry III., in the 21st year of his reign (1236), granted
+to the Citizens of London the privilege of conveying the waters of the
+Tye-bourne through leaden pipes to the City, "for the poore to drinke,
+and the rich to dresse their meate." And it is only a few years since,
+that close by what is now called "Sedley Place," Oxford Street, but
+which used to be the old hunting lodge of bygone Lord Mayors, some of
+these very pipes were unearthed, a fine cistern being uncovered at the
+same time.
+
+For public use there were the great Conduit in West Cheape: the Tonne
+or Tun in Cornhill, fountains at Billingsgate, at Paul's Wharf, and
+St. Giles', Cripplegate, and conduits at Aldermanbury, the Standard
+in Fleet Street, Gracechurch Street, Holborn Cross (afterwards Lamb's
+Conduit), at the Stocks Market (where the Mansion House now stands),
+Bishopsgate, London Wall, Aldgate, Lothbury--and this without reckoning
+the supply furnished from the Thames by the enterprising German, or
+Dutchman, Pieter Moritz, who in 1582 started the famous waterworks
+close to where Fishmongers' Hall now stands.
+
+The Fleet river (I prefer that title to the other cognomen, "Ditch"),
+flowing through London, naturally became somewhat befouled, and in
+Henry the VII.'s time, _circa_ 1502, it was cleansed, so that, as
+aforesaid, "boats with fish and fewel were rowed to Fleete bridge,
+and to Oldburne bridge." We also know, as Stow records, that more
+springs were introduced into the stream from Hampstead, without effect,
+either as to deepening or purifying the river, which had an evil
+reputation even in the time of Edward I., as we see in Ryley's "Placita
+Parliamentaria" (ed. 1661), p. 340--
+
+ "_Ad peticionem Com. Lincoln._ querentis quod cum cursus aque,
+ que currit apud _London_ sub _Ponte_ de _Holeburn_, & _Ponte_ de
+ _Fleete_ usque in _Thamisiam_ solebat ita largus & latus esse,
+ ac profundus, quod decem Naves vel duodecim ad predictum Pontem
+ de _Fleete_ cum diversis rebus & mercandisis solebant venire,
+ & quedam illarum Navium sub illo Ponte transire, usque ad
+ predictum Pontem de _Holeburn_ ad predictum cursum mundanmum &
+ simos exinde cariand, nunc ille cursus per fordes & inundaciones
+ Taunatorum & p varias perturbaciones in predicta aqua, factas
+ & maxime per exaltationem Caye & diversionem aque quam ipsi de
+ _Novo Templo_ fecerunt ad Molendina sua extra Castra _Baignard_,
+ quod Naves predicte minime intrare possunt sicut solebant,
+ & facere debeant &c. unde supplicat quod _Maior de London_
+ assumptis secum Vice com. & discretionibus Aldermannis cursum
+ pre[=d]ce aque videat, & quod per visum & sacr[~m] proborum
+ & legalium hominum faciat omnia nocumenta predicte aque que
+ invinerit ammovere & reparare cursum predictum, & ipsum in
+ tali statu manutenere in quo antiquitus esse solebat &c. _Ita
+ responsum est, Assignentur Rogerus le Brabazon & Constabularius
+ Turris, London Maior & Vice Com. London, quod ipsi assumptit
+ secum discretionibus Aldermannis London, &c., inquirant per
+ sacramentum &c., qualiter fieri consuevit & qualis cursus. Et
+ necumenta que invenerint ammoveant & manueri faciant in eadem
+ statu quo antiquitus esse solebat._"
+
+Latin for which a modern schoolboy would get soundly rated, or birched,
+but which tells us that even as far back as Edward I. the Fleet river
+was a nuisance; and as the endorsement (Patent Roll 35 Edward I.)
+shows--"De cursu aquæ de Fleta supervivendo et corrigendo," _i.e._,
+that the Fleet river should be looked after and amended. But the
+Commission issued to perfect this work was discontinued, owing to the
+death of the king. (Patent Roll 1 Edward II., pars 1. m. dorso.) "De
+Cursu Aquæ Flete, &c., reducend et impedimenta removend."
+
+And Prynne, in his edition of Cotton's "Records" (ed. 1669, p.
+188), asks "whether such a commission and inquiry to make this
+river navigable to Holborn Bridge or Clerkenwell, would not now be
+seasonable, and a work worthy to be undertaken for the public benefit,
+trade, and health of the City and Suburbs, I humbly submit to the
+wisdom and judgment of those whom it most Concerns."
+
+So that it would appear, although otherwise stated, that the Fleet was
+not navigable in May, 1669, the date of the publication of Prynne's
+book.
+
+As a matter of fact it got to be neither more nor less than an open
+sewer, to which the lines in Coleridge's "Table Talk" would well apply--
+
+  "In Cöln, that town of monks and bones,
+  And pavements fang'd with murderous stones,
+  And rags, and hags, and hideous wenches,
+  I counted two-and-seventy stenches;
+  All well-defined and genuine stinks!
+  Ye nymphs, that reign o'er sewers and sinks,
+  The river Rhine, it is well known,
+  Doth wash the City of Cologne;
+  But, tell me, nymphs, what power divine
+  Shall henceforth wash the River Rhine?"
+
+The smell of the Fleet river was notorious; so much so, that Farquhar,
+in his _Sir Harry Wildair_, act ii., says, "Dicky! Oh! I was just dead
+of a Consumption, till the sweet smoke of _Cheapside_, and the dear
+perfume of _Fleet Ditch_ made me a man again!" In Queen Anne's time,
+too, it bore an evil reputation: _vide The Tatler_ (No. 238, October
+17, 1710) by Steele and Swift.[9]
+
+  "Now from all parts the swelling kennels flow,
+  And bear their trophies with them as they go:
+  Filth of all hues and odours seem to tell
+  What street they sail'd from, by their sight and smell.
+  They, as each torrent drives, with rapid force,
+  From Smithfield or St. Pulchre's shape their course,
+  And in huge confluent join'd at Snow Hill ridge,
+  Fall from the Conduit, prone to Holborn Bridge.
+  Sweepings from butchers' stalls, dung, guts, and blood,
+  Drown'd puppies, stinking sprats, all drench'd in mud,
+  Dead cats and turnip-tops come tumbling down the flood."
+
+We get a glimpse of prehistoric London, and the valley of the Fleet, in
+Gough's "British Topography," vol. i. p. 719 (ed. 1780). Speaking of
+John Conyers, "apothecary, one of the first Collectors of antiquities,
+especially those relating to London, when the City was rebuilding....
+He inspected most of the gravel-pits near town for different sorts and
+shapes of stones. In one near the sign of Sir J. Oldcastle, about 1680,
+he discovered the skeleton of an elephant, which he supposed had lain
+there only since the time of the Romans, who, in the reign of Claudius,
+fought the Britons near this place, according to Selden's notes on
+the Polyolbion. In the same pit he found the head of a British spear
+of flint, afterwards in the hands of Dr. Charlett, and engraved in
+Bagford's letter." We, now-a-days, with our more accurate knowledge of
+Geology and Palæontology, would have ascribed a far higher ancestry to
+the "elephant."
+
+As a matter of course, a little river like the Fleet must have become
+the receptacle of many articles, which, once dropped in its waters,
+could not be recovered; so that it is not surprising to read in the
+_Mirror_ of March 22, 1834 (No. 653, p. 180), an account of antiquarian
+discoveries therein, which, if not archæologically correct, is at least
+interesting.
+
+ "In digging this Canal between Fleet Prison and Holborn Bridge,
+ several Roman utensils were lately discovered at the depth of 15 feet;
+ and a little deeper, a great quantity of Roman Coins, in silver,
+ brass, copper, and all other metals except gold. Those of silver were
+ ring money, of several sizes, the largest about the bigness of a
+ Crown, but gradually decreasing; the smallest were about the size of a
+ silver Twopence, each having a snip at the edge. And at Holborn Bridge
+ were dug up two brazen lares, or household gods, about four inches in
+ length, which were almost incrusted with a petrified matter: one of
+ these was Bacchus, and the other Ceres; but the coins lying at the
+ bottom of the current, their lustre was in a great measure preserved,
+ by the water incessantly washing off the oxydizing metal. Probably
+ the great quantity of coin found in this ditch, was thrown in by the
+ Roman inhabitants of this city for its preservation at the approach
+ of Boadicæa at the head of her army: but the Roman Citizens, without
+ distinction of age or sex, being barbarously murdered by the justly
+ enraged Britons, it was not discovered till this time.
+
+ "Besides the above-mentioned antiquities, several articles of a more
+ modern date were discovered, as arrow-heads, scales, seals with
+ the proprietors' names upon them in Saxon characters; spur rowels
+ of a hand's breadth, keys and daggers, covered over with livid
+ rust; together with a considerable number of medals, with crosses,
+ crucifixes, and Ave Marias engraven thereon."
+
+A paper was read, on June 11, 1862, to the members of the British
+Archæological Association, by Mr. Ganston, who exhibited various relics
+lately recovered from the bed of the river Fleet, but they were not
+even of archæological importance--a few knives, the earliest dating
+from the fifteenth century, and a few knife handles.
+
+Previously, at a meeting of the same Society, on December 9, 1857, Mr.
+C. H. Luxmore exhibited a green glazed earthenware jug of the sixteenth
+century, found in the Fleet.
+
+And, before closing this antiquarian notice of the Fleet, I cannot but
+record some early mention of the river which occur in the archives of
+the Corporation of the City of London:--
+
+ (17 Edward III., A.D. 1343, Letter-book F, fol. 67.) "Be it
+ remembered that at the Hustings of Common Pleas, holden on
+ the Monday next before the Feast of Gregory the Pope, in the
+ 17th year of the reign of King Edward, after the Conquest, the
+ Third, Simon Traunceys, Mayor, the Aldermen and the Commonalty,
+ of the City of London, for the decency and cleanliness of the
+ same city, granted upon lease to the butchers in the Parish of
+ St. Nicholas Shambles, in London, a piece of land in the lane
+ called 'Secollane' (sea coal), neare to the water of Flete, for
+ the purpose of there, in such water, cleansing the entrails
+ of beasts. And upon such piece of land the butchers aforesaid
+ were to repair a certain quay at their charges, and to keep the
+ same in repair; they paying yearly to the Mayor of London for
+ the time being, at the Feast of our Lord's Nativity, one boar's
+ head."[10]
+
+ (31 Edward III., A.D. 1357, Letter-book G, fol. 72.) "Also, it
+ is ordered, that no man shall take, or cause to be carried,
+ any manner of rubbish, earth, gravel, or dung, from out of his
+ stables or elsewhere, to throw, and put the same into the rivers
+ of Thames and Flete, or into the Fosses around the walls of the
+ City: and as to the dung that is found in the streets and lanes,
+ the same shall be carried and taken elsewhere out of the City by
+ carts, as heretofore; or else by the _raykers_[11] to certain
+ spots, that the same may be put into the _dongebotes_,[12]
+ without throwing anything into the Thames; for saving the body
+ of the river, and preserving the quays, such as Dowegate,
+ Quenhethe, and Castle Baynards, (and) elsewhere, for lading
+ and unlading; as also, for avoiding the filthiness that is
+ increasing in the water, and upon the banks of the Thames, to
+ the great abomination and damage of the people. And, if any
+ one shall be found doing the Contrary hereof, let him have the
+ prison for his body, and other heavy punishment as well, at the
+ discretion of the Mayor and of the Aldermen."[13]
+
+ (7 Henry V. A.D. 1419, Journal 1, fol. 61.) "It is granted that
+ the _risshbotes_[14] at the Flete and elsewhere in London shall
+ be taken into the hands of the Chamberlain; and the Chamberlain
+ shall cause all the streets to be cleansed."[15]
+
+The northern heights of London, the "ultima Thule" of men like Keats,
+and Shelley, abound in springs, which form the bases of several little
+streams, which are fed on their journey to their bourne, the Thames
+(to which they act as tributaries), by numerous little brooklets and
+rivulets, which help to swell their volume. On the northern side of
+the ridge which runs from Hampstead to Highgate, birth is given to
+the Brent, which, springing from a pond in the grounds of Sir Spencer
+Wells, is pent up in a large reservoir at Hendon, and finally debouches
+into the Thames at Brentford, where, from a little spring, which it is
+at starting, it becomes so far a "fleet" as to allow barges to go up
+some distance.
+
+[Illustration: SHEPHERD'S WELL, HAMPSTEAD.]
+
+On the southern side of the ridge rise the Tybourne, and the
+Westbourne. The former had its rise in a spring called Shepherd's Well,
+in Shepherd's Fields, Hampstead, which formed part of the district now
+known as Belsize Park and FitzJohn's Avenue, which is the finest road
+of private houses in London. Shepherd's Well is depicted in Hone's
+"Table Book," pp. 381, 2, and shows it as it was over fifty years
+since. Alas! it is a thing of the past; a railway tunnel drained the
+spring, and a mansion, now known as The Conduit Lodge, occupies its
+site. It meandered by Belsize House, through St. John's Wood, running
+into Regent's Park, where St. Dunstan's now is, and, close to the
+Ornamental Water, it was joined by a little rivulet which sprang from
+where now, is the Zoological Gardens. It went across Marylebone Road,
+and, as nearly as possible, Marylebone Lane shows its course; then
+down South Molton Street, passing Brook Street, and Conduit Street,
+by Mayfair, to Clarges Street, across Oxford Street and into a pond
+in the Green Park called the Ducking Pond, which was possibly used as
+a place of punishment for scolds, or may have been an ornamental pond
+for water-fowl. Thence it ran in front of Buckingham Palace, where it
+divided, which was the cause of its name. Twy, or Teo (double), and
+Bourne, Brook--one stream running into the Thames west of Millbank,
+doing duty by the way in turning the Abbey Mill (whence the name),
+and the other debouching east of Westminster Bridge, thus forming
+the Island of Thorns, or Thorney Isle, on which Edward the Confessor
+founded his abbey, and the City of Westminster.
+
+The Westbourne took its rise in a small pond near "Telegraph Hill,"
+at Hampstead; two or three brooklets joined it, and it ran its course
+across the Finchley Road, to the bottom of Alexandra Road, Kilburn,
+where it was met by another stream, which had its source at Frognal,
+Hampstead. It then became the West bourne, as being the most westerly
+of all the rivers near London, taking the Wallbrook, the Fleet, and the
+Tybourne.
+
+Its course may be traced down Kilburn Park Road, and Shirland Road.
+Crossing the Harrow Road where now is Westbourne Park Station,
+_Eastbourne_ and _Westbourne_ Terraces mark the respective banks, and,
+after crossing the Uxbridge Road, it runs into the Serpentine at the
+Engine House. Feeding that sheet of water, it comes out again at the
+Albert Gate end, runs by Lowndes Square, Cadogan Place, &c., and,
+finally, falls into the river at Chelsea Hospital.
+
+    [Footnote 9: _Journal to Stella_, October 17, 1710--"This day
+    came out _The Tatler_, made up wholly of my Shower, and a
+    preface to it. They say it is the best thing I ever writ, and
+    I think so too."]
+
+    [Footnote 10: "Memorials of London and London Life in the
+    Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Centuries," by H. J.
+    Riley, 1868, p. 214.]
+
+    [Footnote 11: The street sweepers.]
+
+    [Footnote 12: Dung boats.]
+
+    [Footnote 13: See Riley, p. 299.]
+
+    [Footnote 14: This was probably because the rushes were spilt
+    in the river. At that time the house-floors were strewn with
+    rushes, which were brought to London in "Rush boats;" and an
+    ordinance, _temp._ 4 Henry V., provides that "all rushes in
+    future, laden in boats or skiffs, and brought here for sale,
+    should be sold by the cart-load, as from of old had been wont
+    to be done. And that the same cart-loads were to be made up
+    within the boats and skiffs in which the said rushes are
+    brought to the City, and not upon the ground, or upon the
+    wharves, walls, or embankments of the water of Thames, near or
+    adjacent to such boats or skiffs; under a heavy penalty upon
+    the owner or owners of such boats, skiffs, and rushes, at the
+    discretion of the Mayor and Aldermen."]
+
+    [Footnote 15: See Riley, p. 675.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+The Fleet, as far as can be ascertained, owes its birth to an
+ornamental water, fed by springs--one of the numerous ponds in Highgate
+and Hampstead--in the park of Ken Wood, the seat of Earl Mansfield,
+now occasionally occupied by the fourth successor to that title; who,
+being keeper of the royal Castle of Scone, prefers, as a rule, his
+northern residence. In the No Popery riots of 1780, with which Lord
+George Gordon was so intimately connected, Ken Wood House was on the
+brink of being destroyed by the rioters, who had, already, wrecked his
+lordship's house in Bloomsbury Square, and destroyed his most valuable
+library. Tradition says that Ken Wood was saved owing to the landlord
+of "The Spaniards," well known to all pedestrian frequenters of
+Hampstead, giving them his beer, &c., until they were incapacitated, or
+unwilling, to fulfil their quest, meanwhile sending messengers for the
+Horse Guards, who opportunely arrived, and prevented the destruction
+of the mansion. It is quite possible that this is a true story, for
+a footnote (p. 69) in Prickett's "History of Highgate" says: "The
+following is copied from a receipt of one of the constables of the
+Hundred of Ossulston: 'Received 8s. 6d., being the proportion taxed
+and assessed for and towards the payment of the several taxations and
+assessments which have been made upon the said Parish (amounting to the
+sum of £187. 18s. 7d.) towards an equal contribution, to be had and
+made for the relief of the several inhabitants of said Hundred; against
+whom, the several persons who were damnified by rioters within the same
+Hundred, in the month of June, 1780, have obtained verdicts, and had
+their executions respectively.'"
+
+Commencing thus in one of the prettiest parts of the most picturesque
+suburbs of London, it flows from one to the other, right through the
+chain of the Highgate Ponds, fed by several rills, the first being near
+the Hampstead end of Millfield Lane--which is, by some, regarded as
+its source. From the lower pond it crossed the Highgate Road, and, for
+some distance, it ran parallel with it, although a little way eastward.
+It again crossed the Highgate Road not far from its junction with the
+Kentish Town Road, the course of which it followed, until it came to
+Hawley Road, where it was joined by a sister brook, whose source was
+the pond in the Vale of Health at Hampstead, flowing from which, it
+was fed by a brooklet, over which the abortive viaduct of Sir Thomas
+Marion Wilson's construction is carried. It ran into, and through, the
+Hampstead Ponds, which end at the lower east heath, near Pond Street
+(a locality easily recognized when once any one has seen St. Stephen's
+Church, Haverstock Hill, one of the most beautiful churches in London).
+These ponds are immortal, if they needed immortality, as the very first
+page of "Pickwick" gives an entry in the Transactions of the Pickwick
+Club:
+
+ "_May 12, 1827._ Joseph Smiggers, Esq., P.V.P., M.P.C.,
+ presiding. The following resolutions unanimously agreed to--
+
+ "'That this Association has heard read, with feelings of
+ unmingled satisfaction, and unqualified approval, the paper
+ communicated by Samuel Pickwick, Esq., G.C., M.P.C., entitled,
+ "Speculations on the Source of the Hampstead Ponds, with some
+ observations on the Theory of Tittlebats"; and that this
+ Association does hereby return its warmest thanks to the said
+ Samuel Pickwick, Esq., G.C., M.P.C., for the same.'"
+
+Its memory is still retained in the Fleet Road.
+
+On its way through Kentish Town it passed through a purely pastoral
+country, such as we, who know the district only as covered with houses,
+can hardly reconcile with existing circumstances. The Guildhall
+Collection relating to the Fleet River, is very rich in water-colour
+drawings and pen-and-ink sketches of undoubted authenticity, and from
+them I have selected what, in my opinion, are the most suitable for
+this work.[16]
+
+From the above, and this view of Highgate, so late back as 1845, we
+can fairly judge of the pleasant scenery which existed almost at our
+doors--before the iron roads brought population, which begat houses,
+which destroyed all rusticity, leaving bricks and mortar on the site of
+verdant meads, and millions of chimneys vomiting unconsumed carbon and
+sulphur, in the place of the pure fresh air which once was dominant.
+
+[Illustration: THE FLEET, KENTISH TOWN. _Circa_ 1837.]
+
+Here we see the Fleet running its quiet course--and the other sketches
+bear witness to its rurality.
+
+[Illustration: VIEW OF THE VALLEY OF THE FLEET AND HIGHGATE CHURCH,
+FROM FORTESS TERRACE, KENTISH TOWN, SEPT. 28, 1845.
+
+(_Water colour by A. Crosby._)]
+
+After the Fleet had recrossed the Highgate Road near the junction of
+that road and the Kentish Town Road, it passed near the _Gospel Oak_,
+which now gives its name to a railway station in the locality. About
+this oak, there was a tradition that it was so called because St.
+Augustine preached underneath its boughs--a fact which is probably
+as correct as the story that the Church of St. Pancras was the first
+Christian Church in England. In truth, there are, or were, many Gospel
+Oaks and Elms throughout the country; for instance, there is an iron
+foundry near the parishes of Tipton and Wednesbury called _Gospel Oak
+Works_. It was, as a matter of fact, a traditionary custom, in many
+places, when, on Holy Thursday (Ascension Day), the parochial bounds
+were beaten, to read a portion of the Gospels under some well-known
+tree, and hence its name. One or two quotations will easily prove this.
+
+[Illustration: THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN.]
+
+In the "Bury Wills," p. 118, is the following passage in the will of
+John Cole of Thelnetham, dated May 8, 1527: "Item, I will haue a newe
+crosse made according to Trappett's crosse at the Hawe lanes ende, and
+set vp at Short Grove's end, where the gospell is sayd vpon Ascension
+Even, for y^e w^{ch} I assigne x^s."
+
+And, in the poem of Herrick's "Hesperides," which is addressed "To
+Anthea."
+
+                          "Dearest, bury me
+  Under that holy Oke, or Gospel Tree;
+  Where, (though thou see'st not,) thou may'st think upon
+  Me, when thou yerely go'st procession."
+
+It also passed near Parliament, or Traitors', Hill--a name which
+is much in dispute; some maintaining that it was fortified by the
+Parliamentary Army, under Cromwell, for the protection of London,
+others that the 5th of November conspirators met here to view the
+expected explosion of the Houses of Parliament. This, which forms the
+most southern part of Hampstead Heath, and therefore the nearest, and
+most accessible to the great bulk of Londoners, has a beautiful view of
+Highgate and London, and has, I am happy to say, been preserved as an
+open space for the public.
+
+[Illustration: THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN.]
+
+We have now followed the Fleet in its course to Kentish Town, the
+etymon of which is, to say the least, somewhat hazy. Being so, of
+course, an immense amount of theory has been expended upon it. Some
+contend that it springs from the Prebendary attached to St. Paul's
+Cathedral, of Cantelupe, or Cantelows, now (in _Crockford_, called
+Cantlers): one antiquary suggesting that it owes its name to the delta
+formed by the junction of the two branches of the Fleet--from _Cant_
+or _Cantle_, a corner;--whilst yet another authority thinks that, as
+the Fleet had its source from Ken Wood--it was called Ken-ditch--hence
+Kenditch or Kentish Town. Be it as it may, it was a very pleasant and
+rural suburb, and one of some note, for herein William Bruges, Garter
+King-at-Arms, had a country house, at which he entertained, in the year
+1416, the Emperor Sigismund, who came over here, in that year, to try
+and mediate between our Henry V. and the King of France.
+
+In still older times it formed part of the great Middlesex forest,
+which was full of wolves, wild boars, deer, and wild oxen; but we find
+that, in 1252, Henry III. granted to Thomas Ive, permission to inclose
+a portion of the highway adjoining his mansion at Kentessetone. And in
+1357, John of Oxford, who was Mayor of London in 1341, gave, amongst
+other things, to the Priory of the Holy Trinity, in London, a mill at
+Kentish Town--which, of course, must have been turned by the Fleet. The
+kind donor was one of the very few Mayors who died during his mayoralty.
+
+It is said, too, that Nell Gwynne had a house in Kentish Town, but I
+can find not the slightest confirmation of the rumour; still, as there
+is a very good pen-and-ink sketch of the old house said to be hers, I
+give it, as it helps to prove the antiquity of Kentish Town, now, alas!
+only too modern.
+
+[Illustration: OLD HOUSE, KENTISH TOWN, SUPPOSED TO HAVE BEEN NELL
+GWYNNE'S.]
+
+And there was another old house close by the Fleet there, an old
+farmhouse known as Brown's dairy.
+
+[Illustration: THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN--BROWNE'S DAIRY FARM, SEPT.
+21, 1833.
+
+(_By A. Crosby--water colour._)]
+
+This old Farmhouse had, evidently, a nobler origin, for it was moated;
+and, in 1838, the moat existed on the east and north sides. It
+belonged to the College of Christ Church, Oxford, and was held of the
+Manor of Cantelows at a small fine. There was a good orchard, which at
+the above date (the time of its demolition) contained a large walnut
+tree and some mulberry trees. The building materials were sold for £60,
+so that it evidently had done its work, and passed away in the ripeness
+of old age.
+
+[Illustration: CASTLE, KENTISH TOWN ROAD, 1848.]
+
+The Castle Inn is said to have been the oldest house in Kentish Town,
+and there is a tradition that Lord Nelson once lived here, "in order
+that he might keep his eye upon the Fleet," and planted a sycamore in
+the garden.
+
+Before taking leave of Kentish Town, I cannot help recording a legal
+squabble, which resulted in a victory for the public.--_Times_,
+February 12, 1841:--
+
+ "COURT OF QUEEN'S BENCH, _Thursday, February 11, 1841_.
+ (Sittings at Nisi Prius, at Westminster, before Lord Denman and
+ a special jury.)
+
+ "THE QUEEN _v._ TUBB.
+
+ "This was an Indictment against the Defendant for obstructing a
+ footpath leading from Pond Lane, at Hampstead, over Traitors'
+ and Parliament Hill, to Highgate.
+
+ "The case lasted the whole day.
+
+ "The jury brought a verdict for the Crown, thus establishing the
+ right of the Public to one of the most beautiful walks in the
+ neighbourhood of the metropolis."
+
+The Fleet babbled through the meadows, until its junction with that
+other stream which flowed from the pond in the Vale of Health at
+Hampstead, which took place where now is Hawley Street, and the united
+brook, or river, ran across what are now the Kentish, and Camden, Town
+Roads, and between Great College Street, and King Street; it then
+followed the course of the present road to King's Cross, passing by St.
+Pancras Church--which, originally, was of great antiquity, and close
+by which was a celebrated healing well, known as Pancras' Wells. These
+waters cured everything--scurvy, king's evil, leprosy, cancers, ulcers,
+rheumatism, disorders of the eyes, and pains of the stomach and bowels,
+colds, worms, &c., &c.
+
+In the Church, and Churchyard, were interred many illustrious dead,
+especially Roman Catholics, who seem to have taken a particular
+fancy to have their remains buried there, probably on account of the
+tradition that this was the last church in which mass was celebrated.
+It was a favourite burial-place of the French clergy--and a story is
+told (how true I know not) that, down to the French Revolution, masses
+were celebrated in a church in the south of France, dedicated to St.
+Pancras, for the souls of the faithful interred here.
+
+[Illustration: THE BRILL.]
+
+Many historical names are here preserved--amongst whom are Pasco de
+Paoli, the famous Corsican; Walker, whose dictionary is still a text
+book; the Chevalier d'Eon, respecting whose sex there was once such a
+controversy; Count O'Rourke, famous in the world of fashion in 1785;
+Mrs. Godwin--better known, perhaps, as Mary Woolstencraft--who also
+was married here; William Woollett, the eminent landscape engraver,
+a branch of art in which he may be said to have been the father;
+Samuel Cooper, whose miniatures cannot be surpassed; Scheemaker the
+younger, a sculptor of no small note. Nor in this _campo santo_ was
+Music unrepresented, for there, amongst others, lie the bodies of
+Mazzinghi, who brought the violin into fashion here in 1740; and Beard,
+a celebrated singer in 1753. The river flows hence to Battle Bridge, or
+King's Cross, as it is now termed, forming in its way a sort of pond
+called "Pancras Wash," and running through a low-lying district called
+"The Brill."[17] This peculiarly unsavoury neighbourhood has now been
+cleared away, in order to afford siding room, &c., for the Midland
+Railway.
+
+But Dr. Stukeley, who certainly had Roman Camps on the brain,
+discovered one in the Brill. He planned it out beautifully. Here were
+the Equites posted, there the Hastati, and there were the Auxiliarii.
+He made the Fleet do duty for a moat which nearly surrounded Cæsar's
+Prætorium, and he placed a Forum close by St. Pancras' Church, to the
+northward of which he assigned a Prætorium to Prince Mandubrace. Is it
+not true? for is it not all written in his "Itinerary"? and does he not
+devote the first seventeen pages of the second volume of that work,
+entirely to the Brill, assuring us of the great pleasure he received in
+striding over the ground--following, in imagination, the footsteps of
+the Roman Camp Master, who _paced_ out the dimensions of the Camp?
+
+
+    [Footnote 16: See pages 28, 29, 30, 31, &c.]
+
+    [Footnote 17: See previous page.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+That it was _countrified_ about this part of London, is shown by the
+accompanying Copy of an engraving, by J. T. Smith, of a view "near
+Battle Bridge."[18]
+
+The etymology of Battle Bridge, which consists of only one arch, and
+now forms a part of the Fleet Sewer, is a much vexed question. At one
+time it was an article of faith, not to be impugned, that here, A.D.
+61, was fought the famous battle between the Romans, under Suetonius
+Paulinus, and the Britons, under Boadicea, Queen of the Iceni, which
+ended so disastrously for the natives--eighty thousand of whom are
+said to have been killed. But there seems to be a doubt, as to whether
+this was the exact spot where this historical contest took place, for
+Tacitus makes no mention of the little river Fleet, which must then
+have been navigable for light and small craft, for an anchor was found,
+in its bed, at Kentish Town. He only describes it (Tacit. Ann. lib.
+xiv. c. 34) a spot of ground, "narrow at the entrance, and sheltered
+in the rear by a thick forest." No remains have ever been exhumed,
+nor have Roman, or British, relics been found near the spot.
+
+[Illustration: BATTLE BRIDGE.]
+
+In the first quarter of this century the Fleet, for the greater part
+of its time, ran placidly along, as we see by these two pen-and-ink
+sketches, taken at Battle Bridge.[19] But, occasionally, it forgot its
+good manners, and overflowed its banks, flooding portions of Kentish
+Town, Somers Town, and Battle Bridge, as we read in the _Gentlemans
+Magazine_, vol. lxxxviii. part i. p. 462, Saturday, May 9, 1818:--
+
+ "From the heavy rain, which commenced yesterday afternoon at
+ six o'clock, and continued pouring incessantly till four this
+ morning, Battle Bridge, St. Pancras, and part of Somers Town
+ were inundated. The water was several feet deep in many of the
+ houses, and covered an extent of upwards of a mile. The carcases
+ of several sheep and goats were found near Hampstead Reservoir,
+ and property was damaged to a very considerable amount."
+
+[Illustration: BATTLE BRIDGE.]
+
+There must have been a Mill here, for Stow tells us that in the reign
+of Edward VI. "A Miller of Battaile Bridge was set on the Pillory in
+Cheape, and had both his eares cut off, for seditious words by him
+spoken against the Duke of Somerset."
+
+[Illustration: BATTLE BRIDGE.]
+
+Here, as elsewhere, just outside London, the road was not too safe for
+travellers, as the following account of a highway robbery will show. It
+was committed by one John Everett, whose career in life had been rather
+chequered. As an apprentice he ran away, and enlisted in Flanders,
+rising to the rank of sergeant. When the troops returned, he purchased
+his discharge, and got a situation in the Whitechapel Debtors' Court,
+but had to leave it, and he became a companion of thieves, against whom
+he turned king's evidence. He got into debt, and was locked up in the
+Fleet Prison, but was allowed to reside within the Rules, a district
+round about the prison, out of which no prisoner might wander; and
+there, in the Old Bailey, he kept a public-house. But he could not
+keep away from evil doing, and was sent to Newgate. On the expiration
+of his sentence, he turned highwayman. In the course of his
+professional career he, on December 24, 1730, stopped a Coach at Battle
+Bridge, which coach contained two ladies, a child, and a maidservant,
+and he despoiled them, but not uncivilly. The husband of one of the
+ladies coming up, pursued him, and next day he was caught. It was not
+then, any more than it is now, that every rogue got his deserts, but
+this one did, for he was hanged at Tyburn, February 20, 1731.
+
+The name of "Battle Bridge" is well-nigh forgotten, and "King's Cross"
+reigns in its stead. Yet how few Londoners of the present generation
+know whence the name is derived! If they ever trouble their heads about
+it at all, they probably imagine that it was a cross, like the Eleanor
+Crosses, raised to the memory of some king.
+
+And what king, think you, was it intended to keep in perpetual
+remembrance? None other than his Most Gracious Majesty King George the
+Fourth, of pious memory. Why this monument was raised I have never
+been able to learn, unless it was to celebrate his death, which took
+place in 1830, and probably to hold up his many virtues, as bright
+exemplars, to ages yet unborn; but a mad fit came over the inhabitants
+of Battle Bridge, and the hideous structure arose. It was all shoddy;
+in the form of an octagon building ornamented with pilasters, all
+substantially built of brick, and covered over with compo or cement,
+in order to render it more enduring. It was used as a police-station,
+and afterwards as a public-house, whilst the pediment of the statue
+was utilized as a camera obscura. I don't think they knew exactly what
+they were about, for one party wanted it to be called Boadicea's Cross,
+another went in for it being nationally named St. George's Cross; but
+the goodness of the late king was more popular, and carried the day,
+and we now enjoy the _nominis umbra_ of King's Cross, instead of the
+old cognomen of Battle Bridge. It had a very brief existence. It was
+built between 1830 and 1835, and was demolished in 1845; the stucco
+statue only having been _in situ_ for ten years. It is said that the
+nose of this regal statue had, for its base, an earthen draining tile,
+and that it was offered to a gentleman for sixpence!
+
+There hardly seems to be any connection between "the first gentleman
+in Europe" and dustmen, but there is a slight link. Battle Bridge was
+peculiarly the home of the necessary dustman, and in a song called "The
+Literary Dustman," commencing--
+
+  "They call me Adam Bell, 'tis clear
+  That Adam vos the fust man,
+  And by a co-in-side-ance queer
+  Vy I'm the fust of dustmen,"
+
+is the following verse:--
+
+  "Great sculptors all conwarse wi' me,
+  And call my taste divine, sirs,
+  King George's statty at King's Cross,
+  Vos built from my design, sirs."
+
+Close by here, in Gray's Inn Road, was a mountain of refuse and dust;
+but it was as profitable as were the heaps of Mr. Boffin in Charles
+Dickens's "Our Mutual Friend." This mound once had a curious clearance,
+so it is said. It was bought in its entirety, and sent over to Russia,
+to help make bricks to rebuild Moscow; and the ground on which it stood
+was, in 1826, sold to a Company for £15,000.
+
+[Illustration: DUST HEAP AT BATTLE BRIDGE.]
+
+  "My dawning Genus fust did peep,
+  Near Battle Bridge,'tis plain, sirs:
+  You recollect the cinder heap,
+  Vot stood in Gray's Inn Lane, sirs?"
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Let us turn to a sweeter subject, and gossip about St. Chad's Well, the
+site of which is now occupied by the Metropolitan Railway at King's
+Cross. St. Chad is a saint in the English calendar, and might have been
+a distinguished temperance leader, if the number of wells dedicated
+to him, is any criterion. He lived in the seventh century, and was
+educated at Lindisfarne (at least so Bede says), and afterwards became
+Bishop of Lichfield, and, at his death, his soul is said to have been
+accompanied to heaven by angels and sweet music.
+
+A good modern account is given in Hone's "Every Day Book," vol. i.
+pp. 323, 4, 5, which, as it was taken from actual observation about
+fifty years since, may well be transcribed. Speaking of the aforesaid
+dust-heap he says:--
+
+ "Opposite to this unsightly site, and on the right hand side of
+ the road, is an anglewise faded inscription--
+
+ [Illustration: ST. CHAD'S WELL.]
+
+ "It stands, or rather dejects, over an elderly pair of wooden
+ gates, one whereof opens on a scene which the unaccustomed eye
+ may take for the pleasure-ground of Giant Despair. Trees stand
+ as if made not to vegetate, clipped hedges seem unwilling to
+ decline, and nameless weeds straggle weakly upon unlimited
+ borders. If you look upwards you perceive, painted on an octagon
+ board, 'Health restored and preserved.' Further on, towards
+ the left, stands a low, old-fashioned, comfortable-looking,
+ large-windowed dwelling, and, ten to one, but there also stands
+ at the open door, an ancient ailing female, in a black bonnet,
+ a clean, coloured cotton gown, and a check apron, her silver
+ hair only in part tucked beneath the narrow border of a frilled
+ cap, with a sedate and patient, yet somewhat inquiring look. She
+ gratuitously tells you that 'the gardens' of 'St. Chad's Well'
+ are for 'Circulation' by paying for the waters, of which you may
+ drink as much, or as little, or nothing, as you please, at one
+ guinea per year, 9s. 6d. quarterly, 4s. 6d. monthly, or 1s. 6d.
+ weekly. You qualify for a single visit by paying sixpence, and a
+ large glass tumbler, full of warm water, is handed to you. As a
+ stranger, you are told, that 'St. Chad's Well was famous at one
+ time.'
+
+ "Should you be inquisitive, the dame will instruct you, with
+ an earnest eye, that 'people are not what they were,' 'things
+ are not as they used to be,' and she 'can't tell what'll happen
+ next.' Oracles have not ceased. While drinking St. Chad's water,
+ you observe an immense copper, into which it is poured, wherein
+ it is heated to due efficacy, and from whence it is drawn by
+ a cock, into glasses. You also remark, hanging on the wall, a
+ 'tribute of gratitude,' versified, and inscribed on vellum,
+ beneath a pane of glass stained by the hand of time, and let
+ into a black frame. This is an effusion for value received
+ from St. Chad's invaluable water. But, above all, there is a
+ full-sized portrait in oil, of a stout, comely personage, with
+ a ruddy countenance, in a coat or cloak, supposed scarlet, a
+ laced cravat falling down the breast, and a small red nightcap
+ carelessly placed on the head, conveying the idea that it was
+ painted for the likeness of some opulent butcher, who flourished
+ in the reign of Queen Anne. Ask the dame about it, and she
+ refers you to 'Rhone.'[20] This is a tall old man, who would
+ be taller if he were not bent by years. 'I am ninety-four,' he
+ will tell you, 'this present year of our Lord, one thousand,
+ eight hundred, and twenty-five.' All that he has to communicate
+ concerning the portrait is, 'I have heard say it is the portrait
+ of St. Chad.' Should you venture to differ, he adds, 'this is
+ the opinion of most people who come here.' You may gather that
+ it is his own undoubted belief.
+
+ "On pacing the garden alleys, and peeping at the places of
+ retirement, you imagine the whole may have been improved and
+ beautified, for the last time, by some countryman of William
+ III., who came over and died in the same year with that king,
+ and whose works here, in wood and box, have been following him
+ piecemeal ever since.
+
+ "St. Chad's Well is scarcely known in the neighbourhood save by
+ its sign-board of invitation and forbidding externals;... it
+ is haunted, not frequented. A few years, and it will be with
+ its waters, as with the water of St. Pancras' Well, which is
+ enclosed in the garden of a private house, near old St. Pancras
+ Churchyard."
+
+But, although the prophecy in "Hone" was destined to be fulfilled, yet
+it was twelve years before it came about, and it was not until
+September 14, 1837, that Messrs. Warlters and Co. sold, at Garraway's
+Coffee House, Change Alley, Cornhill, the "valuable Copyhold Property,
+situate in Gray's Inn Lane, near King's Cross, Battle Bridge," which
+consisted of "The well-known and valuable Premises, Dwelling-house,
+Large Garden, and Offices, with the very celebrated Spring of Saline
+Water called St. Chad's Well, which, in proper hands, would produce
+an inexhaustible Revenue, as its qualities are allowed by the first
+Physicians to be unequalled."
+
+[Illustration: ST. CHAD'S WELL.]
+
+It was a good sized piece of ground; in shape of a somewhat irregular
+triangle, of which the base measured about 200 feet, and from apex to
+base 95 feet. It was Copyhold. The vendor was not to be asked for a
+title prior to 1793, and it was held of the Manor of _Cantlowes_ or
+_Cantlers_, subject to a small fine, certain, of 6s. 8d., on death
+or alienation, and to a Quit Rent of 5d. per annum. We should say,
+nowadays, that the assessment was very small, as, including the large
+gardens, both back and front, the whole was only valued, including the
+_Saline Spring_, at £81 10s. per annum, of which £21 10s. was let off,
+but which formed but a small portion of the property.
+
+What would not the waters of St. Chad's Well cure? Really I think
+the proprietor hardly knew himself, for a handbill I have before me
+commences--"The celebrity of these waters being confined chiefly to its
+own immediate vicinity for a number of years; the present proprietor
+has thought proper to give more extensive publicity to the existence of
+a nostrum provided by Nature, through Divine Providence, approaching
+nearest that great desideratum of scientific men and mankind in
+general, throughout all ages; namely, an UNIVERSAL MEDICINE.... The
+many cures yearly performed by these waters does not come within the
+limits of a handbill, but, suffice it to say, that here, upon trial,
+the sufferer finds a speedy and sure relief from INDIGESTION and its
+train, HABITUAL COSTIVENESS, the extensive range of LIVER COMPLAINTS,
+DROPSY in its early stages, GLANDULAR OBSTRUCTIONS, and that bane of
+life, SCROPHULA; for ERUPTIONS ON THE FACE OR SKIN its almost immediate
+efficacy needs but a trial." This wonderful water, with use of garden,
+was then, say 1835, supposed to be worth to the sufferer £1 per annum,
+or threepence a visit, or you might have it supplied at eightpence per
+gallon.
+
+And yet it seems only to have been a mild aperient, and rather dear
+at the price. In the _Mirror_ of April 13, 1833, Mr. Booth, Professor
+of Chemistry, professed to give an analysis of the "Mineral Waters in
+the neighbourhood of London," and he thus writes of St. Chad's Well:
+"It is aperient, and is yet much resorted to by the poorer classes of
+the metropolis, with whom it enjoys considerable reputation. From an
+examination, I find it to be a strong solution of sulphate of soda and
+sulphate of magnesia"--but he does not favour us with a quantitative
+analysis.
+
+Neither does the proprietor, one Wm. Lucas, who not only propounded
+the handbill from which I have quoted, but published a pamphlet on
+the healing virtues of the spring, and he also adds to Mr. Booth's
+qualitative analysis, "a small quantity of Iron, which is held in
+Solution by Carbonic Acid."
+
+"The Well from which the Waters are supplied, is excluded from the
+external air; the Water when freshly drawn is perfectly clear and
+pellucid, and sparkles when poured into a glass; to the taste it is
+slightly bitter, not sufficiently so to render it disagreeable; indeed,
+Persons often think it so palatable as to take it at the table for a
+common beverage."
+
+This, however, is slightly at variance with the following, "As a
+Purgative, more so than could be inferred from their taste, a pint is
+the ordinary dose for an Adult, which operates pleasantly, powerfully,
+and speedily:" qualities which are scarcely desirable for a Table water.
+
+That, at one time, this Well was in fashion, although in 1825 it was in
+its decadence, I may quote from the pamphlet (which, however, must be
+taken by the reader, _quantum valeat_):
+
+ "JONATHAN RHONE, who was Gardener and Waiter at these Wells
+ upwards of Sixty Years, says, that when he first came into
+ office at about the middle of the eighteenth Century, the Waters
+ were in great repute, and frequently were visited by eight or
+ nine hundred Persons in a morning: the charge for drinking the
+ Waters was Three pence each Person, and they were delivered at
+ the Pump Room for exportation, at the rate of Twenty-four pint
+ bottles, packed in hamper, for One Pound Cash."
+
+    [Footnote 18: See next page.]
+
+    [Footnote 19: See pages 41, 42.]
+
+    [Footnote 20: Rhone was an old waiter at the Well. See p. 51.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+As the Fleet was "the River of Wells" it may be as well to notice the
+Wells, which, although not absolutely contributing towards swelling its
+volume, are yet closely adjacent--namely, White Conduit, and Sadlers
+Wells. Both of these, as indeed were all the other Wells about London,
+were first known as mineral springs, a fact which drew the middle
+classes to seek relief from real, or fancied, ailments, by drinking
+the medicinal waters, as at Bath, Epsom, Cheltenham, Harrogate,
+Brixton, and elsewhere. Wherever people congregate, the mere drinking
+of salutary water, is but tame work, and the animal spirits of some of
+them must find an outlet in amusements, which materially assist, to
+say the least, in the agreeable passing of time. But the mere drinking
+of waters must have been irksome--even if people took to it as well as
+_Shadwell_ in his play of "Epsom Wells" describes:--
+
+[Illustration: THE WHITE CONDUIT.]
+
+"_Brisket._ I vow it is a pleasurable Morning: the Waters taste so
+finely after being fudled last Night. Neighbour _Fribbler_ here's a
+Pint to you.
+
+ "_Fribbler._ I'll pledge you, Mrs. _Brisket_; I have drunk eight
+ already.
+
+ "_Mrs. Brisket._ How do the Waters agree with your Ladyship?
+
+ "_Mrs. Woodly._ Oh, Sovereignly: how many Cups have you arrived
+ to?
+
+ "_Mrs. Brisket._ Truly Six, and they pass so kindly."
+
+By degrees these medicinal waters, or Spas, as they were termed in
+later times, fell into desuetude, possibly because medical knowledge
+was advancing; and the Wells, with their gardens attached, became
+places of outdoor recreation, where the sober citizen could smoke his
+pipe, and have his beer, or cider, whilst his wife, and her gossips,
+indulged in tittle tattle over their Tea--which, although much dearer
+than at present, was a very popular beverage, and so, from health
+resorts, they imperceptibly merged into the modern Tea Garden--which,
+in its turn, has become nearly extinct, as have the Ranelagh and
+Vauxhall of a former age; which, however, we have seen, in our time,
+somewhat resuscitated in the outdoor portion of the several Exhibitions
+which have taken place, in the few past years, at South Kensington.
+
+The White Conduit had a history of its own, which we can trace back, at
+all events, to the fifteenth century, for it was built as a reservoir
+to supply what was, afterwards, the Charterhouse.
+
+This we can see by a royal licence, dated December 2, 9 Henry VI. an.
+1431,[21] which granted to John Feryby, and his wife Margery, that they
+might grant and assign to the Prior and Convent of the House of the
+Salutation of the Blessed Mary of the Carthusian Order, by London, a
+certain well spring (_fontein_) and 53 perches of land in length, and
+12 feet in breadth, in the vill of Iseldon (Islington) to have to them
+and their successors for ever, and to the same Prior and Convent, to
+take the said land, and construct a certain subterraneous aqueduct from
+the aforesaid well spring, through the aforesaid land, and through the
+King's highway aforesaid, and elsewhere, as it may seem best &c.,
+_non obstante_ the Act against mortmain (_Teste Humfride Duce
+Gloucestr' Custode Angliæ apud Westm._).
+
+As we know, Henry VIII. put an end to the Monastic Orders in England,
+and, at the dissolution of the Priory, the reversion of the site, and
+house thereof, was granted, on April 14, 1545,[22] to Sir Roger North,
+in fee, together with "all that the Head and original Well Spring of
+one Channel or Aqueduct situate and being in a certain field in the
+parish of Islington"--and it also gave, all the channels, aqueducts,
+and watercourses under ground "up to the site of the said House of the
+Carthusians."
+
+But, although the spring might, and did, supply the Charter House,
+yet it is possible that the Conduit House, from which it got the name
+of _White_ Conduit, from its being built of white stone--was built by
+Thomas Sutton, who founded the Hospital of the Charter House,--in 1611.
+It was either built by him, or repaired in 1641, for, incorporated in
+the building, was a stone containing his arms--and initials.[23]
+
+The other initials have not been identified. As the "White Conduit"
+it was known well into this century, but it fell somewhat into decay,
+about 1812--was never repaired, and, finally, was pulled down in
+1831--to make way for the completion of some new buildings in Barnsbury
+Road, as a continuation of Penton Street: and the stone was broken up,
+and used in making the New Road.
+
+[Illustration: STONE IN THE WHITE CONDUIT.
+_Gentleman's Magazine_, vol. lxxi. p. 1161, A.D. 1801.]
+
+So much for the Conduit itself; but it, although inert, exercised a
+large share in the amusements of Londoners down to a comparatively
+recent period. It was pleasantly situated in the fields, and, until
+this century, during the latter half of which, the modern Babylon has
+become one huge mass of bricks and mortar, it served as a pleasant
+place of recreation for the Cits. There was an uninterrupted prospect
+of Hampstead and Highgate--which bounded the northern view, and which
+was purely pastoral, with the exception of sparsely-dotted farmhouses.
+There is a tradition that, on the site of the comparatively modern
+_White Conduit House_, was (in the reign of Charles I.), a tavern in
+the course of erection, and that, being finished, the workmen were
+carousing at the very moment of the monarch's decapitation.
+
+Doubtless, in these suburban fields, there was, for very many years, a
+place for refreshment, which probably took the form, in the Arcadian
+age of the seventeenth and eighteenth century, of new milk, curds
+and whey, and syllabubs, for Islington was famous for its dairy
+produce,[24] as we know by the account of the entertainment given to
+Queen Elizabeth at Kenilworth Castle in 1575 by the Earl of Leicester,
+when the Squier Minstrel of Middlesex made a long speech in praise of
+Islington, whose motto was said to be, "Lactis Caseus infans."
+
+The earliest really authentic notice of the White Conduit House, I
+can find, is in the _Daily Advertiser_ August 10, 1754. "This is to
+acquaint the public, that, at the White Conduit House, the proprietor,
+for the better accommodation of the gentlemen and ladies, has completed
+a long walk, with a handsome circular Fish-pond, a number of shady,
+pleasant arbours inclosed with a fence 7 feet high to prevent being the
+least incommoded from the people in the fields. Hot loaves,[25] and
+butter every day, milk directly from the Cows; coffee and tea, and all
+manners of liquors in the greatest perfection: also a handsome Long
+Room, from whence is the most Copious prospects and airy situation of
+any now in vogue. I humbly hope the continuance of my friends' favours,
+as I make it my chief study to have the best accommodations, and am,
+Gentlemen and Ladies, your obliged humble servant, Robert Bartholomew.
+_Note._ My Cows eat no grains, neither any adulteration in the Milk or
+Cream. Bats and Balls for Cricket, and a convenient field to play in."
+
+This gives us a very fair insight into the sober relaxations of our
+great-great-grandfathers: and that the White Conduit House was, about
+this time, a resort for harmless recreation; and, certainly, it would
+rejoice the modern temperance enthusiasts to find that the principal
+beverages there drank were "non-intoxicants." Oliver Goldsmith
+used frequently to go there, walking from his house at Islington;
+and, in his "Citizen of the World," letter 122, he writes, "After
+having surveyed the Curiosities of this fair and beautiful town, I
+proceeded forward, leaving a fair stone building on my right; here
+the inhabitants of London often assemble to celebrate a feast of hot
+rolls and butter. Seeing such numbers, each with their little tables
+before them, employed on this occasion, must no doubt be a very amusing
+sight to the looker-on, but still more so to those who perform in the
+Solemnity."
+
+And the same story of simplicity of amusement, and refreshment, is
+amusingly told in the _Gentleman's Magazine_ for May, 1760, vol. xxx.
+p. 242, in a short poem by William Woty, the author of the "Shrubs of
+Parnassus, consisting of a variety of poetical essays, moral and comic,
+by I. Copywell, of Lincoln's Inn, Esq. 1760."
+
+  "_And to_ White Conduit _House
+  We will go, will go, will go_."
+
+  Grub Street _Register_.
+
+  "Wish'd Sunday's come--mirth brightens ev'ry face,
+  And paints the rose upon the housemaid's cheek
+  _Harriot_, or _Mol_ more ruddy. Now the heart
+  Of prentice resident in ample street,
+  Or alley, Kennel-wash'd _Cheapside_, _Cornhill_
+  Or _Cranborne_, thee, for calcuments renown'd,
+  With joy distends. His meal meridian o'er,
+  With switch in hand, he to _White Conduit_ house
+  Hies merry hearted. Human beings here
+  In couples multitudinous assemble,
+  Forming the drollest groupe, that ever trod
+  Fair Islingtonian plains. Male after male,
+  Dog after dog, succeeding--husbands--wives--
+  Fathers and mothers--brothers--sisters--friends--
+  And _pretty little boys and girls_. _Around,
+  Across, along_, the garden's shrubby maze,
+  They walk, they sit, they stand. What crowds press on,
+  Eager to mount the stairs, eager to catch
+  First vacant bench or chair in _long-room_ plac'd.
+  Here prig with prig holds conference polite,
+  And indiscriminate, the gaudy beau,
+  And sloven mix. Here _he_, who all the week
+  Took bearded mortals by the nose, or sat
+  Weaving dead hairs, and whistling wretched strain,
+  And eke the sturdy youth, whose trade it is
+  Stout oxen to contend, with gold bound hat,
+  And silken stocking strut. The red-arm'd belle
+  Here shews her _tasty_ gown, proud to be thought
+  The butterfly of fashion: and, forsooth,
+  Her haughty mistress deigns for once to tread
+  The same unhallow'd floor. 'Tis hurry all,
+  And ratling cups and saucers. Waiter here,
+  And waiter there, and waiter here _and_ there,
+  At once is call'd--_Joe--Joe--Joe--Joe--Joe--
+  Joe_ on the right--and _Joe_ upon the left,
+  For ev'ry vocal pipe re-ecchoes _Joe_.
+  Alas, poor _Joe_! Like _Francis_ in the play
+  He stands confounded, anxious how to please
+  The many-headed throng. But shou'd I paint
+  The language, humours, customs of the place,
+  Together with all curtsy's lowly bows,
+
+  And compliments extern, 'twould swell my page
+  Beyond it's limits due. Suffice it then,
+  For my prophetic muse to say, 'So long
+  As fashion rides upon the Wing of time,
+  While tea and cream, and buttered rolls can please,
+  While rival beaux, and jealous belles exist,
+  So long _White Conduit_ house, shall be thy fame.
+
+  W. W."
+
+Later on in the century, it was still a reputable place of resort. In
+1774, there was a painting at one end of the garden, the perspective of
+which served, artificially, to augment its size; the round fish-pond in
+the centre of the garden, still existed, and the refreshment-rooms, or
+boxes, were hung with Flemish and other pictures.
+
+Hone ("Every Day Book," vol. ii. p. 1201, &c.) says, "About 1810, the
+late celebrated Wm. Huntingdon S.S.[26] of Providence Chapel, who lives
+in a handsome house within sight, was at the expense of clearing the
+spring for the use of the inhabitants; but, because his pulpit opinions
+were obnoxious, some of the neighbouring vulgar threw loads of soil
+upon it in the night, which rendered the water impure, and obstructed
+its channel, and, finally, ceasing to flow, the public was deprived of
+the kindness he proposed. The building itself, was in a very perfect
+state at that time, and ought to have been boarded up after the field
+it stood in was thrown open. As the new buildings proceeded, it was
+injured, and defaced, by idle labourers and boys, from mere wantonness,
+and reduced to a mere ruin. There was a kind of upper floor or hayloft
+in it, which was frequently a shelter to the houseless wanderer. A few
+years ago some poor creatures made it a comfortable hostel for the
+night with a little hay. Early in the morning a passing workman
+perceived smoke issuing from the crevices, and as he approached, heard
+loud cries from within. Some mischievous miscreants had set fire to
+the fodder beneath the sleepers, and, afterwards, fastened the door on
+the outside: the inmates were scorched by the fire, and probably they
+would all have been suffocated in a few minutes, if the place had not
+been broken open.
+
+[Illustration: THE WHITE CONDUIT.]
+
+"The 'White Conduit' at this time (1826) merely stands to those who had
+the power, and neglected to preserve it.
+
+"To the buildings grown up around, it might have been rendered a neat
+ornament, by planting a few trees, and enclosing the whole with an iron
+railing, and have stood as a monument of departed worth.
+
+"'White Conduit House' has ceased to be a recreation in the good sense
+of the word. Its present denomination is the 'Minor Vauxhall,' and its
+chief attraction during the passing summer has been Mrs. Bland.[27]
+She has still powers, and, if their exercise here, has been a stay and
+support to this sweet melodist, so far the establishment may be deemed
+respectable. It is a ground for balloon flying and skittle playing, and
+just maintains itself above the very lowest, so as to be one of the
+most doubtful places of public resort. Recollections of it some years
+ago are more in its favour. Its tea gardens then, in summer afternoons,
+were well accustomed by tradesmen and their families; they are now
+comparatively deserted, and, instead, there is, at night, a starveling
+show of odd company and coloured lamps, a mock orchestra, with mock
+singing, dancing in a room which decent persons would prefer to
+withdraw their young folks from, if they entered, and fireworks 'as
+usual,' which, to say the truth, are, usually, very good."
+
+[Illustration: WHITE CONDUIT GARDENS (INTERIOR).]
+
+[Illustration: WHITE CONDUIT GARDENS (EXTERIOR).]
+
+As time went on, the place did not improve, as we may see by the _New
+Monthly Magazine_ for 1833, in an article--part of "Four Views of
+London." Speaking of the White Conduit--"Here too is that Paradise of
+apprentice boys, White _Cundick Couse_, as it is cacophoniously
+pronounced by its visitors, which has done much to expel the decencies
+of the district. Thirty years ago this place was better frequented--that
+is, there was a larger number of respectable adults--fathers and
+mothers, with their children, and a smaller moiety of shop lads, and
+such like Sunday bucks, who were awed into decency by their elders.
+The manners, perhaps, are much upon a _par_ with what they were. The
+ballroom gentlemen then went through country dances with their hats on,
+and their coats off:--hats are now taken off, but coats are still
+unfashionable on these gala nights. The belles of that day wore long
+trains to their gowns: it was a favourite mode of introduction to a lady
+there, to tread on it, and then, apologizing handsomely, acquaintance
+was begun, and soon ripened into an invitation to tea, and the hot
+loaves for which these gardens were once celebrated. Being now a popular
+haunt, those who hang on the rear of the march of human nature, the
+suttlers, camp followers, and plunderers, know that where large numbers
+of men and boys are in pursuit of pleasure, there is a sprinkling of
+the number to whom vice and debauchery are ever welcome: they have,
+therefore, supplied what these wanted; and Pentonville may now hold up
+its head, and boast of its depravities before any part of London."[28]
+
+It got more and more disreputable, until it was pulled down in 1849,
+and the present White Conduit Tavern was built upon a portion of its
+site.
+
+    [Footnote 21: Cart. Antiq. in Off. Augm. vol. ii. No. 43.]
+
+    [Footnote 22: Pat. 36 Henry VIII. p. 13, m. 31.]
+
+    [Footnote 23: See next page.]
+
+    [Footnote 24: In an early sixteenth century book (unique)
+    printed by Wynkyn de Worde, called "Cocke Lorelles Boke" the
+    dairy farming at Islington is mentioned--
+
+    "Also mathewe to the drawer of London, And sybly sole
+    mylke-wyfe of Islington."]
+
+    [Footnote 25: These Rolls were as famous as Chelsea Buns.
+    "White Conduit loaves" being a familiar street cry.]
+
+    [Footnote 26: This revivalist used these initials as meaning
+    "Sinner Saved."]
+
+    [Footnote 27: A somewhat famous singer in the latter part of
+    the eighteenth and first quarter of the nineteenth centuries.
+    She sang and acted at Drury Lane and the Haymarket--and also
+    sang at Vauxhall. She became poor, and on July 5, 1824, she
+    had a benefit at Drury Lane, which, with a public
+    subscription, produced about £800. Lord Egremont also allowed
+    her £80 a year. She was somewhat related to Royalty: her
+    husband, Bland, an actor at Drury Lane, being the brother of
+    Mrs. Jordan, who was the wife of William the Fourth.]
+
+    [Footnote 28: A frequent visitor at these gardens was the late
+    George Cruikshank, and many subjects were transferred to his
+    sketch book. He was so well known, as to become a sort of
+    terror to the habitués of the place, and children were
+    threatened, when fractious, "that if they made such ugly
+    faces, Mr. Cruikshank would put them in his book."]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+
+Sadler's Wells does not really feed the Fleet River, but I notice the
+spring, for the same reason that I noticed the White Conduit.
+
+A very fair account of its early history is given in a little pamphlet
+entitled "A True and Exact Account of Sadlers Well: or the New Mineral
+Waters. Lately found out at Islington: Treating of its nature and
+Virtues. Together with an Enumeration of the Chiefest Diseases which it
+is good for, and against which it may be used, and the Manner and Order
+of Taking of it. Published for publick good by T. G. (Thomas Guidot)
+Doctor of Physick. Printed for _Thomas Malthus_ at the _Sun_ in the
+_Poultry_. 1684."
+
+It begins thus:--"The New Well at _Islington_ is a certain Spring in
+the middle of a Garden, belonging to the Musick House built by Mr.
+_Sadler_, on the North side of the Great Cistern that receives the
+New River Water near Islington, the Water whereof was, before the
+Reformation, very much famed for several extraordinary Cures performed
+thereby, and was, thereupon, accounted sacred, and called _Holy Well_.
+The Priests belonging to the Priory of _Clarkenwell_ using to attend
+there, made the People believe that the virtues of the Waters proceeded
+from the efficacy of their Prayers. But upon the Reformation the Well
+was stopt up, upon a supposition that the frequenting it was altogether
+superstitious, and so, by degrees, it grew out of remembrance, and was
+wholly lost, until found out, and the Fame of it revived again by the
+following accident.
+
+"Mr. _Sadler_ being made Surveyor of the High Ways, and having good
+Gravel in his own Gardens, employed two Men to Dig there, and when they
+had Dug pretty deep, one of them found his Pickax strike upon some
+thing that was very hard; whereupon he endeavoured to break it, but
+could not: whereupon thinking with himself that it might, peradventure,
+be some Treasure hid there, he uncovered it very carefully, and found
+it to be a Broad, Flat Stone: which, having loosened, and lifted up,
+he saw it was supported by four Oaken Posts, and had under it a large
+Well of Stone Arched over, and curiously carved; and, having viewed
+it, he called his fellow Labourer to see it likewise, and asked him
+whether they should fetch Mr. _Sadler_, and shew it to him? Who, having
+no kindness for _Sadler_, said no; he should not know of it, but as
+they had found it, so they would stop it up again, and take no notice
+of it; which he that found it consented to at first, but after a little
+time he found himself (whether out of Curiosity, or some other reason,
+I shall not determine) strongly inclined to tell _Sadler_ of the Well;
+which he did, one Sabbath Day in the Evening.
+
+"_Sadler_, upon this, went down to see the Well, and observing the
+Curiosity of the Stone Work, that was about it, and fancying within
+himself that it was a Medicinal Water, formerly had in great esteem,
+but by some accident or other lost, he took some of it in a Bottle, and
+carryed it to an Eminent Physician, telling him how the Well was found
+out, and desiring his Judgment of the Water; who having tasted and
+tried it, told him it was very strong of a Mineral taste, and advised
+him to Brew some Beer with it, and carry it to some Persons, to whom he
+would recommend him; which he did accordingly. And some of those who
+used to have it of him in Bottles, found so much good by it, that they
+desired him to bring it in Roundlets."
+
+Sadler's success, for such it was, provoked the envy of others, and one
+or two satires upon the Wells were produced.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Soon after he opened the Wells, Evelyn visited them, as we read in his
+invaluable diary. "June 11, 1686. I went to see Middleton's receptacle
+of water[29] and the New Spa Wells, near Islington." The Spring was
+still known as Sadler's up to 1697 as we find in advertisements in the
+_Post Boy_ and _Flying Post_ of June, in that year. But the "Musick
+House" seems to have passed into other hands, for in 1699 it was called
+"Miles's Musick House." They seem to have had peculiar entertainments
+here, judging by an account in _Dawk's Protestant Mercury_ of May 24,
+1699. "On Tuesday last a fellow at Sadler's Wells, near Islington,
+after he had dined heartily on a buttock of beef, for the lucre of five
+guineas, eat a live cock, feathers, guts, and all, with only a plate of
+oil and vinegar for sawce, and half a pint of brandy to wash it down,
+and afterwards proffered to lay five guineas more, that he could do the
+same again in two hours' time."
+
+That this was a fact is amply borne out by the testimony of Ned Ward,
+who managed to see most of what was going on in town, and he thus
+describes the sight in his rough, but vigorous language.
+
+"With much difficulty we crowded upstairs, where we soon got
+intelligence of the beastly scene in agitation. At last a table was
+spread with a dirty cloth in the middle of the room, furnished with
+bread, pepper, oil, and vinegar; but neither knife, plate, fork, or
+napkin; and when the beholders had conveniently mounted themselves
+upon one another's shoulders to take a fair view of his Beastlyness's
+banquet, in comes the lord of the feast, disguised in an Antick's Cap,
+like a country hangman, attended by a train of Newmarket executioners.
+When a chair was set, and he had placed himself in sight of the
+whole assembly, a live Cock was given into the ravenous paws of this
+ingurgitating monster."
+
+In the same year, in his "Walk to Islington," Ward gives a description
+of the people who frequented this "Musick House."
+
+  "---- mixed with a vermin trained up for the gallows, As Bullocks[30]
+  and files,[31] housebreakers and padders.[32] With prize fighters,
+  sweetners,[33] and such sort of traders, Informers, thief-takers,
+  deer-stealers, and bullies."
+
+It seems to have been kept by Francis Forcer, a musician, about 1725,
+and the scene at the Wells is graphically described in "The New River,
+a Poem, by William Garbott."
+
+    "Through Islington then glides my best loved theme
+  And Miles's garden washes with his stream:
+  Now F--r's Garden is its proper name,
+  Though Miles the man was, who first got it fame;
+  And tho' it's own'd, Miles first did make it known,
+  F--r improves the same we all must own.
+  There you may sit under the shady trees,
+  And drink and smoak, fann'd by a gentle breeze;
+  Behold the fish, how wantonly they play,
+  And catch them also, if you please, you may,
+  Two Noble Swans swim by this garden side,
+  Of water-fowl the glory and the pride;
+  Which to the Garden no small beauty are;
+  Were they but black they would be much more rare:
+  With ducks so tame that from your hand they'll feed,
+  And, I believe, for that, they sometimes bleed.
+  A noble Walk likewise adorns the place,
+  To which the river adds a greater grace:
+  There you may sit or walk, do which you please,
+  Which best you like, and suits most with your ease.
+  Now to the Show-room let's awhile repair,
+  To see the active feats performed there.
+  How the bold Dutchman, on the rope doth bound,
+  With greater air than others on the ground:
+  What capers does he cut! how backward leaps!
+  With Andrew Merry eyeing all his steps:
+  His comick humours with delight you see,
+  Pleasing unto the best of company," &c.
+
+But a very vivid description of Sadler's Wells is given in
+"Mackliniana, or Anecdotes of the late Mr. Charles Macklin, Comedian"
+in the _European Magazine_ for 1801 (vol. xl. p. 16):--
+
+"Being met one night at Sadler's Wells by a friend, who afterwards saw
+him home, he went into a history of that place, with an accuracy which,
+though nature generally denies to the recollection of old age in recent
+events, seems to atone for it in the remembrance of more remote periods.
+
+ "Sir, I remember the time when the price of admission _here_ was
+ but _threepence_, except a few places scuttled off at the sides
+ of the stage at sixpence, and which was usually reserved for
+ people of fashion, who occasionally came to see the fun. Here we
+ smoked, and drank porter and rum and water, as much as we could
+ pay for, and every man had his doxy that liked it, and so forth;
+ and though we had a mixture of very odd company (for I believe
+ it was a good deal the baiting place of thieves and highwaymen)
+ there was little or no rioting. There was a _public_ then, Sir,
+ that kept one another in awe.
+
+ "_Q._ Were the entertainments anything like the present? _A._
+ No, no; nothing in the shape of them; some hornpipes and ballad
+ singing, with a kind of pantomimic ballet, and some lofty
+ tumbling--and all this was done by daylight, and there were four
+ or five exhibitions every day.
+
+ "_Q._ How long did these continue at a time? _A._ Why, Sir,
+ it depended upon circumstances. The proprietors had always a
+ fellow on the outside of the booth, to calculate how many people
+ were collected for a second exhibition, and when he thought
+ there were enough, he came to the back of the upper seats,
+ and cried out, 'Is _Hiram Fisteman_ here?' This was the cant
+ word agreed upon between the parties, to know the state of the
+ people without--upon which they concluded the entertainment
+ with a song, dismissed that audience, and prepared for a second
+ representation.
+
+ "_Q._ Was this in Rozamon's time? _A._ No, no, Sir; long
+ before--not but old Rozamon improved it a good deal, and, I
+ believe, raised the price generally to sixpence, and in this way
+ got a great deal of money."
+
+Space prevents one going into the merits of the Theatre here, but it
+may not be out of place if I mention some of the singers, and actors,
+who have appeared on those boards--Joey Grimaldi, Braham, Miss Shields
+(afterwards Mrs. Leffler), Edmund Kean, the great traveller Belzoni,
+Miss Tree, Phelps, of Shakespearian fame, Marston, and others, testify
+to the talent which has had its home in this theatre. One peculiarity
+about Sadler's Wells Theatre was the introduction of real water as a
+scenic effect. It seems to have been first used on Easter Monday, April
+2, 1804, in an entertainment called _Naumachia_. A very large tank was
+made under the stage, and filled with water from the New River; and in
+this tank mimic men o' war bombarded Gibraltar, but were repulsed, with
+loss, by the heroic garrison. Afterwards, it was frequently used for
+_Spectacles_, in which water was used as an adjunct.
+
+After this digression let us follow the course of the River Fleet.
+Leaving St. Chad's Well, and before coming to Bagnigge Wells, there
+stood in Gray's Inn Road an old public-house called the Pindar of
+Wakefield, the pounder, or keeper of the pound at that town, the famous
+George à Green, who gave Robin Hood a notable thrashing, extorting from
+that bold outlaw this confession--
+
+  "For this was one of the best pinders
+  That ever I tryed with sword."
+
+This old house was destroyed by a hurricane in November, 1723, when the
+two daughters of the landlord were killed by the falling walls. It was,
+however, at once rebuilt, and a public-house, bearing the same sign,
+exists at 328, Gray's Inn Road--most probably occupying the original
+site.
+
+    [Footnote 29: The New River Head.]
+
+    [Footnote 30: A hector, or bully.]
+
+    [Footnote 31: A pickpocket.]
+
+    [Footnote 32: A tramp.]
+
+    [Footnote 33: A Sharper.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: THE PINDAR OF WAKEFIELD.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+Between this house, and Bagnigge Wells, was Bagnigge Wash, or Marsh,
+and Black Mary's Wells, or Hole. The etymology of this place is
+contested. In the _Gentleman's Magazine_ for 1813, part ii. p. 557, in
+an "Account of various Mineral Wells near London," is the following:
+"Lastly, in the same neighbourhood, may be mentioned the spring or
+conduit on the eastern side of the road leading from Clerken Well to
+Bagnigge Wells, and which has given name to a very few small houses
+as _Black Mary's Hole_. The land here was, formerly, called Bagnigg
+Marsh, from the river Bagnigg,[34] which passes through it. But, in
+after-time, the citizens resorting to drink the waters of the conduit,
+which then was leased to one Mary, who kept a black Cow, whose milk
+the gentlemen and ladies drank with the waters of the Conduit, from
+whence, the wits of that age used to say, 'Come, let us go to Mary's
+black hole.' However, Mary dying, and the place degenerating into
+licentiousness, about 1687, Walter Baynes Esqre, of the Inner Temple,
+enclosed the Conduit in the manner it now is, which looks like a
+great oven. He is supposed to have left a fund for keeping the same
+in perpetual repair. The stone with the inscription was carried away
+during the night about ten years ago. The water (which formerly fed two
+ponds on the other side of the road) falls into the old Bagnigge river."
+
+This etymon, however, is contested in a pamphlet called _An
+experimental enquiry concerning the Contents, Qualities, Medicinal
+Virtues of the two Mineral Waters of_ Bagnigge Wells, &c., by John
+Bevis, M.D. This pamphlet was originally published in 1767, but I
+quote from the third edition of 1819. "At what time these waters
+were first known cannot be made out with any degree of evidence. A
+tradition goes that the place of old was called Blessed Mary's Well;
+but that the name of the Holy Virgin having, in some measure, fallen
+into disrepute after the Reformation, the title was altered to Black
+Mary's Well, as it now stands upon Mr. Rocque's map, and then to Black
+Mary's Hole; though there is a very different account of these latter
+appellations; for there are those who insist they were taken from one
+Mary Woolaston, whose occupation was attending at a well, now covered
+in, on an opposite eminence, by the footway from Bagnigge to Islington
+to supply the soldiery, encamped in the adjacent fields, with water.
+But waving such uncertainties, it may be relied on for truth, that a
+late proprietor, upon taking possession of the estate, found two wells
+thereon, both steaned in a workmanlike manner; but when, or for what
+purpose, they were sunk, he is entirely ignorant."
+
+But Black Mary's Hole, during the first half of the last century, had a
+very queer reputation. There was a little public-house with the sign of
+"The Fox at Bay," which probably had something to do with the numerous
+highway robberies that occurred thereabouts.
+
+In Cromwell's "History of Clerkenwell," pp. 318, 319, we hear of the
+last of Black Mary's Hole. He says, "Beneath the front garden of a
+house in SPRING PLACE, and extending under the foot-pavement almost
+to the turnpike gate called the Pantheon Gate, lies the capacious
+receptacle of a _Mineral Spring_, which in former times was in
+considerable repute, both as a chalybeate, and for its supposed
+efficacy in the cure of sore eyes.... About ten years back, when Spring
+Place was erected, the builder removed every external appearance of
+Walter Baynes's labours, and converted the receptacle beneath into a
+cesspool for the drainage of his houses. The spring thus degraded, and
+its situation concealed, it is probable that the lapse of a few more
+years would have effaced the memory of it for ever, had not an accident
+re-discovered it in the summer of 1826. Its covering, which was only of
+boards, having rotted, suddenly gave way, and left a large chasm in the
+footpath. After some efforts, not perfectly successful, to turn off the
+drainage, it was then arched with brickwork, and a leaden pump placed
+over it, in the garden where it chiefly lies. But the pump being stolen
+during the following winter, the spring has again fallen into neglect,
+and possibly this page alone will prevent its being totally forgotten."
+
+Still following the Fleet to its outfall, we next come to Bagnigge
+Well, a chalybeate spring, first used medicinally, and then, like all
+these Spas, merely as a promenade, and place of out-of-door recreation.
+
+Originally, this spring probably belonged to the Nunnery at
+Clerkenwell, and may possibly be the "Rode Well" mentioned in the
+Register of Clerkenwell. But we are indebted to Dr. Bevis, from whose
+pamphlet I have already quoted, for a history of its modern rise and
+development (p. 38).
+
+"In the year 1757, the spot of ground in which this well is sunk
+was let out to a gentleman curious in gardening, who observed that
+the oftener he watered his flowers from it the worse they throve. I
+happened, toward the end of that summer, to be in company with a friend
+who made a transient visit to Mr. HUGHES, and was asked to taste the
+water; and, being surprised to find its flavour so near that of the
+best German chalybeates, did not hesitate to declare my opinion, that
+it might be made of great benefit both to the public and himself. At my
+request, he sent me some of the water, in a large stone bottle, well
+corked, the next day; a gallon whereof I immediately set over a fire,
+and by a hasty evaporation found it very rich in mineral contents,
+though much less so than I afterwards experienced it to be when more
+leisurely exhaled by a gentle heat. Whilst this operation was carrying
+on, I made some experiments on the remainder of the water, particularly
+with powdered galls, which I found to give, in less than a minute, a
+very rich and deep purple tincture to it, that lasted many days without
+any great alteration. I reported these matters to Mr. Hughes, but, soon
+after, a very dangerous illness put a stop to my experiments, which I
+did not resume for a considerable time, when the proprietor called, and
+told me his waters were in very great repute, and known by the name
+of BAGNIGGE WELLS; which I remembered to have seen in the newspapers,
+without so much as guessing it had been given to these springs. Mr.
+HUGHES took me to his wells, where I was not a little pleased with the
+elegant accommodations he had provided for company in so short a time."
+
+The house attached to the Spa is said to have been the residence of
+Nell Gwyn, but tradition has assigned her so many houses; at Chelsea,
+Bagnigge Wells, Highgate, Walworth, and Filberts, near Windsor--nay,
+one enterprising tradesman in the Strand has christened a milk shop
+"Nell Gwyn's Dairy," and has gone to some expense, in pictorial tiles,
+to impress on passers-by the genuineness of his assertion.
+
+Still, local tradition is strong, and, in a book called "The
+Recreations[35] of Mr. Zigzag the elder" (a pseudonym for Mr. John
+Wykeham Archer, artist and antiquary), which is in the Library of the
+City of London, and which is profusely "Grangerised" by the author, is
+a small water colour of Bagnigge House, the reputed dwelling of Nell
+Gwyn, which I have reproduced in outline, and on this drawing is a
+note, "Moreover several small tenements at the north end of the
+Garden were formerly entitled Nell Gwynne's Buildings, which seems to
+verify the tradition."[36]
+
+[Illustration: BAGNIGGE HOUSE. (Said to have been Nell Gwyn's.)]
+
+But the evidence is all of a _quasi_ kind. In the long room, supposed
+to have been the banqueting room, was, over the mantel, a bust, an
+_alto relievo_, of a female, supposed to be Nell Gwyn, and said to be
+modelled by Sir Peter Lely, enclosed in a circular border of fruit,
+which, of course, was at once set down as a delicate allusion to the
+actress's former calling of orange wench in the theatres. The bust and
+border were painted to imitate nature, and on either side were coats
+of arms--one the Royal arms, and, on the other side, the Royal arms
+quartered with others, which were supposed to be those assumed by the
+actress. When the old house was pulled down, the bust disappeared, and
+no one knows whither it went.
+
+I give a quotation from the _Sunday Times_, July 5, 1840, not as adding
+authority, or weight, to the idea that Bagnigge House was Nell's
+residence, but to show how deeply rooted was the tradition. It is a
+portion of the "_Maximms and Speciments of William Muggins, Natural
+Philosopher, and Citizen of the World_"--
+
+ "Oh! how werry different London are now to wot it war at the
+ time as I took my view on it from the post; none of them
+ beautiful squares and streets, as lies heast and west, and
+ north of the hospital, war built then; it war hall hopen fields
+ right hup to Ampstead an Ighgate and Hislington. Bagnigge Well
+ stood by itself at the foot of the hill, jist where it does
+ now; and then it looked the werry pictur of countryfiedness and
+ hinnocence. There war the beautiful white washed walls, with the
+ shell grotto in the hoctagon summer house, where Nell Gwynne
+ used to sit and watch for King Charles the Second. By the by,
+ a pictur done by a famous hartist of them days, Sir Somebody
+ Neller I thinks war his name, represents the hidentical ouse
+ (it war a fine palace then) with the hidentical hoctagon summer
+ house, with the beautiful Nelly leaning hout of the winder, with
+ her lilly white hand and arm a-beckoning, while the King is
+ seed in the distance galloping like vinking across the fields a
+ waving his hat and feathers; while a little page, with little
+ tobacker-pipe legs, in white stockings, stands ready to hopen a
+ little door in the garden wall, and let hin the royal wisitor,
+ while two little black and tan spanels is frisking about and
+ playing hup hold gooseberry among the flower beds.
+
+ That ere pictur used to hang hup in the bar parlor; its wanished
+ now--so are the bust as were in the long room; but there's
+ another portrait pictur of her, all alone by herself, done by
+ Sir Peter Lely, still to be seen. (This here last coorosity war
+ discovered honly a year or two ago, rolled hup among sum rubbige
+ in the loft hunder the roof.)"
+
+The old house, however, was evidently of some importance, for, over
+a low doorway which led into the garden, was a stone, on which was
+sculptured a head in relief, and the following inscription--
+
+  X
+  THIS IS BAGNIGGE
+  HOUSE NEARE
+  THE PINDAR A
+  WAKEFIELDE
+  1680.
+
+thus showing that the Pindar of Wakefield was the older house, and
+famous in that locality. This doorway and stone were in existence
+within the last forty years, for, in a footnote to page 572 of
+the _Gentleman's Magazine_ of June, 1847, it says, "The gate and
+inscription still remain, and will be found, where we saw them a few
+weeks since, in the road called Coppice Row, on the left going from
+Clerkenwell towards the New Road."
+
+The following illustration gives Bagnigge Wells as it appeared at the
+end of last century.
+
+[Illustration: BAGNIGGE WELLS, NEAR BATTLE BRIDGE, ISLINGTON.]
+
+We have read how these gardens were first started in 1757, but they
+soon became well known and, indeed, notorious, as we read in a very
+scurrilous poem called "Bagnigge Wells," by W. Woty, in 1760--
+
+      "Wells, and the place I sing, at early dawn
+  Frequented oft, where male and female meet,
+  And strive to drink a long adieu to pain.
+  In that refreshing Vale with fragrance fill'd,
+  Renown'd of old for Nymph of public fame
+  And amorous Encounter, where the sons
+  Of lawless lust conven'd--where each by turns
+  His venal Doxy woo'd, and stil'd the place
+  _Black Mary's Hole_--there stands a Dome superb,
+  Hight Bagnigge; where from our Forefathers hid,
+  Long have two Springs in dull stagnation slept;
+  But, taught at length by subtle art to flow,
+  They rise, forth from Oblivion's bed they rise,
+  And manifest their Virtues to Mankind."
+
+The major portion of this poem (?) is rather too _risque_ for modern
+publication, but the following extract shows the sort of people who
+went there with the view of benefiting their health--
+
+  "Here ambulates th' Attorney looking grave,
+  And Rake from Bacchanalian rout uprose,
+  And mad festivity. Here, too, the Cit,
+  With belly, turtle-stuff'd, and man of Gout,
+  With leg of size enormous. Hobbling on,
+  The Pump-room he salutes, and in the chair
+  He squats himself unwieldy. Much he drinks,
+  And much he laughs to see the females quaff
+  The friendly beverage. He, nor jest obscene,
+  Of meretricious wench, nor quibble quaint,
+  Of prentic'd punster heeds, himself a wit
+  And dealer in conundrums, but retorts
+  The repartee jocosely. Soft! how pale
+  Yon antiquated virgin looks! Alas!
+  In vain she drinks, in vain she glides around
+  The Garden's labyrinth. 'Tis not for thee,
+  Mistaken nymph! these waters pour their streams," &c.
+
+And in the prologue to "Bon Ton: or _High_ Life above Stairs," by David
+Garrick, acted at Drury Lane for the first time, for the benefit of Mr.
+King, in 1775, not much is said as to the character of its frequenters.
+
+  "Ah! I loves life and all the joy it yields,
+  Says Madam Fupock, warm from Spittlefields.
+  Bon Ton's the space 'twixt Saturday and Monday,
+  And riding in a one-horse chaise on Sunday,
+  'Tis drinking tea on summer's afternoons
+  At Bagnigge Wells, with china and gilt spoons."
+
+    [Footnote 34: Otherwise the Fleet.]
+
+    [Footnote 35: These papers appeared in the _Illustrated Family
+    Journal_.]
+
+    [Footnote 36: In Cromwell's "History of Clerkenwell," p. 322,
+    we read, "In memory of its supposed proprietor, the owner of
+    some small tenements near the north end of the gardens styled
+    them 'Nell Gwynn's Buildings;' but the inscription was erased
+    before 1803."]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+
+The gardens were pretty, after the manner of the times; we should not,
+perhaps, particularly admire the formally cut lines and hedges, nor the
+fountain in which a Cupid is hugging a swan, nor the rustic statuary
+of the haymakers. Still it was a little walk out of London, where
+fresh air could be breathed, and a good view obtained of the northern
+hills of Hampstead and Highgate, with the interlying pastoral country,
+sparsely dotted with farmhouses and cottages. The Fleet, here, had not
+been polluted into a sewer as it was further on, and there were all the
+elements of spending a pleasant, happy day, in good air, amid rural
+scenes.
+
+[Illustration: A VIEW TAKEN FROM THE CENTER BRIDGE IN THE GARDENS OF
+BAGNIGGE WELLS.]
+
+[Illustration: WAITER FROM THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE
+HUMOURS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS.]
+
+[Illustration: THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE HUMOURS OF
+BAGNIGGE WELLS.]
+
+The place, however, rapidly became a disreputable _rendezvous_, and
+we get an excellent glimpse of the costumes of _circa_ 1780 in the
+two following engravings taken from mezzotints published by Carington
+Bowles; although not dated, they are of that period, showing the
+Macaronis and Belles of that time. The first is called "The BREAD and
+BUTTER MANUFACTORY,[37] or the Humours of BAGNIGGE WELLS," and the
+second "A Bagnigge Wells Scene, or no resisting temptation," which gives
+a charming representation of the ultra fashion of dress then worn.
+
+[Illustration: A BAGNIGGE WELLS SCENE; OR, NO RESISTING TEMPTATION.
+
+(_Published for Carington Bowles._)]
+
+Yet another glance at the manners of the time is afforded by the boy
+waiter, who hurries along with his tray of tea-things and _kettle of
+hot water_.[38]
+
+[Illustration: THE BAGNIGGE ORGANIST.]
+
+And there was good music there, too--an organ in the long room, on
+which Charles Griffith performed, as may be seen in the accompanying
+illustration. The name of Davis on the music books, is that of the then
+proprietor, and the lines underneath are parodied from Dryden's "Song
+for St. Cecilia's day, 1687."
+
+  "What passion cannot music raise and quell!
+    When Jubal struck the corded shell,
+  His listening brethren stood around,
+    And, wondering, on their faces fell."
+
+It went on with varying fortunes, and under various proprietors. First
+of all Mr. Hughes, then, in 1792, Davis had it; in 1813 it was in the
+hands of one Salter; in 1818, a man named Thorogood took it, but let
+it to one Monkhouse, who failed, and it reverted to Thorogood. Then
+came as tenant, a Mr. Chapman, who was bankrupt in 1833, and, in 1834,
+Richard Chapman was proprietor. I fancy he was the last, as public
+house, and gardens, combined.
+
+Mr. William Muggins, before quoted, laments its decadence thus:
+"Besides the whitewashed walls, and hoctagon shell grotto, there war
+the tea garden, with its honey suckle and sweet briar harbours, where
+they used to drink tea hout of werry small cups, and heat the far famed
+little hot loaves and butter; then there war the dancing plot, and the
+gold and silver fish ponds, and the bowling green, and skittle alley,
+and fire work ground hall so romantic and rural, standing in the middle
+of a lot of fields, and shaded around with trees. Now it's a werry
+different concarn, for it's surrounded with buildings--the gardens is
+cut hoff to nuffin, and the ouse looks tumble down and miserable." That
+was in 1840.
+
+It was about this time that a song appeared in "The Little Melodist,"
+1839--dilating on the delights of the neighbourhood of Islington, and
+the first verse ran thus:
+
+  "Will you go to Bagnigge Wells,
+                  Bonnet builder, O!
+  Where the Fleet ditch fragrant smells,
+                  Bonnet builder, O!
+  Where the fishes used to swim,
+  So nice and sleek and trim,
+  But the pond's now covered in,
+                  Bonnet builder, O!
+
+_Punch_, too, when it was young, and had warm blood coursing through
+its veins, visited Bagnigge Wells, and recorded the visit in its pages
+(Sept. 7, 1843). After a description of the walk thither, it says, "We
+last visited Bagnigge Wells about the beginning of the present week,
+and, like many travellers, at first passed close to it without seeing
+it. Upon returning, however, our eye was first arrested by an ancient
+door in the wall over which was inscribed the following:--[39]
+
+"This inscription, of which the above is a _fac simile_ was surmounted
+by a noseless head carved in stone; and, underneath, was a cartoon
+drawn in chalk upon the door, evidently of a later date, and bearing a
+resemblance to some of the same class in Gell's 'Pompeii.' Underneath
+was written in letters of an irregular alphabet, 'CHUCKY'--the entire
+drawing being, without doubt, some local pasquinade.
+
+"Not being able to obtain admittance at the door, we went on a short
+distance, and came to the ruins of the ancient 'Wells,' of which part
+of the banqueting room still exists. These are entirely open to the
+public as well as the adjoining pleasure grounds, although the thick
+layer of brick-bats with which they are covered, renders walking a
+task of some difficulty. The adjacent premises of an eminent builder
+separate them by some cubits from the road of Gray's Inn, near which,
+what we suppose to be the 'Well' is still visible. It is a round hole
+in the ground behind the ruins, filled up with rubbish and mosaics of
+oyster shells, but, at present, about eighteen inches deep.
+
+"It is very evident that the character of Bagnigge Wells has much
+altered within the last century. For, bearing that date, we have before
+us the 'Song of the 'Prentice to his Mistress' in which the attractions
+of the place are thus set forth:--
+
+  "'Come, come, Miss Priscy, make it up,
+      And we will lovers be:
+  And we will go to _Bagnigge Wells_,
+      And there we'll have some tea.
+  And there you'll see the ladybirds
+      All on the stinging nettles;
+  And there you'll see the water-works,
+      And shining copper kettles.
+  And there you'll see the fishes, Miss,
+      More curious than whales;
+  They're made of gold and silver, Miss,
+      And wag their little tails.'[40]
+
+"Of the wonders recounted in these stanzas, the stinging nettles alone
+remain flourishing, which they do in great quantity. The Waterworks are
+now confined to two spouts and a butt against the adjacent building;
+and the gold and silver fishes separately, in the form of red herrings
+and sprats, have been removed to the stalls in the neighbourhood, with
+a great deal more of the wag in the dealer, than in themselves.
+
+"The real Bagnigge Wells, where company assemble to drink, at the
+present day, is next door to the ruins. The waters are never drank,
+however, now, without being strongly medicated, by a process carried
+on at the various brewers and distillers of the Metropolis: without
+this, they are supposed, by some classes, to be highly injurious. Their
+analysis have produced various results. Soda has been detected in one
+species, analogous to the German _Seltzer_, and designated 'Webb's';
+others contain iron in appreciable quantities, and institute a galvanic
+circle, when quaffed from goblets formed from an alloy of tin and lead:
+in some constitutions quickening the circulation, and raising the animal
+temperature--in others, producing utter prostration.
+
+"Flannel jackets, and brown paper caps appeared to be the costume
+of the valetudinarians who were drinking at the Wells, during our
+stay. We patronized the tepid spa by ordering 'Sixpennyworth warm,'
+as the potion was termed in the dialect of Bagnigge, for the purpose
+of drawing the proprietor into conversation. But he was, evidently,
+reluctant to impart much information, and told us nothing beyond what
+we already knew--a custom very prevalent at all the springs we have
+visited.
+
+"Lodgings, provisions, clothing, &c., are to be had at low rates in the
+neighbourhood, and there are several delightful spots in the vicinity
+of Bagnigge Wells.
+
+"The Excursion to Battle Bridge will be found highly interesting,
+returning by the Brill; and, to the admirers of nature, the panorama
+from the summit of King's Cross, embracing the Small Pox Hospital, and
+Imperial Gas Works, with the very low countries surrounding them, is
+peculiarly worthy of especial notice."
+
+Two years previous to this notice, there was a paragraph in the _Times_
+(April 6, 1841) which shows how the Wells had fallen into decadence.
+
+"The Old Grotto, which had all the windows out, and was greatly
+dilapidated, and the upper part of the Garden Wall, was knocked down by
+some persons going along Bagnigge Road, early this morning."
+
+The old place had fulfilled its mission. It had ministered to the
+recreation and amusement, harmless, or otherwise, of generations of
+Londoners, and it came to final grief, and disappeared in 1844. Its
+name is still preserved in "The Bagnigge Wells" Tavern, 39, King's
+Cross Road, and that is all the reminiscence we have of this once
+famous place of recreative resort.
+
+    [Footnote 37: An allusion to the hot buttered rolls, which
+    were in vogue there.]
+
+    [Footnote 38: See p. 89.]
+
+    [Footnote 39: See ante-p. 84.]
+
+    [Footnote 40: With all due deference to _Punch_, I think his
+    version is slightly, only slightly, inaccurate. I have before
+    me five copies, two MS. and three printed, all of which run--
+
+      "Come, prithee make it up, Miss,
+          And be as lovers be,
+      We'll go to Bagnigge Wells, Miss,
+          And there we'll have some tea.
+      It's there you'll see the Lady-birds
+          Perch'd on the Stinging Nettles;
+      The Chrystal water Fountain,
+          And the Copper, shining Kettles.
+      It's there you'll see the Fishes,
+          More curious they than Whales,
+      And they're made of Gold and Silver, Miss,
+          And wags their little tails.
+          Oh! they wags their little Tails
+          --They wags their little Tails
+      Oh! they're made of gold and silver, Miss,
+            and they wags their little Tails.
+          Oh! dear! Oh! la! Oh! dear! Oh! la!
+              Oh! dear! Oh! la!
+                        How funny!"]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+A little farther on, it washed the walls of Cold Bath Fields Prison,
+the _House of Correction_, and we get a view of it in Hone's "Table
+Book,"[41] p. 75. Here he says, "In 1825, this was the first open
+view, nearest London, of the ancient River Fleet: it was taken during
+the building of the high arched walls connected with the House of
+Correction, Cold Bath Fields, close to which prison the river ran,
+as here seen. At that time, the newly erected walls communicated a
+peculiarly picturesque effect to the stream flowing within their
+confines."
+
+This "House of Correction" was indebted for its birth to the famous
+John Howard, who had made an European tour, not to mention a home one,
+inquisitorially inspecting prisons. We all know the result of his
+labours; how he exposed abuses fearlessly, and made men's hearts soften
+somewhat towards those incarcerated.
+
+[Illustration: THE ANCIENT RIVER FLEET, AT CLERKENWELL, 1825.]
+
+Howard, writing in 1789, held that capital punishment should be
+abolished except for _murder_, _setting houses on fire_, and for
+_house breaking, attended with acts of cruelty_. And speaking of his
+Penitentiaries, he says:
+
+"To these houses, however, I would have none but old, hardened
+offenders, and those who have, as the laws now stand, forfeited their
+lives by robbery, house breaking, and similar Crimes, should be
+committed; or, in short, those Criminals who are to be confined for a
+long term or for life....
+
+"The _Penitentiary houses_, I would have _built_, in a great measure,
+_by the convicts_. I will suppose that a power is obtained from
+Parliament to employ such of them as are now at work on the Thames,
+or some of those who are in the county gaols, under sentence of
+transportation, as may be thought most expedient. In the first place,
+let the surrounding wall, intended for full security against escapes,
+be completed, and proper lodges for the gate keepers. Let temporary
+buildings, of the nature of barracks, be erected in some part of this
+enclosure which would be wanted the least, till the whole is finished."
+
+This was a portion of his scheme, and he suggested that it should be
+located, where it was afterwards built, in Cold Bath Fields--because
+the situation was healthy, that good water could be obtained from the
+White Conduit, as the Charter House no longer required that source of
+supply, it being well served by the New River Company--that labour was
+cheap--and so was food, especially the coarse meat from the shambles at
+Islington.
+
+The prisoners were to have separate cells, so as to prevent the
+promiscuous herding of all, which had previously produced such
+mischievous results, and these cells were to be light and airy. The
+convicts of both sexes were to _work_, and their food was to be
+apportioned to the work they had to do. Also--a very great step in
+the right direction--they were all to wear a prison uniform. Howard,
+philanthropist as he was, was very far from lenient to the rogue. He
+was fully aware of the value of _work_, and specially provided that
+his rogues, in their reformation, should pass through the purifying
+process of hard labour. In later times, the way of transgressors was
+hard in that place, and it became a terror to evildoers, being known by
+the name of the _English Bastile_--which, however, amongst its patrons,
+was diminished, until it finally was abbreviated into "the Steel" by
+which name it was known until its abolition.[42]
+
+This cognomen was so well known, that, in 1799, a book was written
+by "A Middlesex Magistrate" entitled "The Secrets of the English
+Bastile disclosed"--which was a favourable story of the management
+of the prison in Cold Bath Fields. Still, it was the subject of a
+Parliamentary inquiry, as we find in the _Gentleman's Magazine_ for
+1798-9, under date of Dec. 31, 1798, p. 398, that, in the House of
+Commons, Sir Francis Burdett gave notice of his intention of moving, at
+some future day, for a report relative to the system practised in the
+prison, called the House of Correction, Cold Bath Fields, with regard
+to the persons therein confined.
+
+In the "Parliamentary History of England," vol. xxxiv. p. 566, we learn
+that on Mar. 6, 1799, Mr. W. Dundas moved that a Select Committee be
+appointed to inquire into the state of his Majesty's prison in Cold
+Bath Fields, Clerkenwell, and report the same, as it shall appear to
+them, together with their opinion thereupon, to the House; and a
+Committee was appointed accordingly. Unfortunately, the pages of what,
+afterwards, become _Hansard's_, do not record the result.
+
+But in the _Annual Register_ for the same year on Dec. 21st there
+was a long report respecting it during a debate on the suspension of
+the Habeas Corpus Act. Mr. Courtenay said, that, "having visited the
+prisons, he found the prisoners without fire, and without candles,
+denied every kind of society, exposed to the cold and the rain, allowed
+to breathe the air out of their cells only for an hour, denied every
+comfort, every innocent amusement, excluded from all intercourse with
+each other, and, each night locked up from all the rest of the world.
+He supposed it was scarcely necessary to inform the House, that the
+prison of which he had been speaking, was that in Cold Bath Fields,
+known by the name of the Bastille." There was a lot more nonsense
+of the same type talked by other M.P.'s and, it is needless to say,
+that the exaggerated statements were anent a political prisoner--who
+afterwards suffered death for treason. And in the remainder of the
+debate even the very foundation for the libel was destroyed. It is a
+curious fact, that people have an idea that political prisoners, who
+have done as much harm to the commonweal as they have the possibility
+of doing, are to be treated daintily, and with every consideration for
+their extremely sensitive feelings. We, perhaps, in these latter days,
+may read a profitable lesson in the suppression of treason, from the
+proper carrying out of the sentences legally imposed upon those who
+resist the law out of pure malice (legal).
+
+In the _Gentleman's Magazine_ for 1796, is the following letter to--
+
+ _Dec. 10, 1795._
+
+ Mr. URBAN.--Your respect for the memory of Mr. Howard, will
+ induce you to insert the inclosed view of the House of
+ Correction for the County of Middlesex, formed principally on
+ his judicious suggestions. It is situated on the North side of
+ London, between Cold Bath Fields, and Gray's Inn Lane. The spot
+ on which it is erected having been naturally swampy, and long
+ used for a public lay-stall, it was found prudent to lay the
+ foundation so deep, and pile it so securely, that it is supposed
+ there are as many bricks laid underground as appear to sight.
+ What is more to the purpose, the internal regulations of this
+ place of security are believed to be perfectly well adapted to
+ the salutary purposes to which the building is appropriated.
+
+ "Yours, &c., "EUGENIO."
+
+Still Cold Bath Fields Prison had an evil name--in all probability,
+because prisoners there, were treated as if they had sinned against
+the social canons, and were not persons to be coaxed and _petted_ into
+behaviour such as would enable them to rank among their more honest
+fellows, and in this way wrote Coleridge and Southey in "The Devil's
+Walk," which was suggested by the _pseudo Christos_ BROTHERS who as
+these gentlemen wrote:--[43]
+
+  "He walked into London leisurely,
+  The streets were dirty and dim:
+  But there he saw Brothers, the Prophet,
+  And Brothers the Prophet saw him."
+
+Well, in the Devil's rambles he came across Cold Bath Fields
+Prison--which, as I have said, was not beloved of the criminal class,
+and, simply, as I think, for the sake of saying something smart, and
+not that they ever had experienced incarceration, or is there any
+evidence that they had even seen the prison, they write:
+
+  "As he passed through Cold Bath Fields he look'd
+      At a solitary Cell;
+  And he was well-pleased, for it gave him a hint
+      For improving the prisons of Hell.
+
+  He saw a turnkey tie a thief's hands
+      With a cordial try and a jerk;
+  Nimbly, quoth he, a man's fingers move
+      When his heart is in his work.
+
+  He saw the same turnkey unfettering a man
+      With little expedition;
+  And he chuckled to think of his dear slave trade,
+  And the long debates, and delays that were made
+      Concerning its abolition."
+
+There is very little doubt, however, that, in the closing year of
+last, and the commencing one of this, century, the conduct of the
+Governor--a man named Aris--was open to very grave censure. People
+outside imagined that all sorts of evils were being perpetrated within
+its walls, and, either through laxity, or too great severity, of
+discipline, something nigh akin to mutiny occurred in the prison in
+July, 1800--which was promptly stopped by the presence of a company
+of the Clerkenwell Volunteers. In August of the same year, there was
+another outbreak in the prison, the occupants shouting "Murder," and
+that they were being starved, in tones loud enough to be heard outside,
+and, once more the Volunteers were the active agents in enforcing law
+and order. This latter "seething of the pot" lasted a few days, and it
+culminated in the discharge of the obnoxious Governor Aris.
+
+There is nothing noteworthy to chronicle of this prison from that
+date,[44] all prison details being, necessarily, unsavoury--and this
+particular one was not watered with rose water. It was a place of
+hard work, and not likely to impress the unproductive class, with a
+wish to be permanent inhabitants thereof. Yet, as this present year
+witnessed its demolition, something more must be said respecting it.
+In the _Globe_ newspaper of January 1, 1887, is this short paragraph:
+"Notices were yesterday posted on the walls of Coldbath Fields Prison,
+intimating that it is for sale. Tenders are invited for the site, and
+all buildings, &c., contained within the boundary walls. The prison
+covers an area of eight acres and three quarters."
+
+There ought to be some record of its dying days, for the demolition of
+a prison in a large community of people, like ours in London, must mean
+one of two things, either a diminution of crime, or, that the prison is
+not suitable to the requirements of the age.
+
+The Ninth Report of the Commissioners of Prisons, for the Year ended
+March 31, 1886, speaking of Pentonville Prison, says:
+
+"In November, 1885, the majority of the prisoners confined in Coldbath
+Fields Prison were transferred to this Prison; and since that date, the
+remainder have also been removed here, that prison being now vacated,
+and in charge of a warder acting as caretaker.
+
+"The tread-wheel[45] has been taken down at Coldbath Fields Prison, and
+is in process of re-erection here.
+
+"The behaviour of the officers has been good, with the exception of
+four, discharged by order of the Prison Commissioners.
+
+"The conduct of the prisoners has been generally good.
+
+"The materials and provisions supplied by the Contractors have been
+good, and have given satisfaction.
+
+"To meet the requirements of the local prison service, a room is being
+completed for the convenience of the members of the Visiting Committee
+who attend here, also a room for the daily collection of prisoners to
+see the medical officer, and other purposes, as well as various minor
+alterations found necessary since the transfer.
+
+"A bakehouse has been completed, and is in working order, supplying
+bread to all metropolitan prisons.
+
+"The routine and discipline have been carried out in the same general
+manner as heretofore.
+
+"The industrial labour continues to be attended with satisfactory
+results; the greater portion is still devoted to supplying the wants of
+other prisons or Government establishments instead of the market.
+
+"Uniform clothing for officers is cut out here for all local prisons,
+and made up for a considerable number of the smaller prisons, also
+prisoners' clothing and bedding, hospital slippers for the Admiralty,
+as well as a large number of Cases and other articles for the General
+Post Office have been supplied.
+
+"The duties of the Chaplain's department have been performed
+uninterruptedly during the year, morning prayers have been said daily,
+and Divine Service has been performed on Sundays, Good Friday, and
+Christmas day, in the morning and afternoon, with a sermon at both
+services. The Holy Communion has been celebrated from time to time on
+Sundays and on the great Sunday Festivals. The hospital has been daily
+visited; special attention has been paid to the prisoners confined in
+the punishment Cells, and constant opportunity has been offered to all
+of private instruction and advice. Books from the prisoners' library
+have been issued to all who are entitled to receive them, all prisoners
+who cannot pass standard three, as set forth by the Education Committee
+have been admitted to school instruction.
+
+"School books and slates and pencils are issued to prisoners in their
+cells.
+
+"The medical officer states that the health of the prisoners at
+Coldbath Fields, and since the transfer to this prison, has been good.
+One case of smallpox occurred at Coldbath Fields; as the prisoner had
+been some months in gaol, it was clear that he had caught the disease,
+either from a warder, or from some prisoner recently received; he had
+been a cleaner in the rotunda, and, of course, had been coming into
+contact with warders and prisoners alike, in the busiest part of the
+prison, the presumption is that the disease had been carried by the
+uniform of some warder. There were five cases of erysipelas at Coldbath
+Fields, and one at this prison, at the former place the cases came from
+all parts of the prison, new and old. The air shafts were thoroughly
+swept and limewashed, and disinfected as far as could be reached, and
+there is no doubt that it checked the disease.
+
+"The dietary has been satisfactory during the year, and the new pattern
+clothing a great improvement.
+
+"Every precaution is taken in classing prisoners for labour suited to
+their age, physique and health.
+
+"The sanitary arrangements are most carefully supervised; the
+ventilation in the cells is very good."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+I offer no apology for intruding this report of Prison life, which,
+if one took the trouble to look up the yearly reports, he would find
+they are all couched in almost identical language.[46] I simply give it
+for the consideration of my readers--who, with myself, do not belong
+to the criminal classes--to show them how those who have preyed upon
+them, and have deservedly merited punishment, meet with treatment such
+as the indigent and industrious poor, when, fallen upon evil times,
+can not obtain, and the sooner these pampered criminals feel, through
+their flesh--either by the whip, hard labour, or hunger--that the
+wages of sin are not paid at a higher rate than that procurable by
+honest labour, the probability is that the community at large would be
+considerably benefited, and the criminal classes would be in a great
+measure deprived of clubs to which there is neither entrance fee,
+nor annual subscription, in which everything of the best quality is
+found them free of charge, and the health of their precious carcases
+specially looked after, and gratuitously attended to.
+
+    [Footnote 41: See next page.]
+
+    [Footnote 42: J. T. Smith in his "Vagabondiana," ed.
+    1815-1817, p. 51, alludes thus to the prison: "Perhaps the
+    only waggery in public-house customs now remaining, is in the
+    tap room of the Appletree, opposite to Cold Bath Fields
+    Prison. There are a pair of hand cuffs fastened to the wires
+    as bell-pulls, and the orders given by some of the company,
+    when they wish their friends to ring, are, to 'Agitate the
+    Conductor.'"]
+
+    [Footnote 43: "After this I was in a vision, having the angel
+    of God near me, and saw Satan walking leisurely into London"
+    ("Brothers' Prophecies," part i. p. 41).]
+
+    [Footnote 44: I have met with a Newspaper Cutting, with no
+    clue to its authenticity or date. "DREADFUL RAVAGES OF THE
+    INFLUENZA IN THE HOUSE OF CORRECTION.--Yesterday afternoon,
+    Inquests were holden by William Baker, Esq., one of the
+    Coroners for the County of Middlesex, at the House of
+    Correction, Coldbath Fields, on no less than five individuals,
+    namely, Peter Griffiths, Michael Hughes, James Jones, Thomas
+    Lillie, and Ann Connard, all of whom had died from the effects
+    of the present prevalent epidemic, or influenza, and who were
+    inmates of that prison, and had been sentenced to different
+    periods of imprisonment. It is a fact that, for the last two
+    months, more prisoners have died in this prison, principally
+    from the effects of influenza, than had died there during the
+    whole of the preceding year." Possibly the poor Fleet River,
+    at that time hardly degraded to the level of the Sewer--which
+    now it is--may have had something to do with the unsanitary
+    condition of the prison.--J. A.]
+
+    [Footnote 45: Adopted at Coldbath Fields Prison, July, 1822.]
+
+    [Footnote 46: Let any one compare, for instance, reports for
+    1884 and 1886.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+
+Coldbath Fields were, a hundred and twenty years ago, fairly rural, for
+(although it certainly is recorded as an abnormal occurrence) we find,
+in the _Daily Courant_, November 12, 1765, "Friday afternoon, about two
+o'clock, a hare crossed the New Road, near Dobney's Bowling green, ran
+to the New River Head, and from thence to Coldbath Fields, where, in
+some turning among the different avenues, she was lost. She appeared to
+have been hard run, by her dirty and shabby coat."
+
+These fields took their name from a spring (part of the River of Wells)
+which had its source there. A Mr. Walter Baynes of the Temple, who was,
+for his day, far-seeing, and made the most of the "town lots" which
+were in the market, bought this plot of land, and at once utilized it
+to his profit. It was of some note, as we read in a book published in
+Queen Anne's reign, "A New View of London," 1708, vol. ii. p. 785.
+"Cold Bath. The most noted and first[47] about _London_ was that near
+_Sir John Oldcastle's_, where, in the Year 1697, Mr. _Bains_ undertook
+and yet manages this business of Cold Bathing, which they say is good
+against Rheumatisms, Convulsions of the Nerves, &c., but of that, those
+that have made the Experiments are the best judges. The Rates are 2s.
+6d. if the Chair is used,[48] and 2s. without it. Hours are from five
+in the morning to one, afternoon."
+
+We learn two things from this--the pristine existence of "tub," and the
+fact that it was purely matutinal. Nay, from the same book we learn
+more, for, under the heading of "Southwark Cold Bath," we find that
+the "utmost time to be in, three minutes." At this latter places were
+"ex votos," so frequently seen at shrines on the Continent. "Here are
+eleven Crutches, which they say, were those of persons cured by this
+Water." Bathing was a luxury then--water was bought by the pailful, and
+a warm bath at the _Hummums_ cost 5s., equal to between 10s. and 15s.
+of our money.
+
+Walter Baynes, Esq., of the Middle Temple, seems to have been a pushing
+man of business, and willing to make the most of his property. He
+traded on the uncleanliness of the times, when baths were mostly used
+in case of illness, and daily ablution of the whole body was unknown.
+Ladies were quite content to dab their faces with some "fucus" or face
+wash, or else smear them with a greasy larded rag. The shock of a
+veritable cold bath from a spring, must have astonished most of those
+who endured it, and no doubt invested it with a mysterious merit which
+it did not possess, otherwise than by cleansing the skin, both by the
+washing, and the subsequent rubbing dry.
+
+[Illustration: SOUTH VIEW OF THE COLD BATHS.]
+
+However, we find Mr. Baynes advertising in the _Post Boy_, March
+28, 1700, the curative effects of his wonderful spring. "This is
+to give notice that the Cold Baths in Sir John Oldcastle's field
+near the north end of Gray's Inn Lane, London, in all seasons of
+the year, especially in the spring and summer, has been found, by
+experience, to be the best remedy in these following distempers, viz.,
+Dizziness, Drowsiness, and heavyness of the head, Lethargies, Palsies,
+Convulsions, all Hectical creeping Fevers, heats and flushings.
+Inflammations and ebullitions of the blood, and spirits, all vapours,
+and disorders of the spleen and womb, also stiffness of the limbs, and
+Rheumatick pains, also shortness of the breath, weakness of the joints,
+as Rickets, &c., sore eyes, redness of the face, and all impurities
+of the skin, also deafness, ruptures, dropsies, and jaundice. It both
+prevents and cures colds, creates appetite, and helps digestion, and
+makes hardy the tenderest constitution. The coach way is by Hockley in
+the Hole."
+
+Of course, viewed by the light of modern medical science, Mr. Baynes
+was a charlatan, and a quack, but he acted, doubtless, according to his
+lights, in those days; and, if a few were killed, it is probable that
+many more were benefited by being washed.
+
+Sir Richard Steele, writing in 1715, says thus:
+
+"ON THE COLD BATH AT OLDCASTLE'S."
+
+  "Hail, sacred Spring! Thou ever-living Stream,
+  Ears to the Deaf, Supporters to the Lame,
+  Where fair Hygienia ev'ry morn attends,
+  And with kind Waves, her gentle Succour lends.
+  While in the Cristal Fountain we behold
+  The trembling Limbs, Enervate, Pale and Cold;
+  A Rosy Hue she on the face bestows,
+  And Nature in the chilling fluid glows,
+
+  The Eyes shoot Fire, first kindled in the Brain,
+  As beds of Lime smoke after showers of Rain;
+  The fiery Particles concentred there,
+  Break ope' their Prison Doors and range in Air;
+  Hail then thou pow'rful Goddess that presides
+  O'er these cold Baths as Neptune o'er his Tides,
+  Receive what Tribute a pure Muse can pay
+  For Health that makes the Senses Brisk and Gay,
+  The fairest Offspring of the heavenly Ray."
+
+At one time there was a famous house of refreshment and recreation,
+either called the Cobham's Head, or the Sir John Oldcastle--or there
+were one of each. Authorities differ, and, although I have spent some
+time and trouble in trying to reconcile so-called facts, I have come
+to the conclusion that, for my reader's sake, _le jeu ne vaut pas la
+chandelle_. There is a tradition that Sir John Oldcastle who was a
+famous Lollard in the time of Henry V., either had an estate here,
+or hid in a house of entertainment there, during his persecution for
+faith. But the whole is hazy.
+
+We know that there was a Sir John Oldcastle, who was born in the
+fourteenth century, and who was the fourth husband of Joan, Lady
+Cobham, in whose right he took the title of Lord Cobham. We know also,
+that he enjoyed the friendship of Henry V., and was of his household.
+But he got imbued with the doctrines of Wyclif, was cited to appear,
+more than once, before the ecclesiastical authorities, declined the
+invitations, and was duly excommunicated. He wrangled with the priests,
+got committed to the Tower, escaped and hid in Wales, was accused of
+heading a trumpery insurrection, and was, finally, captured, tried, and
+hanged in chains alive, upon a gallows in St. Giles' Fields, when,
+fire being put under him, he was slowly roasted to death in December,
+1417. A pious nobleman, like the late Lord Shaftesbury, for instance,
+was not popular at that time, if we may believe a few lines from
+"Wright's Political Songs from Edward II. to Henry VI."
+
+  "Hit is unkindly for a Knight
+  That shuld a kynges castel kepe,
+  To bable the Bible day and night,
+  In restyng time when he shuld slepe,
+  And carefoly away to crepe;
+  For alle the chefe of chivalrie,
+  Wel ought hym to wail and wepe,
+  That swyche[49] lust is in Lollardie."
+
+The English were always famous bowmen, and archery--although gunpowder
+has long superseded bows and arrows in warfare--still is a favourite
+and fashionable pastime, witness the Toxopholite Society in Regent's
+Park, and the various Archery associations throughout the kingdom;
+so that it is not remarkable that an open space like Coldbath Fields
+should vie with the Artillery ground at Finsbury, in favour with the
+citizens, as a place for this sport; and we find, in Queen Anne's
+reign, that the _Sir John Oldcastle_ was frequented by Archers. And for
+this information we may thank that old sinner, John Bagford (who spoilt
+so many books for the sake of their title-pages) for preserving. It
+tells its own story:--[50]
+
+ "All gentlemen of the ancient and noble exercise of Archery,
+ are invited to the annual dinner of the Clerkenwell Archers,
+ Mrs. Mary Barton's, at the sign of Sir John Oldcastle (Cold Bath
+ Fields) on Friday, July 18, 1707, at one o'clock, and to pay
+ the bearer, Thomas Beaumont, Marshall, 2s. 6d., taking a sealed
+ ticket, that a certain number may be known, and provision made
+ accordingly. Nath. Axtall, Esq., and Edward Bromwich, Gent.,
+ Stewards."
+
+There were very pleasant gardens attached to this tavern, and, like
+all the suburban places of recreation, they were well patronized, and
+they gave a very decent amusement in the shape of music--instrumental
+and vocal--and, occasionally, fireworks. But there seems to have been
+the same difficulty then, as now, as to keeping outdoor amusements,
+if not select, at least decorous, for, acccording to the _Daily
+Advertisement_ of June 3, 1745, "Sir John Oldcastle's Gardens, Cold
+Bath Fields. This evening's entertainment will continue the Summer
+Season. The Band consists of the best masters. Sixpence for admission,
+for which they have a ticket, which ticket will be taken as sixpence
+in their reckoning. Particular care will be taken that the provisions
+shall be the very best in their separate kinds; likewise to keep a just
+decorum in the gardens. Note.--Several ladies and gentlemen that come
+to the gardens give the drawers their tickets, which is no benefit to
+the proprietor; therefore it's humbly desired that if any gentlemen or
+ladies don't chuse to have the value of their tickets in liquor, or
+eating, they will be so kind as to leave them at the bar."
+
+[Illustration:
+THE SMALLPOX HOSPITAL IN COLD BATH FIELDS.]
+
+As a place of amusement, it seems, even in 1745, to have been on the
+wane. In 1758 the Smallpox Hospital was built close to it, and in 1761
+the Sir John Oldcastle was bought by the trustees of the hospital, in
+order to enlarge it, and was pulled down in 1762. Noorthouck ("New
+History of London," ed. 1763, p. 752), speaking of Cold Bath Square,
+in which was the famed cold bath, says, "The North side of this square
+is, as yet, open to the fields, but a little to the east stands the
+Small Pox Hospital for receiving patients who catch the disease in the
+natural way; and is a very plain, neat structure. The Center, which
+projects a little from the rest of the building, is terminated on the
+top by an angular pediment, on the apex of which is placed a vase upon
+a small pedestal. This excellent charity was instituted in the year
+1746, and is supported by a subscription of noblemen, gentlemen, and
+ladies, who were desirous that a charity useful in itself, and so
+beneficial to the public, might be begun near this great metropolis,
+there not being any hospital of the kind in Europe. A neat hospital for
+inoculating this disorder has been lately built clear of the town on
+the north side of the New Road."[51]
+
+In 1791 this hospital wanted extensive repairs, which would need an
+outlay of about £800; and the trustees, not willing to incur this
+expense, built another on the site of the Inoculating Hospital at
+Islington; and thither, when it was finished, all the patients were
+removed from Cold Bath Fields. But their new home was wanted for the
+Great Northern Railway, and another place was built, and still is, on
+Highgate Hill. The old building in Cold Bath Fields was first of all
+used as a distillery, and afterwards subdivided.
+
+Quoting again from Noorthouck: "Eastward from the Small Pox Hospital,
+on the south side of the Spawfield, is an humble imitation of the
+Pantheon in Oxford Road; calculated for the amusement of a suitable
+class of company; here apprentices, journeymen, and clerks dressed to
+ridiculous extremes, entertain their ladies on Sundays; and to the
+utmost of their power, if not beyond their proper power, affect the
+dissipated manners of their superiors. Bagnigge Wells and the White
+Conduit House, two other receptacles of the same kind, with gardens
+laid out in miniature taste, are to be found within the compass of
+two or three fields, together with Sadler's Wells, a small theatre for
+the summer exhibition of tumbling, rope-dancing, and other drolls, in
+vulgar stile. The tendency of these cheap, enticing places of pleasure
+just at the skirts of this vast town is too obvious to need further
+explanation; they swarm with loose women, and with boys, whose morals
+are thus depraved, and their constitution ruined, before they arrive
+at manhood; indeed, the licentious resort to the tea-drinking gardens
+was carried to such excess every night, that the magistrates lately
+thought proper to suppress the organs in their public rooms."
+
+There is no doubt but that some of these tea-gardens needed reform;
+so much so, that the grand jury of Middlesex, in May, 1744, made
+a presentment of several places which, in their opinion, were not
+conducive to the public morality; and these were two gaming-houses near
+Covent Garden, kept by the ladies Mordington and Castle; _Sadler's
+Wells near the New River head_, the New Wells in Goodman's Fields,
+the New Wells near the London Spaw in Clerkenwell; and a place called
+Hallam's Theatre in Mayfair.
+
+A possibly fair account of these gardens is found in the _St. James's
+Chronicle_, May 14-16, 1772:
+
+ "To the Printer of the S. J. CHRONICLE.
+
+ "SIR,--Happening to dine last Sunday with a Friend in the City,
+ after coming from Church, the Weather being very inviting, we
+ took a walk as far as Islington. In our Return home towards
+ Cold Bath Fields, we stepped in, out of mere Curiosity, to view
+ the Pantheon there; but such a Scene of Disorder, Riot, and
+ Confusion presented itself to me on my Entrance, that I was
+ just turning on my Heel, in order to quit it, when my friend
+ observing to me that we might as well have something for our
+ Money (for the Doorkeeper obliged each of us to deposit a
+ _Tester_ before he granted us Admittance), I acquiesced in
+ his Proposal, and became one of the giddy Multitude. I soon,
+ however, repented of my Choice; for, besides having our Sides
+ almost squeezed together, we were in Danger every Minute
+ of being scalded by the Boiling Water, which the officious
+ Mercuries[52] were circulating with the utmost Expedition thro'
+ their respective Districts: We began therefore to look out for
+ some Place to sit down in, which, with the greatest Difficulty,
+ we at length procured, and, producing our Tickets, were served
+ with Twelve pennyworth of Punch. Being seated towards the Front
+ of one of the Galleries, I had now a better Opportunity of
+ viewing this dissipated Scene. The Male Part of the Company
+ seemed to consist chiefly of City Apprentices, and the lower
+ Class of Tradesmen. The Ladies, who constituted by far the
+ greater Part of the Assembly, seemed, most of them, to be Pupils
+ of the Cyprian Goddess, and appeared to be thoroughly acquainted
+ with their Profession, the different Arts and Manoeuvres of
+ which they played off with great Freedom, and I doubt not with
+ equal Success. Whatever Quarter I turned my Eyes to, I was sure
+ to be saluted with a Nod, a Wink, or a Smile; and was even
+ sometimes accosted with, 'Pray, Sir, will you treat me with a
+ Dish of Tea?'... A Bill, I think, was in Agitation this Session
+ of Parliament for enforcing the Laws already made for the
+ better Observance of Sunday. Nothing, in my Opinion, tends more
+ to its Profanation, among the lower Class of People, than the
+ great Number of Tea Houses, in the Environs of London; the most
+ exceptionable of which that I have had Occasion to be in, is the
+ _Pantheon_. I could wish them either totally suppressed or else
+ laid under some Restrictions, particularly on the Sabbath Day.
+
+ "I am,
+
+ "Sir,
+
+ "Your Constant Reader,
+
+ "and occasional Correspondent,
+
+ "_Chiswick_, May 5. SPECULATOR."
+
+This PANTHEON was a large circular building surmounted by a statue of
+Fame. It was well warmed by a stove in its centre, and the grounds
+were prettily laid out. There were the usual walks, flower-beds,
+and pond, in the centre of which was a statue of Hercules, and, of
+course, the usual out-of-door refreshment boxes, or arbours. But
+it is just possible that it was owing to its somewhat disreputable
+conduct that the landlord became bankrupt in 1774, and the Pantheon
+was offered for sale. It was closed as a place of amusement in 1776,
+and the famous Countess of Huntingdon had some idea of utilizing it
+for the propagation of her peculiar religious views. However, the sum
+necessary for alterations, proved too much for her ladyship, yet by
+a strange mutation of fortune, somewhat akin to what we have seen in
+our time, in the Grecian Theatre in the City Road, being taken by the
+Salvation Army, the Pantheon was turned into a Proprietary Chapel,
+called Northampton Chapel, which was served by clergymen of the Church
+of England of strictly Evangelical principles, and it filled so well,
+that the incumbent of the parish church asserted his right to preach
+there whenever he liked, and also to nominate its chaplains. This the
+proprietors did not quite see, and they closed the chapel. Then Lady
+Huntingdon bought it, and, henceforth, it was called Spa Fields Chapel.
+
+The illustration[53] is taken from the _New Spiritual Magazine_, and
+I do not think that an uglier building could be produced. Probably
+the statue of Fame was obliged to be removed, but the ventilator in
+its place was certainly not an improvement. However, it is now pulled
+down; but, before its demolition, it had to pass through the ordeal of
+more proceedings at law. As long as the chapel was served by clergy,
+nominally belonging to the Church of England, so long did the incumbent
+of St. James's, Clerkenwell, assert his right to the patronage of it.
+The Countess relied on her privilege as a peeress, to appoint her own
+Chaplain, but this was overridden by competent legal opinion, and
+nothing was left but for the officiating clergy to secede from the
+Church of England, and take the oath of allegiance as Dissenting
+Ministers. This the Countess did not relish; she would fain be in
+the fold, and yet not of the fold, as do many others of this age, but
+she had to eat the leek. She had the proud privilege of founding a
+religious sect, and she left the bulk of her large property, after very
+generous legacies, to the support of sixty-four chapels which she had
+established throughout the kingdom. She died at her house in Spa Fields,
+and was buried at Ashby-de-la-Zouch, in Leicestershire, "dressed in the
+suit of white silk which she wore at the opening of a chapel in
+Goodman's Fields."[54]
+
+[Illustration: VIEW OF NORTHAMPTON OR SPA FIELDS CHAPEL, WITH THE
+COUNTESS OF HUNTINGDON'S HOUSE ADJOINING.]
+
+    [Footnote 47: Conduit.]
+
+    [Footnote 48: This, I take it, refers to a practice mentioned
+    in a pamphlet, "A Step to the Bath" (London, 1700), which I
+    think is by Ned Ward. "The usual time being come to forsake
+    that fickle Element, _Half Tub Chairs_, Lin'd with Blankets,
+    Ply'd as thick as _Coaches_ at the _Play House_, or _Carts_ at
+    the _Custom House_." It has been suggested that the Chair was
+    used for debilitated patients; but, knowing the use of the
+    term "Chair" at that epoch, I venture to propose my solution.]
+
+    [Footnote 49: Such pleasure.]
+
+    [Footnote 50: Harl. MSS., 5961.]
+
+    [Footnote 51: Noorthouck (book i. p. 358) says, "It is to be
+    observed that in 1746, an hospital was founded by subscription
+    between London and Islington, for relieving poor people
+    afflicted with the smallpox, and for inoculation. This is said
+    to be the first foundation of the kind in Europe, and
+    consisted of three houses; one in Old Street for preparing
+    patients for inoculation; another in Islington" (Lower Street)
+    "when the disease appeared, and the third in Cold Bath fields
+    for patients in the natural way."]
+
+    [Footnote 52: See p. 89.]
+
+    [Footnote 53: See next page.]
+
+    [Footnote 54: _Gentleman's Magazine_, vol. lxi. (1791), p.
+    589. The Chapel was pulled down in January or February, 1887.]
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+It is almost impossible to write about anything connected with Spa
+Fields, without mentioning the famous "Spa Fields Riots," which
+occurred on Dec. 2, 1816. In every great city there will always be a
+leaven of disquietude: demagogues who have nothing to lose, but all to
+gain, will always find an audience for their outpourings; and, often,
+the ignorant, and unthinking, have only to be told, by any knave, that
+they are underpaid, downtrodden, or what not, and they are ready to
+yell, with their sweet breaths, that they are. So was it then in 1816.
+
+And it is also remarkable how history repeats itself; for, part of the
+scheme proposed by the agitators on that day, was exactly similar to
+the proposals of certain Irishmen and Socialists of our time--_teste_
+the following handbill, taken from the _Times_, the newspaper of Dec.
+7, 1816.
+
+ "SPENCE'S PLAN. For Parochial Partnerships in the Land, is
+ the only effectual Remedy for the Distresses and Oppression
+ of the People. The Landowners are not Proprietors in Chief;
+ they are but the _Stewards_ of the Public; For the LAND is the
+ PEOPLE'S FARM. The Expenses of the Government do not cause the
+ Misery that surrounds us, but the enormous exactions of these
+ '_Unjust Stewards_.' Landed Monopoly is indeed equally contrary
+ to the benign spirit of Christianity, and destructive of the
+ Independence and Morality of Mankind.
+
+ "'The Profit of the Earth is for all.'
+
+ "Yet how deplorably destitute are the great Mass of the People!
+ Nor is it possible for their situations to be radically
+ amended, but by the establishment of a system, founded on the
+ immutable basis of Nature and Justice. Experience demonstrates
+ its necessity and the rights of mankind require it for their
+ preservation.
+
+ "To obtain this important object, by extending the knowledge
+ of the above system, the Society of Spencean Philanthropists
+ has been instituted. Further information of it's principles
+ may be obtained by attending any of it's sectional meetings,
+ where subjects are discussed, calculated to enlighten the human
+ understanding, and where, also, the regulations of the society
+ may be procured, containing a Complete development of the
+ Spencean system. Every individual is admitted free of expense,
+ who will conduct himself with decorum.
+
+ First Section every Wednesday at the Cock, Grafton Street, Soho.
+ Second   "      "   Thursday    "    Mulberry Tree, Mulberry Ct.,
+                                             Wilson Street, Moorfields.
+ Third    "      "   Monday      "    Nag's Head, Carnaby Mrkt.
+ Fourth   "      "   Tuesday     "    No. 8, Lumber St., Mint, Borough."
+
+There! does not that read exactly like a modern speech delivered in
+Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, or Dublin? Of course it was the old story
+of Demagogy. The pot boiled, the scum came to the top, and it boiled
+over, so that, one fine day, there was a riot. It was a period of
+distress for the working classes, who did not then, as now, swarm into
+London from all parts of England, and expect Jupiter to help them; but
+then, as now, the rich were ever willing to help their poorer brethren,
+for, in the very same _Times_ newspaper that gives an account of this
+Spa Fields Riot, there is a list of subscriptions towards the relief of
+distress in Spitalfields alone, amounting to over £18,000.
+
+The story is one that should be told, because it has its lesson and its
+parallel in all time. The ruling spirit of the movement was Henry Hunt,
+generally called Orator Hunt, a man fairly well to do, and who did not
+agitate for the sake of his daily bread. The occasion of the meeting in
+Spa Fields, at which some 10,000 people were present, was to receive
+the answer of the Prince Regent to a petition from the distressed
+mechanics of London and its vicinity for relief. It was held first
+of all in front of the "Merlin's Cave" (a name which still survives
+at 131, Rosomon Street, Clerkenwell), and afterwards in the adjacent
+fields. The following account of the riots is from the _Times_ of Dec.
+3, 1816:
+
+ "As a prelude to the scene that followed, and with the spirit
+ of the ruling demagogue, a person mounted a coal waggon with
+ three flags, on which were inscribed certain mottoes; and,
+ after having harangued a small audience, draughted off from the
+ general body, proceeded to the city, where the acts of violence
+ were perpetrated, which will be found in another part of our
+ paper.
+
+ "The speech of this orator, and the conduct of his audience, we
+ shall give in an extract from an evening paper as we were not
+ present at the first part of the drama ourselves.
+
+ "'In the field was a Coal waggon, upon which were mounted about
+ twenty persons, chiefly in the dress of sailors. Several flags
+ were displayed; two tricoloured ones, on one of which was the
+ following inscription:
+
+ "'Nature, Truth, and Justice! Feed the Hungry! Protect the
+ Oppressed! Punish Crimes!'
+
+ "'On a second tricoloured flag, no inscription.
+
+ "'On a third white flag was inscribed in red letters the
+ following:
+
+ "'The brave Soldiers are our Brothers; treat them kindly.'
+
+ "'Many had bludgeons, and others pockets full of stones. One
+ person in the waggon then addressed the meeting in the following
+ strain:--"I am sorry to tell you that our application to the
+ Prince has failed. He, the father of his people, answered--'My
+ family have never attended to Petitions but from Oxford and
+ Cambridge, and the City of London.' And is this Man the father
+ of the people? No. Has he listened to your petition? No. The day
+ is come--(_It is, It is_, from the mob.) We must do more than
+ words. We have been oppressed for 800 years since the Norman
+ Conquest. If they would give ye a hod, a shovel, a spade, and a
+ hoe, your mother earth would supply you. (_Aye, aye, she would._
+ Loud Applause.) Country men, if you will have your wrongs
+ redressed, follow me. (_That we will._ Shouts.) Wat Tyler would
+ have succeeded had he not been basely murdered by a Lord Mayor,
+ William of Walworth. Has the Parliament done their duty? No.
+ Has the Regent done his duty? No, no. A man who receives one
+ million a year public money gives only £5,000 to the poor. They
+ have neglected the starving people, robbed them of everything,
+ and given them a penny. Is this to be endured? Four millions
+ are in distress; our brothers in Ireland are in a worse state,
+ the climax of misery is complete, it can go no farther. The
+ Ministers have not granted our rights. Shall we take them?
+ (_Yes, yes_, from the mob.) Will you demand them? (_Yes, yes._)
+ If I jump down will you follow me? (_Yes, yes_, was again
+ vociferated.)."
+
+ "'The persons on the waggon then descended with the flags; the
+ constables immediately laid hold of the flags. Some persons
+ attempted resistance, and two were therefore taken up forthwith,
+ and sent to prison. The constables succeeded in getting one of
+ the flags.
+
+ "'When the second flag was displayed, it was supposed that it
+ headed Mr. Hunt's procession, and there was a loud huzza, which
+ stopped one of the waggon orators for five minutes.'
+
+ "[For all the rest we hold ourselves responsible, as it is our
+ own report of what passed.]."
+
+The _Times_ then gives in detail a report of the meeting, commencing
+from the arrival of "Orator" Hunt, who read the correspondence between
+himself and Lord Sidmouth, and said: "The statement of Lord Sidmouth
+to him was, that neither any King of the House of Brunswick, nor the
+Prince Regent, since he had attained sovereign power, ever gave any
+answer to petitions except they came from the Corporation of the City
+of London, or from the two Universities which had the privilege of
+being heard, and answered from the throne. 'If I were to carry your
+present petition to the levée (added his lordship) I should deliver it
+into his Royal Highness's hand, make my bow, and walk on; and if you,
+yourself, Mr. Hunt, were to appear, you would do just the same thing;
+you would deliver your petition, make your bow, and pass on.' This,
+Gentlemen, is a little more about Court matters than I was aware of
+before. (Loud laughter and applause.) The meeting had the consolation
+to think, that, if their petition was not answered by the Prince
+Regent, it had met with no worse fate than other petitions presented to
+the House of Hanover since the accession of this family to the throne.
+(Applause.)
+
+"He expected to have seen this day a deputation from the Soup
+Committee, for the purpose of returning thanks to this meeting for
+obtaining the £5,000 which the Prince Regent had granted. (Great
+applause.) He was convinced that it was owing to the exertions and
+patriotism of the last assembly in those fields that his Royal Highness
+was induced to give this pittance: but his Royal Highness had not gone
+the full length of the requests which had then been made. It was
+required that he should bestow on the inhabitants of the metropolis £2
+or 300,000 out of the Civil List; but, instead of this, what had been
+done? Some enemy to his country, some corrupt minister had persuaded
+his Royal Highness to send £5000 out of the Droits of the Admiralty,
+which properly belonged to the sailors: those droits, the piratical
+seizing of which had caused so much bloodshed, and the loss of so many
+British lives."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+This was the sort of fustian that was talked then, as now, and probably
+always will be, to an ignorant mob; and, as a natural sequence, words
+begot actions. Blind--foolishly blind--the idiotic mob marched towards
+the City, not knowing why, or what advantage they were to gain by so
+doing. Naturally, there were thieves about, and they plundered the shop
+of Mr. Beckwith, a gunmaker, in Skinner Street, Snow Hill, shooting a
+gentleman, named Platt, who happened to be in the shop, at the time.
+
+At the Royal Exchange, the Lord Mayor, Sir James Shaw, with his own
+hands, seized a man, who was bearing a flag, and the mob, unable to
+force the gates, fired inside; but as far as I can learn, without
+effect. Foiled in the attempt to sack, or destroy the Exchange, by the
+arrival of some civil force to the assistance of his Lordship, they
+moved on, seemingly aimlessly, towards the Tower: why--unless it was to
+supply themselves with arms--no one can guess. Of course, if they had
+tried to take it, they could not have accomplished their purpose, but
+it never came to that. They stole a few guns from two gunmakers in the
+Minories, Messrs. Brander and Rea; and then this gathering of rogues
+and fools dispersed, and the nine days' wonder was over.
+
+As usual, nothing was gained by violence. Socialism certainly did not
+advance--nor was any more employment found for anybody--and the thing
+fizzled out. But it was not the fault of the agitators. Let us read
+a short extract from a leading article in the _Times_ of December 4,
+1816:--
+
+ "As to the _foreseeing_ what was to happen--have we forgotten
+ Mr. Hunt's advice on the first day to petition, then, if that
+ failed to resort to _physical force_. They did petition, and he
+ calls them together to tell them that their petition has failed;
+ and yet it is to be supposed that he foresees on their part
+ no resort to physical force! Why! this would be trifling with
+ the understanding of an infant. But the second time Mr. Hunt
+ said nothing about physical force! Oh, no. Whilst the bloody
+ business was in hand by his myrmidons in Newgate Street, and
+ at the Royal Exchange--whilst an innocent gentleman was in the
+ hands of his assassins--whilst the life of the Chief Magistrate
+ of the city was attacked by ruffians, the first inciter to the
+ use of physical force was coolly haranguing on the comparative
+ merits of himself and his hunter, in Spa Fields. What! did
+ anybody expect that he would get up, and accuse himself openly
+ of high treason? Did Catilina, in the Roman Senate, avow his
+ parricidal intentions against his country? But, to quit Mr.
+ Hunt for awhile, let us recall to the recollection of our
+ readers, the incendiary handbills thrust under the doors of
+ public houses, several weeks ago. A copy of one of them was
+ inserted in our paper of the 1st of last month; but, at the time
+ it did not command that attention which its real importance
+ perhaps deserved. It was of the following tenour:-- 'Britons
+ to arms! _Break open all gun and sword shops_, pawnbrokers,
+ and other likely places to find arms. No rise of bread, &c. No
+ CASTLEREAGH. Off with his head. No National Debt. _The whole
+ country waits the signal from London_ to fly _to arms_. Stand
+ firm now or never.--N.B. _Printed bills containing further
+ directions_, will be circulated as soon as possible.'"
+
+I have dwelt thus at length on these Spa Fields riots because the
+Socialistic and Communistic development therein contained, runs fairly
+parallel with our own times; and it is comforting to know, that in this
+case, as in all others in England, the movement was purely evanescent;
+the love of law and order being too deeply seated in the breasts of
+Englishmen. Nay, in this case, the butchers from the shambles in
+Whitechapel attacked the mob, and compelled them to give up their arms,
+"which the butchers express a wish to retain, as trophies and proofs
+of their loyalty and courage." Hunt fizzled out, and returned to his
+previous nonentity.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+
+Still continuing the downward course of the Fleet, an historical place
+is reached, "Hockley-in-the-Hole," or Hollow, so famous for its rough
+sports of bear baiting and sword and cudgel playing. The combative
+nature of an Englishman is curious, but it is inbred in him; sometimes
+it takes the form of "writing to the papers," sometimes of going to
+law, sometimes of "punching" somebody's head; in many it ends in a
+stubborn fight against difficulties to be overcome--but, anyhow, I
+cannot deny that an Englishman is pugnacious by nature. Hear what
+Misson, an intelligent French traveller, who visited England in the
+reign of William III., says: "Anything that looks like fighting is
+delicious to an Englishman. If two little Boys quarrel in the Street,
+the Passengers stop, make a Ring round them in a Moment, and set them
+against one another, that they may come to Fisticuffs. When 'tis come
+to a Fight, each pulls off his Neckcloth and his Waistcoat, and give
+them to hold to some of the Standers by: then they begin to brandish
+their Fists in the Air; the Blows are aim'd all at the Face, they Kick
+at one another's Shins, they tug one another by the Hair, &c. He that
+has got the other down may give him one Blow or two before he rises,
+but no more; and, let the Boy get up ever so often, the other is
+obliged to box him again as often as he requires it. During the Fight,
+the Ring of Bystanders encourage the Combatants with great Delight of
+Heart, and never part them while they fight according to the Rules. The
+Father and Mother of the Boys let them fight on as well as the rest,
+and hearten him that gives Ground, or has the Worst."
+
+This was about 1700; and, if it was so in the green tree (or boy), what
+would it be in the dry (or man)? I am afraid our ancestors were not
+over-refined. They did not all cram for examinations, and there were
+no Girton girls in those days, neither had they analytical novels:
+so that, to a certain extent, we must make allowances for them. Tea
+and coffee were hardly in use for breakfast, and men and women had a
+certain amount of faith in beer and beef, which may have had something
+to do in forming their tastes. Anyhow, the men were manly, and the
+women not a whit worse than they are now; and woe be to the man that
+insulted one. A code of honour was then in existence, and every
+gentleman carried with him the means of enforcing it. Therefore, up to
+a certain limit, they were combative, and not being cigarette-smoking
+_mashers_, and not being overburdened with novels and periodicals,
+and club smoking and billiard rooms being unknown, they enjoyed a
+more physical existence than is led by the young men of the theatrical
+stalls of the present day, and attended Sword and Cudgel playing, and
+Bull and Bear baiting, together with fighting an occasional main of
+Cocks. It might be very wrong; but then they had not our advantages of
+being able to criticize the almost unhidden charms of the "chorus," or
+descant on the merits of a "lemon squash," so that, as man must have
+some employment, they acted after their lights, and I do not think we
+can fairly blame them.
+
+For Londoners, a favourite place, early in the eighteenth century, for
+rough sports, was Hockley-in-the-Hole. Here was bear and bull baiting
+for the public, a fact that was so well known, according to Gay,[55]
+that
+
+  "Experienc'd Men, inur'd to City Ways,
+  Need not the _Calendar_ to count their Days.
+  When through the Town, with slow and solemn Air,
+  Led by the Nostril walks the muzzled Bear;
+  Behind him moves, majestically dull,
+  The Pride of _Hockley Hole_, the surly Bull;
+  Learn hence the Periods of the Week to name,
+  _Mondays_ and _Thursdays_ are the Days of Game."
+
+Even earlier than Gay, Hockley-in-the-Hole is mentioned by Butler in
+his "Hudibras"[56] in somewhat gruesome fashion:--
+
+  "But TRULLA straight brought on the Charge,
+  And in the selfsame Limbo put
+  The Knight and Squire, where he was shut,
+  Where leaving them in Hockley-i'-th'-Hole,
+  Their Bangs and Durance to condole."
+
+But Butler also talks of Bear baiting, both in the first and second
+cantos of "Hudibras," especially in canto the first, where, beginning
+at line 675, he says:
+
+  "But now a Sport more formidable
+  Had rak'd together Village Rabble:
+  'Twas an old Way of recreating--
+  Which learned Butchers call Bear-Baiting:
+  A bold advent'rous Exercise,
+  With ancient Heroes in high Prize;
+  For Authors do affirm it came
+  From Isthmian or Nemean Game;
+  Others derive it from the Bear
+  That's fix'd in Northern Hemisphere,
+  And round about the Pole does make
+  A Circle like a Bear at Stake.
+  That at the Chain's End wheels about,
+  And overturns the Rabble Rout.
+  For, after solemn Proclamation
+  In the Bear's Name (as is the Fashion
+  According to the Law of Arms,
+  To keep men from inglorious Harms)
+  That none presume to come so near
+  As forty Foot of Stake of Bear;
+  If any yet be so foolhardy
+  T' expose themselves to vain Jeopardy;
+  If they come wounded off, and lame,
+  No honour's got by such a Maim;
+  Altho' the Bear gain much; b'ing bound
+  In Honour to make good his Ground,
+  When he's engag'd and takes no Notice,
+  If any press upon him, who 'tis,
+  But let's them know, at their own Cost,
+  That he intends to keep his Post."
+
+Bear baiting was so identified, as a sport, to the London Citizens who
+frequented Hockley-in-the-Hole, that we read that in 1709 Christopher
+Preston, who then kept the Bear Garden, was attacked and partly eaten
+by one of his own bears.
+
+Bear Gardens are proverbially rough, and this place was no exception;
+but there were two others in London where bears were baited, one at
+Marrybone Fields (at the back of Soho Square), and at Tuttle or Tothill
+Fields, at Westminster--thus showing the popularity of the Sports,
+which was not declared illegal until 1835.
+
+Of course in these our days, we know nothing of bear baiting, and if a
+Pyrenean bear were now taken about the country, as I have frequently
+seen them, even if he "danced to the genteelest of tunes," his
+proprietor would be in danger of the judgment--some dear mollycoddling
+old woman in trousers, belonging to some special "faddy" society, being
+always ready to prosecute.
+
+Bears not, at present, being indigenous to Britain, were naturally
+scarce, so the homely and offensive Bull had to afford rough sport to
+the multitude, and several towns now bear testimony to the popularity
+of the sport of bull baiting in their "Bull rings" (Birmingham, to
+wit). In the fourteenth century we know that even horses were baited
+with dogs, and as long as fox hunting, coursing, or wild stag hunting,
+are recognized as sports among us, I fail to see the superior cruelty
+of our ancestors. It may be that people imagine that the larger the
+animal, the greater the cruelty; but I cannot see it. Anyhow, far
+earlier than the Bear garden of Hockley-in-the-Hole, both bear and bull
+baiting were not only popular, but aristocratic amusements. Erasmus,
+who visited England in Henry VIII.'s time, speaks of many herds of
+bears being kept for baiting; and when Queen Mary visited her sister
+the Princess Elizabeth, they were "right well content" with the bear
+baiting. Nay, when she became Queen, Elizabeth was a great patron of
+the _sport_; for when, on May 25, 1559, she entertained the French
+Ambassadors, as an after-dinner spectacle, she gave them some bull and
+bear baiting. Her delight in this diversion did not decrease with age,
+for, twenty-seven years later, she provided the same amusement for
+the delectation of the Danish Ambassador. Paul Hentzner, who visited
+England in 1598, speaking of this sport, says:--"There is still another
+Place, built in the Form of a Theatre, which serves for the baiting
+of Bulls and Bears; they are fastened behind, and then worried by the
+great _English_ Bull dogs; but not without great Risque to the Dogs,
+from the Horns of the one, and the Teeth of the other; and it sometimes
+happens they are killed upon the Spot; fresh ones are immediately
+supplied in the Place of those that are wounded, or tired. To this
+Entertainment there often follows that of whipping a blinded Bear,
+which is performed by five or six Men standing circularly with Whips,
+which they exercise upon him without any Mercy, as he cannot escape
+from them because of his Chain; he defends himself with all his Force
+and Skill, throwing down all who come within his Reach, and are not
+active enough to get out of it, and tearing the Whips out of their
+Hands, and breaking them."
+
+And, again are we indebted to a foreigner for a description of a bull
+baiting, thus realizing Burns' aspiration seeing "oursen as others see
+us," _vide Misson_.
+
+"Here follows the Manner of those Bull Baitings which are so much
+talk'd of: They tie a Rope to the Root of the Ox or Bull, and fasten
+the other End of the Cord to an Iron Ring fix'd to a Stake driven into
+the Ground; so that this Cord being 15 Foot long, the Bull is confin'd
+to a Sphere of about 30 Foot Diameter. Several Butchers, or other
+Gentlemen, that are desirous to exercise their Dogs, stand round about,
+each holding his own by the Ears; and, when the Sport begins, they let
+loose one of the Dogs; The Dog runs at the Bull: the Bull immovable,
+looks down upon the Dog with an Eye of Scorn, and only turns a Horn to
+him to hinder him from coming near: the Dog is not daunted at this, he
+runs round him, and tries to get beneath his Belly, in order to seize
+him by the Muzzle, or the Dew lap, or the pendant Glands: The Bull then
+puts himself into a Posture of Defence; he beats the Ground with his
+Feet, which he joins together as close as possible, and his chief Aim
+is not to gore the Dog with the Point of his Horn, but to slide one of
+them under the Dog's Belly (who creeps close to the Ground to hinder
+it) and to throw him so high in the Air that he may break his Neck in
+the Fall. This often happens: When the Dog thinks he is sure of fixing
+his Teeth, a turn of the Horn, which seems to be done with all the
+Negligence in the World, gives him a Sprawl thirty Foot high, and puts
+him in danger of a damnable Squelch when he comes down. This danger
+would be unavoidable, if the Dog's Friends were not ready beneath him,
+some with their Backs to give him a soft Reception, and others with
+long Poles which they offer him slant ways, to the Intent that, sliding
+down them, it may break the Force of his Fall. Notwithstanding all this
+care, a Toss generally makes him sing to a very scurvy Tune, and draw
+his Phiz into a pitiful Grimace: But, unless he is totally stunn'd
+with the Fall, he is sure to crawl again towards the Bull, with his
+old Antipathy, come on't what will. Sometimes a second Frisk into the
+Air disables him for ever from playing his old Tricks; But, sometimes,
+too, he fastens upon his Enemy, and when he has seiz'd him with his Eye
+teeth, he sticks to him like a Leech, and would sooner die than leave
+his Hold. Then the Bull bellows, and bounds, and Kicks about to shake
+off the Dog; by his Leaping the Dog seems to be no Manner of Weight
+to him, tho in all Appearance he puts him to great Pain. In the End,
+either the Dog tears out the Piece he has laid Hold on, and falls, or
+else remains fix'd to him, with an Obstinacy that would never end, if
+they did not pull him off. To call him away, would be in vain; to give
+him a hundred blows would be as much so; you might cut him to Pieces
+Joint by Joint before he would let him loose. What is to be done then?
+While some hold the Bull, others thrust Staves into the Dog's Mouth,
+and open it by main Force. This is the only Way to part them."
+
+But the dogs did not always get the best of it--many a one was gored
+and killed by the bull. Cruelty, however, would scarcely rest content
+with simple bull baiting. It was improved upon, as we see in the
+following advertisement. "At the _Bear Garden_ in _Hockley in the
+Hole_, 1710. This is to give notice to all Gentlemen, Gamsters, and
+Others, That on this present _Monday_ is a Match to be fought by two
+Dogs, one from _Newgate_ Market against one of _Honey Lane_ Market, at
+a Bull, for a Guinea to be spent. Five Let goes out off Hand, which
+goes fairest and farthest in, Wins all; like wise a _Green Bull_ to be
+baited, which was never baited before, and a Bull to be turned loose
+with Fire works all over him; also a Mad Ass to be baited; With variety
+of Bull baiting, and Bear baiting; and a Dog to be drawn up with Fire
+works."[57]
+
+I cannot, however, consider this as an ordinary programme, and it was
+evidently so considered at the time; for a book was advertised in the
+_Tatler_, January 3-5, 1709 (1710):--"This Day is published The Bull
+Baiting or Sach----ll[58] dressed up in Fire works; lately brought
+over from the Bear Garden in Southwark, and exposed for the Diversion
+of the Citizens of London: at 6d. a piece." But Steele in No. cxxxiv.
+of the _Tatler_, condemns the cruelty of the age, and says he has
+"often wondered that we do not lay aside a custom which makes us appear
+barbarous to nations much more rude and unpolished than ourselves. Some
+French writers have represented this diversion of the common people
+much to our disadvantage, and imputed it to natural fierceness and
+cruelty of temper, as they do some other entertainments peculiar to
+our nation: I mean those elegant diversions of bull baiting and prize
+fighting, with the like ingenious recreations of the Bear-garden.
+I wish I knew how to answer this reproach which is cast upon us, and
+excuse the death of so many innocent cocks, bulls, dogs, and bears, as
+have been set together by the ears, or died untimely deaths, only to
+make us sport."
+
+Of all the places where these cruel pastimes were practised, certainly
+Hockley-in-the-Hole, bore off the palm for blackguardism; and it is
+thus mentioned in an essay of Steele's in the _Tatler_ (No. xxviii.),
+
+"I have myself seen Prince Eugene make Catinat fly from the backside of
+Grays Inn Lane to Hockley-in-the-Hole, and not give over the pursuit,
+until obliged to leave the Bear Garden, on the right, to avoid being
+borne down by fencers, wild bulls, and monsters, too terrible for the
+encounter of any heroes, but such as their lives are livelihood." To
+this mention of Hockley-in-the-Hole, there is, in an edition of 1789,
+a footnote (p. 274), "There was a sort of amphitheatre here, dedicated
+originally to bull-baiting, bear-baiting, prize fighting, and all
+other sorts of _rough-game_; and it was not only attended by butchers,
+drovers, and great crowds of all sorts of mobs, but likewise by Dukes,
+Lords, Knights, Squires, &c. There were seats particularly set apart
+for the quality, ornamented with old tapestry hangings, into which
+none were admitted under half a crown at least. Its neighbourhood was
+famous for sheltering thieves, pickpockets, and infamous women; and for
+breeding bulldogs."
+
+Bull baiting died hard, and in one famous debate in the House of
+Commons, on 24th of May, 1802, much eloquence was wasted on the
+subject, both _pro._ and _con._, one hon. gentleman (the Right Hon. W.
+Windham, M.P. for Norwich), even trying to prove that the bull enjoyed
+the baiting. Said he, "It would be ridiculous to say he felt no pain;
+yet, when on such occasions he exhibited no signs of terror, it was a
+demonstrable proof that he felt some pleasure." Other hon. gentlemen
+defended it on various grounds, and, although Wilberforce and Sheridan
+spoke eloquently in favour of the abolition of the practice, they
+were beaten, on a division, by which decision Parliament inflicted a
+standing disgrace, for many years, upon the English Nation.
+
+Hockley-in-the-Hole was not only the temple of _S. S. Taurus et Canis_;
+but the genus _Homo_, type _gladiator_, was there in his glory. It
+was there that sword play was best shown, but we do not hear much
+of it before William the Third, or Anne's reign, or that of George
+I., when the redoubtable Figg was the Champion swordsman of England.
+As Hockley-in-the-Hole belongs to the Fleet River, so do these
+gladiatorial exhibitions belong to Hockley-in-the-Hole. I have treated
+of them once,[59] and on looking back, with the knowledge that many of
+my readers may not have seen that book, and having nothing better in
+the space allotted to this peculiar spot, to offer them (for I then
+drew my best on the subject) I quote, with apologies, from myself.
+
+"In those days, when every one with any pretensions to gentility wore a
+sword, and duelling was rife, it is no wonder that exhibitions of skill
+in that weapon were favourites. Like modern prize fights, they drew
+together all the scum and riff-raff, as well as the gentry, who were
+fond of so-called _sport_. They were disreputable affairs, and were
+decried by every class of contemporary. The preliminaries were swagger
+and bounce, as one or two out of a very large number will show.[60]
+
+"'At the Bear Garden in Hockley-in-the-Hole.
+
+"'A Tryal of Skill to be Performed between two Profound Masters of the
+Noble Science of Defence on _Wednesday_ next, being this 13th of the
+instant July, 1709, at Two of the Clock precisely.
+
+"'I, _George Gray_, born in the City of Norwich, who has Fought in most
+Parts of the _West Indies_, viz., _Jamaica_, _Barbadoes_, and several
+other Parts of the World; in all Twenty-five times, upon a Stage, and
+was never yet Worsted, and now lately come to _London_; do invite
+_James Harris_, to meet and Exercise at these following Weapons, viz.:
+
+  _Back Sword_,       }  {_Single Falchon_
+  _Sword and Dagger_, }  {_and_
+  _Sword and Buckler_,}  {_Case of Falchons_.'
+
+"'I, _James Harris_, Master of the said Noble Science of Defence, who
+formerly rid in the Horse Guards, and hath Fought a Hundred and Ten
+Prizes, and never left a Stage to any Man; will not fail, (God Willing)
+to meet this brave and bold Inviter, at the Time and Place appointed,
+desiring Sharp swords, and from him no Favour.
+
+"'_Note._ No persons to be upon the Stage but the Seconds. _Vivat
+Regina._'"
+
+This is not the only available advertisement, but it is a typical one,
+and will serve for all.
+
+"The challenger would wager some twenty or thirty pounds, and the
+stakes would be deposited and delivered to the Challenged: the
+challenger receiving the money[61] taken at the door, or as we should
+term it, _gate money_; which, frequently, twice or thrice exceeded the
+value of the stakes.
+
+"There is one remarkable exception, I have found, to this monetary
+arrangement, but it is the only one in my experience. For, in an
+advertisement of the usual character, there comes: 'Note.--That John
+Stokes fights James Harris, and Thomas Hesgate fights John Terriwest,
+three Bouts each at Back Sword, for Love.'
+
+"Preliminaries arranged, handbills printed and distributed, the Combat
+duly advertised in at least one newspaper, and the day arrived; like
+the bull and bear, the combatants paraded the streets, preceded by
+a drum, having their sleeves tucked up, and their Swords in hand.
+All authorities agree that the fights were, to a certain extent,
+serious.[62] 'The Edge of the Sword was a little blunted, and the Care
+of the Prize-fighters was not so much to avoid wounding each other,
+as to avoid doing it dangerously: Nevertheless, as they were oblig'd
+to fight till some Blood was shed, without which no Body would give
+a Farthing for the Show, they were sometimes forc'd to play a little
+ruffly. I once saw a much deeper and longer Cut given than was
+intended.' "Ward[63] gives a short description of one of these fights:
+'Great Preparations at the Bear Garden all Morning, for the noble Tryal
+of Skill that is to be play'd in the Afternoon. Seats fill'd and crowded
+by Two. Drums beat, Dogs yelp, Butchers and Foot soldiers clatter
+their Sticks; At last the two heroes, in their fine borrow'd _Holland_
+Shirts, mount the Stage about Three; Cut large Collops out of one
+another, to divert the Mob, and Make Work for the Surgeons: Smoking,
+Swearing, Drinking, Thrusting, Justling, Elbowing, Sweating, Kicking,
+Cuffing, all the while the Company stays.'
+
+Steele gives a good account of a prize fight:[64] 'The Combatants met
+in the Middle of the Stage, and, shaking Hands, as removing all Malice,
+they retired with much Grace to the Extremities of it; from whence
+they immediately faced about, and approached each other. _Miller_,
+with an Heart full of Resolution, _Buck_, with a watchful, untroubled
+Countenance; _Buck_ regarding principally his own Defence, _Miller_
+chiefly thoughtful of his Opponent. It is not easie to describe the
+many Escapes and imperceptible Defences between Two Men of Quick Eyes,
+and ready Limbs; but _Miller's_ Heat laid him open to the Rebuke of the
+calm _Buck_, by a large Cut on the Forehead. Much Effusion of Blood
+covered his Eyes in a Moment, and the Huzzas of the Crowd undoubtedly
+quickened his Anguish. The Assembly was divided into Parties upon their
+different ways of Fighting: while a poor Nymph in one of the Galleries
+apparently suffered for _Miller_, and burst into a Flood of Tears. As
+soon as his Wound was wrapped up, he came on again in a little Rage,
+which still disabled him further. But what brave Man can be wounded
+with more Patience and Caution? The next was a warm eager Onset, which
+ended in a decisive Stroke on the Left Leg of _Miller_. The Lady in the
+Gallery, during the second Strife, covered her face; and for my Part,
+I could not keep my thoughts from being mostly employed on the
+Consideration of her unhappy Circumstances that Moment, hearing the
+Clash of Swords, and apprehending Life or Victory concerned her Lover
+in every Blow, but not daring to satisfie herself on whom they fell.
+The Wound was exposed to the View of all who could delight in it, and
+sowed up on the Stage. The surly Second of _Miller_ declared at this
+Time, that he would, that Day Fortnight, fight Mr. _Buck_ at the Same
+Weapons, declaring himself the Master of the renowned _German_; but
+_Buck_ denied him the Honour of that Courageous Disciple, and, asserting
+that he himself had taught that Champion, accepted the Challenge."
+
+In No. 449, of the _Spectator_, is the following letter _re_
+Hockley-in-the-Hole:--
+
+ "MR. SPECTATOR,--I was the other day at the Bear-garden, in
+ hopes to have seen your short face; but not being so fortunate,
+ I must tell you by way of letter, that there is a mystery among
+ the gladiators which has escaped your spectatorial penetration.
+ For, being in a Box at an Alehouse, near that renowned Seat or
+ Honour above mentioned, I overheard two Masters of the Science
+ agreeing to quarrel on the next Opportunity. This was to happen
+ in the Company of a Set of the Fraternity of Basket Hilts, who
+ were to meet that Evening. When that was settled, one asked
+ the other, Will you give Cuts, or receive? the other answered,
+ Receive. It was replied, Are you a passionate Man? No, provided
+ you cut no more, nor no deeper than we agree. I thought it my
+ duty to acquaint you with this, that the people may not pay
+ their money for fighting, and be cheated.
+
+ "Your humble servant,
+
+ "SCABBARD RUSTY."
+
+It was not sword play alone that was the favourite pastime at
+Hockley-in-the-Hole, there was cudgel playing--and fighting with "the
+Ancient Weapon called the Threshing Flail." There is an advertisement
+extant of a fight with this weapon between John Terrewest and John
+Parkes of Coventry, whose tombstone affirms that he fought three
+hundred and fifty battles in different parts of Europe. Fisticuffs also
+came prominently into vogue early in the eighteenth century, and it is
+needless to say that Hockley was a favourite place with its professors.
+The site of the Bear Garden is said to be occupied by the "Coach and
+Horses," 29, Ray Street, Farringdon Road.
+
+    [Footnote 55: "Trivia," book ii.]
+
+    [Footnote 56: Book iii. line 1,000, &c.]
+
+    [Footnote 57: Harl. MSS. 5931, 46.]
+
+    [Footnote 58: Dr. Sacheverell.]
+
+    [Footnote 59: "Social Life in the Reign of Queen Anne," by
+    John Ashton (_Chatto and Windus_).]
+
+    [Footnote 60: Harl. MSS. 5931, 50.]
+
+    [Footnote 61: De. Sorbière.]
+
+    [Footnote 62: Misson.]
+
+    [Footnote 63: "Comical View of London and Westminster."]
+
+    [Footnote 64: _Spectator_, No. 436.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+
+In connection with the Fleet, I have omitted to mention one locality,
+in this immediate neighbourhood, which certainly deserves notice from
+its associations, namely Laystall Street and Mount Pleasant; for here
+it was, that a fort to command Gray's Inn Road, was built, when the
+lines for the protection of the City were formed by order of Parliament
+in 1643--at the time when it was feared that Prince Rupert was coming
+to attack it. For nearly, if not quite, a hundred years those lines
+of defence were partially visible; and, certainly, among others,
+one was at Mount Pleasant. It is a somewhat curious thing that the
+names survive. A Laystall meant a dung or dust heap, and, after this
+artificial mound was utilized for the community its name was euphemised
+into Mount Pleasant, which it bears to this day.
+
+This work of intrenchment was almost impressment, for we can hardly
+consider that it was voluntary, when we read in a newspaper of
+1643, that, by order of the Parliament, "many thousands of men and
+women (good housekeepers), their children, and servants, went out of
+the several parishes of London with spades, shovels, pickaxes, and
+baskets, and drums and colours before them; some of the chief men of
+every parish marching before them, and so went into the fields, and
+worked hard all day in digging and making of trenches, from fort to
+fort, wherebie to intrench the citie round from one end to the other,
+on this side of the Thames; and late at night the company came back
+in like manner they went out, and the next day a many more went, and
+so they continued daily, with such cheerfulnesse that the whole will
+be finished ere many dayes." And so these works of fortification went
+on, encouraged by the presence of a member of the Common Council, and
+some of the Trained Bands (the City Militia of that time) and it was a
+work in which all classes joined--willingly, or not, I know not--but
+the latter, probably, as the City of London was generally loyal to its
+king, although on occasion, the dwellers therein, knew how to hold
+their own in defence of their prerogatives. But the fear of Prince
+Rupert, and his familiar spirit--the white poodle dog "Boy" (who was
+killed, after passing through many a battle-field unscathed, at Marston
+Moor, July 2, 1644), may possibly have had something to do with it.
+Of course we know that tailors and shoemakers, are mostly radicals,
+and socialists in politics, probably on account of their sedentary
+work, where political discussion is rife, and from their constant
+inter-association, not mixing much with the outer world; therefore
+we can scarcely wonder that on the 5th of June, 1643, that some five
+thousand or six thousand Tailors went out to help intrench the City
+against the redoubted Prince, and that, afterwards, the shoemakers
+followed their example. Two thousand porters also helped in the work.
+Most probably, a moral "shrewd privie nipp" was administered to most
+people by those then in power, and they were forced into taking an
+active part in raising the fortifications, irrespective of their being
+either _Cavaliers_ or _Roundheads_.
+
+At all events, the fort at Mount Pleasant was raised, although never
+used, and it belongs to the history of the Fleet River--as, close
+by, a little affluent joined it. Gardens sloped down to its banks,
+notably those of the great Priory of St. John's Clerkenwell, and, like
+Bermondsey, with its "Cherry Gardens"--the names of "Vineyard Walk" and
+"Pear Tree Court" bear testimony to the fruitfulness of this part of
+London. There is also "Vine Street" in Saffron Hill, which latter name
+is extremely suggestive of the growth of a plant which, in old times,
+was much used both in medicine and cooking. It was called "The Liberty
+of Saffron Hill, Hatton Garden, and Ely Place"--which was in the Manor
+of Portpool.
+
+Saffron Hill, nowadays, is the home of the Italian organ-grinder, who,
+although not unknown to the police, is undoubtedly a better citizen
+than previous dwellers therein. Specially was West Street, or Chick
+Lane, as it was formerly called, a neighbourhood to be avoided by all
+honest men. It ran both east and west of the Fleet, which it crossed
+by a bridge. Stow calls it Chicken Lane, but it certainly was not
+inhabited by young and innocent birds. It ran into Field Lane, of
+unsavoury memory, and now done away with.
+
+This was the state of West Street, as exemplified by a cutting from the
+_Morning Herald_ of Feb. 11, 1834:
+
+ "Yesterday an inquest was held at the Horse Shoe and Magpie,
+ Saffron Hill, before THOMAS STIRLING, Esq., Coroner, on the body
+ of James Parkinson, aged 36, who came by his death under the
+ following circumstances.
+
+ "The Jury proceeded to view the body of the deceased, which lay
+ in the upper part of a low lodging-house for travellers, in West
+ Street, Saffron Hill. It was in a high state of decomposition,
+ and a report was generally circulated that he had come by his
+ death by unfair means.
+
+ "Mary Wood being sworn, deposed that she was the landlady of
+ the house in West Street, which she let out in lodgings. The
+ deceased occasionally lodged with her, and he was a dealer in
+ cat's meat. On Tuesday night last he came home and asked her
+ for a light, and proceeded to his bedroom. On the Wednesday
+ witness proceeded upstairs to make the beds, when she saw the
+ deceased lying on his bed apparently asleep, but she did not
+ speak to him. On the Thursday she proceeded to the upper part of
+ the house for the same purpose, when she again saw the deceased
+ lying as if asleep, but she did not disturb him, and he was
+ ultimately discovered to be a corpse, and his face quite black.
+
+ "_Juror._ Pray, how many beds are there in the room where the
+ deceased slept?
+
+ "_Witness._ Only eight, and please you, Sir.
+
+ "Indeed, and how many persons are in the habit of sleeping in
+ the same apartment?--There are generally two or three in a bed,
+ but the deceased had a bed to himself.
+
+ "Very comfortable truly. Is it not strange that none of his
+ fellow lodgers ascertained that he was dead?--No, Sir, they go
+ in and out without seeming to care for each other.
+
+ "Do you mean to say, if a poor man was to take a lodging at your
+ house, you would let him lie for upwards of 48 hours without
+ inquiring whether he required nourishment?--Why, Sir, I have
+ known some of my lodgers, who have been out _upon the spree_ to
+ _lay_ in bed for three and four days together, without a bit or
+ a sup, and then they have gone out to their work as well and as
+ hearty as ever they _was_ in their lives; I have known it often
+ to have been done. There was plenty of _grub_ in the house if he
+ liked to have asked for it; but I thought if I asked him to have
+ victuals he would be offended, as he might receive it as a hint
+ for the few nights' lodging that he owed me.
+
+ "Mr. Appleby, the parish surgeon, proved that the deceased died
+ a natural death, and the Jury returned a verdict of 'Died by the
+ visitation of God.'"
+
+There was an old house in West Street, pulled down in April, 1840,
+which tradition affirmed to have been the residence of the infamous
+Jonathan Wild, and, when destroyed, its age was considered to be about
+three hundred years. At one time it was the Red Lion Inn; but for a
+hundred years prior to its demolition it was a low lodging-house. Owing
+to the numerous facilities for secretion and escape, it was the haunt
+of coiners, secret distillers, thieves, and perhaps worse. There were
+trap doors connected with the Fleet River through which booty might be
+thrown, or a man get away, if hard pressed; a secret door in a garret
+led to the next house, and there were many hiding places--in one of
+which a chimney sweep named Jones, who had escaped from Newgate, lay
+hidden for about six weeks, although the house was repeatedly searched
+by the police.
+
+And there was Field Lane too, which was the house of the "Fence," or
+receiver of stolen goods. It was from this interesting locality that
+Charles Dickens drew that wonderful study of Fagin--who was a real
+character. Cruikshank has made him as immortal, but Kenny Meadows tried
+to delineate him in a clever series which appeared in _Bell's Life in
+London_, under the title of "Gallery of Comicalities."
+
+[Illustration: FAGIN, THE JEW.]
+
+  "Welcome, Old Star, of Saffron hill.
+    Of villainy a sample bright,
+  Awake to Prigs, and plunder still,
+    Thou merry, ancient Israelite!
+
+  Thy face is rough, with matted shag,
+    Foul is thy form, old shrivell'd wretch.
+  How cunningly you eye the swag,
+    Harden'd purveyor to Jack Ketch!
+
+  Incrusted with continued crime,
+    Your hopeful pupils still employ--
+  Thou wert indeed a Tutor prime
+    To Oliver, the Workhouse Boy.
+
+  Poor Lad! condemn'd to fate's hard stripes,
+    To herd with Fagin's plundering pack;
+  And learn the art of filching wipes,
+    From Charley Bates, and Dawkins Jack.
+
+  To hear 'The Dodger' patter slang,
+    With knowing wink, and accent glib,
+  Or learn from 'Sikes's' ruffian gang,
+    In slap up style to crack a crib.
+
+  Hail, Fagin! Patriarch of the whole!
+    Kind Patron of these knowing ones--
+  In thee we trace a kindred soul
+    Of honest Ikey Solomon's!
+
+  We leave you to your courses vile,
+    For conscience you have none, old Codger!
+  And in our next we'll trace in style,
+    The mug of Jack, the _artful dodger_."
+
+[Illustration: FIELD LANE NEGOTIATIONS; OR, A SPECIMEN OF "FINE
+DRAWING."]
+
+The artistic merit of this poetry is _nil_, and my only excuse is
+the introduction of a forgotten sketch by a dead artist, who, in his
+day was popular and famous. Who, for instance, remembering Leech's
+pictures in _Punch_, would think that this illustration ever came from
+his pencil? but it did, and from _Bell's Life in London_; and so did
+another, of two children fighting in Chick Lane, whilst their parents,
+the father with a broken nose, and the mother with a black eye, look on
+approvingly.
+
+"FIELD LANE NEGOTIATIONS; OR, A SPECIMEN OF 'FINE DRAWING.' Thish ish
+vot I callsh 'caushe and effect;' caushe if vee thidn't buy, no bothy
+vood shell, and if vee thidn't shell, nobothy vood buy; and vot's more,
+if peoplesh thidn't have foglesh, vy, nobothy could prig em" (_See_
+Abrahams on the "Economy of Wipes").
+
+Those were the days of large and valuable silk Bandana handkerchiefs,
+and the story used to be told that you might have your pocket picked
+of your handkerchief at one end of Field Lane, and buy it again at the
+other end, with the marking taken out.
+
+Long before Fagin's time, however, there was a school for young thieves
+in this neighbourhood, _vide Gentleman's Magazine_ (1765), vol. xxxv.
+p. 145.
+
+ "Four boys, detected in picking pockets, were examined before
+ the Lord Mayor, when one was admitted as evidence, who gave an
+ account, that a man who kept a public-house near _Fleet Market_,
+ had a club of boys, whom he instructed in picking pockets, and
+ other iniquitous practices; beginning first with teaching them
+ to pick a handchief out of his own pocket, and next his watch;
+ so that, at last, the evidence was so great an adept, that he
+ got the publican's watch four times in one evening, when he
+ swore he was as perfect as one of twenty years' practice. The
+ pilfering out of shops was his next art; his instructions to
+ his pupils were, that as many chandlers, or other shops, as
+ had hatches,[65] one boy was to knock for admittance for some
+ trifle, whilst another was lying on his belly, close to the
+ hatch, who when the boy came out, the hatch on jar, and the
+ owner withdrawn, was to crawl in, on all fours, and take the
+ tills or anything else he could meet with, and to retire in the
+ same manner. Breaking into shops by night was another article
+ which was to be effected thus: as walls of brick under shop
+ windows are very thin, two of them were to lie under a window
+ as destitute beggars, asleep to passers by, but, when alone,
+ were provided with pickers to pick the mortar out of the bricks,
+ and so on till they had opened a hole big enough to go in, when
+ one was to lie, as if asleep, before the breach, till the other
+ accomplished his purpose."
+
+    [Footnote 65: Dwarf doors.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+Close by Saffron Hill, and Fleet Lane, is Hatton Garden, or Ely Place,
+formerly the seats of the Bishops of Ely; which Shakespeare has made so
+familiar to us in _Richard III._ act iii. sc. 4. "My Lord of Ely, when
+I was last in Holborn, I saw good strawberries in your garden there; I
+do beseech you, send for some of them."[66] In Queen Elizabeth's time
+an arrangement was effected so that her favourite Chancellor Hatton,
+who "led the brawls, the Seal and Maces danc'd before him,"[67] should
+have this little estate, the gardens of which sloped down to the Fleet
+River. Hence the Bishop of Ely's place assumed the name of Hatton
+Garden.
+
+There is a legend--and I give it as such--that this Sir Christopher
+Hatton married a beautiful gipsy girl, who bewitched him; and the price
+she had to pay, according to her compact with the Evil One, was her
+soul, and body, after a given time. When that arrived, the Devil duly
+came for her, and seizing her, bore her aloft, and, whilst in the air,
+he rent her in pieces, and threw her still palpitating heart to earth.
+Where it fell was, for years, known as _Bleeding Heart Yard_; but now,
+the authorities, whoever they may be, have altered it to _Bleeding
+Hart_, which, in all probability was the cognizance of the family who
+resided there.
+
+This Ely Place had very extensive premises, consisting of numerous
+buildings, a Hall, Quadrangle, Cloisters, Chapel, a field, the historic
+garden, _cum multis aliis_; and they occupied a large space. Only
+the Chapel now remains, and that has had a curious career. At one
+time marriages were celebrated there, as at the Fleet, presumably
+that it was not under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of London, but
+this fiction was overruled in the case of _Barton_ v. _Wells_ in the
+Consistory Court, Nov. 17, 1789, when Sir Wm. Scott (afterwards Lord
+Stowell) decided that Ely Chapel was under the authority of the Bishop
+of London, and that Curates thereto must be licensed by him.
+
+The Bishops came to London in former times, as now, and their
+residences, in several cases were known as _Places_, or _Palaces_.
+Thus, there was Winchester Place, in Southwark, now the headquarters of
+the Fire Brigade--formerly the palace of the Bishops of Winchester, a
+city which was once the metropolis of England, where Parliaments were
+held, and whose Bishops to this day are titular Prelates of the Garter.
+The Bishop of Bangor, who, although his see claims to be as old as any,
+has not the richest bishopric, had a palace in Shoe Lane, Holborn, and
+the Bishop of Lincoln also lived in Holborn.
+
+The first mention of the connection of the Bishops of Ely, is in the
+will of John de Kirkeby (who was appointed Bishop in 1286), and whose
+will was proved in 1290, or 18 Edward I., and in the Close Roll of that
+year, is the following (in Latin, of course):
+
+ "_For the Executors of the Will of the Bishop of Ely._
+
+ "Whereas the King hath understood that John, late Bishop of Ely,
+ deceased, of pious memory, hath in his last will bequeathed his
+ houses which he had in the parish of St. Andrew near Holeburn,
+ in the suburbs, and within the liberty of the city of London,
+ to God, and the Church of St. Etheldreda[68] of Ely, and his
+ successors, bishops of the same place, so that they should pay
+ the debts which the same deceased owed for those houses to
+ Gregory de Rokesle, the King's Citizen, of London; Ralph de
+ Sandwich, warden of the said City, is commanded, that, without
+ delay, he deliver the aforesaid houses, with appurtenances,
+ which are in the King's hand and custody, by reason of the death
+ of the aforesaid bishop, thereof to make execution of the said
+ will.
+
+ "Witness the King at Westminster on the 18th day of July."
+
+The next bishop--William de Luda (who must have been a person of some
+distinction, for he had previously held the Deanery of St. Martin's
+le Grand, and the Archdeaconry of Durham, besides being Chamberlain,
+Treasurer, and Keeper of the Wardrobe to the King) bequeathed more
+property to the See, and in all likelihood, built the Chapel of St.
+Etheldreda, which, however, was most probably considerably modified
+by a later Bishop, Thomas de Arundel, who held the See from 1374 to
+1388--as the windows, mouldings, &c., now existing show, being about
+as good an example, as possible, of _Decorated_, or _Second Pointed_
+architecture.
+
+"Old _Iohn of Gaunt_, time-honoured Lancaster" lived at Ely Place for
+a time--in all likelihood after his palace in the Savoy, had been
+destroyed by rioters. This fact is noted by Shakespeare in "The life
+and death of King Richard the Second," act i. sc. 4:
+
+  "_Busby._ Old Iohn of Gaunt is verie sick, my Lord,
+            Sodainly taken, and hath sent post haste
+            To entreat your Majesty to visit him.
+
+  _Richard._ Where lyes he?
+
+  _Busby._ At Ely house."
+
+Hollinshed, also, under date 1399, says: "In the meane time, the Duke
+of Lancaster departed out of this life at the Bishop of Elie's place,
+in Holborne, and lieth buried in the Cathedrall Church of St. Paule, in
+London, on the north side of the high altar, by the Ladie Blanche, his
+first wife."
+
+The premises were of very great extent, as appears by plans taken
+before its almost total demolition in 1772. Under the Chapel was a
+cellar, or under croft--divided into two--and this seems to have
+caused some inconvenience in the seventeenth century, for Malcolm, in
+his "Londinium Redivivum" (vol. ii. p. 236) says: "One half of the
+crypt under the chapel, which had been used for interments, was then
+frequented as a drinking-place, where liquor was retailed; and the
+intoxication of the people assembled, often interrupted the offices of
+religion above them." And this statement seems to be borne out by a
+reference to Harl. MSS. 3789, _et seq._, where it says: "Even half of
+the vault or burying place under the Chapel is made use of as a public
+cellar (or was so very lately) to sell drink in, there having been
+frequently revellings heard there during Divine Service."
+
+More curious things than this happened to Ely Place, for the Journals
+of the House of Commons inform us how, on January 3, 1642-3, "The
+palace was this day ordered to be converted into a prison, and John
+Hunt, Sergeant-at-arms, appointed keeper during the pleasure of
+the House." He was, at the same time, commanded to take care that
+the gardens, trees, chapel, and its windows, received no injury. A
+sufficient sum for repairs was granted from the revenues of the see.
+
+Again, on March 1, 1660: "Ordered that it be referred to a Committee
+to consider how, and in what manner, the said widows, orphans, and
+maim'd soldiers, at Ely House, may be provided for, and paid, for the
+future, with the least prejudice, and most ease to the nation; and
+how a weekly revenue may be settled for their maintenance; and how the
+maimed soldiers may be disposed of, so as the nation may be eased of
+the charge, and how they may be provided of a preaching minister."
+
+There were always squabbles about this property, and it nearly fell
+into ruin; but in 1772 an Act of Parliament was passed (Geo. III., an.
+12, cap. 43) entitled "An Act for vesting _Ely House_, in _Holbourn_,
+in His Majesty, his Heirs and Successors, and for applying the Purchase
+Money, with another Sum therein mentioned, in the purchasing of a
+Freehold Piece of Ground in _Dover Street_, and in the building, and
+fitting up another House thereon, for the future Residence of the
+Bishops of _Ely_, and the Surplus to the Benefit of the See; and for
+other Purposes therein mentioned." And the town residence of the Bishop
+of Ely is now 37, Dover Street, Piccadilly. This little bargain was the
+sale to the Crown of Ely Place for £6,500, and a perpetual annuity of
+£200 to the Bishop of Ely and his successors.
+
+The site and materials were purchased by a Mr. Charles Cole, an
+architect and builder, and he built Ely Place, Holborn. The chapel was
+let, and, eventually, to the Welsh Episcopalians of London. But the
+property got into Chancery, and the estate was ordered to be sold; and
+it was sold on January 28, 1874, and the chapel alone fetched £5,250.
+As there was no stipulation as to its purchase by any particular
+religious body, it was bought by the Roman Catholics, and is now St.
+Etheldreda's Church, Convent, and schools.
+
+[Illustration: ELY HOUSE, 1784.]
+
+_Apropos_ of Ely House, when Bishop Coxe demurred at surrendering the
+property of his see to Hatton, Queen Elizabeth wrote him that famous
+letter, beginning "Proud Prelate," and telling him that, if he did not
+do as he was told, she, who had made him what he was, could unmake him,
+and if he did not immediately comply, she would unfrock him--signing
+this very characteristic and peremptory epistle, "Yours, as you demean
+yourself, ELIZABETH."
+
+On the other or east side of the Fleet was a tributary brook called
+Turnmill brook--a name now surviving in Turnmill Street--which, even in
+this century, drove flour and flatting mills, and we have indisputable
+evidence of its industrial powers, in an advertisement in the _Daily
+Courant_ September 17, 1714, which calls attention to a house in
+Bowling (Green) Alley,[69] Turnmill Street, which had the power of
+utilizing "a common sewer with a good stream, and a good current,
+for purposes of a Mill;" and it was on Turnmill Brook that Cave, the
+publisher, in 1740, went into an unprofitable partnership with one
+Lewis Paul, of Birmingham, to work a mill for the utilization of a
+patent taken out by Paul for a "Machine to spin wool or cotton into
+thread, yarn, or worsted." This experiment, however, was not a success.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+The Fleet flowing to its bourne,[70] the Thames, was bridged over at
+Holborn. Stow says: "Oldbourne bridge, over the said river of Wels more
+towards the north, was so called, of a bourn that sometimes ran
+down Oldbourne hill into the said river. This bridge of stone, like as
+Fleet bridge from Ludgate West, serveth for passengers with Carriage,
+or otherwise, from Newgate toward the west and by north." This was
+written in 1598.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+After the great fire of 1666 the Fleet was widened, and canalized,
+from the Thames, to Holborn Bridge; thence, to its source, it took
+its natural course, and, although there were then three bridges over
+it, from Holborn to Newgate Street, set close, side by side, yet
+it was considered too narrow for the traffic, as we see in an Act
+of Parliament passed in 1670 (22 Car. II., cap. 11), entitled "An
+additional Act for the Rebuilding of the City of _London_, Uniting
+of Parishes, and Rebuilding of the Cathedral and Parochial Churches
+within the said City." Section 7 says: "And, whereas the Way or Passage
+of _Holborn-Bridge_ is now too strait, or incommodious for the many
+Carriages and Passengers daily using and frequenting the same, and is
+therefore necessary to be enlarged; Be it therefore likewise enacted,
+That it shall and may be lawful for the said Mayor, Aldermen, and
+Commons, so to enlarge and make wider the same, as that the said Way
+and Passage may run in a Bevil Line from a certain Timber house on the
+North side thereof, commonly called or known by the Name or Sign of the
+_Cock_, into the Front of the Buildings of a certain Inn called the
+_Swan_ Inn, situate on the North side of _Holborn Hill_, as aforesaid."
+
+Sir Christopher Wren built this bridge, which was meant to be the
+ornamental end of "The New Canal," as it is described in the map of
+Farringdon Ward in Stow's "Survey" (ed. 1720). It must have taken some
+time to complete, for it was not finished until the Mayoralty of Sir
+William Hooker, whose name appeared carved upon it (although somewhat
+mutilated) when it was uncovered in March, 1840. Sir William Tite,
+C.B., M.P., F.S.A., &c., Architect to the City of London, writing at
+that date, says: "The Sewer at Holborn Hill was opened, and as I was
+passing, I saw the southern face of the Bridge which crossed the Fleet
+at this place uncovered to some extent. It was built of red brick, and
+the arch was about twenty feet span. The road from the east intersected
+the bridge obliquely, which irregularity was obviated from a moulded
+and well-executed stone corbel arising out of the angle thus formed,
+which carried the parapet. On the plinth course of the parapet was
+cut the inscription following, recording the fact of the erection of
+the bridge, with the name of the Lord Mayor at the period:--"William
+Hooke(r). (A)nno D. 1674."
+
+Sir William Tite says it was a red brick bridge; Hatton, in his "New
+View of London" (1708), says it was of stone; but then, probably, he
+never really saw it, and Tite did. Hatton's description is: "_Holbourn
+Bridge_ is built of Stone, it leads from _Holbourn_ to _Snow Hill_,
+over the N. end of the _Fleet Brook_, where a little rivulet called
+_Wells_, falls by _Hockley Hole_, running a little E'd of _Saffron
+Hill_, crossing near the W. end of _Chick Lane_, and so into this
+Brook."
+
+The canalization of the Fleet after 1666 was a useful work, as it
+enabled barges to go up to Holborn Bridge; and that it was availed of,
+we can judge by the frontispiece, which was painted in the middle of
+the eighteenth century; but it was not much used, if we can trust Ned
+Ward, whose sharp eyes looked everywhere, and whose pen recorded his
+scrutiny[71]: "From thence we took a turn down by the Ditch side, I
+desiring my Friend to inform me what great Advantages this costly Brook
+contributed to the Town, to Countervail the Expence of Seventy four
+Thousand Pounds, which I read in a very Credible Author, was the Charge
+of its making: He told me he was wholly unacquainted with any, unless
+it was now and then to bring up a few Chaldron of Coles to two or three
+Pedling _Fewel-Marchants_, who sell them never the Cheaper to the Poor
+for such a Conveniency: and, as for those Cellars you see on each side
+design'd for Ware-Houses, they are render'd by their dampness so unfit
+for that purpose that they are wholly useless, except... or to harbour
+Frogs, Toads, and other Vermin. The greatest good that ever I heard it
+did was to the Undertaker, who is bound to acknowledge he has found
+better Fishing in that muddy Stream, than ever he did in clear Water."
+
+[Illustration: END OF HOLBORN BRIDGE, TAKEN FROM THE SOUTH, AND PART OF
+HOLBORN HILL. JUNE 2, 1840. (_Art. Crosby._)]
+
+Gay, too, in his "Trivia," more than once mentions the foulness of the
+Fleet in book ii.
+
+  "Or who that rugged street[72] would traverse o'er,
+  That stretches, O Fleet-Ditch, from thy black shore
+  To the Tour's moated walls?"
+
+And again:
+
+  "If where Fleet-Ditch with muddy current flows."
+
+Here is a pen-and-ink sketch of Holborn Bridge--from some old engraving
+or painting (Crosby does not give his authority), which gives an
+excellent idea of old London--squalid and filthy according to our
+ideas. How different from that noble viaduct which now spans the course
+of the Fleet River! which her Majesty opened on November 6, 1869.
+
+[Illustration: HOLBORN BRIDGE.]
+
+    [Footnote 66: Hollinshed says--speaking of a Council at the Tower,
+    relative to the Coronation of Edward V., at which the Protector
+    presided, "After a little talking with them, he said unto the Bishop
+    of Ely, 'My Lord, you have verie good strawberries at your garden in
+    Holborne, I require you let us have a messe of them.' 'Gladlie, my
+    Lord,' quoth he, 'would God I had some better thing as readie to
+    your pleasure as that!' And there withall, in all haste, he sent his
+    servant for a messe of strawberries."]
+
+    [Footnote 67: Gray, "_A long Story_."]
+
+    [Footnote 68: Afterwards Anglicised into Audrey.]
+
+    [Footnote 69: There is now _Bowling Green Street_, Farringdon
+    Street.]
+
+    [Footnote 70: See next two pages.]
+
+    [Footnote 71: "London Spy," part vi.]
+
+    [Footnote 72: Thames Street.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+
+Then, close by (still keeping up its title of the River of the Wells)
+was Lamb's Conduit, on Snow Hill, which was fed from a little rill
+which had its source near where the Foundling Hospital now stands, its
+course being perpetuated by the name of Lamb's Conduit Street, where,
+according to the "Old English Herbal," watercresses used to flourish.
+"It groweth of its own accord in gardens and fields by the way side,
+in divers places, and particularly in the next pasture to the Conduit
+Head, behind Gray's Inn, that brings water to Mr. Lamb's Conduit in
+Holborn."
+
+William Lamb was a citizen of London, and of the Guild of
+Cloth-workers, besides which, he was some time Gentleman of the Chapel
+to Henry VIII. He benefited his fellow-citizens by restoring a conduit
+in 1577, which had been in existence since the fifteenth century; and,
+after the Great Fire, the busy Sir Christopher Wren was employed to
+design a covering for the spring, which he did, putting a _lamb_ on the
+top, with a very short inscription on the front panel, to the effect
+that it was "Rebuilt in the year 1677 S^r Tho^s Davis Kn^t L^d Mayor."
+
+It is curious to learn how the suburbs of London have grown within the
+memory of living men. Take, for instance, the following, from _Notes
+and Queries_ (April, 1857, p. 265), referring to Lamb's Conduit. A
+correspondent writes that "About sixty years since, I was travelling
+from the West of England in one of the old stage coaches of that
+day, and my fellow-travellers were an octogenarian clergyman and his
+daughter. In speaking of the then increasing size of London, the old
+gentleman said that when he was a boy, and recovering from an attack of
+smallpox, he was sent into the country to a row of houses standing on
+the west side of the present Lamb's Conduit Street; that all the space
+before him was open fields; that a streamlet of water ran under his
+window; and he saw a man snipe-shooting, who sprung a snipe near to the
+house, and shot it."
+
+It was no small gift of William Lamb to the City, for it cost him
+£1,500, which was equivalent to thrice that sum at present, and, to
+make it complete, he gave to one hundred and twenty poor women, pails
+wherewith to serve and carry water, whereby they earned an honest,
+although a somewhat laborious, living. Lamb left many charitable
+bequests, and also founded a chapel, by Monkwell Street, now pulled
+down. This Conduit existed until about 1755, when it was demolished,
+and an obelisk with lamps erected in its place, but, that being found a
+nuisance, was, in its turn, soon done away with.
+
+[Illustration: LAMB'S CONDUIT, SNOW HILL.]
+
+Lamb was buried in the Church of St. Faith's, under St. Paul's, and on
+a pillar was a brass to his memory, which is so quaint, that I make no
+apology for introducing it.
+
+  "William Lambe so sometime was my name,
+  Whiles alive dyd runne my mortall race,
+  Serving a Prince of most immortall fame,
+  Henry the Eight, who of his Princely grace
+  In his Chapell allowed me a place.
+  By whose favour, from Gentleman to Esquire
+  I was preferr'd, with worship, for my hire.
+  With wives three I joyned wedlock band,
+  Which (all alive) true lovers were to me,
+  Joane, Alice, and Joane; for so they came to hand,
+  What needeth prayse regarding their degree?
+  In wively truth none stedfast more could be.
+  Who, though on earth, death's force did once dissever,
+  Heaven, yet, I trust, shall joyn us all together.
+  O Lambe of God, which sinne didst take away;
+  And as a Lambe, was offred up for sinne,
+  Where I (poor Lambe) went from thy flock astray,
+  Yet thou, good Lord, vouchsafe thy Lambe to winne
+  Home to thy folde, and holde thy Lambe therein;
+  That at the day, when Lambes and Goates shall sever,
+  Of thy choice Lambes, Lambe may be one for ever.
+  I pray you all, that receive Bread and Pence,
+  To say the Lord's Prayer before ye go hence."
+
+It is said, also, that the old verses, so well known, were appended to
+the brass, or, rather, engraved on his tombstone.
+
+  "As I was, so are ye,
+  As I am, you shall be,
+  That I had, that I gave,
+  That I gave, that I have.
+  Thus I end all my cost,
+  That I felt, that I lost."
+
+But there is one well must not be lost sight of; for, in its small
+way, it was tributary to the Fleet--and that is Clerk's Well, or
+Clerkenwell, which gives its name to a large district of London. It was
+of old repute, for we see, in Ralph Aggas' Map of London, published
+about 1560, a conduit spouting from a wall, into a stone tank or
+trough. This is, perhaps, the earliest pictorial delineation of it;
+but FitzStephen mentions it under "_fons Clericorum_" so called,
+it is said, from the Parish Clerks of London, who chose this place
+for a representation of _Miracle Plays_, or scenes from Scripture
+realistically rendered, as now survives in the Ober Ammergau Passion
+Play. This little Company, which still exists as one of the City
+Guilds, has never attained to the dignity of having a livery, but
+they have a Hall of their own (in Silver Street, Wood Street, E.C.),
+and in their time have done good service in composing the "Bills of
+Mortality;" and gruesome pamphlets they were--all skulls, skeletons,
+and cross-bones--especially during the great Plague.
+
+These plays were, as I have said, extremely realistic. One, played at
+Chester A.D. 1327,[73] represented Adam and Eve, both stark naked, but,
+afterwards, they wore fig leaves. The language used in them, would to
+our ears be coarse, but it was the language of the time, and, probably,
+men and women were no worse than they are now. But, at all events
+this Guild, which was incorporated in the 17 Henry III. A.D. 1232,
+used occasionally to delight their fellow Citizens with dramatic
+representations in the open air (as have lately been revived in the
+"Pastoral plays" at Wimbledon) at what was then an accessible, and yet
+a rural, suburb of London.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+Hence the name--but the well, alas, is no more--but when I say that,
+I mean that it is no longer available to the public. That it does
+exist, is well known to the occupier of the house where it formerly
+was in use, for the basement has frequently to be pumped dry. The
+neighbourhood has been so altered of late years, that its absolute
+site was somewhat difficult to fix; yet any one can identify it for
+themselves from the accompanying slight sketch of the locality as it
+existed over sixty years since. Ray Street (at least this portion of
+it) is now termed Farringdon Road, and what with Model lodging-houses,
+and underground railways, its physical and geographical arrangement is
+decidedly altered.
+
+Early in the last century, in Queen Anne's time, the Spring had ceased
+to be a conduit, as shown in Ralph Aggas' Map, but had been turned into
+a pump; and this pump even was moved, in 1800, to a more convenient
+spot in Ray Street, where it was in existence (which I rather doubt),
+according to Pink's History of Clerkenwell in 1865. However, there is
+very good evidence of its being, in an engraving dated May 1, 1822, of
+the "Clerk's Well"--which shows the pump, and a stone tablet with the
+following inscription:
+
+  "A.D. 1800.
+  WILLM. BOUND} CHURCH-
+  JOSEPH BIRD } WARDEN.
+
+For the better accommodation of the Neighbourhood, this Pump was
+removed to the Spot where it now Stands. The Spring by which it is
+supplied is situated four Feet eastward, and round it, as History
+informs us, the Parish Clerks of London in remote Ages annually
+performed sacred Plays. That Custom caused it to be denominated Clerks'
+Well, and from which this Parish derives its Name. The Water was
+greatly esteemed by the Prior and Brethren of the Order of St. John of
+Jerusalem, and the Benedictine Nuns in the Neighbourhood."
+
+In later days, the Fleet, as every other stream on whose banks houses
+are built, became a sewer, and "behaved as sich;" so that it was deemed
+prudent to cover some portion of it, at all events, and that part
+where now is Farringdon Street, was arched over, and made into the
+Fleet _Market_. Our ancestors were far more alive to the advantages
+of ready cash, and consequent keen competition among dealers, than
+we are, although through the medium of Co-operative Stores, &c., we
+are beginning to learn the lost lesson, but, at all events, they had
+the acumen to know that large centres of supply were cheaper to the
+consumer than small, isolated shops, and _the Market_, was the outcome.
+It is next to impossible to make a Market--witness in our own times,
+the Central Fish Market, and Columbia Market, both of which are not
+absolute failures, but, to use a theatrical slang term, _frosts_--and
+this was an example.
+
+The Canal, up to Holborn Bridge, was expensive to keep up, and as we
+saw, by the quotation from Ned Ward, it was next door to worthless.
+Meantime, sewage and silt played their work, as the stream was
+neglected, and, becoming a public nuisance, it was arched over,
+pursuant to an Act 6 Geo. II. cap. 22, entitled "An Act for filling up
+such Part of the Channell of _Bridewell Dock_, and _Fleet Bridge_, as
+lies between _Holborn Bridge_ and _Fleet Bridge_, and for converting
+the Ground, when filled up, to the use of the City of _London_." The
+works were begun in 1734 and was arched over and finished in 1735;
+but, as buildings are necessary for a market, it was not opened, as
+such, until Sept. 30, 1737. For nearly a century it remained a market
+for meat, fish, and vegetables, although, of course, the largest meat
+market was Newgate, as being near Smithfield; and for fish,
+Billingsgate, which still maintains its pre-eminence But in 1829 it was
+pulled down, in order to make a wider street from Holborn to Blackfriars
+Bridge; and this part of the Fleet was called, and now is, Farringdon
+Street.
+
+[Illustration: FLEET MARKET, FROM HOLBORN BRIDGE.]
+
+The Vegetable Market, for it had come to that only, was swept away, and
+a site found for it, nearly opposite the Fleet prison. It is still so
+used, but it is not much of a financial help to the City, as it only
+brings in an annual income (according to the last return I have been
+able to obtain) of between £700 and £800. It was thought that trade
+might be encouraged, and revived, if it were worthier housed, so what
+is now, the Central Fish Market, was erected; but, before the vendors
+of vegetables could enter into possession, a great cry had arisen as to
+the supply of fish to London, and the monopoly of Billingsgate, and the
+market was given over to the fishmongers. But it is not a success in
+a monetary point of view; is a great loss to the City, and, as a fish
+market, a very doubtful boon to the public.
+
+The Fleet Prison, which was on the east side of Farringdon Street, will
+be noticed in its place; and, as we have seen, the river was arched
+over from Holborn to Fleet Bridge, after which it still flowed, an open
+sewer, into the Thames.
+
+But, before going farther, we must needs glance at a curious little
+bit of Fleet history, which is to be found in "THE SECRET HISTORY of
+the RYE HOUSE PLOT, and Monmouth's Rebellion," written by Ford. Lord
+Grey who was a party to the plot, addressed it to James the Second,
+1685, but it was not printed until 1754. In p. 28 it states, "About
+the latter end of Oct. Monmouth s'd to Sir Thos. Armstrong and Lord
+Grey, that it was necessary for them to view the passage into the City,
+which, accordingly they did, from the lower end of _Fleet-ditch_, next
+the river, to the other end of it, by Snow Hill." And again (p. 34):
+"Sunday night was pitched upon for the rising in London, as all shops
+would be shut. Their men were to be armed at the Duke of Monmouth's
+in Hedge Lane, Northumberland House, Bedford House, and four or five
+meeting houses in the City.
+
+"The first alarm was designed to be between eleven and twelve at night,
+by attacking the train bands at the Royal Exchange, and then possessing
+ourselves of Newgate, Ludgate, and Aldersgate. The first two gates
+we did not design to defend, unless we were beaten from Fleet Bridge
+and Snow Hill, where we intended to receive the first attack of the
+King's Guards. At Snow Hill, we intended to make a Barricade, and
+plant three or four pieces of Cannon, upon Ship's Carriages; at Fleet
+Bridge we designed to use our Cannon upon the carriages, and to make a
+breast-work for our musqueteers bridge next us, and to fill the houses
+on that side the ditch with men who should fire from the windows, but
+the bridge to be clear."
+
+As a matter of fact, there seem to have been two bridges over the
+Fleet, crossing it at Fleet Street and Ludgate Hill, both side by side,
+as at Holborn. Crosby, upon whose collection I have so largely drawn,
+says that it is so, from personal observation, one bridge being 24 ft.
+6 in., and the other, 24 ft. wide, making in all, a roadway of 48 ft.
+6 in. presumably including parapets. From his measurements, the span of
+the bridge was 12 ft., and the height of the arch was 11 ft. 6 in., but
+he does not say whence he takes his measurement--from the bottom of the
+Fleet, or from the river level.
+
+To this measurement hangs a tale, which is best told in Crosby's own
+words, from a memo of his in the Guildhall Library:--
+
+ "FLEET BRIDGE, _Tuesday_, July 28th, 1840. As I could not depend
+ upon the admeasurements which, at the beginning of the year,
+ I had taken in a _hurried manner_, at Fleet Bridges, while
+ bricklayers were placing in a brick bottom in place of the
+ original one of alluvial soil, I determined to obtain them the
+ first opportunity. This evening, therefore, at ten o'clock, I
+ met Bridgewater, one of the workmen employed in constructing the
+ New Sewer from Holborn Bridge to Clerkenwell, by appointment,
+ at the Hoard there, water boots being in readiness. I lighted
+ my lamps, and, assisted by the watchmen, King and Arion, we
+ descended the ladder, and got into that branch of the sewer
+ which joins Wren's bridge, at Holborn. We then walked carefully
+ till we reached Fleet Bridge. I suspended my Argand lamp on the
+ Breakwater of the Sewer, and with my Lanthorn light we proceeded
+ towards the Thames. We got a considerable distance, during
+ which the channel of the Sewer twice turned to the right, at a
+ slight angle, the last portion we entered, was barrelled at the
+ bottom, the middle so full of holes, and the water so deep, as
+ we approached the Thames, that we thought it prudent to return
+ to Fleet bridge." (Here they lit up and took measurements). "All
+ went well till about a quarter to twelve o'clock, when to our
+ surprise we found the Tide had suddenly come in to the depth of
+ two feet and a half. No time was to be lost, but I had only one
+ more admeasurement to make, viz., the width of the north bridge.
+ I managed this, and we then snatched up the basket, and holding
+ our Lamps aloft, dashed up the Sewer, which we had to get up one
+ half before out of danger. The air was close, and made us faint.
+ However we got safe to Holborn Bridge...."
+
+    [Footnote 73: Harl. MSS. 2013.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+Hatton, writing in 1708, says: "_Fleet Bridge_ is even with the
+Str(eet); it leads from _Fleet Street_ over the _Fleet Ditch_ to
+_Ludgate Hill_; is accommodated with strong Battlements which are
+adorned with six Peers and enriched with the Arms of _London_, and
+Supporters Pine-apples, &c., all of Stone; and bet(wee)n the Peers are
+Iron Rails and Bannisters, on the N. & S. sides of the Bridge."
+
+On either side of where the Bridge used to be, are two obelisks, one on
+the North, or Farringdon Street side, to Alderman Waithman, and on the
+South, or Bridge Street side, to John Wilkes the notorious. The first
+bears the following inscription:--
+
+  ERECTED
+  TO THE MEMORY
+  OF
+  ROBERT
+  WAITHMAN
+  BY
+  HIS FRIENDS AND
+  FELLOW CITIZENS,
+  M.D.C.C.C.XXXIII.
+
+This Alderman Waithman was almost one of the typical class so often
+held up as an example for all poor boys to follow, _i.e._, he began
+life with simply his own energy, and opportunity to help him. And, as
+a virtuous example of industry, when the times were not so pushing as
+now; and half, and quarter, or less commissions on transactions were
+unknown, we may just spend a minute in reading about him. Wrexham
+was his birthplace in 1764, and his father dying soon after, he was
+adopted by his uncle and sent to school. No one was then left very
+many years in _statu pupillari_, and, consequently, he had to join his
+uncle in business, as a linendraper at Bath. The uncle died in 1788,
+and he took a place at Reading, whence he came to London, and lived as
+a linendraper's assistant until he came of age. He then married, and
+opened a shop at the South end of the Fleet Market, nearly precisely on
+the spot where his monument now stands.
+
+He prospered in business, and moved to other, and larger premises,
+became Common Councilman, tried to get into Parliament for the City,
+and ultimately succeeded in 1818. Next election he lost it, but in
+all subsequent ones he was the favoured candidate. He was Alderman of
+Farringdon Without, Sheriff, and filled the office of Mayor in 1823-4.
+The obelisk to his memory remains, but he has dropped out of general
+memory, and this revival of his life, for imitation, in industry and
+rectitude of conduct, must be my excuse for taking up my readers' time.
+
+Far different is it with John Wilkes, about whom every one knows, and
+I have only to say that his obelisk bears the inscription--
+
+  A.D.
+  M.D.C.C.LXXV.
+  THE RIGHT
+  HONORABLE
+  JOHN WILKES,
+  Lord Mayor.
+
+This inscription became effaced through the weather, and was, within
+the last few years, replaced with a new stone; but it was grumbled at
+for not having the original word "Esquire" after John Wilkes, which was
+surely a work of supererogation.
+
+Close by was Ludgate, with its debtors' prison of Lud-gate, which was
+rather aristocratic, being "purely for Insolvent Citizens of _London_,
+Beneficed Clergy, and Attorneys at Law," and which was even peculiar in
+the time when it existed; for Maitland, in his "History of London" (ed.
+1775, pp. 28, 29) says:--
+
+ "The domestick Government of this Prison having something very
+ singular and remarkable in it, I presume an Account thereof will
+ not be unacceptable to the Reader. I shall, therefore, insert a
+ compendious Abstract thereof from an Account published some Time
+ ago by one who had been a long Time Prisoner there.
+
+ "For the quiet and good Government of this Prison, and the
+ Punishment of Crimes and Misdemeanors therein committed, the
+ Master Keeper and Prisoners from among themselves chuse the
+ following Officers, viz., A Reader of Divine Service; an upper
+ Steward, called the Master of the Box; an Under Steward; seven
+ Assistants, who by Turns officiate daily; a Running Assistant;
+ two Churchwardens; a Scavenger; a Chamberlain; a Running Post;
+ and the Criers or Beggars at the Gates, who are generally six in
+ number.
+
+ "The Reader is chosen by the Master Keeper, Stewards, and
+ Assistants, and not at a General Election, as the other Officers
+ are. The Reader, besides reading Prayers, was, originally,
+ obliged to Ring the Bell twice a Day for Prayers, and also for
+ the Space of a Quarter of an Hour before Nine at Night, as a
+ Warning for all Strangers to depart the Prison; but for the
+ Dignity of his Office, he is now exempt from those Services,
+ and others in his stead are appointed to perform them. This
+ Officer's salary is two Shillings and eight Pence _per_
+ Month, and a Penny of every Prisoner at his Entrance, if his
+ Garnish[74] amount to sixteen Pence; and a Dish of Meat out of
+ the Lord Mayor's Basket.
+
+ "The Upper Steward, or Master of the Box, is, by all the
+ Prisoners held in equal Esteem with the Keeper of the Prison;
+ and to his Charge is committed the keeping of all the several
+ Orders of the House, with the Accounts of Cash received upon
+ Legacies; the Distribution of all the Provisions sent in by
+ the Lord Mayor, and others; the cash received by Garnish, and
+ begging at the Grates, which he weekly lays out in Bread,
+ Candles, and other Necessaries. He likewise keeps a List of
+ all the Prisoners, as well those that are upon the Charity, as
+ those that are not; to each of whom, by the Aid of the Assistant
+ for the Day, he distributes their several proportions of Bread
+ and other Provisions. He receives the Gifts of the Butchers,
+ Fishmongers, Poulterers, and other Market People, sent in by the
+ Clerk of the Market, by the Running Post, for which he gives a
+ Receipt, and, afterwards, in the Presence of the Assistant for
+ the Day, exposes for Sale to the Charity Men, by Way of Market;
+ and the Money arising thereby is deposited in the Common Stock,
+ or Bank.
+
+ "This Officer, with the Under Steward, Assistants, and
+ Churchwardens, are elected monthly by the Suffrages of the
+ Prisoners; but all the other Officers, except the Chamberlain,
+ are appointed by the Master-Keeper, Stewards, and Assistants.
+ The Design of these frequent Elections, is to prevent Frauds
+ and Abuses in the respective Officers; but, when they are known
+ to be Men of Probity, they are generally reelected, and often
+ continue in such Posts many Months. The _Monday_ after every
+ Election, the Accounts are audited and passed, and the Balance
+ divided; and, if it amount to three Shillings and four Pence
+ _per_ Man, the Keeper of the Prison arbitrarily extorts from
+ each Prisoner two Shillings and Four Pence, without the least
+ Colour of Right: But, if the Dividend arises not so high, then
+ he only takes one Shilling and two Pence; the other Moiety being
+ charged to the Prisoner's Account, to be paid at the Time of his
+ Discharge; which new and detestable Impositions are apparently
+ contrary to the Intention of the Founder.
+
+ "Another great Grievance the distressed and miserable Prisoners
+ are subject to, is, their being obliged to pay the Turnkey
+ twelve Shillings _per_ Month, for no other Service than that
+ of opening the Door to let in Gifts and Charities sent to the
+ Prison, which often amount to little more than what he receives.
+
+ "The Under Steward is an Assistant, or Deputy, to the Upper
+ Steward, in whose Absence or Indisposition he performs the
+ several Functions of his Office.
+
+ "The Assistants, being seven in Number, are chosen Monthly with
+ the Stewards; one whereof, officiating daily, his Business is to
+ attend in the Hall, to enter all Charities, and keep an Account
+ of the Money taken out of the Boxes, which are opened at five
+ o'Clock in the Afternoon, and at Nine at Night; which Money he
+ pays to the Upper Steward, at the passing of whose Accounts the
+ Assistants are Auditors.
+
+ "Every Person put in Nomination for the Office of an Assistant,
+ refusing to serve, forfeits one Shilling to the Use of the
+ Publick, or, in lieu thereof, to be put in Fetters for three
+ Days. The officiating Assistant is invested with a magisterial
+ Power, whereby he can commit a Prisoner to the Stocks or
+ Shackles, for the Abuse of any Person. This Officer is to see
+ the Cellar cleared every Night, by ten o'Clock of all the
+ Prisoners; for which he receives six Pence out of the Charity
+ Money; two Pence whereof to his own Use, two Pence to the Upper
+ Steward, and two Pence to the Running Assistant. This Office was
+ anciently in such Esteem, that the Assistant, at his entering
+ upon it, used nightly, at Eight o'Clock, to be ushered into
+ the Hall, by an Illumination of forty or fifty great Candles,
+ carried by so many Prisoners.
+
+ "The Running Assistant's Business is, to attend upon the Criers
+ at the Gates, to change Money; and open the Boxes: to put up
+ Candles in their respective Places, attend upon the Stewards and
+ Assistants, look after the Clock, ring the Bell for Prayers;
+ and to be Crier at the Sale of Provisions. His Salary is four
+ Shillings and eight Pence _per_ Month, and an eighth part of the
+ Garnish Money.
+
+ "The Churchwardens are chosen from among the youngest Prisoners.
+ The Upper Warden's Office is, to call to Prayers on _Sundays_,
+ after the Bell has done ringing; and the Under Warden's is to
+ call the Prisoners to Prayers all other Days. They are likewise
+ to take cognizance of all Persons who are upon the Charity
+ Foundation; who in default of Attendance are fined one Penny
+ each. The Under Warden's Salary for this Service is four Pence
+ _per_ Month; and the Penalty for not serving, when duly elected,
+ is four Pence.
+
+ "The Scavenger's Office is, to keep clean the Prison, and to
+ fetter, and put in the Stocks all Offenders; for which he is
+ intitled to receive from each Criminal one Penny, together with
+ a Salary of five Shillings and eight Pence _per_ Month, and two
+ Pence out of every sixteen Pence of the Garnish Money.
+
+ "The Chamberlain is chosen by the Keeper of the Prison, whose
+ Office it is to take Care of all the Bedding and Linen belonging
+ to the Keeper; to place Men at their coming in, and to furnish
+ them with Sheets, and to give Notice to Strangers to depart the
+ Prison by Ten o'Clock at Night. This Officer, formerly, was
+ obliged to make the Charity-Men's Beds, for which he received
+ two Pence _per_ Month.
+
+ "The Running Post's Business is, to fetch in a Basket the
+ broken Meat from the Lord-Mayor, Clerk of the Market, private
+ Families, and Charities given in the Streets, which are often so
+ inconsiderable as not to admit of a Dividend; wherefore it is
+ disposed of by Sale or publick Market, as aforesaid. The Salary
+ annexed to this office, is four Shillings _per_ Month; one Penny
+ _per_ Month out of each Man's Dividend, and one Penny out of
+ every sixteen Pence of Garnish money.
+
+ "The Criers are six in Number; two whereof daily beg at the
+ Grates; he at the Grate within is allowed one Fourth of what is
+ given, and he at that on _Blackfriars_ Side one Moiety of what
+ is given there."
+
+This custom is alluded to in the _Spectator_, No. lxxxii.:
+
+"Passing under _Ludgate_ the other Day I heard a Voice bawling for
+Charity, which I thought I had somewhere heard before. Coming near to
+the Grate, the Prisoner called me by my Name, and desired I would throw
+something into the Box. I was out of Countenance for him, and did as he
+bid me, by putting in half a Crown."
+
+Of this Grate there is a pretty and romantic story told by Stow.[75]
+
+"When the Prison was in this Condition, there happened to be Prisoner
+there one _Stephen Foster_, who (as poor Men are at this Day) was
+a Cryer at the Grate, to beg the benevolent Charities of pious and
+commiserate Benefactors that passed by. As he was doing his doleful
+Office, a rich Widow of _London_ hearing his Complaint, enquired of
+him, what would release him? To which he answered, Twenty Pound,
+which she in Charity expended; and, clearing him out of Prison,
+entertained him in her Service; who, afterward, falling into the Way
+of Merchandize, and increasing as well in Wealth as Courage, wooed his
+Mistress, Dame _Agnes_, and married her.
+
+"Her Riches and his Industry brought him both great Wealth and Honour,
+being afterwards no less than Sir _Stephen Foster_, Lord Mayor of the
+Honourable City of London: Yet whilst he lived in this great Honour
+and Dignity, he forgat not the Place of his Captivity, but, mindful of
+the sad and irksome Place wherein poor Men were imprisoned, bethought
+himself of enlarging it, to make it a little more delightful and
+pleasant for those who in after Times should be imprisoned and shut up
+therein. And, in order thereunto, acquainted his Lady with this his
+pious Purpose and Intention; in whom likewise he found so affable and
+willing a Mind to do Good to the Poor, that she promised to expend as
+much as he should do for the carrying on of the Work."
+
+And they did spend their money on it right royally, building, amongst
+many other conveniences, a Chapel for the inmates, A.D. 1454, which
+they endowed, so as to maintain a "preacher" or chaplain. Sir Stephen
+Foster likewise provided that the place "should be free for all
+Freemen, and that they, providing their own Bedding, should pay nothing
+at their Departure for Lodging, or Chamber rent (as now they call it),
+which to many poor Men becomes oftentimes as burdensome as their Debts,
+and are by the Keeper detained in Prison as for Debt, only for their
+Fees, though discharged and acquitted of what they were committed for."
+
+Nor did his charitable goodness end here, for he gave a supply of water
+_gratis_ to the prisoners, as was recorded on a brass in the Chapel,
+very pithily--
+
+  "Devout Souls that pass this way
+  For STEPHEN FOSTER, late _Maior_, heartily pray,
+  And Dame AGNES, his Spouse, to God consecrate,
+  That of Pity this House made for Londoners in LUDGATE.
+  So that for Lodging and Water, Prisoners have nought to pay,
+  As their Keepers shall all answer at dreadful Doomsday."
+
+Dame Agnes survived her husband, but was ultimately buried by his side
+in the Church of St. Botolph, Billingsgate.
+
+For a Prison, Ludgate compared more than favourably with every other in
+London. As we have seen, the prisoners were select; they were helped,
+in the matter of food, by the king of the City, the Lord Mayor: their
+fees were infinitesimal as compared with other debtors' prisons. Strype
+(ed. 1720, book ii. p. 179) says:--
+
+ "Formerly Debtors that were not able to satisfy their Debts, put
+ themselves into this Prison of _Ludgate_, for shelter from their
+ Creditors. And these were Merchants and Tradesmen that had been
+ driven to want by Losses at Sea. When King _Philip_ in the Month
+ of _August 1554_ came first through _London_, these prisoners
+ were Thirty in number; and owed £10,000, but compounded for
+ £2,000. Who presented a well penned Latin Speech to that Prince,
+ to redress their Miseries, and, by his Royal Generosity, to free
+ them. 'And the rather, for that that Place was not _Sceleratorum
+ Carcer, sed miserorum Custodia_; _i.e._, a Gaol for Villains,
+ but a Place of Restraint for poor unfortunate Men. And that they
+ were put in there, not by others, but themselves fled thither;
+ and that not out of fear of Punishment, but in hope of better
+ Fortune.' The whole Letter was drawn by the curious Pen of
+ _Roger Ascham_, and is extant among his Epistles, Lib. iii.
+
+ "If a Freeman or Freewoman of _London_ be committed to
+ _Ludgate_, they are to be excused from the ignominy of Irons, if
+ they can find Sureties to be true Prisoners, and if the Sum be
+ not above £100. There is another Custom of the liberal and mild
+ Imprisonment of the Citizens in _Ludgate_, whereby they have
+ Indulgence and Favour to go abroad into any place by _Baston_,
+ as we term it, under the guard and superintendency of their
+ Keeper, with whom they must return again to the Prison at Night."
+
+    [Footnote 74: "Garnish" was the _footing_ that every prisoner
+    paid on his entrance, and woe become him if it were not
+    forthcoming; he was simply stripped of his clothes.]
+
+    [Footnote 75: Strype's "Stow's Survey," ed. 1720, vol. ii. p.
+    26 appendix.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+The Course of the Fleet is nearly run, but, before closing this
+account of the river, we should not forget the residence of the mighty
+King-maker, the Earl of Warwick, whose pleasant gardens ran down to
+the Fleet; and there, in Warwick Lane, after the great Fire, was
+built the College of Physicians, described thus by Dr. Garth, in his
+"Dispensary":--
+
+  "Not far from that most celebrated Place,
+  Where angry Justice shews her awful Face;
+  Where little Villains must submit to Fate,
+  That great ones may enjoy the World in State,
+  There stands a Dome, majestick to the sight,
+  And sumptuous Arches bear its oval height;
+  A golden Globe plac'd high with artful skill,
+  Seems, to the distant sight, a gilded Pill."
+
+Here they were housed until 1825, and, from the Fleet, could be seen
+the Apothecaries' Hall, in Water Lane, Blackfriars,
+
+  "Nigh where _Fleet Ditch_ descends in sable Streams
+  To wash his sooty _Naiads_ in the _Thames_;
+  There stands a Structure on a Rising Hill,
+  Where _Tyro's_ take their Freedom out to Kill."
+
+Then there was the Monastery of the Dominicans, or Blackfriars, which
+has given its name to a whole district; and there was a fortification,
+or postern, on the little river, near Ludgate Hill; and, close to its
+junction with the Thames, was Bridewell Bridge, so called from the
+Royal Palace of that name, which, in its turn, received its cognomen
+from another well, which went to form the "River of Wells," St.
+Bridget's or Bride's Well. This bridge is shown in the frontispiece,
+and was necessarily made very high in order to allow sailing craft to
+go under it.
+
+It was here that Pope, in his "Dunciad" (book ii.), thus sings:
+
+  "This labour past, by Bridewell all descend,
+  (As morning pray'r, and flagellation end)
+  To where Fleet-ditch with disemboguing streams
+  Rolls the large tribute of dead dogs to Thames,
+  The King of Dykes! than whom, no sluice of mud,
+  With deeper sable blots the silver flood.
+  'Here strip, my children! here at once leap in,
+  Here prove who best can dash thro' thick and thin.'"[76]
+
+Ward bursts into song over Bridewell, thus:--
+
+  "'Twas once the Palace of a Prince,
+    If we may Books Confide in;
+  But given was, by him long since,
+    For Vagrants to Reside in."
+
+[Illustration: BRIDEWELL BRIDGE.]
+
+The Royal Palace of Bridewell stood on the site of the Castle of
+Montfichet, who is believed to have come over with William the
+Conqueror. Tradition assigns it a still earlier date, even Roman, but
+then, I don't say there was not a Roman fortress here, but I cannot say
+there was. Certainly Cardinal Wolsey lived here, and Henry VIII. held
+occasional Court.
+
+Strype, in his edition of Stow (1720) says that after the destruction
+of Montfichet Castle and its Stone being given away:--
+
+ "This Tower or Castle being thus destroyed, stood, as it may
+ seem, in Place where now standeth the House called _Bridewell_.
+ For, notwithstanding the Destruction of the said Castle or
+ Tower, the House remained large, so that the Kings of this
+ Realm long after were lodged there and kept their Courts. For,
+ in the Ninth Year of _Henry_ the Third, the Courts of Law,
+ and Justice were kept in the King's House, wheresoever he was
+ lodged, and not else where. And that the Kings have been lodged,
+ and kept their Law Courts in this Place, I could shew you many
+ Authorities of Record....
+
+ "More, (as _Matthew Paris_ hath) about the Year 1210, King
+ _John_, in the Twelfth Year of his Reign, summoned a Parliament
+ at _S. Brides_ in _London_; where he exacted of the Clergy, and
+ Religious Persons the Sum of One Hundred Thousand Pounds; And
+ besides all this, the _White Monks_ were compelled to cancel
+ their Privileges, and to pay £4000 to the King, &c. This House
+ of _S. Brides_ (of later Time) being left, and not used by the
+ Kings, fell to Ruin; insomuch that the very Platform thereof
+ remained (for great part) waste, and as it were, but a Lay
+ Stall of Filth and Rubbish, only a fair Well remained there.
+ A great part whereof, namely, on the _West_, as hath been
+ said, was given to the Bishop of _Salisbury_; the other Part
+ toward the _East_ remained waste, until King _Henry_ the Eighth
+ builded a stately and beautiful House, thereupon, giving it to
+ Name, _Bridewell_, of the Parish and Well there. This House he
+ purposely builded for the Entertainment of the Emperor _Charles_
+ the Fifth;[77] who in the Year 1522 came into this City....
+ Being in Decay, and long disused, King Edward VI. gave it to the
+ City in the Seventh[78] Year of his Reign.
+
+ "It is seated near to _Blackfriars_; from which it is severed
+ by the Canal of the _Fleet-ditch_. It was obtained of the
+ King at first for an Harbour of poor Harbourless People, that
+ lay abroad in the Streets. It was soon after improved to be a
+ Workhouse, not only to give Lodging to poor, idle, wandring
+ Persons, Beggars, and others; but to find them Work, to help to
+ maintain themselves. But tho' this was granted in the Year 1553,
+ yet it seems, it was not before Two Years after, that the City
+ entred and took possession of it by _Gerard_ their Maior, having
+ obtained Queen _Mary's_ Confirmation.
+
+ "In the time of Queen _Elizabeth_, about the Year 1570 and
+ odd, one _John Pain_, a Citizen, invented a Mill to grind
+ Corn; which he got recommended to the Lord Maior, for the Use
+ of _Bridewell_. This Mill had Two Conveniences: One was, That
+ it would grind a greater Quantity considerably than any other
+ Mills of that Sort could do. And the other (which would render
+ it so useful to _Bridewell_) was, That the Lame, either in Arms
+ or Legs, might work at it, if they had but the Use of either.
+ And, accordingly, these Mills were termed _Hand-Mills_ or
+ _Foot-Mills_.
+
+ "This Mill he shewed to the Lord Maior, who saw it grind as much
+ Corn with the Labour of Two Men, as they did then at _Bridewell_
+ with Ten. That is to say, Two Men with Hands, two Bushels the
+ Hour; or Two Men with Feet, two Bushels the Hour. If they were
+ Lame in their Arms, then they might earn their Livings with
+ their Legs. If Lame in their Legs, then they might earn their
+ Livings with their Arms."
+
+ --This, perhaps, is the earliest mention of the treadmill, as a
+ punishment.
+
+ Still quoting Strype, (same edition):
+
+ "The Use of this Hospital now is for an House of Correction, and to
+ be a Place where all Strumpets, Night-walkers, Pickpockets, vagrant
+ and idle Persons, that are taken up for their ill Lives, as also
+ incorrigible and disobedient Servants, are committed by the Mayor and
+ Aldermen, who are Justices of the Peace within the said City; And
+ being so committed are forced to beat Hemp in publick View, with due
+ Correction of whipping, according to their Offence, for such a Time as
+ the President and Court shall see Cause."
+
+Bridewell is well shown by Hogarth in the fourth picture of the
+"Harlot's progress," where both men and women are seen "beetling"
+hemp.[79]
+
+In a very rare tract called "Mr. William Fullers Trip to Bridewell"
+(1703) he gives a fairly graphic description of a prisoner's entry
+therein. "As soon as I came there, the Word was _Strip, pull off your
+Cloaths_, and with much intreaty, I prevail'd to keep on my Westcoat;
+then I was set to a Block, a punny of Hemp was laid thereon, and _Ralph
+Cumpton_ (a Journy Man in the Shop) presented me with a Beatle, bidding
+me knock the Hemp with that, as fast as I could. This Beatle is of
+Brazel,[80] and weigh'd about 12 pounds."
+
+Previously to this, poor Fuller had to stand twice in the pillory, on
+one of which occasions he was nearly killed by the mob, and when taken
+to Bridewell, all black and blue as he was, he had a whipping:--"My
+Hands were put in the Stocks, and then Mr. _Hemings_ the Whipper, began
+to noint me with his Instrument, that had, I believe, about a dozen
+Strings notted at the end, and with that I had Thirty Nine Stripes (so
+that according to a certain Almanack Maker, who reckoned Dr. _Oates's_
+Stripes by every String, I had twelve times Thirty Nine). I had given
+the Rascal Half a Crown, but he afforded me very little favour, but
+struck home at every stroak; I confess I could not forbear bawling
+out, but good Sir _Robert_[81] knockt at last, and I was let out of the
+Stocks."
+
+The prisoners, if they chose, could find their own food, but they were
+kept strictly at work as is quaintly put by Fuller--
+
+"I had, in each Shop, the Thieves for my Fellow-labourers, and the
+Journeymen, our Deputy Task Masters, were frequently calling to the
+Prisoners, _Why don't you Work there, strike hard_: Then threaten,
+and sometimes beat them with a small Cane. These Task-masters are so
+accustomed to keeping their Prisoners hard at Work, that I have heard
+themselves say, they have, frequently, (forgetting themselves) called
+out, when they had no Prisoner in the Shop, as before, _Why don't you
+work there_."
+
+Ward (in the "London Spy") gives an almost too graphic account of this
+prison, but expresses unmitigated disgust at the whipping of women,
+which took place there, and solemnly protested against its continuance.
+His description of a woman being flogged, is as follows:--
+
+ "My Friend Re-conducted me back into the first Quadrangle,
+ and led me up a pair of Stairs into a Spacious Chamber, where
+ the Court was sitting in great Grandeur and Order. A Grave
+ Gentleman, whose Awful Looks bespoke him some Honourable
+ Citizen, was mounted in the Judgement-Seat, Arm'd with a Hammer,
+ like a _Change-Broker_ at _Lloyd's Coffee House_, when selling
+ Goods by Inch of Candle, and a Woman under the Lash in the
+ next Room; where Folding doors were open'd, that the whole
+ Court might see the Punishment Inflicted; at last down went the
+ Hammer, and the Scourging ceas'd.... Another Accusation being
+ then deliver'd by a Flat-Cap against a poor Wench, who having
+ no Friend to speak in her behalf, Proclamation was made, _viz.
+ All you who are willing E----th T----ll, should have present
+ Punishment, pray hold up your hands._ Which was done accordingly:
+
+ [Illustration: WOMEN BEATING HEMP.]
+
+ And then she was order'd the Civility of the House, and was
+ forc'd to shew her tender Back and Breasts to the Grave Sages of
+ the August Assembly, who were mov'd by her Modest Mein, together
+ with the whiteness of her Skin, to give her but a gentle
+ Correction."
+
+ John Howard, in his "State of the Prisons in England and Wales" (ed.
+ 1777) gives the following description of Bridewell:--
+
+ "This building was formerly a Palace, near St. Bridget's (St. Bride's)
+ Well; from whence it had the name; which, after it became a Prison,
+ was applied to other Prisons of the same sort. It was given to the
+ City by King Edward VI. in 1552.
+
+ "That part of Bridewell which relates to my subject has wards for men
+ and women quite separate.[82] The men's ward on the ground floor, is a
+ day room in which they beat hemp; and a night room over it. One of the
+ upper chambers is fitting up for an Infirmary.--The woman's ward is
+ a day room on the ground floor, in which they beat hemp; and a night
+ room over it. I was told that the chamber above this is to be fitted
+ up for an Infirmary. The sick, have, hitherto, been commonly sent to
+ St. Bartholomew's Hospital. All the Prisoners are kept within doors.
+
+ "The women's rooms are large, and have opposite windows, for fresh
+ air. Their Ward, as well as the men's, has plenty of water: and there
+ is a Hand-Ventilator on the outside, with a tube to each room of the
+ women's ward. This is of great service, when the rooms are crowded
+ with Prisoners, and the weather is warm.
+
+ [Illustration: PASS ROOM, BRIDEWELL, 1808.]
+
+ "The Prisoners are employed by a Hemp dresser, who has the profit
+ of their labour, an apartment in the Prison, and a salary of £14.
+ I generally found them at work: they are provided for, so as to be
+ able to perform it. The hours of work are, in winter, from eight to
+ four; in summer from six to six, deducting meal times. The Steward
+ is allowed eightpence a day for the maintenance of each Prisoner;
+ and contracts to supply them as follows:--On Sunday, Monday, Tuesday
+ and Thursday, a penny loaf, ten ounces of dressed beef without bone,
+ broth, and three pints of ten shilling beer; on Wednesday, Friday, and
+ Saturday, a penny loaf, four ounces of cheese, or some butter, a pint
+ of milk pottage, and three pints of ten shilling beer.... In winter
+ they have some firing. The night rooms are supplied with straw. No
+ other Prison in _London_ has any straw, or other bedding.... I found
+ there in 1776:--
+
+   March 13.   Prisoners       20
+   May 1.          "            7
+   Dec. 3.         "           24."
+
+It continued as a House of Correction for the City of London until its
+abolition, with other Civic prisons by an Act of 40 and 41 Vict. cap.
+21, entitled "An Act to amend the Law relating to Prisons in England."
+But there was an exception made in its favour, and it still remains
+a House of Correction in a mild way--thanks to the very kindly and
+fatherly wishes and representations of the Civic Authorities.
+
+The good old days of Apprenticing boys to some craft for seven years,
+during which he was to serve his master faithfully, and in return, was
+to be housed, fed, and taught his business, have all but passed away,
+but not quite. There are still some refractory apprentices, as there
+ever have been. We know the common saying of "Boys will be boys,"
+which is applied in mitigation of juvenile indiscretion, but there is
+also another apothegm, "Little boys, when they are naughty, must be
+smacked, and sent to bed." Bridewell has always been a place where idle
+or refractory City apprentices have had the opportunity of pondering
+over the errors of their ways, and in passing this Act, a special
+exemption was made, and there still exist six cells, which, I am sorry
+to say, are frequently occupied by erring youths. It is all done in
+the kindest, and most fatherly way. The City Chamberlain from the time
+of the Indentures of the lad being signed, to giving him his Freedom,
+acts as his guardian, to a great extent. Has the lad any complaint
+to make against his master it is to the Chamberlain he must appeal,
+and _vice versâ_. The Cause is heard _in camerâ_, and every effort is
+made to reconcile the parties, but, as will sometimes happen with a
+boy who is obstinate, sullen, or vicious, all attempts to bring him
+to a better sense fail, then the Chamberlain, by virtue of his office
+commits the boy to Bridewell, where he eats the bread, and drinks the
+water, of affliction for a while, a treatment, which combined with
+the confinement, hard work, and enforced sequestration from society,
+largely aided by the good advice of the Chaplain, very seldom fails
+to effect its object, and render that lad a decent member of the
+commonweal. It just arrests him in his downward path, there is no
+publicity, the thing is never chronicled in any Newspaper, as it might
+be, supposing no Bridewell existed, and the case was brought before a
+police magistrate--it need never be known outside his family circle,
+and he escapes the taint of being a gaol bird.
+
+Bridewell seems to have been long associated with apprentices, not all
+of them "_Thomas Idles_," I am happy to say; and Hatton in "The New
+View of London" (1708) writes, showing the tender care that the City of
+London have always had for their poor:
+
+ "It is also an Hospital for Indigent Persons, and where 20
+ Art Masters (as they are called) being decayed Traders as
+ Shoemakers, Taylors, Flax-dressers, &c., have Houses, and their
+ Servants, or Apprentices (being about 140 in all) have Cloaths
+ at the House Charge, and their Masters having the Profit of
+ their Work do often advance by this means their own Fortunes,
+ and these Boys, having served their time faithfully, have not
+ only their Freedom, but also £10 each towards carrying on their
+ respective Trades, and many have even arrived from nothing to be
+ Governors."
+
+This arrangement has, of course, had to "march with the times," and in
+1860 the Master of the Rolls approved of, and sanctioned, a scheme of
+the Charity Commissioners, whereby nearly all the funds appertaining
+to Bridewell are utilized by two industrial schools called "King
+Edward's Schools," most impartially divided--one at Witley, in Surrey,
+affording accommodation for two hundred and forty boys, and another in
+St. George's Fields, Lambeth, for two hundred and forty girls; so that,
+even in these latter days, Bridewell still exists, and, if the spirits
+of its numerous benefactors have the power to see the manner in which
+their money is being spent, I fancy they would not grumble.
+
+Before leaving the topic of Bridewell, as a prison, I must not fail to
+mention a notorious, but naughty, old woman who lived in the time of
+Charles II., commonly known as "Old Mother Cresswell." It is no slander
+on her memory, to say that her sense of morality was exceedingly lax,
+and she died in Bridewell. She evidently had saved some money, and with
+that curious spirit which possesses some people, and produces adulatory
+epitaphs, she would fain be better thought of after her death, than
+she was estimated when alive, for, in her will, she left a legacy for
+a sermon at her funeral, the preacher's remuneration to be £10, on one
+condition, that he should say nothing but what was _well_ of her. A
+clergyman having been found, he preached a sermon generally adapted to
+the occasion, and wound up by saying: "By the will of the deceased, it
+is expected that I should mention her, and say nothing but what was
+_well_ of her. All that I shall say of her, however, is this: she was
+born _well_, she lived _well_, and she died _well_; for she was born
+with the name of Cress_well_, she lived in Clerken_well_, and she died
+in Bride_well_."
+
+There was a fine old Court-room, which is thus described in the
+"Microcosm of London" (1808):
+
+"The Court-room is an interesting piece of antiquity, as on its site
+were held courts of justice, and probably _parliaments_, under our
+early kings. At the upper end are the old arms of England; and it
+is wainscotted with English Oak, ornamented with Carved work. This
+Oak was formerly of the solemn colour which it attains by age, and
+was relieved by the carving being gilt. It must have been no small
+effort of _ingenuity_ to destroy at one stroke all this venerable,
+time-honoured grandeur: it was, however, _happily_ achieved, by
+daubing over with paint the fine veins and polish of the old oak,
+to make a bad imitation of the pale modern wainscot; and other
+decorations are added in similar _taste_.
+
+"On the upper part of the walls are the names, in gold letters, of
+benefactors to the hospital: the dates commence with 1565, and end
+with 1713. This is said to have been the Court in which the sentence
+of divorce was pronounced against Catherine of Arragon, which had been
+concluded on in the opposite monastery of the Black Friars.
+
+"From this room is the entrance into the hall, which is a very noble
+one: at the upper end is a picture by Holbein,[83] representing Edward
+VI. delivering the Charter of the hospital to Sir George Barnes,
+then Lord Mayor; near him are William, Earl of Pembroke, and Thomas
+Goodrich, Bishop of Ely. There are ten figures in the picture, besides
+the king, whose portrait is painted with great truth and feeling: it
+displays all that languor and debility which mark an approaching
+dissolution, and which, unhappily, followed so soon after, together
+with that of the painter; so that it has been sometimes doubted
+whether the picture was really painted by Holbein--his portrait,
+however, is introduced; it is the furthest figure in the corner on
+the right hand, looking over the shoulders of the persons before him.
+
+"On one side of this picture is a portrait of Charles II. sitting,
+and, on the other, that of James II. standing; they are both painted
+by Sir Peter Lely. Round the room are several portraits of the
+Presidents and different benefactors, ending with that of Sir Richard
+Carr Glyn. The walls of this room are covered with the names of those
+who have been friends to the institution, written in letters of gold."
+
+This Hall was pulled down in 1862.
+
+    [Footnote 76: See next page.]
+
+    [Footnote 77: Of Spain.]
+
+    [Footnote 78: A.D. 1553.]
+
+    [Footnote 79: A Beetle is a portion of a trunk of a tree, large
+    or small as occasion demanded, sometimes more than one man
+    could lift, _vide_ Shakspeare (2 _Hen. IV._ act i. sc. 2),
+    "Fillip me with a three-man beetle," _i.e._, one with three
+    handles. All exogenous fibres have to be crushed, in order to
+    release the fibre from the wooden core, and this, which is now
+    done by machinery, was then done by beetles, or wooden
+    hammers.]
+
+    [Footnote 80: Brazil wood.]
+
+    [Footnote 81: Sir Robert Jeffries the President and Justice at
+    Bridewell, when he knocked with a hammer the punishment
+    ceased.]
+
+    [Footnote 82: In Hogarth's picture both men and women are
+    working together.]
+
+    [Footnote 83: The writer is in error, as the event it
+    represents took place some ten years after Holbein's death. The
+    picture is now in Christ's Hospital.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+
+Bordering upon Bridewell, and almost part and parcel of it, was
+Whitefriars, which, westward, ran to the Temple, and eastward to
+the Fleet. It is so-called from a Carmelite monastery, established
+here in the reign of Edward I. Within its precincts was the right of
+sanctuary, and, like the Jewish Cities of Refuge, offenders against
+the law might flee thither, and be protected from arrest. Naturally,
+the very scum of London floated thither, to the Mint in Southwark, and
+the precincts of the Savoy in the Strand, in none of which the King's
+warrant ran, unless backed by a force sufficient to overawe the lawless
+denizens of these localities. Whitefriars we may take as its original
+name, but there was given it a nick-name, "Alsatia," from Alsace, or
+Elsass, on the frontier between France and Germany, which was always
+a battle-field between the two nations; and so, from the incessant
+fighting that went on in this unruly neighbourhood, it acquired its
+cognomen.
+
+Sir Walter Scott, in "The Fortunes of Nigel," gives a vivid description
+of the utter lawlessness and debauchery of this quarter of the town,
+but his was second-hand. Perhaps one of the most graphic pictures of
+this sink of iniquity is given in Shadwell's "Squire of Alsatia," acted
+in 1688, and which was so popular, that it had a run of _thirteen_
+nights. Here we get at the manners and customs of the natives, without
+any glossing over; and, just to give an example of the real state of
+the district at that time, I make two or three extracts, showing how
+the denizens were banded together in mutual defence.
+
+ "_Cheatly._ So long as you forbear all Violence, you are safe;
+ but, if you strike here, we command the _Fryers_, and will raise
+ the _Posse_....
+
+ [_A Noise of Tumult without, and blowing a Horn._]
+
+ _Cheatly._ What is this I hear?
+
+ _Shamwell._ They are up in the Friers; Pray Heav'n the Sheriff's
+ Officers be not come.
+
+ _Cheatly._ 'Slife, 'tis so! 'Squire, let me conduct you----This
+ is your wicked Father with Officers.
+
+
+ _Exit._
+
+
+ [_Cry without, the Tip-Staff! an Arrest! an Arrest! and the horn
+ blows._]
+
+ [_Enter Sir William Belfond, and a Tip-Staff, with the
+ Constable, and his Watchmen; and, against them, the Posse of the
+ Friers drawn up, Bankrupts hurrying to escape._]
+
+ _Sir Will._ Are you mad, to resist the Tip-Staff, the King's
+ Authority?
+
+ [_They cry out, An Arrest! several flock to 'em with all sorts
+ of Weapons, Women with Fire-Forks, Spits, Paring Shovels, &c._]
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+ _Tip-Staff._ I charge you, in the King's Name, all to assist me.
+
+ _Rabble._ Fall on.
+
+ [_Rabble beat the Constable, and the rest run into the Temple.
+ Tip-Staff runs away._]."
+
+So that we see how an ordinary sheriff's officer and the civil
+authorities were treated when they attempted to execute the law; but,
+further on in the play, we find a Lord Chief Justice's warrant, backed
+up by a military force--and then we see the difference.
+
+ "_Truman._ What do all these Rabble here?
+
+ _Constable._ Fire amongst 'em.
+
+ _Sergeant._ Present.
+
+ [_The Debtors run up and dozen, some without their Breeches,
+ others without their Coats; some out of Balconies; some
+ crying out, Oars! Oars! Sculler! Five Pounds for a Boat! The
+ Inhabitants all come out arm'd as before; but as soon as
+ they see the Musqueteers, they run, and every one shifts for
+ himself._]
+
+And almost at the close of the play one of the characters, _Sir Edward
+Belfond_, moralizes thus:
+
+ "Was ever such Impudence suffer'd in a Government? _Ireland's_
+ conquer'd; _Wales_ subdued; _Scotland_ united: But there are
+ some few Spots of Ground in _London_, just in the Face of the
+ Government, unconquer'd yet, that hold in Rebellion still.
+ Methinks 'tis strange, that Places so near the King's Palace
+ should be no Parts of his Dominions. 'Tis a Shame to the
+ Societies of the Law, to countenance such Practices: Should any
+ Place be shut against the King's Writ, or Posse Comitatus?"
+
+This right of sanctuary was taken from Whitefriars by William III.,
+the nest of rogues, vagabonds, and thieves broken up, the occupants
+dispersed, and law reigned supreme in that once defiant place.
+
+We have now traced the Fleet River to its junction with the Thames.
+Poor little river! its life began pure enough, but men so befouled
+it, that their evil deeds rose against themselves, and the river
+retaliated in such kind, as to become a malodorous and offensive
+nuisance, dangerous to the health of those men who would not leave it
+in its purity. So it was covered over, about 1764 (for it took some
+time to do it), and the present Bridge Street is over its foul stream,
+which was curbed, and bricked in, forming a portion of our vast and
+wonderful system of sewers. It has taken its toll of human life, in
+its time, though but few instances are recorded. In the _Gentleman's
+Magazine_, January 11, 1763, we read: "A man was found in the Fleet
+Ditch standing upright, and frozen to death. He appears to have been a
+barber at Bromley, in Kent; had come to town to see his children, and
+had, unfortunately, mistaken his way in the night, and slipt into the
+ditch; and, being in liquor, could not disentangle himself."
+
+_Bell's Weekly Messenger_, August 2, 1835: "Some workmen have been
+for a few days past engaged in making a new sewer, communicating with
+the foulest of all streams, the Fleet Ditch. In consequence of the
+rain the men had left off work; and, soon afterwards, a young man
+named Macarthy, a bricklayer, proceeded to the sewer for the purpose
+of bringing away a ladder, when, owing to the slippery state of the
+works, he fell down the Sewer, but in his descent, caught hold of the
+ladder he was in search of, to which he hung for nearly a quarter of
+an hour, calling loudly all the time for assistance, though from some
+extraordinary cause or other, no person was able to afford him any. At
+length some of the labourers arrived--but too late; he had just before
+fallen into the Sewer, and was carried into the Fleet Ditch; and owing
+to its having been swollen by the heavy shower, floated along as far
+as the mouth of the Fleet Ditch, at Blackfriars, where his body was
+found, covered with the filth of the sewer, which the unfortunate man
+had met with in his progress to the Thames."
+
+And the _Times_ of October 3, 1839, records another fatal accident
+during some repairs.
+
+Naturally, this River was celebrated in verse. There was a very foolish
+and dull poem by Arthur Murphy in 1761 called "Ode to the Naiads of
+Fleet Ditch;" and, previously, it had been sung by Ben Jonson, "On the
+famous Voyage," which will be found among his epigrams. This voyage
+was from Bridewell to Holborn, and describes very graphically the then
+state of the river. Too graphic, indeed, is it for the reading of the
+modern public, so I transcribe but a very small portion of it, showing
+its then state.
+
+  "But hold my torch, while I describe the entry
+  To this dire passage. Say, thou stop thy nose;
+  'Tis but light pains: indeed, this dock's no rose.
+  In the first jaws appear'd that ugly monster
+  Y'cleped mud, which, when their oars did once stir,
+  Belched forth an air as hot, as at the muster
+  Of all your night tubs, when the carts do cluster,
+  Who shall discharge first his merd-urinous load;
+  Through her womb they make their famous road."
+
+[Illustration: 1768. THE ARREST. (Drawn from a late real scene.)]
+
+  "Sir Fopling Flutter through his Glass
+  Inspects the ladies as they pass,
+  Yet still the Coxcomb lacks the Wit
+  To guard against the Bailiff's Writ."
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+The Fleet Prison.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+This prison was of great antiquity, and its genealogy, like all
+respectable ones, dates back to William the Conqueror, at least;
+for we find, under date 1197,[84] "Natanael de Leveland & Robertus
+filius suus r.c. de LX marcis, Pro habenda Custodia Domorum Regis de
+Westmonasterio, & Gaiolæ de Ponte de Fliete, quæ est hæreditas eorum a
+Conquestu Angliæ; ita quod non remaneat propter Finem Osberto de Longo
+Campo." Or, in English, "_Nathaniel de Leveland and his son Robert,
+fined in sixty marks, to have the Custody of the King's Houses at
+Westminster, and the Prison at Fleet-bridge, which had been their
+inheritance ever since the Conquest of England; and that they may not
+be hindered therein by the Counterfine of Osbert de Longchamp._"
+
+There seems to have been some double dealing in this transaction, in
+which, as was only natural in those days, money went into the King's
+pocket.[85] "And Osbert de Longchamp fined in five hundred marks,
+to have the King's favour, and seizin of all his lands and chatels
+whereof he was disseised by the King's Command, and to have seisin of
+the Custody of the Gaol of London, with the Appurtenances, and of the
+Custody of the King's Houses of Westminster: provided that Right be
+done therein in the King's Court, in case any one would implead him for
+the same."[86]
+
+Robert de Leveland, the son of the foregoing Nathaniel, was bitten by
+the then fashionable craze for Crusading, for he is found, in 1201,
+petitioning King John for leave to delegate the care of the King's
+Houses at Westminster, and the Fleet Prison, to Simon FitzRobert,
+Archdeacon of Wells, for the space of three years, during which time
+he should be in the Holy Land. His prayer seems to have been granted;
+but he evidently drew a little money before he went away, for, in the
+Chancery Rolls of the same year, he was paid £15 10s. by the City of
+London, on account of the King's Prison of Flete, and he also received
+other sums of £10 12s. 10d. for the Custody of the King's Houses at
+Westminster, and £7 12s. 1d. for the Custody of the Gaol of
+_London_.[87] By which, and also by the foregoing notice of Osbert de
+Longchamps, it is evident that, at that time, the Fleet prison was the
+principal, if not the only, prison in London.
+
+Robert de Leveland re-entered upon his duties after his three years'
+leave, and a document is extant[88] in which he is excused payment
+of £10 he had borrowed; but (possibly in lieu) he was bound to serve
+beyond the seas--_i.e._, in foreign parts--with horses and arms.
+When he died is not known, but his widow evidently succeeded him as
+custodian, for in December, 1217,[89] his wife Margaret has the same
+allowance given her in regard of the King's Houses at Westminster "as
+the said Robert had been accustomed to during his life." Thus she was
+the first female Warden of the Fleet; there were others, as we shall
+see by and by.
+
+It is a moot question, and I put it forward with all reserve, as to
+whether there was not even an earlier mention of the Fleet before the
+very authentic case of Nathaniel de Leveland; but as it is open to
+objection that there were more Fleets than one, I only give the cases,
+and make no comment.[90] 1189: "William de Flete gave a Mark to have
+his plea in the King's Court touching a hyde of land, versus Randolph
+de Broy." And again,[91] in 1193: "Richard de Flet fined in one hundred
+Marks, that his daughter might be delivered from Ralf de Candos, who
+said he had espoused her."
+
+In the Rolls are many cases which mention the Fleet, but, although it
+was a House of Detention, for debtors, especially to the King, and
+persons committing minor crimes, it never seems to have been degraded
+into what we should now term "a Gaol." No felons seem to have been
+incarcerated there, and there is no mention of gyves or chains, but
+they were used in after years.
+
+It would seem that another "lady" Warden of the Fleet existed in
+Edward II.'s time, for, in 1316, "Johanne, late Wife of John Schench
+deceased, who held of the King in chief the Serjeanties of the Custody
+of the King's Palace of Westminster, and of his Prison of Flete,
+married Edmund de Cheney, without licence obtained from the King,
+in that behalf. Whereupon the said serjeanties were taken into the
+King's hands, and straitway the Treasurer and the Barons committed the
+Custody of the Palace of Richard Abbot, who was sworn _de fideliter_,
+&c., and the Custody of the Flete Prison to John Dymmok, Usher of
+the Exchequer, who was sworn in the like manner. Afterwards the said
+Edmund made Fine for the said Trespass, and the said serjeanties were
+restored." By which we see that thus early "women's rights" were fully
+recognized, and "employment for females" in occupations hitherto
+enjoyed exclusively by men, seems to have been in force.
+
+Although not in Chronological Order, I may as well add another, and the
+only other mention that has come under my notice of a female Warden
+(1677):[92] "A Woman Guardian of the Fleet, marries her Prisoner in
+Execution; he is immediately out of Execution; for the Husband cannot
+be Prisoner to his Wife, it being repugnant that she, as jaylor, should
+have custody of him, and he, as husband, the custody of her."
+
+Without some effective supervision, as is the case with our Prison
+Commissioners, abuses were bound to creep in, and the Governor
+or Warden of any Prison, (who doubtless had paid heavily for the
+appointment) had to recoup himself by squeezing the unfortunate
+prisoners, and we shall find several examples of this in the Fleet. The
+earliest seems to have been in the second year of Henry IV. (1400) when
+a petition was presented to Parliament[93] which prays, in its quaint
+Norman French that "les fees de Gardien de Flete sorént mys en certain"
+that the fees might be settled.
+
+It is possible that extra fees were taken for a certain amount of
+liberty allowed to the prisoners by the Warden, who would allow him
+to go out of gaol on certain conditions, and we may be certain, for a
+_consideration_ also. The Warden was answerable for his Prisoner, and
+if he escaped, he had to pay the debt, so that we may be certain that
+his ephemeral liberty was highly purchased. That this was the case we
+find in 7 and 8 Hen. IV. (1406)[94] "que si ascun Gaoler lesseroit tiel
+Prisoner aler a large par mainprise[95] ou en baile, que adonques le
+persone envers qi le dit Prisoner estoit condempne aureoit sa action et
+recoverir envers le dit Gaoler." Or in English, "_That if any Gaoler
+allowed such Prisoner to go at large, either by mainprize or bail, that,
+then, the Person to whom the Prisoner was indebted might have his
+action, and recover against the said Gaoler._" Yet, notwithstanding
+this, there were many actions brought against the Wardens for allowing
+their prisoners to escape. A relic of this power of the Wardens to
+accord a certain amount of liberty to their prisoners, obtained till
+the last hours of the Fleet. There was, in the _Rules_, a defined
+district surrounding the Prison, in which prisoners, on providing
+approved sureties for the amount of their debt, and paying some fee,
+might reside, on condition that they did not overstep the boundaries.
+That this custom of granting temporary _exeats_ was very ancient, is
+indisputable, for, in the 1 Richard II. (1377) a complaint was made
+that the Warden of the Fleet "sometimes by mainprize, or by bail, and
+sometimes without any mainprize, with a Baston of the Fleet," _i.e._,
+accompanied by a prison official, would allow his charges to go abroad,
+"even into the country."
+
+It is impossible to give a list of all the prisoners of note who were
+committed to the Fleet, and they must only be glanced at, but with the
+accession of Mary, some illustrious and historical names appear. First,
+and foremost, and almost immediately after her accession to the throne,
+we read, thanks to the preservation and collation, of State Papers,[96]
+that on the 29th of July, 1553, a letter from the Privy Council was
+sent to the "Wardene of the Flete, for the apprehensyone and commyttyng
+of the Lord Russell, Anthonye Browne of Essex, and John Lucas." All
+these prisoners seem to have been treated with great leniency, for
+there is a letter (July 31) to the Warden of the Fleet bidding him to
+give Mr. Lucas and Mr. Cooke _the libertye of his Garden_, so that there
+must have been a garden then attached to the Fleet prison--and a
+postscript orders that "he shall delyuer Mr. Anthonye Browne, and
+suffer hym to goo to his awne Howse."
+
+Nor were the others kept long in durance, for on the 3rd of Aug., 1553,
+the Council wrote to the Warden willing him "To set at libertye John
+Lucas, and John Cocke, Esquiers, giueing them Commaundement withall
+to repaire to their Mancion Howses and their to make theire aboode
+vntill they shall here further of the Queene's Pleasure." And even the
+incarceration of Lord Russell was mollified, for a letter was written
+on 9th Aug. to Mr. Garret, one of the Sheriffs of London, "whereby
+the Countesse of Bedforde is licensed to have free access twise or
+thrise in the week, unto the Lord Russell, her son, remayning in the
+said sheriff's custodie, so the sheriff be present at their Talke and
+Conference."
+
+I give the above so as not to spoil the continuity of the story,
+but there is mention of the Fleet prison long before; for instance,
+in 1355, Edward III. wrote "to his well-beloved and trusty, Simon
+Fraunceys Mayor of the City of London, Hugh de Appleby, and Robert de
+Charwaltone, greeting. Whereas we have been given to understand that
+the Foss[97] by which the mansion of our Prison of Flete is surrounded,
+and which, for safety of the said prison was lately made, is now
+obstructed and choked up by filth from latrines built thereon, and
+divers others refuse thrown therein, that there is cause to fear for
+the abiding there of the persons therein detained, by reason of the
+same; and because that, by reason of the infection of the air, and the
+abominable stench which there prevails, many of those there imprisoned
+are often affected with various diseases and grievous maladies, not
+without serious peril unto themselves. We, wishing a befitting remedy
+to be applied thereto, and that the said Foss may be restored to its
+former state, in which it was when it was first made, and so improved;
+and, for making provision thereon, desiring upon the matters aforesaid
+more fully to be informed, have assigned you, and any two of you, to
+survey the Foss aforesaid, &c."
+
+This warrant was followed by an Inquest held at the Church of St.
+Brigid in Fleet Street on Tuesday, the 9th of January, 1356, on the
+oath of Richard le Cok, (Cook) Nicholas le Sporière (Spurrier), and
+Thomas le Glaswrighte (Glassblower) and nine others. From it we learn
+that the "Foss of Flete" ought to be ten feet in breadth all round the
+Prison; that it ought to be so full of water that a boat laden with one
+tun of wine might easily float round it; and that the shelving banks of
+the Foss were then covered with trees. Also that it was quite choked up
+with the filth of laystalls and sewers discharging into it; and that
+no less than eleven necessary houses (or _wardrobes_, as they seem
+very generally to have been called in the thirteenth and fourteenth
+centuries) had been illegally built over it "to the corruption of the
+Water in the Foss aforesaid; and to such an extent is the flow of
+water obstructed and impeded thereby, that the said Foss can no longer
+surround the Prison with its waters, as it should do."[98]
+
+The Acts of the Privy Council throw some light on the Fleet, giving
+several instances of Committals thereto, one of the first being 9 Hen.
+V. Oct. 14, 1421.[99] Wherein Hugo Annesley, who probably was then
+Warden of the Fleet, was directed to incarcerate therein one Grey
+de Codenore, who had been exiled, and having received his passport,
+remained in England, notwithstanding.
+
+In 1 Henry VI.,[100] 19 May, 1423, the "gardein de notre prisone de
+Flete" was commanded to bring before the King some prisoners whom
+he had in custody, namely Huguelyn de Chalons, Johan Billy, Johan
+de Cheviers, Regnault de Graincourt, Hellyn de Bassiers, Pierre de
+Mombreham, and Pierre de Pauniers "noz prisoniers prisez a la reddicion
+de notre ville de Harefleu."
+
+In the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries are many notices of committals
+to the Fleet, so numerous that I can only mention a few, one only of
+which I give in the original spelling. 32 Hen. VIII. Sept. 9, 1540.
+
+"L[~r]es was also brought from the Lord P^ivey Seale, declaring a
+certayn affray to be made by S^r Geoffrey Poole in Hampshyre upon one
+Mr. Gunter a justice of peax, for that (as Poole sayd) one of Gunter's
+srvants had spoken evill of hym, and for that also that hymself Gunter
+had disclosed to the King's Counsail in the tyme of Poole's trouble
+certain secret conference which Poole had w^t hym. And answer was made
+to the sayd Lord P^ivy Seale that calling the complaynt eftesones
+before hym the lordes and others the gen[~t] and justices of peax in
+the c[=u]trey to thentent the cryme of S^r Geffrey might be notorious
+to all the C[=u]trey there he should c[=o]mytt the said S^r Geffrey
+to the Flette to remayne there until further knowledge of the Kings
+pleas^r."
+
+Evidently great interest was made for this naughty Sir Geoffrey, for we
+learn on Sept. 24th that "It was declared to the Lady Poole, the wife
+of Sir Geoffrey Poole, that the King's higness had pardoned her husband
+of his imprisonment," and the Lord Privy Seal was directed to release
+him. But he seems to have been a very cantankerous knight, for we find
+him in hot water again next year. April 8, 1541, "Whereas Sir Geoffrey
+Poole, Knight, had violently and contrary to the King's Highness' peace
+assaulted and hurt[101] Sir John Mychaill clerk, parson of Racton in
+the County of Sussex," and he had to put in sureties to keep the peace
+towards the said parson, and to answer the bill preferred against him.
+But it seems that he had some provocation, for a letter was written to
+him requiring him to remember, as far as he could, the "haynous and
+traytorous woords spoken by S^r John Michaell."
+
+On Nov. 7, 1540, Browne, the son and heir of Sir Matthew Browne
+of Surrey, was committed to the Fleet, together with some of his
+servants, for burning a certain stack of wood in Surrey. On Jan. 8,
+1541, John Gough of London, printer, was sent to the Fleet for printing
+and selling a seditious book. On March 18, 1541, there seems to have
+been a riot among some of the servants of the Gentlemen of the Privy
+Chamber, and three of them were committed to the Fleet. On April
+24, 1541, a smuggler was put into ward here, one Giles Hasebarde of
+Southampton, a "berebruer," who had put on board "a ship of Holland,
+named the Mary of Dordroyt," five pockets of wool, without a licence,
+intending to send them to Flanders. For this he was sent to the Fleet,
+the wool confiscated to the King's use, and the Master of the ship was
+mulcted in half the value of his vessel; but Hasebarde was not long in
+durance, as he was liberated on April 30th. To thoroughly understand
+the reason of this man's imprisonment in the Fleet, we must remember
+that he was sent there as being a _Debtor_ to the King, and in the
+fifteenth century it was a very common practice for delinquents who
+were confined in other London prisons to confess themselves, by a legal
+fiction, debtors to the King, in order to get into the Fleet prison,
+which was more comfortable. But to show the variety of so-called
+crimes, or misdemeanours, which were punishable by imprisonment here,
+there is the case of John Barkley of Canterbury, innholder, who was
+committed to the Fleet for having molested the King's Highness with
+sundry troublous supplications, and it was found that he "appered
+manyfestly to be a c[=o]men barrater[102] and a malicious [=p]moter
+of false and injust mattiers to the gret vexa[=c]on of the Kings
+faithfull subjects."
+
+It was also used as a house of detention, for we find Oct. 17, 1541,
+that Cowley the Master of the Rolls in Ireland, was examined, but
+because the time was too short to do it thoroughly, the Lord Chancellor
+sent him to the Fleet "untill syche tyme as the King sholde co[=m] to
+London." It seems to have been a refuge for misdemeanants, for April 3,
+1542, John Bulmer Esquire, for his wilful disobeying of an order taken
+between him and his wife by the Council, was committed to the Fleet.
+And does not Shakespeare make Sir John Falstaff a denizen of this
+prison? (Second Part _King Henry the Fourth_, last scene).
+
+ "_Chief Justice._ Go, carry Sir _Iohn Falstaffe_ to the Fleete
+ Take all his Company along with him.
+
+ _Falstaffe._ My Lord, my Lord.
+
+ _Chief Justice._ I cannot now speake, I will heare you soone:
+ Take them away."
+
+Sir Rd. Empson, so well known in Henry the Seventh's time, was indicted
+for sending, without process, persons accused of murder, and other
+crimes, "to the late King's Prisons, to wit the Fleet, the Compter, and
+the Tower of London." And, from the Articles of Impeachment against
+Cardinal Wolsey, it would seem that he was in the habit of committing
+to the Fleet, those who thwarted him in his demands. One case (Article
+38) is: "Also that the said Lord Cardinal did call before him Sir John
+Stanley K^{nt} which had taken a Farm by C[=o]vent Seal of the Abbot
+and C[=o]vent of Chester, and afterw^{ds} by his Power and Might,
+contrary to Right, committed the said Sir John Stanley to the Prison of
+the Fleet by the space of a Year, unto such time as he compelled the
+said Sir John to release his C[=o]vent Seal to one Leghe of Adlington,
+which married one Lark's daughter, which woman the said Lord Cardinal
+kept, and had with her two Children; whereupon the said Sir John made
+himself Monk in Westminster, and there died."
+
+Here is another example of the Cardinal's highhanded method of dealing
+with those who did not exactly bend to his will, in Article 41 of his
+Impeachment: "Also where one Sir Edward Jones, Clerk, parson of Orewly
+in the County of Bucks, in the 18th year of your most noble reign, let
+his s^d parsonage with all tithes and other profits of the same to one
+William Johnson, for certain years; within which years, the Dean of the
+s^{'d} Cardinal's College in[103] Oxenford pretended title to a certain
+portion of Tithes within the s^d parsonage, supposing the s^d portion
+to belong to the parsonage of Chichley, which was appointed to the
+Priory of Tykeford, lately suppressed, where (of truth) the Parsons of
+Orewly have been peaceably possessed of the s^{'d} portion _out of the
+time of mind_: Where upon a Subpoena was directed to the said Johnson
+to appear before the Lord Cardinal at Hampton Court, out of any term,
+with an injunction to suffer the said Dean to occupy the said portion.
+Whereupon the said Johnson appeared before the said Lord Cardinal at
+Hampton Court, where without _any_ Bill the said Lord Cardinal
+committed him to the Fleet, where he remained by the space of twelve
+weeks, because he would not depart with the said Portion: and at last,
+upon a Recognizance made, that he should appear before the said Lord
+Cardinal, whensoever he was commanded, he was delivered out of the
+Fleet. Howbeit, as yet, the said Portion is so kept from him that he
+dare not deal with it."
+
+    [Footnote 84: Mag. Rot. 9 Ric. I. _Rot. 2a, Lond. & Midd._]
+
+    [Footnote 85: Mag. Rot. 9 Ric. I. _Rot. 14b, Kent._]
+
+    [Footnote 86: Liberate Rolls, p. 25. _Rot. Lit. Pat. Hardy_,
+    p. 4.]
+
+    [Footnote 87: Rot. Cancell. 3 John, f. 100.]
+
+    [Footnote 88: Close Rolls, 6 John, f. 33.]
+
+    [Footnote 89: Close Rolls, 2 Hen. III., f. 346.]
+
+    [Footnote 90: Mag. Rot. 1 Ric. I. _Rot. 2b, Bedef._ Til de
+    Oblatis Curiæ.]
+
+    [Footnote 91: Mag. Rot. 5 Ric. I. _Rot. 2a_, Nordfolch and
+    Sudfolch.]
+
+    [Footnote 92: See Platt's Case cited Vaughan's Reports 1677,
+    p. 243.]
+
+    [Footnote 93: Rolls of Parl. vol. iii. p. 469.]
+
+    [Footnote 94: Ibid. vol iii. p. 593a.]
+
+    [Footnote 95: Allowing a prisoner to go at liberty on finding
+    sureties.]
+
+    [Footnote 96: Hayne's State Papers, vol. i.]
+
+    [Footnote 97: The moat or ditch fed by the Fleet, which washed
+    the walls of the prison.]
+
+    [Footnote 98: See "Memorials of London and London Life in the
+    Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Centuries," by H. T.
+    Riley, 1847, pp. 279, 280.]
+
+    [Footnote 99: "Proceedings and Ordinances of the Privy Council of
+    England," edited by Sir H. Nicholas, 1834, vol. ii. p. 303.]
+
+    [Footnote 100: Ibid. vol. iii. p. 93.]
+
+    [Footnote 101: Beneficed Clergy were given the title of Dominus or
+    Sir--as Sir Hugh Evans, in the _Merry Wives of Windsor_.]
+
+    [Footnote 102: A vexatious and litigious person--one who stirs up
+    strife.]
+
+    [Footnote 103: Christ Church, Oxford.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+
+The Fleet was, evidently, a handy prison, elastic enough to suit all
+cases, for on Aug. 19, 1553, at the Star Chamber, "Roger Erthe, alias
+Kinge, servaunt to Therle of Pembroke, and William Ferror, servaunt to
+the Lord Sturton, were, for making of a Fraye, committed to the Charge
+of Warden of the Fleete."
+
+In September, 1553, the Fleet received a prisoner whose name is
+historical wherever the English language is read, for the Privy Council
+being held at Richmond, on the 1st of Sept. "This day appered before
+the Lordes, John Hooper, Bishop of Gloucester, and Miles Coverdale,
+Bishop of Exon. And the said Hooper, for Considerations the Councell
+moving, was sent to the Fleete."
+
+Turning from Mary's reign to that of Elizabeth, we find equal religious
+intolerance, for we read in Strype's "Annals of the Reformation, A.D.
+1582," that Fleetwood, the Recorder of London, sent a letter to the
+Lord Treasurer, informing him that one Osborn, a priest and Franciscan
+friar, had been examined, and confessed that "_in crastino Epiphaniæ_,
+he said Mass in the Fleet (where many recusants were committed) in the
+Lord Vaux's Chamber, (to whom he was related) before that Lord, Mr.
+Tresham, Mr. Tyrwhit, and others," which three, at the London Sessions,
+in Guildhall, were convicted on Osborn's evidence.
+
+Fleet parsons were evidently an institution in the sixteenth century,
+for besides the above-mentioned Osborn, there was another committed
+to the Fleet, on May 27, 1584, one Sir R. Stapleton. His fault seems
+to have been that he had preached against the Archbishop of York, for
+which he was arraigned in the Star Chamber, and was, with others,
+ordered to read an apology--which he did--but in such a contemptuous
+manner, that he was sent to the Fleet.
+
+In the seventeenth century, many Puritans were incarcerated here,
+especially after the Restoration, when their gloomy fanaticism ill
+accorded with the ideas of the age. The bow had been strung too tightly
+during the Commonwealth, and when it was unstrung the reaction was
+great. So many were put into prison for conscience' sake. Even in
+Elizabeth's reign there were many in prison, and we can hardly wonder
+at it when we consider it was an age of religious intolerance, and
+the religion professed by these devotees was of a most unattractive
+character. Strype, writing of A.D. 1588, says of them:
+
+ "In the Summer Time they meet together in the Fields, a Mile or
+ more.[104] There they sit down upon a Bank. And divers of them
+ expound out of the Bible, so long as they are there assembled.
+
+ "In the Winter Time they assemble themselves by five of the
+ Clock in the Morning to the House where they make their
+ Conventicle for the Sabbath Day, Men and Women together. There
+ they continue in their kind of Prayers, and Exposition of
+ Scriptures, all the Day. They Dine together. After Dinner make
+ Collections to pay for their Diet. And what money is left, some
+ of them carryeth to the Prisons, where any of their sort be
+ committed.
+
+ "In their prayers, one speaketh, and the rest do groan and sob,
+ and sithe,[105] as if they could wring out Tears. But say not
+ after him that prayeth. Their Prayer is _Extemporal_."
+
+In January, 1600, Lord Grey of Wilton was committed to the Fleet, by
+Queen Elizabeth's order, for assaulting the Earl of Southampton, on
+horseback, in the public street.
+
+There is a fair bibliography of the Fleet prison in the seventeenth
+century. In 1620-1 there was a broadsheet published "A briefe
+collection of the exactions, extortions, oppressions, tyrannies,
+and excesses towards the liues, bodies and goods of prisoners, done
+by _Alexander Harris_, Warden of the Fleete, in his foure yeares
+misgouernment, ready to be proued by oath and other testimonies." This
+was answered by Harris, and his MS., which is in the possession of the
+Duke of Westminster, was published by the Camden Society in 1879,
+entitled the "[OE]conomy of the Fleete; or an Apologeticall Answeare
+of Alexander Harris (late Warden there) unto XIX Articles set forth
+against him by the prisoners." Of which book more anon.
+
+Then there was a "Petition to Parliament of the distressed prisoners
+in the King's Bench, Fleet and other prisons"--but this has no date.
+In 1647 was published "A Whip for the Marshal's Court by Robert Robins
+Gent, being his Petition to the House of Commons." The preface to
+the Reader, is dated from the Author's "Iron Cage in the Fleet." In
+1653 there was "A Schedule; or, List of the Prisoners in the Fleet
+remaining in custody May 25, 1653." Some of them were very bad cases,
+as "_William Gregory_ committed February 7, 1651, one Outlawry after
+Judgment, severall other Outlawries and Trespasses, no sums mentioned;"
+or "_Hustwayte Wright_ committed June 29, 1650, for £31 1s., Execution,
+besides Outlawries, Latitats and Cap. no sum appearing." "_Thomas
+Keneston_ committed Nov. 4, 1646, for 51,000 Actions, and severall
+Orders of the Exchequer." In 1669 appeared "A Companion for Debtors and
+Prisoners, and advice to Creditors, with a description of Newgate, the
+Marshalsea, the two Counties, Ludgate, _the Fleet_, and King's Bench
+prison." In 1671 was published "A Short Narrative, or Anatomie of the
+Fleet Prison &c.," by John Knap, M.D. In 1690 there was "A plea for the
+City Orphans and Prisoners for Debt." In 1691 appeared a soul-harrowing
+little book, called "The Cry of the Oppressed, a tragicall Account of
+the unparalleled Sufferings of the poor imprisoned Debtors and Tyranny
+of their Gaolers, with the case of the Publisher (Moses Pitt)." Here
+the interest is much heightened by numerous engravings showing how
+prisoners were beaten, made to feed with hogs, were covered with boils
+and blains, the females outraged by their gaolers, and many other
+enormities. I would fain quote at length from this book, but space will
+not admit of it. In 1699 we find "An Argument that it is impossible for
+the nation to be rid of the grievances occasioned by the Marshal of the
+King's Bench and Warden of the Fleet, without an utter extirpation of
+their present Offices."
+
+The Case as made out by the prisoners against the Warden, Alexander
+Harris, in 1620-1, was, if it could have been thoroughly substantiated,
+most damaging to him, but they overreached themselves by their manifest
+exaggeration. A few examples will suffice. There were nineteen counts
+against him all of grievous weight, but we will only take four as
+a fair sample. (1) Murder; (2) Felony; (3) Robbery; (4) Excessive
+Rates for Chambers. First, as to the Charge of Murder, this is the
+accusation: "After knowne quarrels and fightings between two prisoners,
+lodging them in one chamber, where, quarrelling and fighting againe,
+and notice to him thereof giuen, and of likely further mischiefe; this
+notwithstanding, continuance of them together, vntil the one murthered
+the other."
+
+This referred to two prisoners, Sir John Whitbrooke and another named
+Boughton. According to the Warden's account Whitbrooke did not deserve
+much pity. In July, 1618, he was given into the Warden's Custody, by
+the order of two Courts, to be kept a close prisoner, but he soon
+developed "dangerous energy," for on the 10th of the same month, almost
+immediately after his committal, he "came into the Warden's studdy
+where the Warden (in his gowne) was wryteing, and fashioned his speech,
+sayeing that he came to speake with the Warden about his lodging, who
+answeared that he would willingly speake about that, and money for it,
+whereupon the Warden putting dust[106] upon the wryteings and turneing
+his back to lay them aside, Sir John Whitbrooke strooke him on the
+head with the sharpe ende of a hammer, whereof one Cleft was before
+broken off, and the other cleft newly whett, giveing fower wounds to
+the scull, and some bruses before the Warden could close with him; but
+then the Warden thrusting him out of the studdy, did throwe Whitbrooke
+on the back, and took away the hammer, Whitbrooke (being undermost) did
+hould the forepart of the Warden's gowne soe as he could not rise; att
+which tyme the Warden's blood abundantly gushed downe upon Whitbrooke,
+and the Warden could have beaten out Whitbrooke's braynes with the
+hammer, but that he was neither wrothfull nor daunted.
+
+"Then after, two maydes servants (heareing the noyse) came into the
+roome, and one loosed Whitbrooke's hands from the Warden's gowne, or
+ells the Warden must have killed him to acquitt himselfe. Soe soone
+as the maydes came the Warden shewed them the hammer all bloody,
+telling them that Whitbrooke had wounded him therewith; the butler of
+the howse then alsoe comeing upp to cover the table, the Warden bidd
+him and others (which followed) to laye hands upon Whitbrooke etc.; but
+to take heed they hurt him not; soe they letting him rise and rest
+himselfe, he took a stiletto out of his pockett and stabbed the
+Warden's deputie cleane through the middle of his hand, which
+(notwithstanding it was presently dressed by a good chirurgion) did
+rankle upp to his shoulder, and was like to have killed him; he also
+stabbed the porter of the howse directly against the heart, and drewe
+blood, but it pierced not: he stabbed the gaoler into the hand and twice
+through the sleeve of his dublett, so as then they lay violent hands
+upon him, put on irons and carryed him to the strongest warde of the
+prison (called Bolton's warde)."
+
+And a perfectly proper punishment for any one who ran _amuk_ like
+Whitbrooke because there was an organized mutiny. "And upon this some
+three score prisoners breake upp all the strongest prisons and dores
+of the wards and Tower chamber, assaulting the Warden and his servants
+with weapons &c., according to a plott and purpose before resolved
+upon, as appeares by depositions."
+
+The poor Warden had no bed of roses, more especially as the female
+element was afterwards introduced in the shape of Lady Whitbrooke, who
+of course, was a warm partisan of her husband. Harris writes:
+
+ "The lady alledgeth that in September the quarrell betweene the
+ Warden and Whitbrooke was renewed.
+
+ "The Warden answeareth that in July, 1619, Whitbrooke and
+ Boughton with six others (being lodged in a great Chamber) they
+ and six more shutt out thirtie of their Companie and fortefied
+ the gaole against the Warden, refused all perswasions of the
+ Warden, constables, and Alderman's Deputie, the comands of the
+ Lord Cheife Justice, of the Lord Chauncellor and his Serjeant
+ at Armes; yet yeilded to the clarke of the councell sent from
+ the Lords. Whitbrooke and Boughton being then in one humour;
+ and, upon unblocking the prison, Whitbrooke desired liberty; it
+ was offred him upon security, he would give none, then he made
+ question where to lye, to which was answeared there were five
+ other roomes he might make his election of, which he would; but
+ he said he would none other but where he formerly laye (it being
+ indeed the fayrest). They fortified these roomes againe when the
+ Warden was out of towne, soe as during Whitbrooke's life and
+ Boughton's being there with their adherents the Warden had noe
+ comand in that part of the prison."
+
+It is almost needless to say that these peculiarly unquiet spirits
+quarrelled among themselves. We have heard enough of Whitbrooke to know
+that he was a quarrelsome cur--impatient of restraint, and thoroughly
+lawless in his habits; but it is evident that he persuaded his wife
+that he was an injured innocent; for, in poor Harris's "Apologia pro
+sua vita," a story which he tells so naively, and so nicely, he says:
+
+"The lady alledgeth that the Warden (for revenge) resolved and reported
+he would send Whitbrooke to _Boulton_ to keepe.
+
+"The Warden answeareth that he for governement sake and to suppresse
+misdemeanours doth thretten to putt prisoners (offending) into
+_Boulton's Wards_ (Many yeares familiarlie soe called as he thinketh of
+bolts or irons put on them), where Whitbrooke was put when he wounded
+the Warden and his servants; he continued there but a small tyme, and
+was removed to a roome called the Tower Chamber (where Henry Boughton
+and many others did lye), thence Boughton was removed into the common
+prison in December, 1618, and Whitbrooke was removed thither June 16,
+1619, soe as to that tyme they lay five moneths within one lodging, and
+six moneths severed in other lodgings and noe quarrell stirred.
+
+"The Lady alledgeth that presently at their comeing together Boughton
+suddenly stabbed and wounded Whitbrooke, whereof he dyed.
+
+"The Warden answeareth that over and above the eleaven months
+aforesaid, yet from June 16th untill September 16, 1619, being 3
+moneths, they two combyned in their exploits against the Warden
+without falling out (for ought the Warden knewe), but 16 September
+Boughton fell out with Harvey (one of his chamber felowes), whom
+Boughton assayled with his teeth, and bitt him by the thombe, whereof
+Whitbrooke, Willis, Harvey, and others there lodged, advised the
+Warden, wishing him to take some course. The Warden sent divers
+messages by the gaoler to Whitbrooke to remove thence and to lye
+elsewhere; he would not, sayeing none should remove him but by
+violence, and they were so strong there, as the Warden could doe
+nothing, none ells durst come amongst them. Holmes and Maunsell offered
+him libertie amongst other gentlemen upon bonds.
+
+"The Warden acquainted the Lord Chauncellor of their fortifications,
+of some other stabbing there, of this particular brawle, and besought
+his lordshipp to send them to Newgate. The Lord Chauncellor comanded
+such motion to be made at the tyme of a seale; it was moved by Mr.
+Woomelayson, as appeares by his briefe, then his lordshipp wished oath
+to be made of this offence, and called for presidents[107] to remove
+them, in which meane tyme Boughton (being provoked and wounded by
+Whitbrooke) did stabb him, whereof he dyed within 13 dayes, and it was
+about 14 moneths after he wounded the Warden and stabbed his 3 servants
+as appeareth by the generall lodgeings and places where they laye,
+sometymes together, and sometymes severed, ensueing to be seene in the
+end of this answeare to this Article, and, if the testimony (which
+was long after delivered to the Warden, by a prisoner in the Fleete)
+be true, then the same Harvey, and one Tymothy Willis and Sir John
+Whitbrooke himselfe, did (of sett purpose) whett on Boughton to anger
+and quarrell, because they scorned Boughton and meant to assayle him.
+
+"When Whitbrooke, Boughton, &c., ymured themselves upp in the wards as
+aforesaid, a view or survey of the roomes was given the Lordes of the
+Councell, and they (_were_) satisfied.
+
+"After the tyme of the supposed quarrell (which was about Whitbrooke's
+and Boughton's fortifieing the house) they contynued lyeing where
+they were before, amongst others.
+
+"Wheresoever they had lyen they might quarrell when they mett, as
+Whitbrooke many moneths before broke Willis his head with a pott or
+candlestick."
+
+These two ill-conditioned animals fell to loggerheads, and Boughton
+drew upon Whitbrooke, and so wounded him that eventually he died. And
+this shows the very lax discipline that then obtained in the Fleet. Of
+course, no weapons should have been allowed, but "It is alsoe alledged
+that Boughton did provide a sword, and it was brought him by a woeman
+from whom the porter of the Fleet tooke it, and delivered it to the
+Warden (as he did indeed) and therefore say their accusers that the
+Warden knew the same sword was to kill Whitbrooke.
+
+"The Warden had it about a yeare and a halfe before this accident (of
+Whitbrooke's death) happened, and delivered it back againe to the
+woeman that brought it, with charge not to bring any thither whatsoever.
+
+"It was avouched that the sword was Boughton's, and put to dressing to
+a Cutler, who sent it home againe, so as Boughton might have killed
+Whitbrooke with it before it went to dressing, if he had intended
+any such thing. Nay, Boughton had alwayes in his trunck (as appeared
+afterwards) a stilletto so keene, so cleane and ready, as would soone
+have done such a fact if he had meant it; yea, swords and other weapons
+want not in the Fleete, and the Warden cannot prevent it. This fact
+was mere accidentall, and not precogitate as the lawe hath founde
+it, which acquitted Boughton of Manslaughter upon his arraignement."
+Harris, I think, and, most probably, my readers will agree with me, has
+made out a very fair case in his own favour; but I must not deal with
+the other charges against him at such length.
+
+    [Footnote 104: Presumably, _from the town_.]
+
+    [Footnote 105: Sigh.]
+
+    [Footnote 106: There was no blotting paper in those days, but
+    _pounce_ was used, which was either _powdered_ resin, gum
+    sandarach, or copal, or powdered cuttle fish. I believe that
+    _pounce_ may even now be bought at law stationers. It was
+    dusted on to the wet ink by means of a pepper caster.]
+
+    [Footnote 107: Precedents.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+
+The second count brought against him by his mutinous prisoners was
+"Remouing a prisoner out of his chamber, hauing 51 lib. 1 s. hid vnder
+his bed, which the prisoner required he might go to his chamber to
+dispose of, which was denied, and he thrust vp in another roome close
+prisoner, vntill the Warden and some of his seruants rifled his bed of
+that mony."
+
+Hear the Warden's defence:--"By this is pretended that one Coppin (who
+euer did beare the name of a poore fellowe) lost 51 li., with takeing
+whereof, if he dare charge any person or persons the Lawe is and hath
+beene open for him theis two yeares past. But his abettors haue putt
+it here rather to infame, then that they can think it true, as by the
+ensueing answeare appeares.
+
+"For Edward Coppin, liued as a poore prisoner in the Fleete for
+breach of a decree, and continueing above six yeares, would never be
+drawen to pay the Warden one penny for meate, drinke, lodging, or
+attendance; but at last he ran away, and was upon the Warden's pursuite
+taken againe, but before he ran away, he was sometymes restrayned of
+the libertye of the Fleete yards and walks (as is the custome of all
+prisons in England); and he lodging in the three Tower Chambers with
+sixteene persons, they often thretned their keeper to stabb him, to
+take away the keyes of the prison, to bind him, to hang him; lastly
+they fortefied that prison, soe that the Warden could not dispose or
+order them. And with two malletts and steele chissells they had cutt
+the stone workes of the dore, soe as noe locks or bolts could shutt
+them; and while they were thus doeinge Coppin came downe to fetch
+a mallett, wherewith he was taken beneath, and presentlie put into
+another warde aparte from his fellowes, about three a clock in the
+afternoone 15 July 1619, not speakeing of any money."
+
+Master Coppin was one of Boughton's gang, but even that _malfaiseur_
+could not back up his claim, for "A rumour was spredd in the Fleete
+that Coppin had lost 50 li. The Warden heareing thereof, sent for
+Coppin, and asked him: he said he would say nothing except Sir Francis
+Inglefield were present. Then the Warden said, Nay, Coppin, if you have
+nothing to say to me, you may depart againe.
+
+"Then the Warden was informed by Mr. Boughton and Wall, that the day
+before it happened that Coppin was removed, they had made meanes to
+borrowe some money upon a pawne, and Coppin professed and swore he had
+not so much (being fower (4) pounds) as they demanded. Then the Warden
+caused Coppin's trunck (being new and well locked) to be opened in
+Coppin's presence, and delivered it to him, in which Trunck within a
+Bagg put in a Box (as they said) there was about xxix^s; and then was
+sett on foote this rumour when Coppin had advised with Mr. Rookwood to
+doe it.
+
+"About January 1620, Edward Coppin confessed that he never receaved any
+money since he came to Prison.
+
+"Mr. Williams saith that he hath heard that Coppin hath confessed that
+he lost noe money."
+
+So we may acquit the Warden on this count. Poor Man! he had a rough
+lot to deal with, but it is to our advantage that it was so, for
+his refutation of the charges brought against him throws a flood of
+light on the domestic manners of the time, and of the Fleet prison in
+particular.
+
+The third count against the Warden was one of robbery, "11 lib. 6 s.
+taken out of the Trunk, and by violence, from the person of a close
+prisoner sicke in his bed, by the Warden and his seruants." And
+Harris meets this, as all others, fairly and straightforwardly. Says
+he:--"This toucheth money taken from one Thraske, then a Jewdaiser, or
+halfe Jewe, committed close prisoner by the Lords of the Councell, from
+whom, and such like, though in the Gatehouse, King's Bench, Fleete,
+&c., it hath beene used to take away and keepe their money, yet the
+Warden tooke not his until he abused it very dangerouslie, and whether
+this takeing away may be said Robbery, let the answeare followeing
+decide.
+
+"And although the complainte be used with a Circumstance, as if the
+Prisoner were sick, thereby to make a shewe as if the Warden gaped at
+his death and money; that was most untrue for Thraske was in perfect
+health."
+
+This prisoner was sent to the Fleet, to be put in the pillory, whipped
+and branded, and, besides, to suffer solitary confinement, but he found
+means to write letters to the King and the Lord Chancellor, and the
+Warden was much blamed for allowing him so to do. But poor Harris,
+who must have been plagued almost to death by his very recalcitrant
+charges, could not find out whence his prisoner procured his writing
+materials, and at last came to the correct conclusion that he was
+bribing the gaoler who waited upon him. So, with some servants, he
+personally searched Mr. Thraske's apartment and person, and found his
+pens, ink, and paper, and also £11 6s. in money, together with a bag
+and cord with which he used to receive supplies from outside, and by
+means of which he disseminated his pernicious literature. All of which
+the Warden very properly confiscated, but the money was kept, and used
+for the prisoner's benefit. "When Thraske had worne out his cloathes
+and desired other, the Lord Chauncellor bid the Warden buy for Thraske
+some cloathes, which was done accordingly, even soe much as Thraske
+desired; the Warden alsoe gave him money to buy wyne for his comforte
+at tymes." And, in the long run, the poor Warden declares that he was
+about £80 out of pocket by his prisoner.
+
+The last charge we will investigate, is that of "Excessiue rates of
+Chambers." (No. 13 on the list of 19) "Whereby orders no man ought to
+pay for any Chamber, the Warden allowing bed and bedding, aboue 2s. 4d.
+a weeke, he exacteth 8s., 10s., 13s. 4d. and of some twentie shillings
+a weeke without bedding." The Warden replies to this that "the Orders
+of the Prison are, That noe Parlor Comoners and Hall Comoners must lye
+two in a Bedd like Prisoners, They of the Parlor at ijs. iiijd. the
+weeke. They of the Hall at xiiijd. If any such will lye in the Prison
+then there is noe question of their payment, nor any more required. But
+the missery is this that none there will pay at all, but stand upon it
+that they should pay nothing, which is contrary to right, to Custome,
+and to usage.... An^o 1597. The Prisoners then Articling against the
+Warden Sett forth that one Prisoner paid xxxs. others xxs., xvs.,
+xiis., xs. a weeke for Chamber without Bedd. The Warden then made his
+Answeare to the Comittees that he took xs. a Chamber, and the rest was
+for more chambers than one, and in respect of Dyett, though they had
+none, but fetched it abroad.
+
+"Soe if Prisoners will have more ease than ordinarie, and a Chamber or
+two for themselves and theirs in the Warden's howse, they are by the
+orders and Constitutions to Compound with the Warden for it, it being
+the Warden's freehould, and demyseable.... To such prisoners as lye two
+in a Bedd, the Warden is to find them Bedd, and for Bedd and Chamber
+they are to pay. Whether by Bedd is meant all furniture of Bedding,
+that is to be doubted, for it was never put in practise; but as for
+those which lye in the Warden's freehould by agreement he is not bound
+to find them Bedd or Bedding except it be so conditioned. And such
+will hardly vouchsafe to lye on the comon Bedding which passeth from
+Man to Man; And the Warden can as hardlie buy a new Bedd for every new
+prisoner which cometh, and therefore the lodgings of ease were provided
+for men of quality and not for the mean sorte of prisoners, as the
+accusation would seeme to inferre; And when Mr. Chamberlayne informed
+against the Warden touching Chambers, All the cheife gentlemen in the
+Fleete certified under their hands that they held their Chambers by
+agreement to have a Chamber alone to each, and were contented with the
+rates."
+
+That the Wardenship of the Fleet was an onerous position, may be
+inferred from Harris's statement that "he hath had at one tyme the
+King's prisoners for two hundred thowsand[108] pounds debt, besides the
+affayres of State."
+
+That the office of Warden of the Fleet was of very ancient origin we
+have seen in the case of Nathanael de Leveland, and he also proves
+that it was heritable, for he, and his family, had held it for 130
+years, and more. And it had a far-reaching jurisdiction, for in the 3
+Eliz.[109] we learn that "Upon an adjournment of the term to Hertford,
+several prisoners were committed to the Castle there. This Castle was
+part of the Duchy of Lancaster. The Queen had granted a patent to A. of
+the Custody of this Castle for his Life; resolved by the Judges that
+the Warden of the Fleet shall have the Custody _there_ of the Prisoners
+committed by the Chancery, Common Pleas and Exchequer: For he is the
+Officer of those Corts; and although the Patentee has the Custody of
+the Castle, and though it be the Prison of the County, yet his interest
+ought to give place to the public weal, and common justice."
+
+In course of time, the Wardenship became a position which was openly
+sold; and our old friend Harris makes no secret of it. "They likewise
+alledge that I^o Elizabeth it was purchased by Tirrell at the rate of
+160 li. per annum and that long after it was held at 100 li. per annum,
+and refused for 200 li. But now that (thorough extortion) there is made
+4,000 li. per annum by the relation delivered to one Mr. Shotbolt.
+
+"To which is answeared, that the purchase paid by Tirrell, (as appears
+by the deed inrolled) was 6,000 markes or 4,000 li. which, if it be
+devided at tenne or twelve yeares purchase, being more than an office
+of that nature was worth in those dayes (which is above three score
+yeares past) it will bring 400 li. tenne yeares purchase, and therefore
+here is _sutor ultra crepidam_, for 160 li. at that rate would yeild
+but 1,600 li. in money, and there was not then the fift part of the
+buildings and lodgings which now are.
+
+"Mr. Anslowe (as is credibly informed) held it by fyne (and otherwise)
+at 600 li. per annum, and had but some part of the benefitts of the
+prison, nothing of the pallace at Westminster. And as for this Warden's
+valuation of it at 4000 li. per annum, it might be, supposeing that if
+the benefitts of the pallace were had &c. But what if the one with
+the other cost in expences 4,000 li. per annum, what will be then
+advanced?" &c.
+
+This selling of the Office of Warden, led to a great squabble in the
+early days of Queen Anne's reign, and it seems to have arisen in this
+way. A Warden of the Fleet, named Ford, in the reign of William and
+Mary, was found guilty of suffering one Richard Spencer to escape,
+but was acquitted of some minor charges, and a certain Col. Baldwin
+Leighton obtained a grant of the Office on April 6, 1690. On June 25,
+1691, this grant was quashed, and Leighton soon after died. A Mr.
+Tilley, in the fifth year of William and Mary purchased the Inheritance
+of the said Office, together with the Mansion and Gardens thereto
+appertaining, but on Dec. 23, 1704, judgment was given in the Queen's
+Bench that the Office be seized into her Majesty's hands, and this was
+affirmed in Parliament.
+
+The discipline in the prison at this time seems to have been very
+bad, so much so that many witnesses who could have spoken of Tilley's
+misdeeds were hindered from giving evidence, some by being put into
+dungeons; others, by violence, bribes, or other artifices. Take a case
+in point, which happened about this time. The case of Robert Elliot and
+others. "One Francis Chartyres was Arrested at the several Suits of
+the said several Persons, about the 4th of May last, all their Debts
+amounting to 140 l. and upwards, which cost them 20 l. to effect: And
+the said Francis Chartyres being a stubborn and an obstinate Man, and
+dangerous to Arrest, he having killed several Persons upon the like
+attempt, and at this Arrest run the Bayliffs through. And after he was
+taken, he by _Habeas Corpus_ turned himself over to the said Fleet
+Prison. And Mr. Tilley, and the Turnkey, and one Whitwood, an Officer
+of the Fleet, were acquainted, by the persons above mentioned, what a
+dangerous Man he was, and what it cost them to take him; but they took
+no notice thereof, and declared they would let him out for all of them;
+and so they did, and the next Day the said Persons Arrested him again,
+and he went over to the Fleet a second time, and was immediately set
+at liberty; who coming to the Persons aforesaid, at whose Suit he was
+Arrested, bid them defiance; saying, _He was a Freeman, for that he had
+given 18 Guineas for it_, and they _should never have a farthing of
+their Debts_, which they now doubt of, the said Chartyres being gone
+for Scotland."
+
+Hatton, in his "New View of London," 1708, gives, the boundary of the
+_Rules_, and also descants on the pleasantness of the Prison, as an
+abode. "Fleet Prison, situate on the East side of the Ditch, between
+Ludgate Hill and Fleet Lane, but the Rules extend Southward on the
+East side of Fleet Canal to Ludgate Hill, and thence Eastward to Cock
+Ally on the South side of Ludgate Hill, and to the Old Bayly on the
+North, and thence Northward in the Old Bayley both sides the Street, to
+Fleet Lane, and all that Lane, and from the West End, southward to the
+Prison again. It is a Prison for Debtors from any part of the Kingdom,
+for those that act or speak any thing in contempt of the Courts of
+Chancery and Common Pleas; and for the pleasantness of the Prison and
+Gardens, and the aforesaid large extent of its Rules, it is preferred
+before most other Prisons, many giving Money to turn themselves over to
+this from others."
+
+    [Footnote 108: Equal in our currency to about three times the
+    amount.]
+
+    [Footnote 109: Reports of Cases, &c., by Sir James Dyer (ed.
+    1794) vol. ii. p. 204 a.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+
+Things got so bad that Parliament ordered a Committee to inquire into
+it, and they began their sitting in Feb. 25, 1729. But, previously,
+the prisoners had petitioned the Lord Chief Justice and other justices
+without effect, and those petitions with Huggins' (who was the Warden)
+replies were published in a folio pamphlet, which contains much
+information.[110] The first petition was in 1723, and it was mainly
+addressed to the extortions of the Master, the sixth Article alledging
+that the fees exacted by the Warden were in excess of those settled by
+Law, Nov. 14, 1693--instanced as follows:
+
+                                                  Warden.  Legal.
+  For liberty of the House and Irons at first
+      coming in                                  £2  4 4    1 6 8
+  Chaplain                                        0  2 0
+  Entering every Name and Cause                             0 0 4
+  Porter's fee                                    0  1 0    0 1 0
+  Chamberlain's Fee                               0  3 0    0 1 0
+  The Dismission Fee for every Action             0 12 6    0 7 4
+  Turnkey's Dismission                            0  2 6
+                                                  ---------------
+                                                  £3 5 4  £1 16 4
+                                                  ======  =======
+
+The eleventh prayer of this Petition was, "And lastly, that for the
+better suppressing Prophaneness and Immorality among us, and that
+the Misery of Imprisonment may in some measure be alleviated by the
+Observance of good Manners, Cleanliness, and Quietude, we humbly pray
+your Lordships would enable us to regulate our selves in such Manner as
+the Prisoners in the King's Bench are empowered to do by a Rule of that
+Court, 20 _die post festim Sanctæ Trinitatis_. 11 Anne."
+
+Huggins replied to all the petition, but his answer to No. 6 was "The
+Warden saith, That so soon as the Fees were settled by this Honourable
+Court, he caused a Copy thereof to be framed and hung up in the Common
+Hall of the House, signed by Sir George Cook; also a Copy of the Rules
+and Orders of the House, which said copies the Prisoners were pleased
+to burn, tear to Pieces, and obliterate; and the Warden denies that
+he has taken or receiv'd, or any for him, to his knowledge, more, or
+greater, Fees than were contained in the said Copy of Fees hung up in
+the said Prison."
+
+And as to the Eleventh prayer of the Petitioners "The Warden saith,
+that the Prisoners in general, are so very ungovernable, that they
+have tore up the Trees around the Bowling Green, and cut down several
+of the Trees in the back part of the Prison, set by the Warden some
+years since, for the better Accommodation of the Prisoners; also broke
+down the Stocks in the said Prison, and the Houses of Easement were
+fitted up lately by the Warden, they have torn it almost to Pieces,
+and committed other Outrages, and most of them, altho' two Years in
+Arrears of Rent to the Warden, refuse to pay him any Part thereof, and
+will by Force, and in defiance of the Warden and his Officers, keep
+in Possession of the Rooms and Furnitures, Swearing to stand by each
+other."
+
+Petition after petition was sent from the Prisoners to the Lord Chief
+Justice about the oppressions of Huggins and his myrmidons, and duly
+answered in some shape by the Warden, but there was one, in which the
+fourteenth Charge is as follows. "That the Warden, on the Death of any
+Prisoner detains the Body from his Friends and Relations untill they
+will pay him, what Chamber Rent was due from the Deceased; and in the
+mean Time his cruel and unchristian like Practice, is to make the best
+Bargain he can with the poor Family of the Deceased, for the Purchase
+of the Dead Body, in order to give it Christian Burial, at their own
+Expence, by which means he often extorts large Sums of Money, for
+granting the Relations the Liberty of taking away and burying the Dead
+Body; which tho' a very natural and reasonable Desire, is nevertheless
+often frustrated by their Inability to purchase it at his Price, and,
+rather than accept what may be in their Power to give him, he often
+suffers the Dead Body to lye above Ground seven or eight Days, and
+often Times eleven or twelve Days, to the great endangering of the
+Health of the whole Prison, by the nauseous Stench, which being often
+times the Case, is very offensive all over the House; and when he has
+refused what he thought not worth his Acceptance, he buries them in the
+common Burying place for Prisoners, when the Body is often taken up by
+their Friends to be bury'd their own Way, and the Warden seizes to his
+own Use the Cloaths, Furniture, and what ever else there is for Fees
+and Chamber Rent, which he pretends to be due from the said deceased
+Prisoner."
+
+Huggins' reply to this was diabolically insolent. "For Answer thereto,
+My Lords, the Deputy Warden saith, That scarcely a Prisoner hath
+died on the Masters-Side, that was not largely indebted to him; and
+therefore, possibly, he might have used endeavours to get what part
+of the Money was due to him, as he could fairly from the Deceased's
+Relations."
+
+But the Cup of his iniquities was rapidly filling. He made one Thomas
+Bambridge "_A Newgate Sollicitor, and a Person of abandon'd Credit_"
+(as the petition in the case of Mr. Mackphreadris describes him) his
+deputy warden, and then, things came to a climax. As we have seen,
+Parliament took cognizance of the scandal, and issued a Commission to
+inquire into the matter, and their first sitting was on Feb. 25, 1729.
+Their report was presented to Parliament on March 20th of the same
+year--so that no time was lost in looking into the evils complained of.
+
+It recites that Huggins by a gift of £5,000 to Lord Clarendon "did by
+his interest, obtain a grant of the said office (_i.e._, _Warden of the
+Fleet_) for his own and his son's life.
+
+"That it appeared to the Committee, That in the Year 1725, one Mr.
+Arne, an Upholder, was carried into a Stable, which stood where the
+strong room on the Master's side now is, and was there confined (being
+a place of cold restraint) till he died, and that he was in good state
+of health before he was confined to that room."
+
+Huggins growing old, sold his interest in the Wardenship of the Fleet,
+and his Son's reversion therein, to Bambridge and Cuthbert, for the
+sum he had originally given for the place; and then Bambridge, being
+his own master, went somewhat ahead, and the Committee found that he
+connived at escapes, sent his prisoners to Spunging-houses, or private
+prisons, not so long ago done away with, where they were well, or badly
+treated, according to the money at their disposal.
+
+And we read of one shocking case, which can best be given in the very
+words of the Report. "That these houses were further used by the said
+Bambridge, as a terror for extorting money from the prisoners, who,
+on security given, have the liberty of the rules; of which Mr. Robert
+Castell was an unhappy instance, a man born to a competent estate, but
+being unfortunately plunged into debt, was thrown into prison: he was
+first sent (according to custom) to Corbett's,[111] from whence he, by
+presents to Bambridge, redeemed himself, and, giving security obtained
+the liberty of the rules; notwithstanding which he had frequently
+presents, as they are called, exacted from him by Bambridge, and was
+menaced, on refusal, to be sent back to Corbett's again.
+
+"The said Bambridge having thus unlawfully extorted large sums of money
+from him in a very short time, Castell grew weary of being made such a
+wretched property, and, resolving not to injure further his family
+or his creditors for the sake of so small a liberty, he refused to
+submit to further exactions; upon which the said Bambridge ordered him
+to be re-committed to Corbett's, where the smallpox then raged, though
+Castell acquainted him with his not having had that distemper, and that
+he dreaded it so much, that the putting him into a house where it was,
+would occasion his death, which, if it happened before he could settle
+his affairs, would be a great prejudice to his creditors, and would
+expose his family to destitution; and therefore he earnestly desired
+that he might either be sent to another house, or even into the gaol
+itself, as a favor. The melancholy case of this poor gentleman moved
+the very agents of the said Bambridge to compassion, so that they used
+their utmost endeavours to dissuade him from sending this unhappy
+prisoner to that infected house; but Bambridge forced him thither,
+where he (as he feared he should) caught the smallpox, and, in a few
+days, died thereof, justly charging the said Bambridge with his death;
+and unhappily leaving all his affairs in the greatest confusion, and a
+numerous family of small children in the utmost distress."
+
+He squeezed everybody, made what rules he liked, and introduced new
+and pernicious customs, for, says the Report, "It appeared to the
+Committee, that the letting out of the Fleet tenements to Victuallers,
+for the reception of Prisoners, hath been but of late practised, and
+that the first of them let for this purpose was to Mary Whitwood, who
+still continues tenant of the same, and that her rent has, from 32 l.
+per. ann. been increased to 60 l. and a certain number of prisoners
+stipulated to be made a prey of, to enable her to pay so great a
+rent; and that she, to procure the benefit of having such a number of
+prisoners sent to her house, hath, over and above the increased rent,
+been obliged to make a present to the said Bambridge of forty guineas,
+as also of a toy (as it is called), being the model of a Chinese ship,
+made of amber, set in silver, for which fourscore broad pieces had been
+offered her....
+
+"And, notwithstanding the payment of such large fees, in order to
+extort further sums from the unfortunate prisoners, the said Bambridge
+unjustly pretends he has a right, as warden, to exercise an unlimited
+power of changing prisoners from room to room; of turning them into
+the common side, though they have paid the master's side fee; and
+inflicting arbitrary punishments by locking them down in unwholesome
+dungeons, and loading them with torturing irons."
+
+According to the Committee's report, Jacob Mendez Solas, a Portuguese,
+was, as far as they knew, the first prisoner that was ever loaded
+with irons in the Fleet. He was thrown into a noisome dungeon, which
+is described as a place "wherein the bodies of persons dying in the
+said prison are usually deposited, till the coroner's inquest hath
+passed upon them; it has no chimney, nor fireplace, nor any light but
+what comes over the door, or through a hole of about eight inches
+square. It is neither paved nor boarded, and the rough bricks appear
+both on the sides and top, being neither wainscotted, nor plastered;
+what adds to the dampness and stench of the place is, its being built
+over the common sewer, and adjoining to the sink and dunghill where
+all the nastiness of the prison is cast. In this miserable place the
+poor wretch was kept by the said Bambridge, manacled and shackled for
+near two months. At length, on receiving five guineas from Mr. Kemp,
+a friend of Solas Bambridge released the prisoner from his cruel
+confinement. But, though his chains were taken off, his terror still
+remained, and the unhappy man was prevailed upon by that terror, not
+only to labour _gratis_ for the said Bambridge, but to swear also at
+random all that he hath required of him: and the Committee themselves
+saw an instance of the deep impression his sufferings had made upon
+him; for on his surmising, from something said, that Bambridge was to
+return again, as Warden of the Fleet, he fainted, and the blood started
+out of his mouth and nose."
+
+The upshot of this Committee was that the House petitioned the King
+to prosecute Huggins, Bambridge, and their satellites, who were all
+ordered to be committed to Newgate for trial. Huggins was tried, or
+rather the preliminaries of his trial were arranged on the 20th of May,
+1729; but his trial for the murder of Edward Arne, a prisoner in the
+Fleet prison, by immuring him in the dungeon above described, from the
+effect of which confinement he subsequently died, did not take place
+until next day. After a long and patient trial, he was acquitted; and
+he managed, not only to survive his disgrace, but live to the age of 90.
+
+[Illustration: BAMBRIDGE.]
+
+Bambridge was also tried, at the Old Bailey, for the murder of Robert
+Castell, as before described, but he was acquitted by the Jury. Upon
+this acquittal, Castell's widow brought an appeal against Thomas
+Bambridge, and Richard Corbett, for the murder of her husband; but here
+their luck still stood them in stead, for they were both acquitted.
+Bambridge, some twenty years after, committed suicide by cutting his
+throat.
+
+Hogarth, in 1729, received a Commission from Sir Archibald Grant of
+Monnymusk, Bart., who was one of the Committee, to paint a portrait
+picture of his brother Commissioners with Bambridge, and the irons
+used by him in the Fleet. Bambridge is decidedly nervous--and a poor
+prisoner is introduced into the picture, though I cannot find, from the
+Report, that he really was before the Committee of the House.
+
+[Illustration: A PRISONER IN IRONS.]
+
+These prosecutions somewhat purified the atmosphere of the Fleet, but
+still there were grumbles, as there naturally will be when men are
+restrained in their liberty, and are left to brood upon their miseries,
+and incarceration; but the little pamphlet,[112] which airs these
+grievances, deals principally with the hardships of fees, and the
+dilapidated state of the Common Side. The title-page prepares one for a
+not over cheerful ten minutes' reading.
+
+  "When Fortune keeps Thee Warm;
+  Then _Friends_ will to Thee swarm,
+    Like BEES about a _Honey_ pot:
+  But, if she chance to frown,
+  And rudely kick Thee down,
+    Why then--What then? _Lie there and ROT._"
+
+The writer says that after the reign of Huggins and Bambridge, the
+Chapel was adorned--and the great Hall adjoining, formerly for the Use
+of the Prisoners, "is now made into a commodious new Coffee House, and
+thought to be as Compleat a one, as any in Town (wherein one of the
+Warden's Servants is put, to be useful upon Occasion). _Part of the
+Pews in the Chapel being taken into it to make it compleat,[113] and
+serves for a Bar and Bedchamber._
+
+"Opposite to the Great Hall, or Coffee Room, is the Begging-Grate,
+where Prisoners had an Opportunity to speak with a Friend, and
+sometimes get Sight of one whose Inclinations did not lead him to pay
+a Visit to the Place, wou'd drop a Shilling, and perhaps some Beer to
+the Beggars; but now the same, altho' of an ancient standing, is
+Brick'd up, and the unhappy Persons who can't submit to beg, depriv'd
+of viewing the Street, or seeing their Chance Friends." So we see, that
+although the comforts of the inmates had been somewhat looked after,
+this little privilege, which they had long enjoyed, and, doubtless, as
+long abused, was taken from them. It was, afterwards, restored.
+
+    [Footnote 110: "A True State of the Proceedings of the
+    Prisoners in the Fleet Prison, in Order to the Redressing
+    their Grievances before the Court of Common Pleas."]
+
+    [Footnote 111: A spunging-house.]
+
+    [Footnote 112: "Remarks on the Fleet Prison or Lumber-House
+    for Men and Women. Written by a prisoner &c., published in the
+    Fleet, 1733."]
+
+    [Footnote 113: The _italics_ are mine.--J. A.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: THE COMMON SIDE OF THE FLEET PRISON.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+
+But enough of the miserables in connection with the Fleet Prison. We
+shall find that it is even possible for a prisoner to write pleasantly,
+nay, even somewhat humorously, upon his position, as we may see by the
+perusal of a poem entitled "The _Humours_ of the Fleet. An humorous,
+descriptive Poem. Written by a Gentleman of the College" &c., Lond.
+1749. Under the frontispiece, which represents the introduction of a
+prisoner into its precincts, is a poem of thirty-two lines, of which
+the following is a portion:--
+
+THE DEBTORS' WELCOME TO THEIR BROTHER.
+
+[Illustration: music]
+
+  Wel-come, wel-come, Bro-ther Debt-or, To this poor but mer-ry
+  place, Where no Bay-liff, Dun, or Set-ter Dare to shew their fright-ful
+  face. But, kind Sir, as you're a Stran-ger, Down your Gar-nish you must
+  lay, Or your Coat will be in Danger,--You must ei-ther strip or pay.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+Here we see, very vividly depicted, the introduction of a new prisoner;
+the Chamberlain is introducing him to the Cook, whilst the Goaler and
+Tapster seem, already, to have made his acquaintance.
+
+The notes appended to the Poem are in the original.
+
+After a somewhat long exordium on prosperity and poverty, together with
+the horrors of a spunging-house, and imagining that the debtor has
+obtained his _Habeas_, which would permit him to choose his prison, the
+Poet thus sings:
+
+  "Close by the Borders of a slimy Flood,
+  Which now in secret rumbles thro' the Mud;
+  (Tho' heretofore it roll'd expos'd to Light,
+  Obnoxious to th' offended City's Sight.)[114]
+
+    "Twin Arches now the Sable Stream enclose
+  Upon whose Basis late a Fabrick rose;
+  In whose extended oblong Boundaries,              }
+  Are Shops and Sheds, and Stalls of all Degrees,   }
+  For Fruit, Meat, Herbage, Trinkets, Pork and Peas }
+  A prudent City Scheme, and kindly meant;
+  The Town's oblig'd, their Worships touch the Rent.
+
+    "Near this commodious Market's miry Verge,
+  The Prince of Prisons Stands, compact and large;
+  When, by the Jigger's[115] more than magick Charm,
+  Kept from the Pow'r of doing Good--or Harm,
+  Relenting Captives only ruminate
+  Misconduct past, and curse their present State;
+  Tho' sorely griev'd, few are so void of Grace,
+  As not to wear a seeming chearful Face:
+  In Drinks or Sports ungrateful Thoughts must die,
+  For who can bear Heart-wounding Calumny?
+  Therefore Cabals engage of various Sorts,
+  To walk, to drink, or play at different Sports:
+  Here, on the oblong Table's verdant Plain,
+  The ivory Ball bounds, and rebounds again;[116]
+  There, at Backgammon, two sit _tete a tete_,
+  And curse alternately their Adverse Fate;
+  These are at Cribbage, those at Whist engag'd
+  And, as they lose, by turns become enrag'd:
+  Some of more sedentary Temper, read
+  Chance-medley Books, which duller Dullness breed;
+  Or Politicks in Coffee-Room, some pore
+  The Papers and Advertisements thrice o'er:
+  Warm'd with the _Alderman_,[117] some set up late,
+  To fix th' Insolvent Bill, and Nation's Fate;
+  Hence, knotty Points at different Tables rise,
+  And either Party's wond'rous, wond'rous wise:
+  Some of low Taste, ring Hand Bells, direful Noise!
+  And interrupt their Fellows' harmless Joys;
+  Disputes more noisy now a Quarrel breeds.
+  And Fools on both Sides fall to Loggerheads:
+  Till wearied with persuasive Thumps and Blows,
+  They drink, and Friends, as tho' they ne'er were Foes.
+
+    "Without Distinction, intermix'd is seen,
+  A 'Squire quite dirty, a Mechanick clean:
+  The Spendthrift Heir, who in his Chariot roll'd,
+  All his Possessions gone, Reversions sold,
+  Now mean, as once Profuse, the stupid Sot
+  Sits by a _Runner's_ Side,[118] and _shules_[119] a Pot.
+
+    "Some Sots ill-manner'd, drunk, a harmless Fight!
+  Rant noisy thro' the Galleries all Night;
+  For which, if Justice had been done of late,
+  The Pump[120] had been three pretty Masters Fate.
+  With Stomacks empty, and Heads full of Care
+  Some Wretches swill the Pump and walk the Bare;[121]
+  Within whose ample Oval is a Court,                  }
+  Where the more Active and Robust resort,             }
+  And glowing, exercise a manly Sport                  }
+  (Strong Exercise with mod'rate Food is good,
+  It drives in sprightful Streams the circling Blood;)
+  While these with Rackets strike the flying Ball,
+  Some play at Nine Pins, Wrestlers take a Fall;
+  Beneath a Tent some drink, and some above
+  Are slily in their Chambers making Love;
+  _Venus_ and _Bacchus_ each keeps here a Shrine,
+  And many Vot'ries have to Love and Wine.
+
+    "Such the Amusement of this merry Jail,
+  Which you'll not reach, if Friends or Money fail:
+  For e'er its three-fold Gates it will unfold,
+  The destin'd Captive must produce some Gold:
+  Four Guineas, at the least, for diff'rent Fees,
+  Compleats your _Habeas_, and commands the keys;
+  Which done, and safely in, no more you're led,
+  If you have Cash, you'll find a Friend and Bed;
+  But, that deficient, you'll but Ill betide,
+  Lie in the Hall,[122] perhaps, or Common Side.[123]
+
+    "But now around you gazing _Jiggers_[124] swarm,
+  To draw your Picture, that's their usual Term;
+  Your Form and Features strictly they survey,
+  Then leave you, (if you can) to run away.
+
+    "To them succeeds the Chamberlain, to see}
+  If you and he are likely to agree;}
+  Whether you'll tip,[125] or pay your Master's Fee.[126]}
+  Ask him how much? 'Tis one Pound six and eight;
+  And, if you want, he'll not the Twopence bate:
+  When paid, he puts on an important Face,
+  And shews _Mount Scoundrel_[127] for a charming Place:
+  You stand astonish'd at the darken'd Hole,
+  Sighing, the Lord have Mercy on my Soul!
+  And ask, have you no other Rooms, Sir, pray?
+  Perhaps enquire what Rent too, you're to pay:
+  Entreating that he wou'd a better seek;
+  The Rent (cries gruffly's)--Half a Crown a Week.
+  The Rooms have all a Price, some good, some bad;
+  But pleasant ones at present can't be had:
+  This Room, in my Opinion's not amiss;             }
+  Then cross his venal Palm with half a Piece[128]  }
+  He strait accosts you with another Face.          }
+
+    "Sir you're a Gentleman;--I like you well,
+  But who are such at first, we cannot tell;
+  Tho' your Behaviour speaks you what I thought,
+  And therefore I'll oblige you as I ought:
+
+    "How your Affairs may stand, I do not know,
+  But here, Sir, Cash does frequently run low.
+  I'll serve you,--don't be lavish,--only mum!
+  Take my Advice, I'll help you to a Chum![129]
+  A Gentleman, Sir,--see, and hear him speak,
+  With him you'll pay but fifteen Pence a Week;[130]
+  Yet his Apartment's on the Upper Floor,[131]
+  Well furnish'd, clean and nice; who'd wish for more?
+  A Gentleman of Wit and Judgment too!
+  Who knows the Place;[132] what's what, and who is who;
+  My Praise, alas! can't equal his Deserts;
+  In brief,--you'll find him, Sir, a Man of Parts.
+
+    "Thus, while his fav'rite Friend he recommends,
+  He compasses at once their several Ends;
+  The new come Guest is pleas'd, that he should meet
+  So kind a Chamberlain, a Chum so neat:
+  But, as conversing thus, they nearer come,
+  Behold before his Door, the destin'd Chum.
+
+    "Why stood he there, himself could scarcely tell;
+  But there he had not stood, had Things gone well:
+  Had one poor Half-penny but blest his Fob,          }
+  Or, if in Prospect he had seen a Job,               }
+  H'had strain'ed his Credit for a Dram of Bob,[133]  }
+  But now, in pensive Mood, with Head down cast,
+  His Eyes transfix'd as tho' they look'd their last;
+  One Hand his open Bosom lightly held,
+  And one an empty Breeches Pocket fill'd.
+  His Dowlas Shirt no Stock or Cravat bore,
+  And on his Head, no Hat or Wig he wore;
+  But a once black shag Cap, surcharg'd with Sweat;
+  His Collar, here a Hole, and there a Pleat;
+  Both grown alike in Colour, that--alack!
+  This, neither now was White, nor that was Black;
+  But match'd his dirty yellow Beard so true,
+  They form'd a three-fold Cast of Brick dust Hue;
+  Meagre his Look, and in his nether Jaw
+  Was stuff'd an elemosynary Chaw;[134]
+  (Whose Juice serves present Hunger to asswage,
+  Which yet returns again with tenfold Rage;)
+  His Coat, which catch'd the Droppings from his Chin,
+  Was clos'd at Bottom with a Corking-Pin;
+  His Breeches Waistband a long Skewer made fast,
+  While he from _Scotland_ Dunghill[135] snatch'd in Haste;
+  His Shirt-Tail thin as Lawn, but not so white,
+  Barely conceal'd his lank Affairs from Sight;
+  Loose were his Knee Bands, and unty'd his Hose,
+  Coax'd[136] in the Heel, in pulling o'er his Toes;
+  Which spite of all his circumspective Care,
+  Did thro' his broken dirty Shoes appear.
+
+    "Just in this hapless Trim and pensive Plight,
+  The old Collegian[137] stood confess'd to Sight;
+  Whom, when our new-come Guest at first beheld,
+  He started back, with great Amazement fill'd;
+  Turns to the Chamberlain, says, bless my Eyes!  }
+  Is this the Man you told me was so nice?        }
+  I meant his Room was so Sir, he replies;        }
+  The Man is now in Dishabille and Dirt,
+  He shaves To-morrow tho', and turns his Shirt;
+  Stand not at Distance, I'll present you, come
+  My Friend, how is't? I've brought you here a Chum;
+  One that's a Gentleman; a worthy Man,
+  And you'll oblige me, serve him all you can.
+
+    "The Chums salute, the old Collegian first
+  Bending his Body almost to the Dust;
+  Upon his Face unusual Smiles appear
+  And long abandon'd Hope his Spirits chear
+  Thought he, Relief's at hand, and I shall eat;  }
+  Will you walk in, good Sir, and take a Seat!    }
+  We have what's decent here, tho' not compleat;  }
+  As for myself, I scandalize the Room,
+  But you'll consider, Sir, that I'm at Home;
+  Tho' had I thought a Stranger to have seen,
+  I should have ordered Matters to've been clean;
+  But here, amongst ourselves, we never mind,
+  Borrow or lend--reciprocally kind;
+  Regard not Dress;--tho' Sir, I have a Friend
+  Has Shirts enough, and, if you please, I'll send.
+  No Ceremony, Sir, you give me Pain;
+  I have a clean Shirt, Sir.--But have you twain?
+  O, yes, and twain to boot, and those twice told,
+  Besides, I thank my Stars, a Piece of Gold.
+  Why, then I'll be so free, Sir, as to borrow,
+  I mean a Shirt, Sir,--only till To-morrow.
+  You're welcome, Sir,--I'm glad you are so free.
+  Then turns the old Collegian round with Glee;
+  Whispers the Chamberlain with secret Joy,
+  We live to-night!--I'm sure he'll pay his Foy:
+  Turns to his Chum again with Eagerness,
+  And thus bespeaks him with his best Address;
+
+    "See, Sir, how pleasant, what a Prospect's there;
+  Below you see them sporting on the Bare;
+  Above, the Sun, Moon, Star, engage the Eye,
+  And those Abroad can't see beyond the Sky:
+  These rooms are better far than those beneath,
+  A clearer Light, a sweeter Air we breath;
+  A decent Garden does our Window grace,
+  With Plants untainted, undistain'd the Glass;
+  And welcome Showers descending from above
+  In gentle Drops of Rain, which Flowers love:
+  In short, Sir, nothing can be well more sweet:
+  But, I forgot--perhaps you chuse to eat;
+  Tho', for my part, I've nothing of my own,
+  To-day I scrap'd my Yesterday's Blade Bone;
+  But we can send--Ay, Sir, with all my Heart,
+  (Then very opportunely enters _Smart_).[138]
+  O, here's our Cook, he dresses all Things well;
+  Will you sup here, or do you chuse the Cell?
+  There's mighty good Accommodations there,
+  Rooms plenty, or a Box in Bartholm' Fair;[139]
+  There, too, we can divert you, and may shew
+  Some Characters are worth your while to know,
+
+  Replies the new Collegian, nothing more        }
+  I wish to see, be pleas'd to go before;        }
+  And, _Smart_, provide a handsome Dish for Four.}
+
+    "Too generous Man! but 'tis our hapless Fate
+  In all Conditions, to be wise too late;
+  For, even in Prison, those who have been free,
+  Will shew, if able, Generosity;
+  Yet find, too soon, when lavish of their Store,}
+  How hard, when gone, it is to come at more;    }
+  And every Artifice in vain explore.            }
+  Some Messages Abroad, by Runners send.
+  Some Letters write to move an absent Friend;
+  And by Submission, having begg'd a Crown,
+  In one night's Revel here they'll kick it down.[140]
+  'Tis true, this one Excuse they have indeed,
+  When others _Cole it_,[141] they as freely _bleed_;[142]
+  When the Wind's fair, and brings in Ships with Store[143]
+  Each spends in turn, and trusts to Fate for more.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+    "The future Chums and Chamberlain descend
+  The Dirt[144] knot Stairs, and t'wards the kitchen bend;
+  Which gain'd, they find a merry Company,
+  Listening to Tales (from _Smart_) of Baudry,
+  All introduced with awkward Simile,[145]
+  Whose Applications miss the Purpose pat.
+  But in the Fire now burns th' unheeded Fat,
+  Whose sudden Blaze brings L--nd--r[146] roaring in;
+  Then _Smart_ looks foolish, and forsakes his Grin.
+  The laughing Audience alter, too, their Tone,
+  For who can smile, that sees Tom L--nd--r frown?
+  He, magisterial rules the panic Cell,
+  And rivals _Belzebub_,--in looking well:
+  Indignant now, he darts malicious Eyes,
+  While each Dependant from the Kitchen flies;
+  Leaves _Smart_ to combat with his furious Ire,
+  Who heeds him not, but strives to clear the Fire;
+  Blowing and stirring still, no Pains he spares,
+  And mute remains, while _Major Domo_ swears;
+  Who bellows loud Anathemas on _Smart_,
+  And the last Curse he gives is D--n your Heart;
+  His trembling Lips are pale, his Eyeballs roll;
+  Till, spent with Rage, he quits him with a Growl.
+
+    "Now, as our new-come Guest observ'd this Scene,
+  (As odd an one, perhaps, as could be seen)
+  He first on _Smart_, next on his Master gaz'd,
+  And at the two extreams seem'd much amaz'd;
+  Which _Smart_ perceiving, says in sober Mood, }
+  Sir, I've a thousand Times his Fury stood;    }
+  But, yet, the Man tho' passionate, is good;   }
+  I never speak when he begins to bawl,
+  For, should I swear like him, the House would fall."
+
+Here follow two or three pages of but little interest to the reader and
+the Story continues:
+
+  "But I forgot;--the Stranger and his Chum,
+  With t'other to, to _Barth'l'mew Fair_ are come;
+  Where, being seated, and the Supper past,
+  They drink so deep, and put about so fast,
+  That 'ere the warning Watchman walks about,
+  With dismal Tone repeating,--Who goes out?[147]
+  'Ere St. _Paul's_ Clock no longer will withold
+  From striking Ten, and the Voice cries,--All told.[148]
+  'Ere this, our new Companions, every one
+  In roaring Mirth and Wine, so far were gone,
+  That every Sense from ev'ry Part was fled,
+  And were with Difficulty got to Bed;
+  Where in the Morn, recover'd from his Drink,
+  The new _Collegian_ may have Time to think;
+  And, recollecting how he spent the Night,
+  Explore his Pockets, and not find a Doit.
+
+    "Too thoughtless Man! to lavish thus away
+  A Week's Support in less than half a Day;
+  But 'tis a Curse attends this wretched Place,
+  To pay for dear bought Wit in little Space:
+  The Time shall come, when this new Tenant here,
+  Will in his Turn _shule_ for a Pot of Beer;
+  Repent the melting of his Cash too fast,
+  And snap at Strangers for a Nights Repast."
+
+    [Footnote 114: Where the _Fleet Market_ is now, there was, a
+    few Years since, a Ditch, with a Muddy Channel of Water. The
+    Market was built at the expense of the Lord Mayor and Court of
+    Aldermen, who receive the Rent for it.]
+
+    [Footnote 115: The Doorkeeper, or he who opens and shuts the
+    _Jigg_, is call'd the _Jigger_.]
+
+    [Footnote 116: Billiards is a very common Game here.]
+
+    [Footnote 117: Fine Ale drank in the Coffee-Room, call'd the
+    _Alderman_, because brew'd at Alderman _Parson's_.]
+
+    [Footnote 118: A _Runner_, is a Fellow that goes Abroad of
+    Errands for the Prisoners.]
+
+    [Footnote 119: A common Cant word for Mumping.]
+
+    [Footnote 120: Persons who give any considerable Offence, are
+    often try'd, and undergo the Discipline of the Pump. The
+    Author was one of these in a drunken Frolick, for which he
+    condemns himself.]
+
+    [Footnote 121: A spacious Place, where there are all Sorts of
+    Exercises, but especially Fives.]
+
+    [Footnote 122: A Publick Place, free for all Prisoners.]
+
+    [Footnote 123: Where those lie who can't pay their Master's
+    Fee.]
+
+    [Footnote 124: There are several of those _Jiggers_ or
+    Doorkeepers, who relieve one another, and when a Prisoner
+    comes first in, they take a nice Observation of him, for fear
+    of his escaping.]
+
+    [Footnote 125: A cant Word for giving some Money in order to
+    shew a Lodging.]
+
+    [Footnote 126: Which is One Pound Six Shillings and
+    Eightpence, and then you are entitled to a Bed on the Master's
+    Side, for which you pay so much per week.]
+
+    [Footnote 127: _Mount Scoundrel_, so call'd from its being so
+    highly situated, and belonging once to the Common Side, tho'
+    lately added to the Master's; if there be room in the House,
+    this Place is first empty, and the Chamberlain commonly shews
+    this to raise his price upon you for a better.]
+
+    [Footnote 128: Half a Guinea.]
+
+    [Footnote 129: A Bedfellow so call'd.]
+
+    [Footnote 130: When you have a Chum, you pay but 15 Pence per
+    Week each, and, indeed, that is the Rent of the whole Room, if
+    you find Furniture.]
+
+    [Footnote 131: The Upper Floors are accounted best here, for
+    the same reason as they are at _Edinburgh_, which, I suppose,
+    every Body knows.]
+
+    [Footnote 132: It is common to mention the _Fleet_ by the Name
+    of the _Place_, and I suppose it is call'd _the Place_ by way
+    of Eminence, because there is not such another.]
+
+    [Footnote 133: A Cant Word for a Drain of Geneva.]
+
+    [Footnote 134: A Chew of Tobacco, suppos'd to be given him.]
+
+    [Footnote 135: The Necessary House, is (by the Prisoners)
+    commonly call'd _Scotland_, near which is a dung-hill.]
+
+    [Footnote 136: When there are Holes above Heel, or the Feet
+    are so bad in a Stocking, that you are forced to pull them to
+    hide the Holes, or cover the Toes, it is called coaxing.]
+
+    [Footnote 137: As the Prison is often call'd the _College_, so
+    it is common to call a prisoner, a _Collegian_; and this
+    character is taken from a man who had been many Years in the
+    Place, and like to continue his Life; but it is hard for those
+    who had not seen him to judge of the Truth of the Draught.]
+
+    [Footnote 138: The name of the Cook in the Kitchen.]
+
+    [Footnote 139: A place in the Cellar, called _Bartholomew
+    Fair_.]
+
+    [Footnote 140: A phrase for spending Money fast.]
+
+    [Footnote 141: _Cole_, signifies Money.]
+
+    [Footnote 142: _Bleed_ also signifies spending.]
+
+    [Footnote 143: When a Messenger or Friend brings Money from
+    abroad to the Prisoners, it is usual to say a Ship is
+    arriv'd.]
+
+    [Footnote 144: Some of the Dirt upon the Stairs is trod into
+    knots so hard it is almost impossible to break it.]
+
+    [Footnote 145: _Smart_ generally begins his Stories with a
+    _That's like_, &c., tho' it is not at all like the Story he
+    tells.]
+
+    [Footnote 146: The Master of the Cellar, a Man of a variable
+    Temper, very passionate, malicious, and ill-natur'd at some
+    times, at others very well.]
+
+    [Footnote 147: _Who goes out?_ is repeated by Watchmen
+    Prisoners, from half an Hour after Nine, till St. Paul's Clock
+    strikes Ten, to give Visitors Notice to depart.]
+
+    [Footnote 148: While St. Paul's Clock is striking Ten, the
+    Watchmen don't call _Who goes out?_ but when the last Stroke
+    is given, they cry _All told!_ at which Time the Gates are
+    lock'd, and nobody suffer'd to go out upon any Account.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+
+We saw in the lines, under the Frontispiece to the foregoing poem,
+_Garnish_ was mentioned, and the fact was stated as a Custom then in
+force of taking the prisoner's coat to pay for his fees on entrance.
+
+  "But kind Sir, as you'r a Stranger,
+  Down your Garnish you must lay,
+  Or your Coat will be in danger,
+  You must either Strip or pay."
+
+In the Criminal prisons, the prisoners themselves demanded Garnish from
+a new-comer, that is, a trifle of money--to drink. In 1708, at Newgate,
+this sum seems to have been Six shillings and Eightpence "Which they,
+from an old Custom, claim by Prescription, Time out of Mind, for
+entring into the _Society_, otherwise they strip the poor Wretch, if he
+has not wherewithal to pay it."[149] And in the old Play of the _Lying
+Lover_ we are introduced to a Scene in Newgate where the prisoners are
+demanding _Garnish_ from some new-comers.
+
+ "_Storm._ Nay, nay, you must stay here.
+
+ _Simon._ Why, I am _Simon_, Madam _Penelope's_ Man.
+
+ _Storm._ Then Madam _Penelope's_ Man must strip for Garnish;
+ indeed Master _Simon_ you must.
+
+ _Simon._ Thieves! Thieves! Thieves!
+
+ _Storm._ Thieves! Thieves! Why, you senseless Dog, do you think
+ there's Thieves in _Newgate_? Away with him to the Tap House
+ (_Pushes him off_). We'll drink his Coat off. Come, my little
+ Chymist, thou shalt transmute this Jacket into Liquor."
+
+[Illustration]
+
+Yet although this custom was general, I have only once met with an
+engraving of the actual process, which, judging by the man's agonized
+countenance, was not a pleasant one to him. It occurs in the
+frontispiece to a little pamphlet called "An Oration on the Oppression
+of Jailors; which was spoken in the Fleet Prison, on the 20th of
+February, 1730/1," &c. And under the engraving, are these lines.
+
+  "Unhappy, friendless Man! how hard thy Fate!
+  Whose only Crime is being Unfortunate.
+  Are Jailors suffer'd in such Acts as these?
+  To strip the Wretch, who cannot pay his Fees?
+  Is there no kind _Samaritan_ will lend
+  Relief, and save him from th' accursed Fiend?"
+
+Respecting this practice let us hear what Howard in his "State of the
+Prisons in England and Wales," 1777, says, in his Chapter on "Bad
+Customs in Prisons." "A cruel custom obtains in most of our Gaols,
+which is that of the prisoners demanding of a new-comer GARNISH,
+FOOTING, or (as it is called in some London Gaols) CHUMMAGE. 'Pay or
+strip' are the fatal words. I say _fatal_, for they are so to some; who
+having no money, are obliged to give up part of their scanty apparel;
+and, if they have no bedding or straw to sleep on, contract diseases,
+which I have known to prove mortal.
+
+In many Gaols, to the Garnish paid by the new-comer, those who were
+there before, make an addition; and great part of the following night
+is often spent in riot and drunkenness. The gaoler or tapster finding
+his account in this practice, generally answers questions concerning
+it with reluctance. Of the Garnish which I have set down to sundry
+prisons, I often had my information from persons who paid it.... In
+some places, this demand has been lately waved: in others, strictly
+prohibited by the Magistrates"--so that we see that this custom was
+already in its death throes, in the last quarter of the eighteenth
+century.
+
+But in the interval between Bambridge and Howard, the prison was not a
+pleasant place of residence, if we may judge from "The Prisoner's Song"
+published in 1738, of which I give an illustration and the Words.
+
+[Illustration: THE FLEET PRISON.]
+
+  "A Starving life all day we lead,
+    No Comfort here is found,
+  At Night we make one Common bed,
+    Upon the Boarded Ground;
+  Where fleas in troops and Bugs in shoals
+    Into our Bosoms Creep,
+  And Death watch, Spiders, round y^e Walls,
+    Disturb us in our Sleep.
+
+  Were Socrates alive, and Bound
+    With us to lead his life,
+  'Twould move his Patience far beyond
+    His crabbed Scolding Wife;
+  Hard Lodging and much harder fare,
+    Would try the wisest Sage,
+  Nay! even make a Parson Swear,
+    And curse the Sinful Age.
+
+  Thus, we Insolvent debtors live,
+    Yet we may Boldly say,
+  Worse Villains often Credit give,
+    Than those that never pay;
+  For wealthy Knaves can with applause
+    Cheat on, and ne'er be try'd,
+  But in contempt of human Laws,
+    In Coaches Safely ride."
+
+When Howard visited this prison in 1774 and 1776, he found on the
+former occasion 171 prisoners in the House, and 71 in the Rules. On the
+latter there were 241 in the House and 78 in the Rules. And he says:
+
+ "The Prison was rebuilt a few years since. At the front is
+ a narrow courtyard. At each end of the building there is
+ a small projection, or wing. There are four floors, they
+ call them _Galleries_, besides the Cellar floor, called
+ _Bartholomew-Fair_. Each gallery consists of a passage in the
+ middle, the whole length of the Prison, _i.e._, sixty six yards;
+ and rooms on each side of it about fourteen feet and a half
+ by twelve and a half, and nine and a half high. A chimney and
+ window in every room. The passages are narrow (not seven feet
+ wide) and darkish, having only a window at each end.
+
+ "On the first floor, the _Hall Gallery_, to which you ascend
+ eight steps, are a Chapel, a Tap room, a Coffee room (lately
+ made out of two rooms for Debtors), a room for the Turnkey,
+ another for the Watchman, and eighteen rooms for Prisoners.
+
+ Besides the Coffee-room and Tap-room, two of those eighteen
+ rooms, and all the cellar-floor, except a lock up room to
+ confine the disorderly, and another room for the Turnkey, are
+ held by the Tapster, John Cartwright, who bought the remainder
+ of the lease at public auction in 1775. The cellar floor is
+ sixteen steps below the hall Gallery. It consists of the two
+ rooms just now mentioned, the Tapster's kitchen, his four large
+ beer and wine Cellars, and fifteen rooms for Prisoners. These
+ fifteen, and the two before mentioned, in the hall gallery, the
+ Tapster lets to Prisoners for four to eight shillings a week.
+
+ "On the _first Gallery_ (that next above the hall-gallery) are
+ twenty-five rooms for Prisoners. On the _second Gallery_, twenty
+ seven rooms. One of them, fronting the staircase, is their
+ Committee room. A room at one end is an Infirmary. At the other
+ end, in a large room over the Chapel, is a dirty Billiard-table,
+ kept by the Prisoner who sleeps in that room. On the highest
+ story there are twenty seven rooms. Some of these upper rooms,
+ _viz._, those in the wings, are larger than the rest, being over
+ the Chapel, the Tap-room, &c.
+
+ "All the rooms I have mentioned are for the Master's side
+ Debtors. The weekly rent of those not held by the Tapster, is
+ one shilling and three pence unfurnished. They fall to the
+ Prisoners in succession, thus: when a room becomes vacant,
+ the first Prisoner upon the list of such as have paid their
+ entrance-fees, takes possession of it. When the Prison was
+ built, the Warden gave each Prisoner his choice of a room,
+ according to his seniority as Prisoner.... Such of the Prisoners
+ (on the Common Side) as swear in Court, or before a Commissioner
+ that they are not worth five pounds, and cannot subsist without
+ charity, have the donations which are sent to the Prison, and
+ the begging box, and grate. Of them there were, at my last
+ visit, sixteen....
+
+ "I mentioned the billiard table. They also play in the yard
+ at skittles, missisipi, fives, tennis, &c. And not only the
+ Prisoners; I saw among them several butchers and others from the
+ Market; who are admitted here, as at another public house. The
+ same may be seen in many other Prisons where the Gaoler keeps or
+ lets the tap. Besides the inconvenience of this to Prisoners;
+ the frequenting a Prison lessens the dread of being confined in
+ one.
+
+ "On Monday night there is a Wine Club: on Thursday night a Beer
+ Club; each lasting usually till one or two in the morning. I
+ need not say how much riot these occasion; and how the sober
+ Prisoners are annoyed by them.
+
+ "Seeing the Prison crowded with women and Children, I procured
+ an accurate list of them; and found that on (or about), the
+ 6th of April, 1776, when there were, on the Master's side
+ 213 Prisoners; on the Common side 30. Total 243; their wives
+ (including women of an appellation not so honorable) and
+ children, were 475."
+
+In Howard's time the fees payable by the Prisoners were the same as
+were settled in 1729 after the trials of Huggins and Bambridge; but the
+prisoners exercised a kind of local self-government, for he writes:--
+
+ "There is, moreover, a little Code of Laws, eighteen in number,
+ enacted by the Master's-side Debtors, and printed by D. Jones,
+ 1774. It establishes a President, a Secretary, and a Committee,
+ which is to be chosen every month, and to consist of three
+ members from each Gallery. These are to meet in the Committee
+ room every Thursday; and at other times when summoned by the
+ Cryer, at command of the President, or of a majority of their
+ own number. They are to raise contributions by assessment; to
+ hear complaints; determine disputes; levy fines; and seize
+ goods for payment. Their Sense to be deemed the sense of the
+ whole House. The President or Secretary to hold the cash;
+ the Committee to dispose of it. Their Scavenger to wash the
+ Galleries once a week; to water, and sweep them every morning
+ before eight; to sweep the yard twice every week; and to light
+ the lamps all over the House. No person to throw out water,
+ &c., anywhere but at the sinks in the yard. The Cryer may take
+ of a Stranger a penny for calling a Prisoner to him; and of a
+ Complainant two pence for summoning a Special Committee. For
+ blasphemy, swearing, riot, drunkenness, &c., the Committee to
+ fine at discretion; for damaging a lamp, fine a shilling. They
+ are to take from a New Comer, on the first Sunday, besides the
+ two shillings Garnish, to be spent in wine, one shilling and
+ sixpence to be appropriated to the use of the House.
+
+ "Common-side Prisoners _to be confined to their own apartments_,
+ and not to associate with these LAW MAKERS, nor to use the same
+ conveniences."
+
+In 1780 the famous Lord George Gordon, or "No Popery" Riots took
+place--those Riots which were so intensely Protestant, that (according
+to the Contemporary _Gentleman's Magazine_) "The very Jews in
+Houndsditch and Duke's Place were so intimidated, that they followed
+the general example, and unintentionally gave an air of ridicule to
+what they understood in a very serious light, by writing on their
+Shutters, "This House is a true Protestant."
+
+These Riots are very realistically brought before us in Charles
+Dickens' "Barnaby Rudge," but then, although the account is fairly
+historically faithful, yet the weaving of his tale necessarily
+interfered with strict historical details; which, by the way, are
+extremely meagre as to the burning of the Fleet prison. The fact was,
+that, for the few days the riot existed, the outrages were so numerous,
+and the Newspapers of such small dimensions, that they could only be
+summarized, and the burning of Newgate eclipsed that of the Fleet. But,
+on the Wednesday, June 7, 1780, the _Annual Register_, p. 261 (which
+certainly has the best description I have been able to see) absolutely
+breaks down, saying:--
+
+ "It is impossible to give any adequate description of the events
+ of Wednesday. Notice was sent round to the public prisons of the
+ King's Bench, Fleet, &c., by the mob, at what time they would
+ come and burn them down. The same kind of infernal humanity was
+ exercised towards Mr. Langdale, a distiller in Holborn, whose
+ loss is said to amount to £100,000, and several other Romish
+ individuals. In the afternoon all the shops were shut, and bits
+ of blue silk, by way of flags, hung out at most houses, with
+ the words "No Popery" chalked on the doors and window shutters,
+ by way of deprecating the fury of the insurgents, from which no
+ person thought himself secure.
+
+ "As soon as the day was drawing towards a Close, one of the most
+ dreadful spectacles this country ever beheld was exhibited. Let
+ those, who were not spectators of it, judge what the inhabitants
+ felt when they beheld at the same instant the flames ascending
+ and rolling in clouds from the King's Bench and Fleet Prisons,
+ from New Bridewell, from the toll gates on Blackfriars Bridge,
+ from houses in every quarter of the town, and particularly from
+ the bottom and middle of Holborn, where the Conflagration was
+ horrible beyond description."
+
+The burning of the Fleet was done calmly and deliberately, as is well
+told in "A Narrative of the Proceedings of Lord Geo. Gordon," &c.,
+1780. "About one o'clock this morning (Tuesday, June 6), the Mob
+went to the Fleet Prison, and demanded the gates to be opened, which
+the Keepers were obliged to do, or they would have set fire to it.
+They were then proceeding to demolish the prison, but the prisoners
+expostulating with them, and begging that they would give them time to
+remove their goods, they readily condescended, and gave them a day for
+that purpose, in consequence of which, the prisoners were removing all
+this day out of that place. Some of the prisoners were in for life."
+And in the evening of the next day, they fulfilled their threat, and
+burnt it. This was the second time it had been burnt down, for the
+great fire of 1666 had previously demolished it.
+
+[Illustration: RACKETS IN THE FLEET PRISON, 1760.
+(_Published by Bowles and Carver, 69, St. Paul's Churchyard._)]
+
+It was rebuilt, and remained the same, with some few alterations and
+additions until its final destruction. We get a good view of "the
+Bare" or racket ground in 1808, an outline of which I have taken from
+Pugin and Rowlandson's beautiful "Microcosm of London," 1808,[150]
+according to which book, "The Fleet Prison, it is believed, after the
+fire of London in 1666, was removed to that site of ground upon which
+the almshouses through Vauxhall turnpike, on the Wandsworth road, now
+stand, until the old prison was rebuilt, Sir Jeremy Whichcott, then
+Warden, having his family seat there, which he converted into a prison;
+for which patriotic act, and rebuilding the old one at his own expence,
+he and his heirs were wardens as long as they lived. The Office of
+Warden of the Fleet was formerly of such consequence, that a brother
+of one of the Edwards is said to have been in the list of Wardens."
+
+[Illustration]
+
+In this illustration we find the prisoners by no means moody, but
+playing at rackets and skittles. The Racket ground was under the
+superintendence of a Racket Master, who was elected by the Collegians,
+annually at Christmas. This post was eagerly sought after, as it was
+one to which some pecuniary profit was attached, a small fee being
+demanded from each person, the Racket Master having to find bats and
+balls. I have before me three printed handbills of aspirants for the
+post in 1841. One bases his claim on the fact that he is already Racket
+Master, and says, "I feel the situation is one that requires attention
+and unceasing exertion, not so much from the individual position, as
+from the circumstance that the amusement, and (what is more vitally
+important) the health of my fellow inmates is in some measure placed
+in the hands of the person appointed." Another candidate pleads as a
+qualification, that he has served as Watchman for Seven years, and
+at last election for Racket Master, he only lost the appointment by
+five votes. And the third publishes the caution "Collegians, Remember!
+All Promises that have been (_sic_) before the Vacancy, are Null and
+Void!!!" This gentleman was determined to secure, if possible, some of
+the good things going about, for, at this very same Annual Election,
+he issues another circular, "Having had many years experience in the
+Tavern Department and Eating House Business, I beg leave to offer
+myself for the Situation in the Public Kitchen, now about to become
+vacant." He, too, had an opponent, who had been engaged for nine years
+as a baker, and was, by profession, a Cook. The Office of Skittle
+Master was also contested in that year; the holder of the place being
+opposed by one whose claim to the position seems to be that he had a
+wife and one child.
+
+[Illustration: A WHISTLING SHOP IN THE FLEET, 1821.]
+
+They made themselves merry enough in the Fleet, as we read in Egan's
+"Life in London," where Jerry Hawthorn, and Corinthian Tom, visit Bob
+Logic, who was detained in the Fleet. Among other places there, they
+went to a Whistling Shop--of which the brothers Robert and George
+Cruikshank have given a faithful representation. Here at a table,
+screened off from the draught of the door we see, Tom, Jerry, and
+the unfortunate Logic, whilst the other frequenters of the place are
+excellently depicted. Spirits were not allowed in the prison, under any
+circumstances, other than by the doctor's order; but it is needless
+to say, the regulation was a dead letter. Of course it was not sold
+openly, but there were rooms, known to the initiated where it could
+be procured. It was never asked for, and if it were the applicant
+would not have received it, but if you whistled, it would be at once
+forthcoming.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+Says Logic to his Corinthian friends, "'In the evening I will introduce
+you both to my friend the _Haberdasher_. He is a good _whistler_; and
+his shop always abounds with some prime articles which you will like
+to look at.' The TRIO was again complete; and a fine dinner, which the
+CORINTHIAN had previously ordered from a Coffee house, improved their
+feelings: a glass or two of wine made them as gay as larks; and a
+_hint_ from JERRY to LOGIC about the _Whistler_, brought them into the
+shop of the latter in a _twinkling_. HAWTHORN, with great surprise,
+said, 'Where are we? this is no _haberdasher's_. It is a----' 'No
+_nosing_, JERRY,' replied LOGIC, with a grin. 'You are wrong. The man
+is a dealer in _tape_.'"[151]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+There was a class in the Fleet, who acted, as far as in their power
+lay, up to the Epicurean "_dum vivimus vivamus_," and among them the
+prison, however inconvenient it might have been, was made the best
+of, and the door of the Cupboard which contained the skeleton was
+shut as far as it would go. We have an exemplification of this in
+Robert Cruikshank's water colour drawing of "The Evening after a Mock
+Election in the Fleet Prison," June, 1835. In this drawing, which I
+have simply outlined (see previous page), we get a graphic glimpse at
+the uproarious fun that obtained among a certain set. The gradations in
+Society of this singular mixture is well shown in the following key to
+the picture:
+
+ 1. Bennett the Candidate.
+
+ 2. Mr. Fellowes of the Crown P. H. Fleet Street.
+
+ 3. Mr. Houston, _alias_ Jack in the Green.
+
+ 4. Mr. Perkins, _alias_ Harlequin Billy (Architect), who tried to sink
+ a shaft at Spithead to supply the Navy with Water.
+
+ 5. Mr. Shackleford (Linen Draper).
+
+ 6. Mr. Bennett, the Watchman.
+
+ 7. Geo. Weston, Esqr. (Banker, of the Boro').
+
+ 8. Mr. Hutchinson (Dr. at Liverpool).
+
+ 9. L. Goldsmith, Esqre.
+
+ 10. Mr. Thompson (Irishman).
+
+ 11. Robert Barnjum _alias_ Rough Robin (Hammersmith Ghost).
+
+ 12. Robert Ball, _alias_ Manchester Bob (wore a Murderer's Cap).
+
+ 13. Captain Wilde, R.N.
+
+ 14. Mr. Hales, the Cook.
+
+ 15. Mr. Walker.
+
+ 16. Captain McDonnough, 11th Hussars (real gentleman).
+
+ 17. Mr. Halliday (Manchester Merchant).
+
+ 18. Harry Holt the Prize Fighter.
+
+ 19. Captain Penniment (Trading Vessel, Yorkshire).
+
+ 20. Mr. Palmer, Cutler to Geo. III., near the Haymarket Theatre.
+
+ 21. Mr. Scrivener (Landlord of the Tap).
+
+ 22. Captain Oliver, Smuggler and Tapster. Capias, £117,000.
+
+ 23. Mr. Goldsbury, _alias_ Jailsbury, driver of omnibus all round the
+ Fleet.
+
+ 24. Mr. George Kent.
+
+As a souvenir of the talented Isaac Robert Cruikshank, I append a
+facsimile of his autograph, which was written in the Parlour, No. 16,
+Hall, in the Fleet Prison, June 24, 1842. His method of utilizing the
+blot of Ink is unique.
+
+The remaining Notices of the Fleet must be taken as they come, as
+far as possible, chronologically--and first of all let us look at
+the enormous quantity of people who were imprisoned for debt. In the
+_Mirror_, No. 615, vol. xxii. July 20, 1833, is a cutting from the
+_Times_: "By the return of persons imprisoned for debt in 1832, in
+England and Wales, just printed by order of the House of Commons, it
+appears that the gross number was 16,470: of whom maintained themselves
+4,093, so that three fourths of the whole were too poor to provide
+themselves with bread."
+
+The terrible destitution to which some prisoners were reduced is shown
+in an extract from the _Morning Herald_ of August 12, 1833.
+
+ "_Guild hall._ A Gentleman complained that the Overseers of
+ St. Bride's had refused to relieve a distressed prisoner in
+ the Fleet. The Prisoner was Mr. Timothy Sheldvake, who had
+ been well known for his skill in treating deformities of the
+ body. He once kept his carriage, and obtained £4,000 a year by
+ his practice, but he was now quite destitute. He was eighty
+ years of Age, and of that temper that he would rather starve
+ than make a complaint. When applicant saw him he had actually
+ fasted forty-eight hours. St. Bride's Parish had assisted the
+ unfortunate Gentleman, but they denied that he was legally
+ entitled to such relief. The Applicant contended that, as the
+ Prison was in St. Bride's parish, and was rated at £70 a year,
+ St. Bride's was bound to afford casual relief to those within
+ the walls of the prison, and to recover it from the respective
+ parishes to which those who have been relieved belonged.
+
+ [Illustration: AUTOGRAPH DONE AT THE PARLOUR NO 1, PALAIS DE LA
+ FLETE, THIS 24 DAY JUNE.]
+
+ "The Vestry Clerk said, relief must be given out of the County
+ rate.
+
+ "Sir C. Marshall said he would take time to consider the Point,
+ but he thought a sufficient relief should be afforded out of the
+ County rate."
+
+    [Footnote 149: "_Memoirs of the Right Villanous John Hall_,"
+    &c.]
+
+    [Footnote 150: See next page.]
+
+    [Footnote 151: A cant word for gin.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+In a Return of the number of persons in the several Gaols of England,
+confined for Debt, ordered by the House of Commons to be printed, May
+13, 1835, we have an "Account of the Number of Persons confined for
+Debt in the Fleet Prison during the following Years:
+
+                                  1830 1831 1832 1833 1834
+  Number confined                  742  700  884  746  769
+  Number charged in Execution      105  136  134  126  156
+
+And the amount of the debt and costs for which each party was so
+charged varied from £2 to £18,017.
+
+I look in vain in the _Times_ for the paragraph to which the Warden
+alludes in the following letter:
+
+ "The Warden presents his compliments to the Editor of the
+ _Times_, and begs to state, that a paragraph having appeared in
+ the paper of this morning, stating that the Fleet Prison is very
+ full, and that a guinea and a half a week is paid for a single
+ room, and that four, five, and six persons are obliged to live
+ in a small apartment.
+
+ "The Warden, not being aware of this, should it in any case
+ exist, and which is contrary to the established regulations
+ against any person so offending, the prison not being so full as
+ in former years, there being considerably less, on an average,
+ than two prisoners to each Room, and being also exceedingly
+ healthy.
+
+ "The Warden has also to add, that the rest of the paragraph
+ relating to the Fleet is totally without foundation.
+
+ "Fleet Prison, March 7, 1836."
+
+In the outside sheet of the _Times_, February 21, 1838, occurs the
+following advertisement: "ONE HUNDRED POUNDS REWARD.--Escape.--ESCAPED
+from the Fleet Prison, on the evening of Wednesday the 14th day of
+February instant. ALFRED MORRIS, late of 22 Dean Street, Tooley Street,
+Southwark. The said Alfred Morris is about 30 years of Age, about 5
+feet 6 inches high, dark complexion, and of a Jewish Caste, prominent
+Nose, somewhat flat pointed, dark, irregular whiskers, stout figure,
+and rather bow legged," &c., &c.
+
+Anent this escape, the _Times_ of February 16th has a paragraph such
+as we can hardly imagine ever could have appeared in a paper so steady
+and sober, as the _Times_ now is: "THE WARDEN OF THE FLEET--(From a
+Correspondent). Yesterday a gentleman of some misfortune and of great
+appearance, for he wore a wig, moustaches, and a Spanish Cloak, was
+introduced as an inmate of Brown's Hotel, so called from the Warden
+having a license to sell wines, beer, and ale to his prisoners,
+through the 'patent never ending always improving Juddery spigot and
+fawcet tap,' &c. In about half an hour the said bewhiskered gentleman
+leaves cloak, wig, and moustaches in the room of a Mister Abrahams,
+a prisoner, and walks quietly out, very politely bidding the turnkey
+'good morning.' At night the excellent crier of the Prison, Mr. Ellis,
+made the galleries echo, and the rooms re-echo, with his sometimes very
+cheering voice (when he announces to those who wish such things as a
+discharge, for it is not all who do), in calling, _altissimo voce_,
+'Mr. Alfred Morrison! Mr. Alfred Morrison! Mr. Alfred Morrison!' but as
+no Mr. Alfred Morrison answered to the interesting call, every room was
+searched in the due performance of the crier's duty, but no Mr. Alfred
+Morrison was to be found. And the Worthy and excellent warder, the
+keeper of so many others in, is himself let in to the tune of £2,600;
+some say more, none say less.
+
+  'Go it, ye cripples! crutches are cheap!
+  W. Brown is no longer asleep!'"
+
+In a leading article in the _Times_ of November 13, 1838, upon juvenile
+crime, and the incitors thereto, we read the following: "The Traders in
+crime do not wholly confine their seductions to the young; they often
+find apt scholars among the unfortunates of riper years, especially
+in the _debtor's prison_. Mr. Wakefield[152] says he knows many such
+victims; and he particularizes one 'Who was not indeed executed,
+because he took poison the night before he was to have been executed,
+who told me he had been, (and who I firmly believe was) first incited
+to crime when a Prisoner in the _Fleet_ for debt. The crime into which
+he was seduced was that of passing forged Bank of England Notes. He
+was a Man of very showy appearance, and he had been a Captain in the
+Army; a man of good family. He said this crime was first suggested
+to him by persons who were Prisoners in the Fleet; but he afterwards
+discovered, having been a Prisoner there more than once, that one of a
+gang of Utterers of forged Notes lived constantly in the _Fleet_, and
+for no other purpose but that of inducing reckless young men of good
+appearance, who could easily pass notes, to take Notes from them, and
+to dispose of them in transactions. I could hardly believe that that
+was true, and I got some inquiries to be made for the person whom he
+had pointed out to me as one of a Gang, and I found that that person
+was constantly in the _Fleet_. The Gang committed a robbery upon a
+Bank in Cornwall, and they were entirely broken up, and from that time
+forth the Person who had resided in the _Fleet_ disappeared, though he
+was not one of the persons convicted, or suspected of that particular
+Crime. I never heard of him since, but the inquiries which I then made,
+convinced me that it was a fact that one of the Gang of what are termed
+'family men,' that is, rich thieves and receivers of stolen goods, did
+reside continually in the _Fleet_, for the purpose of seducing young
+men into the commission of Crime. He was in and out of the Prison, but
+a Prisoner on a friendly arrest."
+
+The time was coming, when imprisonment for debt was to be abolished.
+An Act of 1 & 2 Vict. cap. 110 had already abolished Arrest on Mesne
+Process in Civil Actions, so that no prisoners could be committed to
+the Fleet from the Courts of Chancery, Exchequer, and Common Pleas,
+and the Debtors and Bankrupts might as well be in the Queen's Bench.
+The Demolition of the Fleet was therefore confidently anticipated, as
+we find by the following paragraph from the _Times_, March 3, 1841.
+"REMOVAL OF PRISONERS. On Saturday a deputation from the Woods and
+Forests, attended by the Marshal, visited the Queen's Bench Prison,
+preparatory to moving over the Debtors from the Fleet, which prison
+is about to be pulled down. By this arrangement the Country will save
+about £15,000 per annum, besides getting rid of an ugly object, and
+room being made for other contemplated improvements. It is supposed the
+Judges will find some difficulty in removing the Prisoners from the
+Fleet by Habeas Corpus, and that a short Bill will be necessary for
+that purpose. The expenses of the Queen's Bench Prison in its present
+profitless employment, is about £30,000 per annum to the Country."
+
+This announcement was slightly premature, for the Act for its
+demolition (5 & 6 Victoriæ, cap. 22) was not passed until May 31,
+1842. The Prisoners objected to the Transfer to the Queen's Bench,
+preferring their comparative liberty as they were, to the more
+stringent rules of the other prison: one clause in the new Act being:
+"And be it enacted, That after the passing of this Act, no Prisoner
+in the Queen's Prison shall be allowed to send for, or to have any
+Beer, Ale, Victuals or other Food, or to send for, have or use any
+Bedding, Linen, or other Things, except such as shall be allowed to be
+brought by them respectively under such Rules, to be made in the Manner
+directed by this Act, as may be reasonable and expedient to prevent
+Extravagance and Luxury, and for enforcing due Order and Discipline
+within the Prison."
+
+I have before me the Original Subscription list of a scheme of
+
+  "Resistance
+
+  to
+
+  The Abolition of the Fleet Prison.
+
+  April 9th, 1842."
+
+The author of the Letter of "Fleta to the Lords, calling upon them
+individually to Oppose the Bill _for transferring the Debtors in the
+Fleet_ to the Queen's Prison, respectfully calls upon all Parties
+interested in an _Opposition to the said Bill_, to render him such
+pecuniary assistance in forwarding his Object, as may be consistent
+with their Views or Convenience." A list of Subscriptions follows, but
+although 25/-was promised, only 15/-appears to be paid. They held
+meetings, a notice calling one of which is facsimiled; but it was of
+no avail, and they had to go.
+
+[Illustration:
+
+  _Notice_
+  The _Memorial_ to the Lord
+  High Chancellor, and to the
+  Judges of the Supreme
+  Courts of Law, will lie for
+  _Signatures_ at the Tap
+  from 12 till 2 o'Clock.
+  Fleet.
+  Wed. May. 4. 1842.]
+
+One Philip Ball, a Chancery Prisoner, composed
+
+  "THE LAST DAYS OF THE FLEET!"
+
+  A melancholy Chaunt,
+
+  _Written by a_ COLLEGIAN, _on the occasion of the Queen's
+  Prison Bill receiving the Royal Assent._
+
+Air. 'The Fine Old English Gentleman.'
+
+  1
+
+  I'll sing to you a bran new song
+  Made by my simple pate,
+  About the end of the good old Fleet,
+  Which on us now shuts its gate.
+  It has kept confin'd the choicest lads
+  That e'er together met--
+  Of merry, jolly, rattling dogs,
+  A regular slap up set.
+      Of jovial Fleet prisoners,
+      All of the present day.
+
+  2
+
+  This good old pris'n in every room
+  Contains a merry soul,
+  Who for his doings out of doors
+  Is now drop't 'in the hole.'
+  But surely this is better far
+  Than your simple plodding way,
+  Get deep in debt, go through the Court,
+  And whitewash it all away.
+      Like a jovial Fleet prisoner,
+      All of the present day.
+
+  3
+
+  Such right good hearts are rarely found,
+  As round me now I see;
+  With such, I'm 'most inclined to say,
+  Hang liberty for me.
+  For T----y, S----y, V----h,
+  In spirits who excel?
+  How could we better live than here,
+  Where friendship weaves her spell?
+      'Mongst jovial Fleet prisoners,
+      All of the present day.
+
+  4
+
+  To racquets, skittles, whistling shops,
+  We must soon say farewell;
+  The Queen's assent to her prison bill
+  Has rung their funeral knell;
+  And Bennett, Gray, and Andrew too
+  Must close their welcome doors,
+  For sing song and tape spinning now,
+  This damn'd new Act all floors,
+      For the jovial Fleet prisoner,
+      All of the present day.
+
+  5
+
+  But to her gracious Majesty
+  You'll long be loyal and true,
+  Although this latest act of hers
+  Must be felt by some of you.
+  Speed through the Court, or compromise
+  Like gallant Captain T----h,
+  Or else you'll soon be sent to grieve
+  Your guts out in the Bench.
+      All melancholy prisoners[153]
+      Unlike those of the present day.
+
+Much, however, as the prisoners might grieve, it was of no use kicking
+against an Act of Parliament, and those prisoners who did not take
+advantage of the Insolvent Debtors Act, were transferred to the Queen's
+Prison, which in its turn ceased to be a debtor's prison, and was used
+by Military offenders, until it was sold on Oct. 30, 1879, and pulled
+down in that and the following year. Now, legally speaking, there is no
+imprisonment for debt, but people are only committed for Contempt of
+Court.
+
+The Commissioners of Woods and Forests invited Tenders for the site and
+buildings of the late Fleet Prison, the estate of which contained above
+One Acre, with a frontage of about 251 feet, towards Farringdon Street,
+and a depth of about 230 feet. The tenders were returnable on Oct. 22,
+1844, and the Corporation of the City of London became the owners of
+the property at a sum variously stated at £25,000 to £29,000, and the
+sale of its building materials commenced on April 5, 1845. Its exterior
+was not particularly attractive.
+
+And so it passed away, and half the present inhabitants of London the
+Great do not even know its site, which was not finally cleared until
+1846. As a guide to those who wish to know its locality I may mention
+that the CONGREGATIONAL MEMORIAL HALL AND LIBRARY, in Farringdon
+Street, stands on a portion of its site.
+
+[Illustration: FARRINGDON STREET AND THE FLEET PRISON.]
+
+[Illustration: GROUND PLAN OF FLEET PRISON.]
+
+[Illustration: SECTION OF THE PRISON.]
+
+Before quitting the subject of the Fleet prison I cannot help referring
+to "the grate." Like Ludgate, it had a room open to the street, but
+furnished with a strong iron grating, behind which sat a prisoner, who
+called the attention of the passers-by monotonously chanting, "Pray
+Remember the poor Prisoners." A box was presented for the reception of
+contributions, but very little money was thus obtained.
+
+[Illustration: EXTERIOR OF THE GRATE.]
+
+The begging grate was served by poor prisoners who had to swear that
+they were not worth £5 in the world. He was then entitled to share the
+contents of the begging box, and also be a partaker of the charities
+and donations to the Prison, which amounted to the magnificent sum of
+£39 19s., besides meat, coals, and bread.
+
+Prisoners of all sorts and conditions met here, on one common basis,
+one of the last of any mark being Richard Oastler, who was the leader
+of the Ten Hours' Bill Movement, and from this prison he issued a
+series of "Fleet Papers" about Free Trade, Factories Acts, and the
+Amalgamation of the Prisons. He died in 1861, and a memorial to him was
+erected at Leeds.
+
+    [Footnote 152: Evidence of Mr. Wakefield before Parliamentary
+    Committee of 1837.]
+
+    [Footnote 153: When the prisoners were removed there were two
+    who had been incarcerated upwards of thirty years, and were in
+    the Queen's prison in 1845.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+Fleet Marriages.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+
+There is no doubt that in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the
+Marriage laws, as we now understand them, were somewhat lax, and it is
+possible that it was so long before that time, for in Edward VI.'s time
+an Act was passed (2 and 3 Ed. VI., c. 21, s. 3) entitled "An Act to
+take away all positive laws made against marriage of priests." Section
+3 provides that it shall not "give any liberty to any person to marry
+without asking in the church, or without any ceremony being appointed
+by the order prescribed and set forth in the book intituled "_The Book
+of Common Prayer, and administration of the Sacraments_, &c." Mary, of
+course, repealed this Act, and it was revived and made perpetual by 1
+Jas. 1. c. 25, s. 50.
+
+It was only after the Council of Trent, that the offices of the
+Church were considered indispensable, for that Council decreed that a
+priest, and two witnesses were necessary for the proper celebration
+of the Nuptial tie. Still, the law of England, like the law of
+Scotland, allowed the taking of a woman as wife before witnesses, and
+acknowledging her position, which constituted at common law a good and
+lawful marriage, which could not be annulled by the Ecclesiastical
+Court. That many such took place among the Puritans and Sectarians
+of the time of Charles I. and the Commonwealth is undoubted, for
+it needed an Act of Parliament (12 Chas. II. c. 33) to render such
+marriages legal. This enacted "That all marriages had, or solemnized,
+in any of his Majesty's dominions since the first day of _May_, in the
+year of our Lord, one thousand six hundred forty and two, before any
+justice of the Peace, or reputed justice of the Peace of _England_,
+or _Wales_, or other his Majesty's dominions,... shall be, and shall
+be adjudged, esteemed, and taken to be, and to have been of the same,
+and no other force or effect, as if such marriages had been had, and
+solemnized, according to the rites and ceremonies established, or used
+in the Church or kingdom of _England_; any law, custom, or usage to the
+contrary thereof notwithstanding."
+
+This short synopsis of the Marriage law in England is necessary, in
+order to understand the subject of Fleet Marriages, which, however,
+were not all disreputable. The Fleet, as we have seen, had a Chapel of
+its own; and in old times, a Chaplain--so that Marriages might well be
+celebrated there, in as proper and dignified a manner as elsewhere.
+And, we must bear in mind that early in the seventeenth century, the
+prisoners were of a very different stamp to those of the latter half of
+the eighteenth century, until the demolition of the prison. Therefore
+we see no impropriety in the first Marriage known on record--which
+is that of Mr. Geo. Lester, then a prisoner in the Fleet, to a woman
+of fortune one Mistress Babbington. This is mentioned in a letter of
+September, 1613, from Alderman Lowe to Lady Hicks, and may be found
+in the Lansdowne MSS. 93-17. He writes: "Now I am to enform you that
+an ancyentt acquayntence of y^e and myne is yesterday marryed in the
+Fleete, one Mr. George Lester, and hath maryed M^{ris} Babbington, M^r
+Thomas Fanshawe mother in lawe. Itt is sayd she is a woman of goode
+wealthe, so as nowe the man wyll be able to lyve and mayntayne hymself
+in pryson, for hether unto he hath byne in poor estate. I praye God he
+be nott encoryged by his marige to do as becher doth, I meane to troble
+his frynds in lawe, but I hope he wyll have a better conscyence and
+more honestye than the other men hathe."
+
+Towards the middle of the seventeenth century clandestine, and
+irregular marriage was prevalent, and it is easily accounted for. A
+public marriage had come to be a very expensive affair. There was a
+festival, which lasted several days, during which open house had to be
+kept; there were the Marriage Settlements, presents, pin money, music,
+and what not--so that the binding of their Children in the holy Estate
+of Matrimony was a serious matter to parents; who probably preferred
+giving the young couple the money that otherwise would go in useless
+waste and profusion. So they used to get married quietly: a custom
+which Pepys reprobates in the marriage of the daughter of Sir William
+Penn to Mr. Anthony Lowther. "No friends, but two or three relations of
+his and hers." The bride was married in "palterly clothes, and nothing
+new but a bracelet that her servant had given her." And he further
+says, remarking on the meanness of the whole affair, "One wonder I
+observed to day, that there was no musique in the morning to call up
+our new married people, which is very mean, methinks."
+
+Misson, who visited England in the reign of William III., speaks of
+these private marriages.
+
+"The Ordinary ones, as I said before, are generally incognito. The
+_Bridegroom_, that is to say, the Husband that is to be, and the
+_Bride_, who is the Wife that is to be, conducted by their Father and
+Mother, or by those that serve them in their room, and accompany'd by
+two Bride men, and two Bride Maids, go early in the Morning with a
+Licence in their Pocket, and call up Mr. Curate and his Clerk, tell
+them their Business; are marry'd with a low Voice, and the Doors shut;
+tip the Minister a Guinea, and the Clerk a Crown; steal softly out,
+one one way, and t'other another, either on Foot or in Coaches; go
+different Ways to some Tavern at a Distance from their own Lodgings,
+or to the House of some trusty Friend, there have a good Dinner, and
+return Home at Night as quietly as Lambs. If the Drums and Fiddles have
+notice of it, they will be sure to be with them by Day Break, making a
+horrible Racket, till they have got the Pence; and, which is worst of
+all, the whole Murder will come out."
+
+This senseless custom survives, in a modified degree, in our times,
+when on the marriage of a journeyman butcher, his companions treat
+him to a performance of the "Marrow bones and Cleavers," and also
+in the case of marriage of persons in a superior station of life,
+in the playing, on the Organ, of a Wedding March.
+
+The oldest entry of a Marriage in those Registers of the Fleet which
+have been preserved is A.D. 1674, and there is nothing to lead us to
+imagine that it was more irregular than that of Mistress Babbington;
+on the contrary, it is extremely probable that, previously, prisoners
+were married in their chapel, with the orthodox publication of banns,
+and by their own Chaplain. But marriages were performed without licence
+or banns in many churches, which claimed to be _peculiars_, and exempt
+from the Visitation of the Ordinary: as St. James', Duke's Place, now
+pulled down, denied the jurisdiction of the Bishop of London because
+the Mayor, Commonalty, and Citizens of London, were Lords of the Manor,
+and Patrons of the Church: but the Rector found that the Ecclesiastical
+Law was stronger than he, and that its arm was long and powerful, and
+the Rev. Adam Elliott was suspended (Feb. 17, 1686) for three years,
+_ab officio et beneficio_, for having married, or having suffered
+persons to be married, at the said Church, without banns or licence. He
+did not suffer the full term of his punishment, for he managed to get
+re-instated on May 28, 1687, and began his old practices the very next
+day.
+
+The Chapel of Holy Trinity, Minories, pleaded privilege, on the ground
+that it was a Crown living, and as much a _peculiar_ as Westminster
+Abbey, or the Deanery of Windsor; while the Chapels of the Tower
+and the Savoy sought exemption because they were Royal Chapels, and
+therefore the Bishop had no jurisdiction over them. Besides these,
+there were very many more chapels scattered over the Metropolis where
+irregular marriages were performed, a list of about ninety having been
+preserved.
+
+These Marriages so increased that it was found necessary to legislate
+about them, and, in 1689, an Act (6 and 7 Will. III. c. 6, s. 24) was
+passed making it compulsory, under a penalty of One Hundred pounds,
+for every parson to keep an accurate register of births, Marriages,
+and deaths. Another Act was passed in 1696 (17 and 18 Will. III. c.
+35, s. 2-3) whereby a penalty of £100 was imposed on any Clergyman who
+married, or permitted another to marry, couples, otherwise than by
+banns or licence. This was enforced by another Act in 1711 (10 Anne c.
+19, s. 176), which confirmed the penalty, and moreover, this section
+shows that irregular marriages were getting to be common in prisons,
+for it provides that
+
+"if any gaoler, or keeper of any prison, shall be privy to, or
+knowingly permit any marriage to be solemnized in his said prison,
+before publication of banns, or licence obtained, as aforesaid, he
+shall, for every such offence, forfeit the sum of one hundred pounds,"
+&c.
+
+Of course, this did not stop the practice, although it prevented
+Marriages in the Fleet Chapel. Yet there were the _Rules_, and real
+and pretended clergymen for many years plied their illicit vocation
+with impunity.
+
+But there seems to have been some compunctions of conscience even among
+this graceless lot, for one of them, Walter Wyatt, has left behind him,
+in a pocket-book dated 1736, the following moral reflections.
+
+"Give to every man his due, and learn y^e way of Truth. This advice
+cannot be taken by those that are concerned in y^e Fleet Marriages; not
+so much as y^e Priest can do y^e thing y^t is just and right there,
+unless he designs to starve. For by lying, bullying, and swearing,
+to extort money from the silly and unwary people, you advance your
+business and gets y^e pelf, which always wastes like snow in sun shiney
+day."
+
+"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. The Marrying in the
+Fleet is the beginning of eternal woe."
+
+"If a clark or plyer[154] tells a lye, you must vouch it to be as true
+as y^e Gospel; and if disputed, you must affirm with an oath to y^e
+truth of a downright damnable falsehood--Virtus laudatur et alget."
+
+That this custom of swearing prevailed at Fleet Marriages is borne out
+by contemporary evidence. The _Grub Street Journal_ July 20, 1732,
+says: "On Saturday last, a Fleet Parson was convicted before Sir
+Ric. Brocas of forty three-oaths (on the information of a plyer for
+weddings there) for which a warrant was granted to levy £4 6s. on the
+goods of the said parson; but, upon application to his Worship, he was
+pleased to remit 1s. per oath; upon which the plyer swore he would
+swear no more against any man upon the like occasion, finding he got
+nothing by it."
+
+And an anonymous Newspaper cutting dated 1734, says, "On Monday last,
+a tall Clergyman, who plies about the Fleet Gate for Weddings, was
+convicted before Sir Richard Brocas of swearing 42 Oaths, and ordered
+to pay £4 2s."
+
+There were regular Chaplains attached to the Fleet Prison to serve the
+Chapel there, and, as we have seen, the Warder made every prisoner pay
+2d. or 4d. weekly, towards his stipend. Latterly the Chaplaincy was
+offered to a Curate of St. Bride's Church--as is now done in the case
+of Bridewell.
+
+A complete list of Chaplains cannot be given, because all documents
+were destroyed when the Fleet was burnt by the Lord George Gordon
+rioters; but Mr. Burn in his "History of Fleet Marriages" (a book to
+which I am much indebted, for it has all but exhausted the subject)
+gives the names of some, as Haincks in 1698; Robert Elborough, 1702;
+John Taylor, 1714; Dr. Franks, 1728; 1797, Weldon Champneys; 1815, John
+Manley Wood, and John Jones: and in 1834, the date of the publication
+of Mr. Burn's book, the Rev. Richard Edwards, was the Chaplain.
+
+These Clergymen, of course, married couples according to Law, and
+probably used the Chapel for that purpose. We know that it was so
+used, for the _Original Weekly Journal_ of Sept. 26, 1719, says:
+
+"One Mrs. Anne Leigh, an heiress of £200 per annum and £6000 ready
+cash, having been decoyed away from her friends in Buckinghamshire,
+and married at the Fleet chapel against her consent; we hear the
+Lord Chief Justice Pratt hath issued out his warrant for apprehending
+the authors of this contrivance, who have used the young lady so
+barbarously, that she now lyes speechless."
+
+[Illustration]
+
+But it is not of the Chaplains I would speak, but of the irregular
+Clergy, or Lay men, who performed the Marriages. One thing they
+all agreed in, the wearing of the Cassock, Gown, and Bands. They
+would never have been believed in had they not. The accompanying
+illustration[155] gives an excellent idea of the Fleet Parson, and
+it is taken from an Engraving entitled "_The_ FUNERAL _of Poor_ MARY
+HACKABOUT, _attended by the Sisterhood of Drury Lane_" and it has a
+footnote calling attention to the "wry-necked" parson. "_The famous_
+COUPLE BEGGAR _in the Fleet, a_ WRETCH, _who there screens himself from
+the Justice due to his_ VILLANIES, _and daily repeats them._"
+
+The lady holds a sprig of Rosemary in her hand, which in polite society
+was always presented by a servant, when the funeral cortége was about to
+leave the house:--In this case, a dish full of sprigs is placed upon
+the floor, and a child is playing with them. The Mourners carried them
+to the grave, and then threw them in, as we now do, flowers and wreaths
+of the same.
+
+Perhaps one of the earliest notices of these irregular Fleet Parsons
+is in the first year of Queen Anne's reign, very soon after she came
+to the throne, as it appears, in the Registry of the Consistory
+Court,--that on June 4, 1702, the Bishop of London visited the common
+prison called the Fleet, London, and took Master Jeronimus Alley,
+clerk, to task, requiring him to exhibit to the Chancellor of the
+Diocese, before the 24th June instant, his letters of ordination,
+"and his Lords^p ordered him not to marry or perform any divine Office
+in y^e Chapell in y^e ffleet, or any place within y^e Dioces untill he
+has exhibited y^e same. Mr. Alley soon afterwards fled from y^e s^d
+Prison, and never exhibited his orders."
+
+But if Alley fled, there were others left, and the practice of marrying
+without banns, or licence, brought forth the act of the 10th Anne,
+before quoted. It was probably before this, but certainly during her
+reign, that the following letter was written, which also is in the
+Bishop's Registry.
+
+ "SIR,--I think it my Duty to God and y^e Queen to acquaint
+ you with y^e illegal practices of y^e Ministers and Clark in
+ y^e Fleet Chappell for marrying Clandestinely as they do som
+ weeks fifty or sixty couple. The Ministers that are there are
+ as follows, Mr. Robt. Elborough, he is an ancient man and is
+ master of y^e Chapple, and marries but very few now without
+ Banns or Licence, but under a colour doth allow his Clark to
+ do w^t he pleases, his name is Barth. Basset. There is there
+ also one Mr. James Colton a Clergyman, he lives in Leather Lane
+ next door to y^e Coach and horses, he hath bin there these four
+ years to marry, but no Prisoner, he marries in Coffee houses,
+ in his own house, and in and about y^e Fleet gate, and all y^e
+ Rules over, not excepting any part of City and Suburbs. This
+ Clark Basset aforesaid registers wherever Colton marries in y^e
+ Fleet Register and gives him Certificates. Colton had a living
+ in Essex till y^e Bishop of London deprived him for this and
+ other ill Practices. There is also one Mr. Nehemiah Rogers, he
+ is a prisoner but goes at larg to his P. Living in Essex, and
+ all places else, he is a very wicked man, as lives for drinking,
+ whoring, and swearing, he has struck and boxed y^e bridegroom
+ in y^e Chapple, and damned like any com'on souldier; he marries
+ both within and without y^e Chapple like his brother Colton.
+ There was one Mr. Alley; he was a Prisoner, and ye benefit of
+ weddings, but is gone to some other preferm^t. The abovesaid
+ Basset rents y^e sellers of y^e Fleet, and pays for y^t and two
+ watchmen 100 and £20 p. ann. but he him pays but £20 per ann.
+ for y^e Clergy pay all y^e rest, and if they do not, they are
+ threatened to be confined or outed. This Clark hath bin sworn in
+ D^{rs} Commons not to marry any without Banns or Licence, unless
+ it be such poor people as are recommended by y^e Justices in
+ case of a big belly, but have married since many hundreds, as
+ I and many can testifie who are confined Prisoners. The Chief
+ days to marry are Sundays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays, but evry
+ day more or less. The Clark Basset keeps a Register book, altho
+ he told y^e Bishop of London he had none; he also antidates as
+ he pleases, as you may see when you look over y^e Registers;
+ he hath another at his son's; he does what he pleases, and
+ maintains a great family by these ill practices. £200 p. ann. he
+ hath at least. The Ministers and Clark bribe one Mr. Shirley, I
+ think him to be Collector for y^e Oueen's Taxes. I hope, Sir,
+ you will excuse me for concealing my name, hoping y^t you will
+ inspect into these base practices.
+
+ For Dr. Newton Chancell^{rs} to My Lord of London at D^{rs}
+ Commons These."
+
+
+    [Footnote 154: These were touts, like those white-aproned
+    gentry who used to infest Doctors' Commons, telling people
+    where they could procure Marriage licences--only these
+    "plyers" touted for the parsons.]
+
+    [Footnote 155: See previous page.]
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+
+But the Act of 1712 failed to stop these illicit marriages, for one
+John Mottram was tried at Guildhall, before Lord Chief Justice Parker,
+found guilty, was suspended from his ministerial functions for three
+years, and was fined £200. Of this case there is an account in the
+_Weekly Journal_, February 13, 1717.
+
+"John Mottram, Clerk, was tryed for solemnizing clandestine and
+unlawful marriages in the Fleet Prison, and of keeping fraudulent
+Registers, whereby it appear'd that he had dated several marriages
+several years before he enter'd into orders, and that he kept no less
+than nine several Registers at different houses, which contained many
+scandalous frauds. It also appeared, that a marriage was antedated
+because of pregnancy; and, to impose on the ignorant, there was written
+underneath this scrap of barbarous Latin, "Hi non nupti fuerunt, sed
+obtinerunt Testimonium propter timorem parentum," meaning that they
+were not marryed, but obtained this private Register for fear of their
+parents. It rather appeared from evidence, that these sham marriages
+were solemnized in a room in the Fleet they call the Lord Mayor's
+Chappel, which was furnished with chairs, cushions, and proper
+conveniences, and that a coal heaver was generally set to ply at the
+door to recommend all couples that had a mind to be marry'd, to the
+Prisoner, who would do it cheaper than any body. It further appear'd
+that one of the Registers only, contained above 2,200 entrys which
+had been made within the last year."
+
+Pennant, writing at the end of the last century, gives us his personal
+reminiscences of Fleet Parsons ("Some Account of London," 3rd ed.,
+1793, p. 232),
+
+"In walking along the street, in my youth, on the side next to the
+prison, I have often been tempted by the question, _Sir, will you
+be pleased to walk in and be married?_ Along this most lawless space
+was hung up the frequent sign of a male and female hand conjoined,
+with, _Marriages performed within_, written beneath. A dirty fellow
+invited you in. The parson was seen walking before his shop; a squalid
+profligate figure, clad in a tattered plaid night gown, with a fiery
+face, and ready to couple you for a dram of gin, or roll of tobacco."
+
+Burn gives a list of Fleet Parsons, first of whom comes John Gaynam,
+who married from about 1709 to 1740. He rejoiced in a peculiar
+soubriquet, as will be seen by the following. In the trial of Ruth
+Woodward for bigamy, in 1737, he is alluded to by a witness:--
+
+ "_John Hall._ I saw her married at the Fleet to Robert Holmes;
+ 'twas at the Hand and Pen, a barber's shop.
+
+ "_Counsel._ And is it not a wedding shop too?
+
+ "_Hall._ Yes, I don't know the parson's name, but 'twas a man
+ that once belonged to Creed Church, a very, lusty, jolly man.
+
+ "_Counsel._ Because there's a complaint lodged in a proper
+ court, against a Fleet Parson, whom they call The Bishop of
+ Hell."
+
+Some verses, however, absolutely settle the title upon Gaynam.
+
+
+"THE FLEET PARSON
+
+A Tale,
+
+BY ANTI MATRIM.... OF LONDON.
+
+  Some errant Wags, as stories tell,
+  Assert the gloomy prince of Hell
+  In th' infernal Region has
+  His Officers of all degrees,
+  Whose business is to propagate
+  On Earth, the interests of his State,
+  Ecclesiastics too are thought
+  To be subservient to him brought;
+  And, as their zeal his service prize,
+  He never fails to make them rise
+  As Dignitaries in his Church,
+  But often leaves them in the lurch;
+  For, if their Fear surmount their Zeal,
+  (They) quickly his resentment feel;
+  (Are) sure to meet with dire disgrace,
+  (And) warmer Zealots fill their place.
+  (To) make these Vacancies repleat,
+  He borrows P----ns from the Fleet,
+      Long has old G----m with applause
+  Obeyed his Master's cursed Laws,
+  Readily practis'd every Vice,
+  And equall'd e'en the Devil for device.
+  His faithful Services such favour gain'd
+  That he, first B----p was of H--l ordain'd.
+  Dan. W----e (rose) next in Degree,
+  And he obtained the Deanery.
+  Ned Ash----ll then came into grace,
+  And he supplied th' Archdeacon's place,
+  But, as the Devil when his ends
+  Are served, he leaves his truest friends;
+  So fared it with this wretched three,
+  Who lost their Lives and Dignity."
+
+There is mention of Gaynam in two trials for bigamy--first in
+chronological order coming that of Robert Hussey.
+
+ "_Dr. Gainham._ The 9th of September, 1733, I married a couple
+ at the Rainbow Coffee House, the corner of Fleet Ditch, and
+ entered the marriage in my register, as fair a register as any
+ Church in England can produce. I showed it last night to the
+ foreman of the jury, and my Lord Mayor's Clerk, at the London
+ Punch House.
+
+ "_Counsel._ Are you not ashamed to come and own a clandestine
+ marriage in the face of a Court of Justice?
+
+ "_Dr. Gainham_ (bowing). _Video meliora, deteriora sequor._
+
+ "_Counsel._ You are on your oath, I ask you whether you never
+ enter marriages in that book, when there is no marriage at all?
+
+ "_Dr. Gainham._ I never did in my life. I page my book so, that
+ it cannot be altered."
+
+The other case is from the trial of Edmund Dangerfield in 1736.
+
+ "_Dr. Gainham._ I don't know the prisoner. I did marry a man
+ and woman of these names. Here, this is a true register: _Edwd
+ Dangerfield of St. Mary Newington Butts, Batchelor, to Arabella
+ Fast_. When I marry at any house, I always set it down, for I
+ carry one of the books in my pocket, and when I go home I put it
+ in my great book.
+
+ "_Court._ Do you never make any alteration?
+
+ "_Gainham._ Never, my Lord. These two were married at Mrs.
+ Ball's, at the Hand and Pen, by the Fleet Prison, and my name is
+ to her book.
+
+ "_Counsel._ 'Tis strange you should not remember the prisoner.
+
+ "_Gainham._ Can I remember persons? I have married 2000 since
+ that time."
+
+We have heard of Alley, who married from 1681 to 1707; of Elborrow,
+1698 to 1702; and of Mottram, who flourished between 1709 and 1725.
+
+Of Daniel Wigmore, the Dean of the previous poem, we know little except
+that he married between 1723 and 1754. The _Daily Post_ of May 26,
+1738, says of him, "Yesterday Daniel Wigmore, one of the parsons noted
+for marrying people within the Rules of the Fleet, was convicted
+before the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor, of selling spirituous
+liquors contrary to law."
+
+The third dignitary, Edward Ashwell, the Archdeacon, was notorious, and
+some of his misdeeds are recounted in a letter from Wm. Hodgson, to his
+brother, a Clergyman. (Lansdowne MSS., 841, fol. 123).
+
+  _June_ 21, 1725.
+
+ "REVEREND SIR,--There was lately, at Southam, in Warwickshire,
+ one Edward Ashwell, who, in my absence, got possession of our
+ School, and preach'd in Several Churches in this Neighbourhood.
+ I take the Liberty to Inform you, Since I hear he is at
+ Kettering, that he is A Most Notorious Rogue and Impostor. I
+ have now certificates on my hand, of his having two wives alive
+ at this present time, and he was very Near Marrying the third,
+ in this Town, but the fear of a prosecution upon the Discovery
+ of the flaming and Scandalous Immoralities of his life, forc'd
+ him away from us. In a short time Afterwards, in a Village not
+ far from us, he attempted to Ravish a Woman, but was prevented
+ by a Soldier then in the house. I Can assure you he is in no
+ Orders, tho' the Audacious Villain preaches when he Can get a
+ pulpit. I have a whole packet of Letters by Me, all tending to
+ the Same Character, which I think Exceeds, for variety of all
+ Manner of Inormous practices, what Can be Charg'd upon the very
+ Scum of Mankind. The Accounts are from persons of integrity and
+ known Reputation.
+
+ "I prevented him preaching one Day at Brawnstin, Mr. Somes's
+ parish. It would be A very kind and Christian Office to give
+ some information among the Clergy, that they may not be Impos'd
+ upon by him, particularly to Mr. Heyrick, for I Married Mr.
+ Allicock's sister of Loddington. I know you will pardon this
+ trouble if the fellow be amongst you.
+
+ "I am, your affectionate Brother,
+
+ W. HODGSON."
+
+We hear occasionally of this "professional beauty" in the Registers,
+and give two or three examples:--
+
+ "June 21st, 1740. John Jones of Eaton Sutton in Bedfordshire,
+ and Mary Steward of the same, came to Wood's in Fleet Lane about
+ six o'clock in the morning. Mr. Ashwell and self had been down
+ the Market. Wood called him, and I went with him there, found
+ the said man and woman, offer'd Mr. Ashwell 3 shilling to marry
+ him; he would not, so he swore very much, and would have knocked
+ him down, but for me. was not married. took this memorandum that
+ they might not Pretend afterwards they was married, and not
+ Register'd."
+
+ "July 15 (1744). Came a man and wooman to the Green Canister,
+ he was an Irishman and Taylor to bee married. Gave Mr. Ashwell
+ 2: 6. but would have 5s., went away, and abused Mr. Ashwell
+ very much, told him he was a Thief, and I was worse. Took
+ this account because should not say they was married, and not
+ Registered. N.B. The Fellow said Mr. Warren was his relation."
+
+It was the custom for these Fleet Parsons to carry with them pocket
+books, in which were roughly entered the names of the Married Couple,
+and, occasionally, if they wished their names to be kept secret,
+and paid, of course, a proportionate fee, their full names were not
+transcribed into the larger Register, as the following shows:--
+
+ "September y^e 11th, 1745. Edwd. ---- and Elizabeth ---- were
+ married, and would not let me know their names, y^e man said he
+ was a weaver, and liv'd in Bandy leg walk in the Borough.
+
+ Pr. E. Ashwell."
+
+He was so famous that he was honoured with an obituary notice in the
+press, _vide_ the _General Advertiser_, Jan. 15, 1746.
+
+"On Monday last, died, in the Rules of the Fleet, Doctor Ashwell,
+the most noted operator in Marriages since the death of the
+never-to-be-forgotten Dr. Gaynam."
+
+ John Floud, or Flood, did a good business from the time of Queen
+ Anne, 1709, to Dec. 31, 1729, when he died within the Rules of
+ the Fleet. He was a very queer Character, keeping a mistress
+ who played jackall to his lion, and touted for couples to be
+ married. He died suddenly whilst celebrating a wedding. Yet
+ even he seems to have had some compunction as to his course of
+ life, like Walter Wyatt: for, in one of his pocket books is the
+ following verse.
+
+ "I have Liv'd so long I am weary Living, I wish I was dead, and
+ my sins forgiven: Then I am sure to go to heaven, Although I
+ liv'd at sixes and sevens."
+
+ John Floud had a peculiarity; if ever he wanted to make
+ memoranda, which were not convenient to introduce into his
+ ordinary Register he partially used the Greek character, as
+ being "Caviar to the general," thus:
+
+ "13 Jan. 1728. [Greek: marr]: [Greek: t]h[Greek: rêê s]h[Greek:
+ illings] & [Greek: onê] [Greek: d]^o [Greek: chêrti]_f_[Greek:
+ ichatê]. Th[Greek: ê] [Greek: bridêgroom] w[Greek: as t]h[Greek:
+ ê brot]h[Greek: êr] o_f_ [Greek: t]h[Greek: ê mêmorablê]
+ J[Greek: onat]h[Greek: an] W[Greek: ild] E[Greek: chêchutêd at]
+ Ty[Greek: burn]."
+
+ Marr.: three shillings and one ditto Certificate. The bridegroom
+ was the brother of the memorable Jonathan Wild, Executed at
+ Tyburn.
+
+ "8 Mar. 1728. [Greek: Not]h[Greek: ing but a notê o]_f_ h[Greek:
+ and] _f_[Greek: or t]h[Greek: is marriagê] wh[Greek: ich]h
+ [Greek: nêuêr] w[Greek: as phaid]."
+
+ Nothing but a note of hand for this marriage, which never was
+ paid.
+
+ "27 August, 1728. [Greek: marriagê t]h[Greek: irtêên s]h[Greek:
+ illings] & [Greek: onê] & [Greek: sichphênchê chêrti]_f_[Greek:
+ ichatê. t]h[Greek: ê] w[Greek: oman not charing to bê marriêd in
+ t]h[Greek: ê phlêêt] I h[Greek: ad t]h[Greek: êm marriêd at mr
+ bro]w[Greek: ns at mr] H[Greek: arrisons in pheidgêonê chourt in
+ t]h[Greek: ê Old Bailê]y [Greek: at] _f_[Greek: our achlochch in
+ t]h[Greek: ê morning]."
+
+ Marriage thirteen shillings, and one and sixpence Certificate.
+ The woman not caring to be married in the Fleet, I had them
+ married at Mr. Brown's, at Mr. Harrison's in Pidgeone Court, in
+ the Old Bailey at four a'clock in the morning.
+
+ "12 Aug. 1729. [Greek: phd] _f_[Greek: iuê s]h[Greek: illings
+ phêr total]. N.B. Th[Greek: ê] 28th o_f_ [Greek: Aphril 1736
+ mrs bêll chamê and Earnêstl]y [Greek: intrêated mê to Erasê
+ T]h[Greek: ê marriagê out o]_f_ [Greek: t]h[Greek: ê booch] for
+ [Greek: t]h[Greek: at] h[Greek: êr] h[Greek: usband] h[Greek:
+ ad bêat and abusêd] h[Greek: er in a barbarous mannêr]....
+ [Greek: I madê] h[Greek: êr bêleiuê I did so,] _f_[Greek:
+ or] wh[Greek: ich]h I h[Greek: ad] h[Greek: al]_f_ [Greek: a
+ guinêa, and s]h[Greek: ê samê timê dêliuêrêd mê uph] h[Greek: êr
+ chêrti]_f_[Greek: ichatê. No phêrson phrêsênt (Achchording to]
+ h[Greek: er dêsirê])."
+
+ Paid five shillings per total. N.B.--The 28th of April, 1736,
+ Mrs. Bell came and earnestly intreated me to erase the Marriage
+ out of the book, for that her husband had beat and abused her in
+ a barbarous manner.... I made her believe I did so, for which I
+ had half a guinea, and she, at the same time, delivered me up
+ her certificate. No person present (according to her desire).
+
+Perhaps, next to Dr. Gaynam, the bishop, no one did more business in
+Fleet Marriages than Walter Wyatt. We have already read some of his
+moral apothegms. He made a large income out of his Marriages, and,
+looking at the value of money, which was at least three times that of
+the present time, his profession was highly lucrative. Take one Month
+for instance. October, 1748--
+
+  Oct. y^e 1 at home  2 11 6   abroad nil.
+           2   "      5 13 6     "    11 6
+           3   "      2 15 6     "    16 0
+           4   "        12 3     "    10 0
+           5   "       1 5 6     "    nil.
+           6   "        10 6     "   1 4 6
+           7   "       1 8 6     "    nil.
+                      --------------------
+                                   Total... 17 19 3
+                   From 8th to 15th  "  ... 17  6 6
+                    " 15th   " 21st  "  ... 10  0 6
+                    " 21st   " 27th  "  ... 6  17 0
+                    " 28th   " 31st  "  ... 5   9 6
+                                          ----------
+                                           £57 12 9
+                                          ==========
+
+Or nearly £700 a year--equal to about £2,500 of our Currency. No wonder
+then, that when he died, March 13, 1750, he left a will behind him,
+which was duly proved; and by it he left his children in ward to his
+brother, and different legacies to his family--to his married daughter
+Mary, he bequeathed five pounds, and his estate at Oxford.
+
+He describes himself, on the cover of one of the Registers, as "Mr.
+Wyatt, Minister of the Fleet, is removed from the Two Sawyers, the
+Corner of Fleet Lane (with all the Register Books), to the Hand and
+Pen near Holborn Bridge, where Marriages are solemnized without
+imposition." But there seem to have been other establishments which
+traded on Wyatt's sign, probably because he was so prosperous. Joshua
+Lilley kept the Hand and Pen near Fleet Bridge. Matthias Wilson's house
+of the same sign stood on the bank of the Fleet ditch; John Burnford
+had a similar name for his house at the foot of Ludgate Hill, and Mrs.
+Balls also had an establishment with the same title.
+
+He seems to have attempted to invade Parson Keith's _peculiar_ in May
+Fair, or it may only be an Advertising ruse on the part of that
+exceedingly keen practitioner, in order to bring his name prominently
+before the public. At all events there is an Advertisement dated
+August 27, 1748. "The Fleet Parson (who very modestly calls himself
+Reverend), married at the Fleet, in Mr. L----yl's house, Mrs.
+C----k's, at the Naked Boy, and for Mr. W----yt, the Fleet Parson. And
+to shew that he is now only for Mr. W----yt, the Fleet Parson's
+deputy, the said W----yt told one in May Fair, that he intended to set
+up in opposition to Mr. Keith, and send goods to furnish the house,
+and maintains him and the men who ply some days at the Fleet, and at
+other times at May Fair. But not to speak of the men, if he himself
+was not a Fleet Parson, he could never stand in Piccadilly, and run
+after Coaches and foot people in so shameful a manner, and tell them
+Mr. Keith's house is shut up, and there is no Chapel but theirs; and
+to other people he says, their Fleet Chapel is Mr. Keith's Chapel, and
+this he hath said in the hearing of Mr. Keith's clerk, and it is known
+to most of the people about May Fair, and likewise Mr. Keith appeals
+to the generality of people about the Fleet and May Fair, for proof of
+Mr. Reverend's being only W----yts, the Fleet parson's deputy."
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+
+Of James Starkey, who married from 1718 to 1730, very little is known,
+except that he had run away to Scotland, and could not be produced
+when wanted at a trial in the Old Bailey. And also of Robert Cuthbert,
+1723-30--very little is known except through the medium of his pocket
+books, and they recount his love of horse flesh, and the prices he paid
+for his mounts.
+
+Of Thomas Crawford, 1723-1748, we hear something from a letter in that
+curious _mélange_ of News, the _Grub Street Journal_, June 10, 1736:--
+
+ "Gentlemen, Having frequently heard of the many abominable
+ practises of the Fleet, I had the Curiosity, May 23, to take a
+ view of the place, as I accidently was walking by.
+
+ "The first thing observable was one J--- L----,[156] by trade
+ a Carpenter (whose brother, it is said, keeps the sign of the
+ B---- and G----r),[157] cursing, swearing, and raving in the
+ street in the time of divine service, with a mob of people about
+ him, calling one of his fraternity (J. E.),[158] a Plyer for
+ Weddings, an informing rogue, for informing against one of their
+ Ministers for profane cursing and swearing, for which offence
+ he paid three pounds odd money: the hearing of which pleased me
+ very well, since I could find one in that notorious place which
+ had some spark of grace left; as was manifested by the dislike
+ he shewed to the person that was guilty of the profanation of
+ God's sacred name.
+
+ "When the mob was dispersed, I walked about some small time, and
+ saw a person, exceeding well-dress'd in flower'd morning gown,
+ a band, hat and wig, who appeared so clean that I took him for
+ some worthy divine, who might have, accidentally, be making the
+ same remarks as myself; but upon inquiry was surpris'd at being
+ assured he was one T---- C---- [159] a watchmaker, who goes in a
+ Minister's dress, personating a Clergyman, and taking upon him
+ the name of Doctor, to the scandal of the Sacred function. He
+ may be seen any time at the Bull and Garter, or the Great Hand,
+ and Pen and Star, with these words under written. '_The old and
+ true Register_' near the Rainbow Coffee House.--T. S."
+
+Peter Symson, who married 1731-1754, describes himself in his handbill,
+as "educated at the University of Cambridge, and late Chaplain to the
+Earl of Rothes."
+
+His "Chapel" was at the Old Red Hand and Mitre, three doors from Fleet
+Lane, and next door to the White Swan. As were most of his fellows, he
+was witness in a bigamy trial in 1751. He was asked,
+
+ "Why did you marry them without license?
+
+ "_Symson._ Because somebody would have done it, if I had not.
+ I was ordained in Grosvenor Square Chapel by the Bishop of
+ Winchester--the Bishop of Lincoln. Can't say I am a prisoner in
+ the Fleet. Am 43 years old. Never had a benefice in my life.
+ I have had little petty Curacies about £20 or £30 per year. I
+ don't do it for lucre or gain.
+
+ "_Court._ You might have exposed your person had you gone on the
+ highway, but you'd do less prejudice to your country a great
+ deal. You are a nuisance to the public; and the gentlemen of the
+ jury, it is to be hoped, will give but little credit to you."
+
+When Keith of Mayfair was committed to the Fleet, Symson married for
+him from 1750 to 1754.
+
+There was another Fleet Parson named William Dare, 1732-1746, who had
+such a large connection that he employed a Curate to help him; but
+then, his marriages were 150 to 200 a month.
+
+James Lando is somewhat shrouded in mystery, for it is possible that
+he was identical with the gentleman who is described at the end of
+one of the Fleet Registers as "John Lando, a French Minister, in
+Church Street, Soho, opposite att a French pastry or nasty Cook's. His
+Landlord's name is Jinkstone, a dirty chandler's shop: he is to be
+heard of in the first flower next the skye."
+
+He really was a "Chaplain of the Fleet," for he was Chaplain on board
+H.B.M.S. _Falkland_ from May 29, 1744, to Jan. 17, 1746. He had a house
+in Half Moon Court, the first house joining to Ludgate, which was at
+the Corner of the Old Bailey. This he called St. John's Chapel, and
+here he not only solemnized marriages, but taught Latin and French
+three times a week.
+
+An advertisement of his states that "Marriages with a Licence,
+Certificate, and a Crown Stamp, at a Guinea, at the New Chapel, next
+door to the China Shop, near Fleet Bridge, London, by a regular bred
+Clergyman, and not by a Fleet Parson, as is insinuated in the public
+papers; and that the town may be freed (from) mistakes, no Clergyman
+being a prisoner in the Rules of the Fleet dare marry; and to obviate
+all doubts, this Chapel is not in the verge of the Fleet, but kept by
+a Gentleman who was lately on board one of his Majesty's men of war,
+and likewise has gloriously distinguished himself in defence of his
+King and Country, and is above committing those little mean actions
+that some men impose on people, being determined to have everything
+conducted with the utmost decency and regularity, such as shall be
+always supported in law and equity."
+
+Burn gives a list of others who married in the Fleet, but does not
+pretend it to be exhaustive. Still, the list is a long one.
+
+  Bates...
+  Becket, John       1748
+  Buckler, Sam.      1732 to 1751
+  Brayfield, Sam.    1754
+  Bynes, Benj.       1698 to 1711
+  Barrett, Mich.     1717 "  1738
+
+  Colton, James      1681 to 1721
+  Callow, Jos.       1752
+  Clayton            1720
+  Colteman           1688
+  Draper             1689 to 1716
+  Denevan, Francis   1747 "  1754
+  Davis, Wm.         1718
+  Evans, John        1689 to 1729
+  Evans, Ed.         1727
+  Farren, John       1688
+  Gower, Henry       1689 to 1718
+  Hodgkins, Thos.    1674 "  1728
+  Hanson, Anthony    1731 "  1732
+  Jones, John        1718 "  1725
+  Loveday, Wm.       1750
+  Morton             1720
+  Marston, Edward    1713 to 1714
+  Marshall, John     1750
+  Murry, D.          1719
+  Nodes              1753
+  Oswald             1712
+  Oglesby            1728 to 1740
+  Privavaul
+  Patterson          1732
+  Ryder, Thos.       1722 to 1743
+  Roberts, Edward    1698
+  Reynolds, E.       1749
+  Rogers, Nehemiah   1700 to 1703
+  Shadwell, Ralph    1733 "  1734
+  Shaw, James        1723
+  Sindrey, Richard   1722 to 1740
+  Stacy, Edmund      1719
+  Shelburn, Anthony  1722 to 1737
+  Stainton, John     1730
+  Simpson, Anthony   1726 to 1754
+  Stanhope, Walter   1711
+  Standly 1747 to    1750
+  Skinner, Nathaniel 1716
+  Town, I.           1754
+  Tomkings           1740
+  Tarrant, John      1688
+     "      "        1742 to 1750
+  Townsend, Jacob    1754
+  Vice, Jo.          1689 to 1713
+  Wagstaffe, James   1689 "  1729
+  Wise, J.           1709
+  Wilkinson          1740
+  Williams, Wm.
+  Walker, Clem.      1732 to 1735
+  Wodmore, Isaac     1752
+
+Which of these is the one referred to in the _Gentleman's Magazine_ for
+April 1809? "I should be much obliged to you also, Mr. Urban, if you,
+or any of your numerous and intelligent correspondents, could acquaint
+me with the name of a tall black clergyman, who used to solicit the
+commands of the votaries of Hymen at the door of a public-house known
+by the sign of the Cock in Fleet Market, previously to the Marriage
+Act."
+
+Before dismissing the subject of Fleet parsons, reference must be
+made to the Rev. Alexander Keith of Mayfair Chapel, who has a claim
+to be noticed here, as he was an inhabitant of the Fleet. The Chapel
+in Mayfair was built somewhere about 1736, to meet the wants of the
+increasing neighbourhood, which was then becoming fashionable, after
+the abolition of the fair in Brook-field, and the first incumbent was
+the Rev. Alexander Keith, who claimed to have been ordained priest by
+the Bishop of Norwich, acting on Letters Dimissory from the Bishop
+of London, in June, 1731. He also stated that at the time of his
+appointment as preacher in the Chapel, he was Reader at the Roll's
+Chapel. He did a roaring trade in irregular marriages, and it was at
+Mayfair Chapel that the Duke of Hamilton espoused the youngest of the
+beautiful Miss Gunnings, "with a ring of the bed curtain, at half an
+hour past twelve at night."
+
+He had also a private chapel of his own, as we read in an advertisement
+of his, April, 1750. "Several persons belonging to Churches and
+Chapels, together with many others, supposing the Marriages at May Fair
+New Chapel to be detrimental to their interest, have made it their
+Business to rave and clamour, but in such a Manner, as not to deserve
+to Answer, because every Thing they have said tends to expose their
+own Ignorance and Malice, in the Opinion of People of good Sense and
+Understanding. We are informed, that Mrs. Keith's Corpse was removed
+from her Husband's House in May Fair, the Middle of October last, to
+an Apothecary's in South Audley Street, where she lies in a Room hung
+with Mourning, and is to continue there till Mr. Keith can attend her
+Funeral! The way to Mr. Keith's Chapel is thro' Piccadilly, by the
+End of St. James's Street and down Clarges Street, and turn on the
+Left Hand. The Marriages (together with a Licence on a Five Shilling
+Stamp, and Certificate) are carried on as usual, any time till Four
+in the Afternoon, by another regular Clergyman, at Mr. Keith's little
+Chapel in May Fair, near Hyde Park Corner, opposite the great Chapel,
+and within ten Yards of it. There is a Porch at the Door like a Country
+Church Porch."
+
+His wife died in 1749 whilst he was in the Fleet prison, which accounts
+for his inability to attend her funeral. Why he was imprisoned is as
+follows. By advertising, and other means, his Marriages at Mayfair were
+very popular, and interfered greatly with the Vested Interests of the
+neighbouring clergy, one of whom, Dr. Trebeck, rector of St. George's,
+Hanover Square, brought a lawsuit against him, in the Ecclesiastical
+Court. He defended himself, but unsuccessfully, for a sentence of
+excommunication was promulgated against him on Oct. 27, 1742.
+
+Two could play at that game, so Keith excommunicated, at his Chapel in
+Mayfair, his bishop, the judge who condemned him, and the prosecutor,
+Dr. Trebeck, but none of them seem to have been any the worse for
+the operation. Such, however, was not the case with Keith, for, on
+Jan. 24, 1743, a decree was issued for his apprehension. This did not
+take effect till April, 1743, when he was committed to the Fleet; the
+marriages at Mayfair being continued, as we have seen, by Symson and
+Denevan.
+
+He lay in the Fleet about fifteen years, and in 1753, when Lord
+Hardwicke's Marriage Act was being discussed, he thence issued a
+pamphlet of thirty-two pages, with his portrait attached, entitled,
+"Observations on the Act for preventing Clandestine Marriages." In
+it he gives what seems to be "a plain, unvarnished tale" of Fleet
+Marriages. "As I have married many thousands, and, consequently, have
+on those occasions seen the humour of the lower class of people, I have
+often asked the married pair how long they had been acquainted; they
+would reply, some more, some less, but the generality did not exceed
+the acquaintance of a week, some only of a day, half-a-day, &c....
+Another inconveniency which will arise from this Act will be, that the
+expence of being married will be so great, that few of the lower class
+of people can afford; for I have often heard a Flete parson say, that
+many have come to be married when they have but half-a-crown in their
+pockets, and sixpence to buy a pot of beer, and for which they have
+pawned some of their cloaths.... I remember once on a time, I was at
+a public-house at Radcliffe, which was then full of Sailors and their
+girls, there was fiddling, piping, jigging, and eating; at length one
+of the tars starts up, and says, 'D--m ye, Jack, I'll be married just
+now; I will have my partner, and'.... The joke took, and in less than
+two hours ten couple set out for the Flete. I staid their return.
+They returned in coaches; five women in each coach; the tars, some
+running before, others riding on the coach box, and others behind.
+The Cavalcade being over, the couples went up into an upper room,
+where they concluded the evening with great jollity. The next time I
+went that way, I called on my landlord and asked him concerning this
+marriage adventure; he first stared at me, but, recollecting, he said
+those things were so frequent, that he hardly took any notice of them;
+for, added he, it is a common thing, when a fleet comes in, to have two
+or three hundred marriages in a week's time, among the sailors."
+
+The Marriage Act was passed, and came into force on March 26, 1754. On
+the 25th Sixty-one Couples were married at Mayfair Chapel.
+
+It was a death blow to the Reverend Alexander, although he tried to
+laugh it off, if Horace Walpole may be believed. In a letter to George
+Montagu, Esqr. (June 11, 1753), he says: "I shall only tell you a _bon
+mot_ of Keith's, the marriage broker, and conclude. 'G--d d--n the
+Bishops,' said he (I beg Miss Montagu's pardon), 'so they will hinder
+my marrying. Well, let 'em, but I'll be revenged: I'll buy two or three
+acres of ground, and by G--d, I'll under bury them all.'"
+
+This may have been true, but it was mere bravado, for he appealed from
+his prison to the benevolent, as we see by the following advertisement.
+"_To the Compassionate._ By the late Marriage Act, the Rev. Mr. Keith,
+from a great Degree of Affluence, is reduc'd to such a deplorable
+State of Misery in the Fleet Prison, as is much better to be conceiv'd
+than related, having scarce any other thing than Bread and Water to
+subsist on. It is to be hoped he will be deemed truly undeserving
+such a Fate, when the Publick are assured, that not foreseeing such
+an unhappy Stroke of Fortune, as the late Act, he yearly expended
+almost his whole Income (which amounted to several Hundred Pounds per
+Annum) in relieving not only single distress'd Persons, but even whole
+Families of wretched Objects of Compassion. This can be attested by
+several Persons of the strictest Character and Reputation, as well as
+by Numbers who experienced his Bounty. Mr. Keith's present calamitous
+Situation renders him perhaps as great an Object of Charity himself, as
+all Circumstances consider'd, as ever in his better Days partook of his
+own Assistance, or that of others equally compassionate; and is indeed
+sufficient to awaken Humanity in the most uncharitable. Any Gentleman
+or Lady may be satisfied of the above by applying to Mr. Brooke,
+Engraver, facing Water Lane, Fleet Street, by whom Donations from the
+Publick will be received for the Use of Mr. Keith."
+
+
+    [Footnote 156: Joshua Lilly, who kept one of the Hand and Pen
+    houses, and said that he had been appointed Registrar of
+    Marriages, by the Lord Chancellor, and had paid £1,000 for the
+    post. He did not marry people, but kept presumable Clergymen
+    to do so. He is mentioned several times in the Registers and
+    Pocket-books. Once, at all events, he was in danger of the
+    judgment seat, as Ashwell writes in one of his pocket-books:
+    "N.B. On Sunday, November y^e 6, 1740, at y^e hour of 9, in my
+    house declared that, if he had not come home out of y^e
+    country, being fled for punishment, having Cut of his hair (to
+    prevent being known), y^t y^e indictment for marrying James
+    Hussey to Miss Henrietta Arnold, he had (been) ruin'd but y^t
+    he swore it off and y^e attorney promis'd to defend him, and
+    it cost him only a treat of 10/; had I staid, says the s^d
+    Joshua Lilley, where I was, viz.----, the indictment would
+    have stood good against me, but my taking y^e side of the
+    prosecutor, y^e young ladies, I have got safe off." In a
+    Register is a notice relating to him. "June y^e 13th, 1744.
+    Whereas one Joshua Lilley, being a noted man for having more
+    marriages at his house than the generality of y^e people could
+    have, he the said Joshua Lilley keeping several plyars, as
+    they are call'd, to gett these weddings, I have put his
+    marriages down in a separate book, but findend ill-convenience
+    arise thereby, fro' this 13th instant, do insert it w^{th} y^e
+    rest." And one of his handbills describes him as "I. Lilley,
+    at y^e Hand and Pen, next door to the china shop, Fleet
+    Bridge, London, will be perform'd the solemnization of
+    marriages by a gentleman regularly bred att one of our
+    Universities, and lawfully ordain'd according to the
+    institutions of the Church of England, and is ready to wait on
+    any person in town or countrey."]
+
+    [Footnote 157: This was John Lilley, who kept a public-house,
+    called the Bull and Garter. In 1717 he was found guilty, and
+    fined five pounds, for acting as Clerk at a Fleet Marriage. He
+    was a turnkey at the Fleet Prison, and in his house he had a
+    room for solemnizing marriages--which he called a
+    Chapel--issuing certificates bearing the City Arms, and
+    purporting to be the Lord Mayor's Certificates.]
+
+    [Footnote 158: Probably John Evans, who married from 1689 to
+    1729, both at the King's Bench and Fleet.]
+
+    [Footnote 159: I am unable to identify these initials.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: A FLEET WEDDING.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+
+Keith's written description of a Fleet Marriage is graphic, but a
+contemporary engraving brings it even more vividly before us. This
+was published Oct. 20, 1747, and gives an excellent view of the Fleet
+Market as it then was. It is called "A FLEET WEDDING, Between a brisk
+young Sailor, and his Landlady's Daughter at Rederiff."
+
+  "Scarce had the Coach discharg'd it's trusty Fare,
+  But gaping Crouds surround th' amorous Pair;
+  The busy Plyers make a mighty Stir!
+  And whisp'ring cry, d'ye want the Parson, Sir?
+  Pray step this way--just to the PEN IN HAND
+  The Doctor's ready there at your Command:
+  This way (another cries) Sir, I declare
+  The true and ancient Register is Here.
+  Th' alarmed Parsons quickly hear the Din!
+  And haste with soothing words t'invite them in:
+  In this Confusion jostled to and fro,
+  Th' inamour'd Couple knows not where to go:
+  Till slow advancing from the Coache's Side
+  Th' experienc'd Matron came (an artful Guide)
+  She led the way without regarding either,
+  And the first parson spliced 'em both together."
+
+[Illustration: THE SAILOR'S FLEET WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT.]
+
+The Context to this is a companion Engraving of "THE SAILOR'S
+FLEET WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT," which most aptly illustrates Keith's
+description, but the poetry attached to it will scarcely bear modern
+reproduction.
+
+But, if a poetical account of a Fleet Wedding is needed, it may be
+found in "THE BUNTER'S WEDDING."
+
+  "Good people attend, I'll discover,
+  A Wedding that happen'd of late,
+  I cannot tell why we should smother,
+  The weddings of poor more than great;
+  'Twixt Ben of the Borough so pretty,
+  Who carries a basket, 'tis said,
+  And dainty plump Kent street fair Kitty,
+  A Coney Wool Cutter by trade.
+
+  The guests were all quickly invited,
+  Ben order'd the dinner by noon,
+  And Kitty was highly delighted,
+  They obey'd the glad summons so soon:
+  An ox cheek was order'd for dinner,
+  With plenty of porter and gin,
+  Ben swore on the oath of a sinner,
+  Nothing should be wanting in him.
+
+  Joe the sandman, and Bessy the bunter,
+  We hear from St. Giles's did prance,
+  Dick the fiddler, and Sally the Mumper,
+  Brought Levi the Jew for to dance.
+  Tom the Chanter he quickly was present,
+  And squinting black Molly likewise,
+  With Billy the Dustman quite pleasant,
+  And Nell with no nose and sore eyes.
+
+  Ned the drover was also invited,
+  Unto this gay wedding to come,
+  From Smithfield he came quite delighted,
+  Before that the market was done.
+  And Fanny the pretty match maker,
+  A sister to young bunting Bess,
+  She wished the devil might take her
+  If she was not one of the guests.
+
+  Dolly the rag woman's daughter,
+  From Tyburn road she did stride,
+  And Jenny the quilter came after
+  Whose nose it stood all of one side;
+  There was Roger the chimney sweeper,
+  No soot he would gather that day,
+  But, because he would look the compleater,
+  His soot bag and brush threw away.
+
+  There was bandy leg'd sheep's head Susan
+  We hear from Field Lane she did hie,
+  And draggle tail'd Pat with no shoes on,
+  Who pins and laces doth cry;
+  Ralph the grinder he set by his barrow,
+  As soon as he heard of the news,
+  And swore he would be there to-morrow,
+  Atho' he'd no heels to his shoes.
+
+  Sam the grubber, he having had warning,
+  His wallet and broom down did lay,
+  And early attended next morning,
+  The bride for to give away;
+  And Peggy the mop yarn spinner,
+  Her Cards and her wheel set aside,
+  And swore as she was a sinner,
+  She'd go and attire the bride.
+
+  Nan the tub woman out of Whitechapel,
+  Was also invited to go,
+  And, as she was 'kin to the couple,
+  She swore she the stocking would throw;
+  So having all gather'd together,
+  As they appointed to meet,
+  And being all birds of a feather,
+  They presently flocked to the Fleet.
+
+  But when at Fleet Bridge they arrived,
+  The bridegroom was handing his bride,
+  The sailors [_? plyers_] they all to them drived,
+  Do you want a Parson? they cry'd;
+  But as they down Fleet Ditch did prance,
+  What house shall we go to? says Ben,
+  Then Kitty, in raptures, made answer
+  Let's go to the Hand and the Pen.
+
+  Then into the house they did bundle,
+  The landlady shew'd them a room,
+  The landlord he roar'd out like thunder,
+  The parson shall wait on you soon:
+  Then so eager he came for to fasten,
+  He staid not to fasten his hose,
+  A fat bellied ruddy fac'd parson,
+  That brandy had painted his nose.
+
+  But before (he) the couple did fasten
+  He look'd all around on the men,
+  My fee's half a crown, says the parson,--
+  I freely will give it, says Ben:
+  Then Hymen he presently follow'd
+  And the happy knot being ty'd
+  The guests they whooped and hollow'd,
+  All joys to the bridegroom and bride.
+
+  Like Malt horses home they all pranced,
+  The bride she look'd not like the same,
+  And thus thro' the City they danced;
+  But, when to the Borough they came,
+  The bride to look buxom endeavour'd,
+  The bridegroom as brisk as an eel;
+  With the marrow bones and cleavers,
+  The butchers they rang them a peal.
+
+  And, as they were homewards advancing,
+  A-dancing, and singing of songs,
+  The rough music met them all prancing,
+  With frying pans, shovels, and tongs:
+  Tin Canisters, salt boxes plenty,
+  With trotter bones beat by the boys,
+  And they being hollow and empty,
+  They made a most racketting noise.
+
+  Bowls, gridirons, platters, and ladles,
+  And pokers, tin kettles did bruise,
+  The noise, none to bear it was able,
+  The warming pans beat with old shoes:
+  Such a rattling racketting uproar,
+  Had you but have heard it, no doubt,
+  All hell was broke loose you'd have swore,
+  And the devils were running about.
+
+  The Mob they all hollow'd and shouted,
+  In the streets as they passed along,
+  The people to see how they scouted,
+  Together in clusters did throng;
+  They made all the noise they was able,
+  And thus they were ushered in,
+  But e'er they all sat down to table,
+  They each had a glass of old gin.
+
+  Dinner being decently ended,
+  The table was cleared with speed,
+  And they to be merry intended,
+  So strait did to dancing proceed;
+  But Harry the night man so jolly,
+  With madness he almost cry'd,
+  And all the night sat melancholy,
+  For he had a mind for the bride."
+
+There are four more verses, but they are not worth
+transcribing--besides, there is a very good prose account of the
+doings at the Fleet, which, certainly, bears the impress of truth. It
+is in No. 270 of the _Grub Street Journal_, Feb. 27, 1735:--
+
+"Sir, There is a very great evil in this town, and of dangerous
+consequence to our sex, that has never been suppressed, to the great
+prejudice, and ruin, of many hundreds of young people, every year;
+which I beg some of your learned heads to consider of, and consult
+of proper ways and means to prevent for the future: I mean the
+ruinous marriages that are practised in the liberty of the _Fleet_,
+and thereabouts, by a sett of drunken, swearing parsons, with their
+Myrmidons that wear black coats, and pretend to be clerks, and
+registers to the Fleet. These ministers of wickedness ply about
+Ludgate Hill, pulling and forcing people to some pedling alehouse, or
+brandy shop, to be married, even on a sunday, stopping them as they
+go to church, and almost tearing their cloaths off their backs. To
+confirm the truth of these facts, I will give you a case or two, which
+lately happened:--
+
+"Since midsummer last, a young lady of birth and fortune, was deluded
+and forced from her friends, by the assistance of a very wicked,
+swearing parson, married to an atheistical wretch, whose life is a
+continual practice of all manner of vice and debauchery. And, since
+the ruin of my relation, another lady of my acquaintance had like to
+have been trapanned in the following manner:--
+
+"This lady had appointed to meet a gentlewoman at the Old Play-house
+in Drury Lane; but extraordinary business prevented her coming. Being
+alone, when the play was done, she bade a boy call a coach for the
+City. One drest like a gentleman helps her into it, and jumps in after
+her. 'Madam,' says he, 'this coach was called for me: and since the
+weather is so bad, and there is no other, I beg leave to bear you
+company; I am going into the City, and will set you down wherever
+you please.' The lady begged to be excused; but he bade the coachman
+drive on. Being come to Ludgate hill, he told her his sister, who
+waited his coming, but five doors up the Court, would go with her in
+two minutes. He went, and returned with his pretended sister, who
+asked her to step in one minute, and she would wait upon her in the
+coach.
+
+"Deluded with the assurance of having his sister's company, the poor
+lady foolishly followed her into the house, when, instantly, the
+sister vanish'd; and a tawny fellow in a black coat and black wig
+appeared. 'Madam, you are come in good time, the doctor was just a
+going.' 'The doctor,' says she, horribly frighted, fearing it was a
+madhouse; 'What has the doctor to do with me?' 'To marry you to that
+gentleman: the doctor has waited for you these three hours, and will
+be payed by you or the gentleman before you go.' 'That gentleman,'
+says she, recovering herself, 'is worthy a better fortune than mine.'
+And begged hard to be gone. But doctor WRYNECK swore she shou'd be
+married; or, if she wou'd not, he would still have his fee, and
+register the marriage from that night. The lady, finding she could not
+escape without money or a pledge, told them she liked the gentleman so
+well, she would certainly meet him to-morrow night, and gave them a
+ring as a pledge: which, says she, 'was my mother's gift on her
+deathbed, injoining that if ever I married, it should be my wedding
+ring.' By which cunning contrivance, she was delivered from the black
+doctor, and his tawny crew.
+
+"Some time after this, I went with this lady, and her brother, in a
+coach to Ludgate Hill, in the day time, to see the manner of their
+picking up people to be married. As soon as our coach stopt near Fleet
+Bridge, up comes on of the Myrmidons. 'Madam,' says he, 'you want a
+parson.' 'Who are you?' says I. 'I am the clerk and register of the
+Fleet.' 'Show me the Chapel.' At which comes a second, desiring me to
+go along with him. Says he, 'That fellow will carry you to a pedling
+alehouse. Says a third, 'Go with me, he will carry you to a brandy
+shop.' In the interim, comes the doctor. 'Madam,' says he, 'I'll do
+your jobb for you presently.' 'Well, gentlemen,' says I, 'since you
+can't agree, and I can't be married quietly, I'll put it off 'till
+another time,' so drove away."
+
+Some of the stories of Fleet Marriages read like romances, yet they
+are all taken from contemporary accounts. Here, for instance, is a
+fact, scarcely to be believed nowadays:--"Jan. 5, 1742. On Tuesday last
+two Persons, one of Skinner Street, and the other of Webb's Square,
+Spittle Fields, exchang'd Wives, to whom they had been married upwards
+of twelve Years; and the same Day, to the Content of all Parties, the
+Marriages were consummated at the Fleet. Each Husband gave his Wife
+away to the other, and in the Evening had an Entertainment together."
+
+Or this from the _Whitehall Evening Post_, July 24, 1739:--"On Tuesday
+last a Woman indifferently well dress'd came to the sign of the Bull
+and Garter, next Door to the Fleet Prison, and was there married to a
+Soldier; in the afternoon she came again, and would have been married
+to a Butcher, but that Parson who had married her in the Morning
+refused to marry her again, which put her to the Trouble of going a few
+Doors further, to another Parson, who had no Scruple."
+
+Here is another story indicative of the Manners and Morals of those
+days:--Oct. 1739. "Last Week, a merry Widow, near Bethnal Green, having
+a pretty many Admirers, not to be over Cruel, she equally dispensed
+her Favours between two, who were the highest in her Esteem. The one,
+a Butcher, meeting the good Woman, took the Advantage of the others
+Absence, and pleaded his Cause so successfully, that they tuck'd up
+their Tails, trudg'd to the Fleet, and were tack'd together. Home they
+both jogg'd to their several habitations, the Bridegroom to his, and
+the Bride to her's. Soon after came another of her Admirers, an honest
+Weaver, who, upon hearing of the Melancholy News, had no more Life in
+him for some time than one of the Beams of his Loom; but, recovering
+himself a little from the Surprize he was seized with a sudden
+Delirium, swore his Loom should be his Gibbet, and he'd hang himself
+pendant at the End of his Garter, if he also was not tack'd to his
+comfortable Rib: The good Widow, considering that the Butcher had not
+bedded with her, and desirous of preventing Murder, consented, and away
+she jogg'd to be coupled to the Weaver. On their return home, to Bed
+they went, and the Butcher coming to see his dear Spouse, found her
+in Bed with the Weaver; upon which a Quarrel ensued, and the Butcher
+being the best Man, she left the Weaver and went to the Butcher, being
+willing to please them both, as well as she could."
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+
+There are several instances of Committal to the Fleet for meddling with
+Marriages. One or two will suffice:--1731. "Thursday, the Master of the
+Rolls committed a Clergyman to the Fleet for marrying a young Gentleman
+about 17 years of Age at Eaton School, and intitled to an Estate of
+£1500 per Annum, to a Servant Maid: and at the same time committed the
+person who gave her in Marriage. His Honour had some days since sent
+as Prisoner to the Fleet, the Person who pretended to be the Youth's
+Guardian, and who had given a Bond to indemnify the Parson."
+
+1735. "Two Sisters were committed to the Fleet prison, by an order of
+the high Court of Chancery, for drawing a young fellow into marriage,
+he being a ward of the said Court."
+
+Dec. 28, 1734. "Last Saturday Night Mr. D---- late Valet de Chambre to
+a certain Noble Lord near Soho Square, went away, as was suspected,
+with his Lordship's Niece, a young Lady not yet of Age, and a Coheiress
+to a very large Estate. It seems they took a Hackney Coach soon after
+they got out of Doors, and upon strict Enquiry, the Coachman was found
+out, who declared that he took a Gentleman and a Lady up at such a
+Place, and set them down at the Fleet, and by the Description he gave
+it appeared to be the two Lovers, who may therefore be supposed to have
+been married and bedded that Night. A Warrant was immediately obtained
+for apprehending the Supposed Bridegroom, and he was accordingly taken
+in Bed with his Lady, at a house in Queen Street near Guildhall, on
+Wednesday Morning last, and immediately carried to Poultry Compter,
+and the Lady was carried off by her Friends. In the Afternoon he was
+examined, and afterwards re-committed to the same Prison. So that it
+seems he is to suffer for endeavouring to get himself a _Rich Wife_,
+which is a Practice followed by all the young _Gentlemen_ of _Quality_
+in England; but the Difference is, _That this young fellow has married,
+or endeavoured to marry an Heiress without the Consent of her Friends,
+whereas the other generally marry or endeavour to marry Heiresses
+without their own Consent._ It has since been found out that they were
+married by a Roman Catholic Priest."
+
+There was a faint-hearted protest on the part of the Fleet authorities,
+against the Marriages, but I can find no attempt at prosecution, other
+than for marrying without a stamped licence, in spite of the following
+advertisement:--
+
+ "September, 1743. WHEREAS the Methods hitherto taken to prevent
+ clandestine Marriages at the Fleet have prov'd ineffectual,
+ though legal Notice hath been given by the Warden of the Fleet
+ to such of his Tenants in whose houses it is reputed such
+ Marriages have been suffer'd, to quit the Possession thereof;
+ therefore, and as such Warning cannot immediately have the
+ desir'd Effect, this Publick Notice is given, that, whoever
+ shall make it appear to the Warden's Satisfaction that any of
+ his Prisoners, shall at any time hereafter clandestinely marry,
+ or be, in any manner however, concern'd in any clandestine
+ Marriage, or suffer such Marriages to be performed in his, hers,
+ or their Houses, or Lodgings, such Person or Persons making such
+ Discovery, shall receive a Guinea Reward from the Turnkey of the
+ said Prison.
+
+ "WILLIAM MANNING, Turnkey."
+
+There were several people of fortune married by Fleet parsons _vide
+Grub Street Journal_, September 18, 1735, "Married yesterday Will
+Adams, Esqr., to Miss Eleanor Watkins, a beautiful young lady, with a
+fortune of £15,000." And in the _Gentleman's Magazine_, May 6, 1735,
+"Married the Lord Robert Montagu, to Mrs. Harriet Dunch of Whitehall,
+with a fortune of £15,000."
+
+Somewhat of a curiosity is recorded in "Notes and Queries," 4 series,
+vol. xii. p. 295. "I have before me an engraved medal, bearing the
+following inscription, about which I should be glad of information.
+'May y^e 3, 1761. Thos. Wisely Maried Sarah Boswell in the Fleet
+Prison.'" This, in all probability, was a half-crown with one side made
+smooth, and the above engraved upon it.
+
+There is no doubt but that, with a duly stamped licence and until
+they were specially done away with by Lord Hardwicke's Act of 1753,
+these marriages were legal; still there is an instance recorded in the
+_General Evening Post_, June 27/29, 1745, in which a Fleet marriage
+was ruled to be illegal. "Yesterday came on a cause at Doctor's
+Commons, wherein the plaintiff brought his action against the defendant
+for pretending to be his wife. She, in her justification, pleaded a
+marriage at the Fleet the 6th of February, 1737, and produced a Fleet
+Certificate, which was not allowed as evidence. She likewise offered
+to produce the minister she pretended married them, but he being
+excommunicate for clandestine marriages, could not be received as a
+witness. The Court thereupon pronounced against the marriage, and
+condemned her in £28, the costs of the suit."
+
+The Registers in which these marriages were entered have mostly had
+an eventful and chequered career. Many have, doubtless, disappeared
+for ever, and it is extremely probable that some are in private hands,
+one being in the Bodleian Library. They were to be bought by any one
+interested in them, and the present collection cannot be considered as
+being at all perfect. We learn the adventures of some of them through
+the evidence of a Mrs. Olive, who produced one at a trial at Shrewsbury
+in 1794. This woman was originally a servant to Joshua Lilly, and
+used to "ply" or tout for him, and at his death married one Owens,
+who succeeded to one of Lilly's marriage houses, and who, probably,
+bought his Registers from his representatives. At this Trial she said:
+"My first husband was Thos. Owens. I had the Register Books of Fleet
+Marriages in my possession from my Marriage in 1761 till I went to
+America eleven years ago. I then sold them to Mr. Panton. My husband
+Owens died about 1773. My husband made a will. I had the possession of
+the books myself, as my husband had other business. I heard my husband
+say he purchased these books. He had a Marriage House in Fleet Lane. I
+used the books to grant certificates upon parish affairs."
+
+After her Marriage with Olive she still made use of these Registers,
+for we read in an Advertisement that "All the original Register
+Books containing the marriages solemnized at the Fleet, May Fair,
+and the Mint, for upwards of one hundred years past, may be searched
+by applying to George Olive, at the Wheat Sheaf, in Nicholls Square,
+near Cripplegate. The great utility of these Collections prevents any
+encomiums."
+
+About 1783 a Mr. Benjamin Panton bought of Mrs. Olive some five or six
+hundred of these books, weighing more than a ton, and used to produce
+them occasionally on trials at law, and they were always accepted as
+evidence.
+
+At his death in 1805 he left these to his daughter, who still utilised
+them as her father had done, as a handbill shows. "All the original
+Register Books of the Marriages in the Fleet, May Fair, and Mint,
+are now in the possession of M. Panton (Register Keeper), No. 50,
+Houndsditch, by whom they are examined, and Certificates of Marriages
+granted."
+
+In 1813 she sold them to a Mr. William Cox, who, in 1821, sold them to
+the Government for £260 6s. 6d., and the following letter shows us what
+became of them.
+
+ "WHITEHALL, _April_ 25, 1821.
+
+ "SIR,--It having been judged expedient to purchase a set of
+ books containing the original Entries of Marriages solemnized in
+ the Fleet Prison, and Rules thereof, from the year 1686 to the
+ year 1754. I have been honoured with his Majesty's commands to
+ desire that you will receive the said books from Mr. Maule the
+ Solicitor to the Treasury, and give him a receipt for the same,
+ and deposit them in the Registry of the Consistory Court of
+ London.
+
+ "I have the honour to be, Sir,
+
+ "Your most obedient humble Servant,
+
+ "SIDMOUTH.
+
+ "The Registrar of the Consistory Court of London, or his Deputy."
+
+Here they remained until the abolition of the Court in 1840, by Act of
+Parliament, 3 and 4 Vic. cap. 92, when they were declared inadmissible
+as evidence in law. Sec. 6 says, "And be it enacted That all Registers
+and Records deposited in the General Register Office by virtue of this
+Act, except the Registers and Records of Baptisms and Marriages at _The
+Fleet_, and _King's Bench_ Prisons, at _May Fair_, at the _Mint_ in
+_Southwark_, and elsewhere, which were deposited in the Registry of the
+Bishop of _London_ in the Year One Thousand Eight Hundred and Twenty
+One, as hereinafter mentioned, shall be deemed to be in legal Custody,
+and shall be receivable in Evidence in all Courts of Justice, subject
+to the Provisions hereinafter contained."
+
+And Section 20 provides thus, "And be it enacted, That the several
+Registers and Records of Baptisms and Marriages performed at the
+Fleet" (&c., &c., as in Section 6) "shall be transferred from the
+said Registry to the Custody of the Registrar-General, who is hereby
+directed to receive the same for safe custody." And it recapitulates
+that they shall not be received as evidence at law.
+
+They are kept at Somerset House, where they can be examined for a small
+fee. A great number of them are memorandum books, and Burn, when he
+examined them at Doctors Commons, in 1833, did not much like his job.
+"It is to be wished that they were better arranged and indexed. There
+are several very large indexes, which only requires a little time and
+attention to ascertain to what Registers they refer. The Pocket books
+also, might be bound together, and preserved from dust and dirt; and if
+Government would give about £300 these objects might be attained. It
+was a labour of many months to go through so many hundreds of dusty,
+dirty, and sometimes ragged books."
+
+The entries in the pocket-books are quainter than those in the
+registries, as they are the first impressions, and the others are
+polished up. We find from them that it was not infrequent to antedate
+the Registers, and Lilley did so on one occasion, "there being a
+vacancy in the Book suitable to the time." And, again, "These wicked
+people came this day, Peter Oliver, of St. Olave's, carpenter, and
+Elizabeth Overton, would have a certificate dated in 1729, or would not
+be married if it was not to be dated to this time--went to Lilley's and
+was married."
+
+Perhaps the most extraordinary entries in these books are those of two
+women going through the ceremony of marriage with each other--
+
+ "20 May, 1737. J^{no} Smith, Gent. of S^t James West^r Batch^r
+ & Eliz. Huthall of S^t Giles's Sp^r at Wilsons. By y^e opinion
+ after Matrimony, my Clark judg'd they were both women, if y^e
+ person by name John Smith be a man, he's a little short fair
+ thin man, not above 5 foot. After marriage I almost c'd prove
+ y^m both women, the one was dress'd as a man, thin pale face, &
+ wrinkled chin."
+
+ "1734 Dec. 15. John Mountford of S^t Ann's Sohoe, Taylor. B.,
+ Mary Cooper. Ditto. Sp. Suspected 2 Women, no Certif."
+
+ "1 Oct. 1747. John Ferren, Gent, Ser. of S^t Andrew's Holborn
+ B^r and Deborah Nolan. D^o Sp^n. The supposed John Ferren was
+ discovered after y^e Ceremonies were over, to be in person a
+ woman."
+
+There is one entry, "The Woman ran across Ludgate Hill in her shift."
+In the _Daily Journal_ of November 8, 1725, a woman went to be married
+in that sole garment, at Ulcomb, in Kent; and in the Parish Register of
+Chiltern All Saints in October 17, 1714, it says: "The aforesaid Anne
+Sellwood was married in her Smock, without any clothes or head gier
+on." This was a vulgar error, but the idea in so acting was that the
+husband was not liable for any of his wife's pre-nuptial debts.
+
+The candidates for matrimony were occasionally not over-honest,
+as--"Had a noise for foure hours about the Money." "N.B. Stole a Silver
+Spoon." "Stole my Cloathes Brush." "N.B. Married at a Barber's Shop
+next Wilsons viz., one Kerrils for half a Guinea, after which it was
+extorted out of my pocket, and for fear of my life delivered." "They
+behaved very vilely, and attempted to run away with M^{rs} Crooks Gold
+Ring."
+
+But then, again, these Fleet parsons had customers of a higher grade,
+as "Dec. 1, 1716. Dan Paul, S^t James's, Capt^n in y^e Horse Guards."
+"March y^e 4^{th} 1740. William--and Sarah--he dress'd in a gold
+waistcoat like an Officer, she a Beautifull young Lady with 2 fine
+diamond Rings, and a Black high Crown Hat and very well dressed." "Nov.
+y^e 24, 1733 att y^e Baptized hed Tavern to go to M^r Gibbs for to
+marry him in y^e countrey--Wife worth £18,000." "Septr^5, 1744 Andrew
+Mills, Gent. of the Temple, & Charlotte Gail lairdy of S^t Mildred,
+Poultry at M^r Boyce's, King's head. N.B. One gentleman came first in
+a merry manner to make a bargain w^{th} the Minister for the marriage,
+and immediately came the parties themselves, disguising their dress
+by contrivances, particularly buttning up the coat, because the rich
+wastecoat should not be seen, &c."
+
+The Church of England Marriage Service was generally used, but, in
+one instance, as shown by a pocket-book, it was somewhat modified,
+as when the ring is given the Trinity is not mentioned, but the words
+are altered to "from this time forth for evermore. Amen;" and when the
+couple promise to hold together "according to God's holy ordinance,"
+it was rendered "according to law." There seems to have been but one
+example of the officiating Clergyman administering the Sacrament at a
+Marriage, and that was done by the Rev. W. Dan, who describes himself
+as "priest of the Church of England." "October 2^{nd} 1743 John Figg,
+of S^t John's the Evang^s Gent. a Widower, and Rebecca Woodward, of
+Ditto, Spinster, at y^e same time gave her y^e Sacrament."
+
+The Scandal of Fleet Marriages remained unchecked until 1753, when
+the Lord Chancellor brought forward and passed "An Act for the better
+preventing of clandestine marriages"--26 Geo. III. cap. 33--which, in
+its different sections, provides that the Banns of Matrimony are to be
+published according to the rubric, &c., the marriage to be solemnized
+in one of the churches where the banns had been published. Marriage by
+licence could only take place in the church or chapel of such parish,
+&c., where one of the parties should have resided for four weeks
+previously.
+
+This was the death-blow to the Fleet Marriages, as any contravention of
+the law was made punishable by transportation "to some of his Majesty's
+plantations in America for the space of fourteen years, according to
+the laws in force for the transportation of felons."
+
+The Act came into force on March 26, 1754, but people took advantage of
+the Fleet Marriages until the last moment, and that in great numbers,
+for in one Register alone there is a list of 217 weddings celebrated on
+the 25th of March!
+
+The last Fleet Wedding is recorded in the _Times_ of July 10, 1840:
+"Mr. John Mossington, aged 76, and a Prisoner in the Fleet, more than
+15 years, was, on Wednesday, married to Miss Anne Weatherhead, aged
+62, at St. Bride's Church. The Lady had travelled 36 Miles to meet her
+bridegroom, who is, without exception, one of the most extraordinary
+men in this County. He takes his morning walks round the Fleet prison
+yard, which he repeats three or four times a day, with as much rapidity
+as a young man could do of the age of 20. The Road from Farringdon
+Street to the Church, was lined with Spectators who knew of the event,
+and the Church was equally filled to hear the Ceremony performed. The
+Courtship first commenced 41 years ago, and Mr. Mossington has now
+fulfilled his promise."
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: MAP OF THE FLEET.]
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+INDEX.
+
+
+  Aldgate Pump, 1
+
+  Alsatia, 223, 224
+
+  Annis (Dame) the Cleare, 10
+
+  Antiquarian Discoveries, 18, 19
+
+  Apothecaries Hall, 205
+
+  Apprentices and City Authorities, 216, 217, 218
+
+  Archer, J. W., 81
+
+  Archery, 116, 117
+
+  Artillery Ground, 116
+
+  Ashwell, E., 344, 345, 346
+
+
+  Bagnigge House, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85
+
+  Bagnigge Wells, 4, 73, 77, 78,
+    79, 80, 81, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89,
+    90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97,
+    120
+
+  Bambridge, Thos., 268, 269, 270,
+    271, 272, 273, 274, 275, 296
+
+  Basset, Bartholomew, 337, 338
+
+  Battle Bridge, 38, 39
+
+  Baynard's Castle, 5-15,
+
+  Bear baiting, 139, 140, 141
+
+  Begging Grate, 275, 276
+
+  Billingsgate, fountain at, 14
+
+  Black Mary's Hole, 77, 78, 79, 85
+
+  Bleeding Heart Yard, 164
+
+  Boughton, 247, 250, 251, 252, 253
+
+  "Boy" (Prince Rupert's Dog), 154
+
+  Brabazon, Roger le, 6-15
+
+  Brent, the, 21
+
+  Bridewell, 206, 207, 208,
+    209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214,
+    215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221
+
+  Brill, the, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43
+
+  Brooke Street, Hanover Square, 2
+
+  Brothers, 105
+
+  Brown's Dairy, 34
+
+  Bull baiting, 139, 141, 142,
+    143, 144, 145, 146, 147
+
+  Bunter's Wedding, the, 365, 366, 367, 368
+
+
+  Cantelows, 32, 35, 49
+
+  Chad's, St., Well, 45, 46, 47,
+    48, 49, 50, 51, 52
+
+  Cheape Conduit, 14
+
+  City Authorities and Apprentices, 216, 217, 218
+
+  Clement's Well, 8, 9
+
+  Clerken Well, 4, 8, 9, 45, 183, 184, 185
+
+  Cobham's Head, 115
+
+  Cock, a man eats a live, 70
+
+  Coldbath, 4, 111, 112
+
+  Coldbath Fields, 111, 118, 119
+
+  Coldbath Fields Prison, 99, 100, 101,
+    102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108,
+    109, 110
+
+  Cöln, stinks at, 16
+
+  Conduits, 13, 14
+
+  Conduit, White, 54, 55, 56,
+    57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63,
+    64, 65, 66, 120
+
+  Coppin, Edward, 255, 256, 257
+
+  Cornhill, the Tun in, 14
+
+  Court Room at Bridewell, 219, 220, 221
+
+  Cresswell, Mother, 219
+
+  Cripplegate, fountain at, 14
+
+  Cripplegate Pool, 8, 11
+
+  Cruikshank, Isaac Robert, 309, 310
+
+
+  Dustman, the Literary, 44, 45
+
+
+  Election, a mock, 308, 309
+
+  "Elephant," skeleton of, found, 17
+
+  Ely Place, 163, 164, 165,
+    166, 167, 168, 169, 170
+
+  Everett, John, 41, 42
+
+
+  Fagin, 158, 159, 160, 161
+
+  Fag's Well, 8, 10
+
+  Falstaff, Sir John, 240
+
+  Field Lane, 158, 160, 161
+
+  Fighting, 137, 138, 139
+
+  Fleet Bridge, 189, 190, 191, 193
+
+  Fleet, derivation of name, 2
+
+  Fleet Ditch, 1-7, 14, 16,
+    17, 18, 19, 20, 176, 226
+
+  Fleet Market, 186, 187, 188
+
+  Fleet Marriages, 327, 328, 329,
+    330, 331, 333, 335, 336, 337,
+    338, 339, 340, 341, 342, 343,
+    344, 345, 346, 347, 348, 349,
+    350, 351, 352, 353, 354, 355,
+    356, 359, 362, 363, 364, 365,
+    366, 367, 368, 369, 370, 371,
+    372, 373, 375, 376, 377, 378,
+    379, 380, 381, 382, 383, 384,
+    385
+
+  Fleet Prison, the, 229, 230, 231,
+    232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237,
+    238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243,
+    244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249,
+    250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255,
+    256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261,
+    262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267,
+    268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273,
+    274, 275, 276, 279, 280, 281,
+    282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 287,
+    288, 289, 290, 291, 292, 294,
+    295, 296, 297, 298, 299, 300,
+    301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306,
+    307, 308, 309, 310, 312, 313,
+    314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319,
+    320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325
+
+  Fleet Registers, 378, 379, 380,
+    381, 382, 383, 384
+
+  Fleet River, 26, 27, 28, 29, 100,
+    155, 172, 185, 186, 188, 225,
+    227
+
+  Floud, John, 346, 347, 348
+
+  Forcer, proprietor of Sadler's Wells, 71
+
+  Foster, Sir Stephen, 201, 202
+
+  Fountain at Billingsgate, 14
+
+  Fountain at Paul's Wharf, 14
+
+  Fountain at St. Giles, Cripplegate, 14
+
+
+  Garnish, 293, 294, 295
+
+  Garth, Dr., 205
+
+  Gaynam, John, 340, 341, 342, 343
+
+  Gordon, Lord George, 25, 301, 302
+
+  Gospel Oak, 29, 30, 31
+
+  Griffith, Chas., 91
+
+  Gwynne, Nell, 32, 81, 82, 83
+
+
+  Hampstead, 7-14, 26
+
+  Hampstead Ponds, 27
+
+  Harris, Alex., Warden of the
+    Fleet, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249,
+    250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255,
+    256, 257, 258, 259
+
+  Hatton Garden, 163
+
+  Hatton, the Chancellor, 163, 164
+
+  Hemp beetling at Bridewell, 210, 211, 213
+
+  Hockley-in-the-Hole, 137, 139, 146,
+    147, 148, 152
+
+  Hogarth, 274
+
+  Holborn Bridge, 170, 172, 173,
+    174, 175, 176
+
+  Holy Well, 8, 9, 10
+
+  Horse Pool, 8, 11
+
+  Howard, John, 214, 216, 295,
+    296, 297
+
+  Huggins, 265, 266, 267,
+    268, 269, 272, 275
+
+  "Humours of the Fleet," 279, 280,
+    281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286,
+    287, 288, 289, 290, 291
+
+  Hunt, "Orator," 129, 130, 131,
+    132, 133, 134
+
+  Huntingdon, Lady, 122, 123, 124, 125
+
+
+  Keith, Parson, 349, 350, 354,
+    356, 357, 358, 359, 360, 361
+
+  Ken Wood, 25
+
+  Kentish Town, 27, 28, 32,
+    33, 34, 35
+
+  King's Cross, 38, 43, 44
+
+
+  Ladies' ablutions, 113
+
+  Lamb's Conduit, 4, 179, 180,
+    181, 182
+
+  Lando, James, 354, 355
+
+  Langbourne, 8
+
+  Leveland, Nathaniel de, 229
+
+  Lilley, John, 352
+
+  Lilley, Joshua, 349, 351, 352, 378
+
+  Loders Well, 8, 10
+
+  Ludgate Prison, 195, 196, 197,
+    198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203
+
+
+  Macklin, 72
+
+  Man drowned in the Fleet River, 226
+
+  Man frozen in the Fleet River, 226
+
+  Mansfield, Earl of, 25
+
+  Marriages, 330, 331, 332, 372, 375
+
+  Mary le Bourne, St., 2
+
+  Mayfair Chapel, 357, 358, 360
+
+  Merlin's Cave, 129
+
+  Miles' Musick house, 69
+
+  Mill at Bridewell, 209, 210
+
+  Moat, the Fleet Prison, 235, 236
+
+  Montfitchet Castle, 208
+
+  Mottram, John, 339
+
+
+  Nelson, Lord, 35
+
+  Northampton Chapel, 123
+
+
+  Oastler, Richard, 325
+
+  Old Bourne, 5, 8
+
+  Oldcastle, the Sir John, 17, 112,
+    114, 115, 116, 117, 118
+
+
+  Pancras, St., 29, 36, 37
+
+  Pancras Wash, 38
+
+  Pantheon, the, 119, 120, 121, 122
+
+  Parliament Hill, 31, 36
+
+  Parsons, Fleet, 328, 333, 334,
+    335, 336, 337, 338, 339, 340,
+    341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 346,
+    347, 348, 349, 350, 351, 352,
+    353, 354, 355, 356
+
+  Paul's Wharf, fountain at, 14
+
+  Peerless Pool, 11
+
+  Periless Pond, 11
+
+  Physicians, College of, 205
+
+  Pickwick and Hampstead Ponds, 27
+
+  Pindar of Wakefield, 73, 74, 75
+
+  Pools, 8-11
+
+  Prisoners, Poor, 324, 325
+
+  "Punch" and Bagnigge Wells, 93, 94, 95, 96
+
+
+  Rackets, 303, 304, 305
+
+  Rad Well, 8, 10, 80
+
+  Rhone, 48, 51
+
+  Riots, no Popery, 25, 26, 301,
+    302, 303
+
+  Rules of the Fleet, 263
+
+  Rupert, Prince, 154
+
+  Rush boats, 21
+
+  Rye House Plot, 188, 189
+
+
+  Sadler's Wells, 53, 67, 68,
+    69, 70, 71, 73, 120
+
+  Saffron Hill, 155, 156, 157
+
+  Schools, King Edward's, 218, 219
+
+  Sedley Place, Oxford Street, 13
+
+  Shepherd's Well, Hampstead, 22
+
+  Skinner's Well, 8-10
+
+  Small Pox Hospital, 118, 119
+
+  Spa Fields Chapel, 123, 124
+
+  Spa Field Riots, 127, 129, 130,
+    131, 132, 133, 134, 135
+
+  "Spence's Plan," 127, 128
+
+  Springs, 1-7, 8, 9, 10
+
+  "Steel," The, 102
+
+  Sword Play, 147, 148, 149,
+    150, 151, 152
+
+  Symson, Peter, 353, 354
+
+
+  Tod Well, 10
+
+  Tonne, or Tunne, the, in Cornhill, 14
+
+  Toxophilite Society, 116
+
+  Traitor's Hill, 31, 36
+
+  Treadmill, Early, 209, 210
+
+  Turnmill Brook, 6
+
+  Turnmill Street and Brook, 170
+
+  Tye-bourne, The, 2, 13, 22, 23
+
+
+  Waithman, Alderman, 193, 194
+
+  Walbrook, 2-8
+
+  Ward, Ned, on Bridewell, 212, 213, 214
+
+  Wardens of the Fleet, 229, 230, 231,
+    232, 233, 234, 237, 245, 247, 248,
+    249, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255,
+    256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262,
+    265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271,
+    272, 304, 313, 314
+
+  Wardens of the Fleet--_Ladies_, 231, 232
+
+  Warwick, Earl of, 205
+
+  Wells, River of, 4, 7, 8, 53
+
+  Westbourne, the, 23
+
+  West Street, 155, 156, 157, 158
+
+  Whipping at Bridewell, 212, 213, 214
+
+  Whistling Shop, a, 306, 307, 308
+
+  Whitbrooke, Sir John, 247, 248, 249,
+    250, 251, 252, 253
+
+  White Conduit, 4, 53
+
+  Whitefriars, 223, 224, 225
+
+  Whittington, Sir Rd., 11
+
+  Wilkes, John, 193, 194, 195
+
+  Wolsey, Cardinal, 240, 241, 242
+
+  Wyatt, Walter, 333, 348, 349, 350
+
+
+  "Zigzag," 81
+
+
+
+
+  UNWIN BROTHERS,
+  THE GRESHAM PRESS,
+  CHILWORTH AND LONDON.
+
+
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's note:
+
+    Some words are sometimes hyphenated, and sometimes not hyphenated.
+    All reasonable variants of spelling, grammar and punctuation have
+    been retained.
+
+    There are a lot of sometimes old foreign words, and some
+    French/English hybrid text from earlier centuries.
+
+    England did not have spelling or punctuation rules until
+    the various Public Instruction Acts (c. 1860-70) in Queen Victoria's
+    reign. In this book, that may have also extended to French and Latin
+    spellings!!
+
+    Mismatched quotes. Punctuation is not always regular;
+    some opened quotes are not always closed.
+
+    General Note: Mismatched quotes often occur with quotations where
+    the quotation is enclosed within double quotes and each line or
+    paragraph within that quote begins with double quotes but has no
+    end double quote.
+
+    Minor typographical errors have been corrected.
+
+    All sidenotes have been moved to the start of the paragraphs in
+    which they appear in the original. Where the paragraph is a
+    quotation then the double quote has been moved to the start of the
+    first sidenote. This ensures that all side-notes within that
+    paragraph are contained within the double quotes at the beginning
+    and end of the quotation.
+
+      See Line 494: Sidenote "_Riuer of Wels_:
+      and Line 607: Sidenote: "_Fitzstephen. Holy well.
+
+    Line 770: 'discretionbus' corrected to 'discretionibus'.
+
+    Line 1436: Unspaced punctuation, e.g. "Near Battle Bridge,'tis
+    plain, sirs:", is as printed, and denotes elisions (the running
+    together of words to fit the metre).
+
+    Lines 2789-90: Mismatched quotes "Yours, &c., "EUGENIO."
+
+    Line 8156: "cortége" is an old spelling (in use until the end of
+    the 19th century).
+
+    There are many occasions when the term 'l.' or 'li.' is used.
+    'l.' or 'li.' = libra = pound/pounds. or £, so, £140 = 140 l.
+    or 140 li.
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 50730 ***
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+<body>
+<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 50730 ***</div>
+<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Fleet. Its Rivers, Prison, and Marriages,
+by John Ashton</h1>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<h4>E-text prepared by Chris Curnow, Brian Wilsden,<br />
+    and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.pgdp.net">http://www.pgdp.net</a>)<br />
+    from page images generously made available by<br />
+    Internet Archive<br />
+    (<a href="https://archive.org">https://archive.org</a>)</h4>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<table border="0" style="background-color: #ccccff;margin: 0 auto;" cellpadding="10">
+  <tr>
+    <td valign="top">
+      Note:
+    </td>
+    <td>
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive. See
+      <a href="https://archive.org/details/fleetitsriverpri00asht">
+      https://archive.org/details/fleetitsriverpri00asht</a>
+    </td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<div class="transnote">
+<p>Transcriber's Note:<br /><br /></p>
+
+<p>A single click on an illustration or decoration will give an enlarged view.</p>
+<p>The letters 'u' and 'v' are often interchanged; as, e.g., "in haruest time" and "vnder a bridge".</p>
+<p>Some of the spelling is very old, and often phonetic (they wrote as they heard it spoken, dialects and all).</p>
+<p>An additional transcriber's note is at the end of the text.</p>
+</div>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="pg" />
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 372px;">
+<img src="images/i_cover.jpg" alt="Cover" width="372" height="550" />
+</div>
+<div class="transnote covernote">
+<p class="center" style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;">The cover
+image was produced by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="____________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_i" id="Page_i">[Pg i]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="xxlarge"><b><i>THE FLEET.</i></b></span></p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_ii" id="Page_ii">[Pg ii]</a></span></p>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 301px; ">
+<a href="images/i_0ii-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_0ii-500.png" width="301" height="500" alt="TFU - VITA SINE LITERIS MARS EST." /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_iii" id="Page_iii">[Pg iii]</a></span></p>
+
+<h1><span class="oldenglish-font">The Fleet</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="smaller">ITS RIVER, PRISON, AND MARRIAGES</span></h1>
+<p class="center"><span class="small">BY</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="large">JOHN ASHTON</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="small">(<i>Author of "Social Life in the Reign of Queen Anne," "Dawn of the Nineteenth<br />
+Century," &amp;c., &amp;c., &amp;c.</i>)<br />
+<br />
+ILLUSTRATED BY</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="large">PICTURES FROM ORIGINAL DRAWINGS AND ENGRAVINGS</span><br />
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 400px; ">
+<a href="images/i_0iii-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_0iii-400.png" width="400" height="360" alt="Illustration of House" /></a>
+
+</div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="oldenglish-font">New York</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="large">SCRIBNER AND WELFORD</span><br />
+<br />
+1888<br />
+</p>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_iv" id="Page_iv">[Pg iv-vi]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 600px;">
+<a href="images/i_frontis-1200.png">
+<img src="images/i_frontis-600.png" width="600" height="188" alt="VIEW OF MOUTH OF THE FLEET circa 1765.." /></a>
+<div class="caption">VIEW OF MOUTH OF THE FLEET circa 1765.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_vii" id="Page_vii">[Pg vii]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_0vii-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_0vii-500.png" width="500" height="128" alt="Decorative Preface Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h2>PREFACE.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THIS book requires none, except a mere statement
+of its scheme. Time has wrought such changes in this land of ours, and
+especially in its vast Metropolis, "The Modern Babylon," that the old
+land-marks are gradually being effaced&mdash;and in a few generations
+would almost be forgotten, were it not that some one noted them, and
+left their traces for future perusal. All have some little tale to
+tell; even this little River Fleet, which with its Prison, and its
+Marriages&mdash;are things utterly of the past, entirely swept away,
+and impossible to resuscitate, except by such a record as this book.</p>
+
+<p>I have endeavoured, by searching all available sources of
+information, to write a trustworthy history of my subject&mdash;and,
+at the same time, make it a pleasant book for the general reader. If
+I have succeeded in my aim, thanks are due, and must be given, to W.
+H. Overall, Esq., F.S.A., and Charles Welch, Esq., Librarians to the
+Corporation of the City of London, whose friendship, and kindness, have
+enabled me to complete my pleasant task. It was at their suggestion
+that I came upon a
+
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_viii" id="Page_viii">[Pg viii]</a></span>
+
+veritable <i>trouvaille</i>, in the shape of a box containing Mr. Anthony
+Crosby's Collection for a History of the Fleet, which was of most
+material service to me, especially in the illustrations, most of which
+were by his own hand.</p>
+
+<p>I must also express my gratitude to J. E. Gardner, Esq., F.S.A., for
+his kindness in putting his magnificent and unrivalled Collection of
+Topographical Prints at my disposal, and also to J. G. Waller, Esq.,
+F.S.A., for his permission to use his map of the Fleet River (the best
+of any I have seen), for the benefit of my readers.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+JOHN ASHTON.
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_0viii-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_0viii-200.png" width="200" height="162" alt="Decorative End of Preface" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_ix" id="Page_ix">[Pg ix]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_0ix-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_0ix-500.png" width="500" height="121" alt="Decorative Contents Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h2>CONTENTS.</h2>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="____________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="large">
+<span class="oldenglish-font">The River.</span></span><br />
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="____________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER I.</p>
+
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents1">
+<tr>
+<td class="left">&nbsp;</td>
+<td class="right">PAGE</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="left">Course of the Fleet&mdash;Derivation of its Name&mdash;The River of</td>
+<td class="right"><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="left">Wells&mdash;The Fleet choked up&mdash;Cleansing the Fleet&mdash;The</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="left">Fleet Navigable&mdash;Wells&mdash;Ponds and Pools</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER II.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents2">
+<tr>
+<td class="left">Water Supply of London&mdash;The Fleet to be Cleansed&mdash;Smell</td>
+<td class="right"><a href="#Page_13">13</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">of the River&mdash;Prehistoric London&mdash;Antiquarian Discoveries&mdash;Cleansing</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">the Fleet&mdash;Fouling the River&mdash;Rivers</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">rising at Hampstead&mdash;The Tye-bourne&mdash;The</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">West-bourne&mdash;Course of the West-bourne</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER III.</p>
+
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents3">
+<tr>
+<td class="left">Course of the Fleet&mdash;The Hampstead Ponds&mdash;Rural Fleet&mdash;Gospel</td>
+<td class="right"><a href="#Page_25">25</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Oak&mdash;Parliament Hill&mdash;Kentish Town&mdash;Brown's</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Dairy&mdash;Castle Inn&mdash;St. Pancras Wells&mdash;Burials at St.</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Pancras&mdash;the Brill</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_x" id="Page_x">[Pg x]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER IV.</p>
+
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents4">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Battle Bridge&mdash;King's Cross&mdash;The Dust-heaps&mdash;St. Chad's</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39">39</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Well&mdash;St. Chad's Well-water</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER V.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents5">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Medicinal Waters&mdash;Spas&mdash;The White Conduit&mdash;White Conduit</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_53">53</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">House&mdash;White Conduit Gardens</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER VI.</p>
+
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents6">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Sadler's Discovery&mdash;Miles's Musick House&mdash;A Man Eats a</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_67">67</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Live Cock, &amp;c.&mdash;Forcer, the Proprietor&mdash;Macklin on</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Sadler's Wells&mdash;Actors at Sadler's Wells&mdash;The Pindar of</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Wakefield</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER VII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents7">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">"Black Mary's Hole"&mdash;Its Disappearance&mdash;Bagnigge Wells&mdash;Nell</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_77">77</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Gwyn's Houses&mdash;Bagnigge House</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER VIII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents8">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Bagnigge Wells&mdash;The Organist&mdash;Different Proprietors&mdash;</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">"Punch" on Bagnigge Wells&mdash;Decadence of the Wells</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_87">87</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER IX.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents9">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Cold Bath Fields Prison</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_99">99</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER X.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents10">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The "Cold Bath"&mdash;Cold Baths&mdash;Sir John Oldcastle&mdash;Archery&mdash;Tea</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_111">111</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Gardens&mdash;Small Pox Hospital&mdash;The Pantheon&mdash;Lady</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Huntingdon's Chapel&mdash;Lady Huntingdon</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xi" id="Page_xi">[Pg xi]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XI.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents11">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Spencean System&mdash;Orator Hunt&mdash;Riot in the City&mdash;Riots&mdash;End</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_127">127</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">of the Riots</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents12">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Fighting&mdash;Hockley-in-the-Hole&mdash;Bear Baiting&mdash;Bear Gardens&mdash;Bull</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_137">137</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Baiting&mdash;Sword Play</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XIII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents13">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Mount Pleasant&mdash;Saffron Hill&mdash;Old House in West Street&mdash;Fagin&mdash;Field</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_153">153</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Lane&mdash;Thieves</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XIV.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents14">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Bleeding Hart Yard&mdash;Ely Place&mdash;John of Gaunt&mdash;Ely Chapel&mdash;Turnmill</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_163">163</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Brook&mdash;The Fleet&mdash;Holborn Bridge</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XV.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents15">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Lamb's Conduit&mdash;Clerkenwell&mdash;Fleet Market&mdash;Rye-House</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_179">179</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Plot&mdash;Fleet Bridge</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XVI.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents16">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Alderman Waithman&mdash;John Wilkes&mdash;Ludgate Prison&mdash;Sir</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_193">193</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Stephen Foster</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XVII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents17">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Bridewell&mdash;Montfichet Castle&mdash;Fuller on Bridewell&mdash;Ward</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_205">205</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">on Bridewell&mdash;Howard on Bridewell&mdash;Bridewell Prison&mdash;</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">The City and Apprentices&mdash;Mother Cresswell&mdash;Bridewell</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Court Room</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XVIII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents18">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Alsatia&mdash;Whitefriars&mdash;Deaths in the Fleet&mdash;Ben Jonson and</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_223">223</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">the Fleet</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xii" id="Page_xii">[Pg xii]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="chap-heading"><span class="large">
+<span class="oldenglish-font">The Fleet Prison.</span></span><br />
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="____________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XIX.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents19">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">History of the Fleet Prison&mdash;Female Wardens&mdash;Settlement of</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_229">229</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Fees&mdash;Liberty of Prisoners&mdash;Filthy State of the Fleet&mdash;A</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Quarrelsome Knight&mdash;Preference for the Fleet Prison&mdash;Sir</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">John Falstaff&mdash;Cardinal Wolsey</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XX.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents20">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Prisoners&mdash;Puritans&mdash;Bibliography of Fleet Prison&mdash;A</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_243">243</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Warden's Troubles</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXI.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents21">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Warden of the Fleet&mdash;Purchase of Wardenship&mdash;Bad</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_255">255</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Discipline&mdash;Boundaries of the Fleet&mdash;Preference for the</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Fleet</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents22">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Complaints of the Warden&mdash;The Warden keeps Corpses&mdash;Huggins</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_265">265</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">and Bambridge&mdash;Castell&mdash;The First Prisoner</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">in Irons&mdash;Acquittal of Huggins and Bambridge&mdash;Bambridge</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">and his Prisoners&mdash;Chapel in the Fleet Bagging</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXIII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents23">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Admission to the Fleet Prison&mdash;The <i>Humours</i> of the Fleet</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_279">279</a></td></tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXIV.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents24">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Garnish&mdash;The "Common Side"&mdash;Howard's Report&mdash;Regulations</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_293">293</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">of the Prison&mdash;Gordon Riots&mdash;Burning of the</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Fleet Prison&mdash;Fleet Prison Rebuilt&mdash;The "Bare"&mdash;Racket</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Masters&mdash;A Whistling Shop&mdash;A Mock Election</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">"<i>Dum Vivimus, Vivamus</i>"&mdash;Number of Prisoners&mdash;Destitution</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xiii" id="Page_xiii">[Pg xiii-xiv]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXV.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents25">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Escape of Prisoners&mdash;A Gang of Forgers&mdash;Abolition of Imprisonment</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_313">313</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">for Debt&mdash;Prisoners Object to move&mdash;Opposition</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">to Removal&mdash;"The Last Days of the Fleet"&mdash;Sale</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">of the Fleet Prison&mdash;Begging Grate&mdash;Richard</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Oastler</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+<p class="chap-heading"><span class="large">
+<span class="oldenglish-font">Fleet Marriages.</span></span><br />
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="____________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXVI.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents26">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Illegal Marriages&mdash;Cost of Marriages&mdash;<i>Peculiars</i>&mdash;Suppression</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_327">327</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">of Irregular Marriages&mdash;A Fleet Parson's Reflections&mdash;Fleet</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Parsons&mdash;An Heiress Married</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXVII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents27">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">John Gaynam&mdash;The Bishop of Hell&mdash;Edward Ashwell&mdash;John</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_339">339</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Floud&mdash;Walter Wyatt</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXVIII.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents28">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Lilleys&mdash;Fleet Parsons&mdash;Parson Keith</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_351">351</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXIX.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents29">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">"The Bunter's Wedding"&mdash;Fleet Parsons&mdash;Exchange of</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_363">363</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Wives&mdash;Singular Marriage&mdash;Irregular Marriage</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading">CHAPTER XXX.</p>
+<table class="toc" summary="Contents30">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">A Runaway Marriage&mdash;Fortune's Married&mdash;Illegal Marriage&mdash;Fleet</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_375">375</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">Marriage Registers&mdash;Extracts from Registers&mdash;End</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">of Marriages</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="chap-heading"><span style="margin-left:10em; margin-top: 1.5em;">INDEX</span></p>
+<table class="toc" summary="ContentsIndex" style="margin-top: -1em;">
+<tr>
+       <td class="left">&nbsp;</td>
+       <td class="right"><a href="#Page_386">386</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xv" id="Page_xv">[Pg xv]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_0xv-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_0xv-500.png" width="500" height="143" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h2>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.</h2>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="__________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<table class="toc" summary="Illustrations1">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">&nbsp;</td>
+<td class="tdr">PAGE</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">SHEPHERD'S WELL, HAMPSTEAD</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_22">22</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE FLEET, KENTISH TOWN</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_28">28</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">VIEW OF THE VALLEY OF THE FLEET AND HIGHGATE CHURCH,</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">FROM FORTESS TERRACE, KENTISH TOWN, SEPT. 28, 1845</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_29">29</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_30">30,</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="#Page_31">31</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">OLD HOUSE, KENTISH TOWN, SUPPOSED TO HAVE BEEN NELL GWYNNE'S</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN&mdash;BROWNE'S DAIRY FARM, SEPT. 21, 1833</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_34">34</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">CASTLE, KENTISH TOWN ROAD, 1848</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_35">35</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE BRILL</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">BATTLE BRIDGE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_40">40</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="#Page_41">41</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="#Page_42">42</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">DUST HEAP AT BATTLE BRIDGE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_45">45</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">ST. CHAD'S WELL</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_49">49</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE WHITE CONDUIT</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_54">54, </a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="#Page_62">62</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">STONE IN THE WHITE CONDUIT</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_57">57</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">WHITE CONDUIT GARDENS (INTERIOR)</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_64">64</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "
+&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "
+&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "
+&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;(EXTERIOR)</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_65">65</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE PINDAR OF WAKEFIELD</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_75">75</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">BAGNIGGE HOUSE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_82">82</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">BAGNIGGE WELLS, NEAR BATTLE BRIDGE, ISLINGTON</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_85">85</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">A VIEW TAKEN FROM THE CENTER BRIDGE IN THE GARDENS OF</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">BAGNIGGE WELLS</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_88">88</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">WAITER FROM THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl2">HUMOURS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_89">89</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE HUMOURS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS
+</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_89">89</a>
+<span class="pagenum"> <a name="Page_xvi" id="Page_xvi">[Pg xvi]</a></span></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">A BAGNIGGE WELLS SCENE; OR, NO RESISTING TEMPTATION</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_90">90</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE BAGNIGGE ORGANIST</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_91">91</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE ANCIENT RIVER FLEET, AT CLERKENWELL, 1825</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_100">100</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">SOUTH VIEW OF THE COLD BATHS</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_113">113</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE SMALLPOX HOSPITAL IN COLD BATH FIELDS</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_118">118</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">VIEW OF NORTHAMPTON OR SPA FIELDS CHAPEL, WITH THE</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl2">COUNTESS OF HUNTINGDON'S HOUSE ADJOINING</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_124">124</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">FAGIN, THE JEW</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_159">159</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">FIELD LANE NEGOTIATIONS; OR, A SPECIMEN OF "FINE DRAWING"</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_160">160</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">ELY HOUSE 1784</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_169">169</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">END OF HOLBORN BRIDGE, TAKEN FROM THE SOUTH, AND PART OF</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2">HOLBORN HILL, JUNE 2, 1840</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_175">175</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">HOLBORN BRIDGE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_177">177</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">LAMB'S CONDUIT, SNOW HILL</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_181">181</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">FLEET MARKET, FROM HOLBORN BRIDGE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_187">187</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">BRIDEWELL BRIDGE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_207">207</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">WOMEN BEATING HEMP</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_213">213</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">PASS ROOM, BRIDEWELL, 1808</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_215">215</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE ARREST</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_228">228</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">BAMBRIDGE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_273">273</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">A PRISONER IN IRONS</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_274">274</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE COMMON SIDE OF THE FLEET PRISON</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_278">278</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE FLEET PRISON</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_296">296</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">RACKETS IN THE FLEET PRISON, 1760</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_303">303</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">A WHISTLING SHOP IN THE FLEET, 1821</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_306">306</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">AUTOGRAPH DONE AT THE PARLOUR NO. 1, PALAIS DE LA FLETE,
+THIS 24 DAY JUNE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_311">311</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">FARRINGDON STREET AND THE FLEET PRISON</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_322">322</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">GROUND PLAN OF FLEET PRISON</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_323">323</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">SECTION OF THE PRISON </td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_323">323</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">EXTERIOR OF THE GRATE</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_324">324</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">A FLEET WEDDING</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_362">362</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">THE SAILOR'S FLEET WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_364">364</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">ILLUSTRATIONS WILL ALSO BE FOUND AT PAGES</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl2"><a href="#Page_171">171</a>, <a href="#Page_172">172</a>, <a href="#Page_184">184</a>,
+<a href="#Page_280">280</a>, <a href="#Page_294">294</a>, <a href="#Page_304">304</a>,
+<a href="#Page_307">307</a>, <a href="#Page_308">308</a>, <a href="#Page_319">319</a>, <a href="#Page_335">335</a>.</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_001-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_001-500.png" width="500" height="132" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<h2><span class="xlarge"><i>The Fleet:</i></span></h2>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="oldenglish-font"><span class="large">
+Its River, Prison, and Marriages.</span></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="____________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h3>CHAPTER I.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">ONLY a little tributary to the Thames, the River
+Fleet, generally, and ignominiously, called the Fleet <i>Ditch</i>, yet
+it is historically interesting, not only on account of the different
+places through which its murmuring stream meandered, almost all of
+which have some story of their own to tell, but the reminiscences
+of its Prison stand by themselves&mdash;pages of history, not to be
+blotted out, but to be recorded as valuable in illustration of the
+habits, and customs, of our forefathers.</p>
+
+<p>The City of London, in its early days, was well supplied with water,
+not only by the wells dug near houses, or by the public springs, some
+of which still exist, as Aldgate Pump, &amp;c., and the River Thames;
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span>
+but, when its borders increased, the Walbrook was utilized, as well as
+the Fleet, and, later on, the Tye-bourne, or twin brook, which fell
+into the Thames at Westminster. In the course of time these rivulets
+became polluted, land was valuable; they were covered over, and are
+now sewers. The course of the Fleet being clearly traceable in the
+depression of Farringdon Street, and the windings of the Tye-bourne in
+the somewhat tortuous Marylebone Lane (so called from the Chapel of St.
+Mary, which was on the banks of
+
+"le bourne," or the brook<a name="FNanchor_1" id="FNanchor_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a>). Its further course is kept
+in our memory by Brook Street, Hanover Square.</p>
+
+<p>The name of this little river has exercised many minds, and has been
+the cause of spoiling much good paper. My own opinion, backed by many
+antiquaries, is that a <i>Fleet</i> means a brook, or tributary to a larger
+river, which is so wide, and deep, at its junction with the greater
+stream as to be navigable for the small craft then in use, for some
+little distance. Thus, we have the names on the Thames of Purfleet,
+Northfleet, and Southfleet, and the same obtains in other places. Its
+derivation seems to be Saxon&mdash;at least, for our language. Thus,
+in Bosworth's "Dictionary of the Anglo-Saxon Language," we find,
+"Flede-Fledu: part.
+
+<i>Flooded</i>; <i>overflowed</i>: tumidus<a name="FNanchor_2" id="FNanchor_2"></a><a href="#Footnote_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a>
+: Tiber fledu wearð<a name="FNanchor_3" id="FNanchor_3"></a><a href="#Footnote_3" class="fnanchor">[3]</a>&mdash;the
+Tiber was flooded (Ors. 4. 7)."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Again, the same author gives: "Fleot (<i>Plat</i> fleet,
+m. <i>a small river</i>; <i>Ger.</i> flethe. f. <i>a channel</i>). <i>A place
+where vessels float</i>, <i>a bay</i>, <i>gulf</i>, <i>an arm of the sea</i>, <i>the
+mouth of a river</i>, <i>a river</i>; hence the names of places,
+as <i>Northfleet</i>, <i>Southfleet</i>, <i>Kent</i>; and in London, <i>Fleet
+ditch</i>; <i>sinus</i>.<a name="FNanchor_4" id="FNanchor_4"></a><a href="#Footnote_4" class="fnanchor">[4]</a>
+S&oelig;s Fleot, <i>a bay of the sea</i>.[5] <i>Bd.</i>
+1. 34."</p>
+
+<p>Another great Anglo-Saxon scholar&mdash;Professor Skeat, in "An
+Etymological Dictionary of the English Language": "Fleet, a creek, bay.
+In the names <i>North-fleet</i>, <i>Fleet</i> Street, &amp;c. Fleet Street was
+so named from the Fleet Ditch; and <i>fleet</i> was given to any shallow
+creek, or stream, or channel of water. See Halliwell. M.E. <i>fleet</i>
+(Promptorium Parvulorum, &amp;c., p. 166). A.S. <i>fleót</i>, a bay of the
+sea, as in S&oelig;s Fleot, bay of the sea. Ælfred's tr. of Beda, i. 34.<a name="FNanchor_5" id="FNanchor_5"></a><a href="#Footnote_5" class="fnanchor">[5]</a>
+Afterwards applied to any channel or stream, especially if shallow. The
+original sense was 'a place where vessels float,' and the derivation is
+from the old verb <i>fleet</i>, to float, &amp;c."</p>
+
+<p>The French, too, have a cognate term, especially in Norman towns, as
+Barfleur, Honfleur, Harfleur, &amp;c., which were originally written
+Barbe<i>flot</i>, Hune<i>flot</i>, and Hare<i>flot</i>: and these were sometimes
+written Hareflou, Huneflou, and Barfleu, which latter comes very near to
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span>
+the Latin <i>flevus</i>, called by Ptolemy <i>fleus</i>, and by Mela
+<i>fletio</i>. Again, in Brittany many names end in <i>pleu</i>, or
+<i>plou</i>, which seems to be very much like the Greek
+<ins title="Greek: pleo">&pi;&lambda;&epsilon;&omega;</ins>: <i>full</i>, <i>swollen</i>,
+which corresponds to our Anglo-Saxon Flede; Dutch Vliet.</p>
+
+<p>But it has another, and a very pretty name, "<span class="smcap">The
+River of Wells</span>," from the number of small tributaries that
+helped to swell its stream, and from the wells which bordered its
+course; such as Sadler's Wells, Bagnigge Wells, White Conduit,
+Coldbath, Lamb's Conduit, Clerkenwell&mdash;all of which (although all
+were not known by those names in Stow's times) were in existence.</p>
+
+<p>Stow, in his "<span class="smcap">Survey of London</span>"
+(ed. 1603, his last edition, and which consequently has his best
+corrections), says&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+
+<p>"That the riuer of Wels in the west parte of the Citty,
+<span class="sidenote"><i>Riuer of Wels.</i></span>was of olde so
+called of the Wels, it may be proued thus, William the Conqueror
+in his Charter to the Colledge of S. Marten le Grand in London, hath
+these wordes: I doe giue and graunt to the same Church all the land
+and the Moore, without the Posterne, which is called Cripplegate, on
+eyther part of the Postern, that is to say, from the North corner of
+the Wall, as the riuer of the Wels, there neare running, departeth
+the same More from the Wall, vnto the running water which entereth
+the Cittie; this water hath beene long since called the riuer of the
+Wels, which name of riuer continued, and it was so called in the raigne
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span> of
+Edward the first; as shall bee shewed, <span class="sidenote"><i>Decay
+of the Riuer of the Wels.</i></span>with also the decay of the saide
+riuer. In a fayre Booke of Parliament recordes, now lately restored
+to the Tower,<a name="FNanchor_6" id="FNanchor_6"></a><a href="#Footnote_6" class="fnanchor">[6]</a>
+it appeareth that a Parliament being holden at Carlile in the yeare
+1307, the 35 of Edward the I. Henry Lacy Earle of Lincolne, complayned
+that whereas, in times past the course of water, <span class="sidenote">
+<i>Parliament Record.</i></span>running at <i>London</i> vnder
+<i>Olde bourne</i> bridge, and <i>Fleete</i> <span class="sidenote">
+<i>Riuer of Wels bare ships.</i></span>bridge into the Thames, had
+beene of such bredth and depth, that 10 or 12 ships, Nauies at once
+with marchãdises, were wõt to come to the foresaid bridge of Fleete,
+and some of them to Oldborne bridge: now the same course by filth of
+the Tanners &amp; such others, was sore decaied; also by raising of
+wharfes, but specially by a diversiõ of the waters made by them of the
+new <i>Temple</i>, for their milles <span class="sidenote">Patent
+Record. <i>Mils by Baynards Castel, made in the first of King John.</i>
+</span> standing without <i>Baynardes Castle</i>, in the first yeare
+of King <i>John</i>, and diuers other impediments, so as the said ships
+could not enter as they were wont, &amp; as they ought, wherefore he
+desired that the Maior of London, with the shiriffs, and other discrete
+Aldermen, might be appointed to view the course of the saide water, and
+that by the othes
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span>
+of good men, all the aforesaide hinderances might be remoued, and it
+to bee made as it was wont of old: wherupon <i>Roger le Brabazon</i>,
+the Constable of the Tower, with the Maior and Shiriffes, were assigned
+to take with them honest and discrete men, and to make diligent search
+and enquirie, how the said riuer was in old time, and that they leaue
+nothing that may hurt or stop it, but keepe it in the same estate that
+it was wont to be. So far the record. Wherupon it folowed that the said
+riuer was at that time cleansed, these mils remoued, and other things
+done for the preseruation of the course thereof, not withstanding neuer
+brought to the olde depth and breadth, whereupon the name of riuer
+ceased, and was since called a <span class="sidenote"><i>Turnemill
+Brooke.</i></span>Brooke, namely Turnmill or Tremill Brooke, for
+that diuers Mils were erected vpon it, as appeareth by a fayre Register
+booke, conteyning the foundation of the Priorie at Clarkenwell, and
+donation of the landes thereunto belonging, as also by diuers other
+records.</p>
+
+<p>"This brooke hath beene diuers times since clensed, namely, and
+last of all to any effect, in the yeare 1502 the 17th of Henrie the 7.
+the whole course of Fleete dike, then so called, was scowred (I say)
+downe to the Thames, so that boats with fish and fewel were rowed to
+Fleete bridge, and to Oldburne bridge, as they of olde time had beene
+accustomed,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span>
+which was a great commoditie to all the inhabitants in that part of the
+Citie.</p>
+
+<p>"In the yeare 1589, was granted a fifteene, by a common Councell
+<span class="sidenote"><i>Fleete dyke promised to be clensed; the money
+collected, and the Citizens deceiued.</i></span> of the citie,
+for the cleansing of this Brooke or dike: the money
+amounting to a thousand marks collected, and it was undertaken, that,
+by drawing diuerse springes about Hampsted heath, into one head and
+Course, both the citie should be serued of fresh water in all places of
+want, and also that by such a follower, as men call it, the channell of
+this brooke should be scowred into the riuer of Thames; but much mony
+being therein spent, y<sup>e</sup> effect fayled, so that the Brooke
+by meanes of continuall incrochments vpon the banks getting ouer the
+water, and casting of soylage into the streame, is now become woorse
+cloyed and that euer it was before."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>From this account of Stow's we find that the stream of the Fleet,
+although at one time navigable, had ceased to be so in his time, but
+we see, by the frontispiece, which is taken from a painting (in the
+Guildhall Art Gallery) by Samuel Scot, 1770 (?) that the mouth of the
+Fleet river, or ditch, call it which you like, was still, not only
+navigable, but a place of great resort for light craft.</p>
+
+<p>The name "River of Wells" is easily to be understood, if we draw
+again upon Stow, who, in treating of "Auncient and present Riuers,
+Brookes, Boorns, Pooles,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span>
+Wels, and Conduits of fresh water seruing the Citie," &amp;c.,
+says&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+
+<p>"Aunciently, vntill the Conquerors time, and 200 yeres after, the
+Citie of London was watered besides the famous Riuer of Thames on the
+South part; with the riuer of the <span class="smcap">WELS</span>,
+as it was then called, on the west; with water called <span
+class="smcap">Walbrooke</span> running through the midst of the
+citie into the riuer of Thames, seruing the heart thereof. And
+with a fourth water or Boorne, which ran within the Citie through
+<span class="smcap">Langboorne</span> ward, watering that part in
+the East. In the west suburbs was also another great water, called
+<span class="smcap">Oldborne</span>, which had his fall into the
+riuer of Wels: then was there 3 principall Fountaines or wels in the
+other Suburbs, to wit, Holy Well, Clements Well, and Clarkes Well.
+Neare vnto this last named fountaine were diuers other wels, to wit,
+Skinners Wel, Fags Wel, Loders Wel, and Rad Well; All which sayde
+Wels, hauing the fall of their ouerflowing in the foresayde Riuer,
+much encreased the streame, and in that place gaue it the name of
+Wel. In west Smithfield, there was a Poole in Recordes called <span
+class="smcap">Horsepoole</span>, and one other Poole neare vnto the
+parish Church of Saint <span class="smcap">Giles</span> without <span
+class="smcap">Cripplegate</span>. Besides all which they had in euerie
+streete and Lane of the citie diuerse fayre Welles and fresh Springs;
+and, after this manner was this citie then serued with sweete and fresh
+waters, which being since decaid, other means haue beene sought to
+supplie the want."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Here, then, we have a list of Wells, which are, together <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span> with
+those I have already mentioned, quite sufficient to account for the
+prettier name of the "River of Wells." Of these wells Stow writes in
+his deliciously-quaint phraseology:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Fitzstephen. Holy well.</i></div>
+
+<p>"There are (saith <i>Fitzstephen</i>) neare London, on the North side
+special wels in the Suburbs, sweete, wholesome, and cleare, amongst
+which <i>Holy well</i>, Clarkes wel, and Clements wel are most famous, and
+frequented by Scholers, and youthes of the Cittie in sommer evenings,
+when they walke forthe to take the aire.</p>
+
+<p>"The first, to wit, Holy well, is much decayed, and marred with
+filthinesse laide there, for the heightening of the ground for garden
+plots.</p>
+
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Clements
+well.</i></div>
+
+<p>"The fountaine called S. Clements well, North from the Parish
+Church of S. Clements, and neare vnto an Inne of <i>Chancerie</i>, called
+<i>Clements</i> Inne, is faire curbed square with hard stone, kept cleane
+for common vse, and is alwayes full.</p>
+
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Clarks well.</i></div>
+
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Playes by the
+Parish Clarks
+at Clarks
+well.</i></div>
+
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Players at
+the Skinners
+well.</i></div>
+
+<p>"The third is called Clarkes well, or Clarkenwell,
+<a name="FNanchor_7" id="FNanchor_7"></a><a href="#Footnote_7" class="fnanchor">[7]</a>
+and is curbed about square with hard stone, not farre from the west
+ende of Clarkenwell Church, but close without the wall that incloseth
+it; the sayd Church tooke the name of the Well, and the Well tooke the
+name of the Parish Clarkes in London, who
+
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span>
+
+of old time were accustomed there yearely to assemble, and to play
+some large hystorie of holy Scripture. And, for example, of later
+time, to wit, in the yeare 1390, the 14 of Richard the Second, I read
+the Parish Clarks of London, on the 18 of July, playd Enterludes at
+<i>Skinners well</i>, neare vnto <i>Clarkes well</i>, which play continued three
+dayes togither, the King, Queene, and Nobles being present. Also the
+yeare 1409, the 10 of Henrie the 4. they played a play at the <i>Skinners
+well</i>, which lasted eight dayes, and was of matter from the creation of
+the worlde. There were to see the same, the most part of the Nobles and
+Gentiles in England, &amp;c.</p>
+
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Skinners
+well.</i></div>
+
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Wrestling-place.</i></div>
+
+<p>"Other smaller welles were many neare vnto Clarkes well, namely
+<i>Skinners well</i>, so called for that the Skinners of London held there
+certaine playes yearely playd of holy Scripture, &amp;c. In place
+whereof the wrestlings haue of later yeares beene kept, and is in part
+continued at <i>Bartholomew tide</i>.</p>
+
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Fagges well.</i></div>
+
+<p>"Then was there Fagges well, neare vnto
+<i>Smithfield</i> by the <i>Charterhouse</i>, now lately
+dammed vp, <i>Tod well</i>, <i>Loders well</i>, and <i>Rad
+well</i>, all decayed, and so filled vp, that there
+places are hardly now discerned.</p>
+
+<p>"Somewhat North from <i>Holy well</i> is one other well curbed square
+with stone, and is called <i>Dame Annis the Cleare</i>, and not farre from
+it, but somewhat west, is also one other
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11-12]</a></span>
+cleare water called <i>Perillous pond</i><a name="FNanchor_8"
+id="FNanchor_8"></a><a href="#Footnote_8" class="fnanchor">[8]</a>,
+because diuerse youthes by swimming therein haue beene drowned; and
+thus much bee said for Fountaines and Wels.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Horse poole</i> in <i>Westsmithfield</i>, was sometime a great water, and
+because the inhabitants in that part of the Citie did there water their
+Horses, the same was, in olde Recordes, called <i>Horspoole</i>, it is now
+much decayed, the springs being stopped vp, and the land waters falling
+into the small bottome, remayning inclosed, with Bricke, is called
+<i>Smithfield pond</i>.</p>
+
+<div class="sidenote"><i>Poole without
+Cripplegate.</i></div>
+
+<p>"By S. Giles Churchyard was a large water, called a <i>Poole</i>. I
+read in the year 1244 that Anne of Lodburie was drowned therein;
+this poole is now for the most part stopped vp, but the spring is
+preserued, and was cooped about with stone by the Executors of <i>Richard
+Wittington</i>."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="footnotes"> <blockquote> <p class="footnote"><span
+class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_1" id="Footnote_1"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_1"><span class="label">[1]</span></a> The name of this
+church has been Latinized as "Sancta Maria de Ossibus"!</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_2" id="Footnote_2"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_2"><span class="label">[2]</span></a> Swollen.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_3" id="Footnote_3"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_3"><span class="label">[3]</span></a> The real
+quotation in Orosius is "þa wearð Tiber seo eâ swa fledu."</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_4" id="Footnote_4"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_4"><span class="label">[4]</span></a> A bag, or purse,
+a fold of a garment; a bay, bight, or gulf.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_5" id="Footnote_5"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_5"><span class="label">[5]</span></a> I cannot find
+this quotation in " Boedoe Historia Ecclesiastica," &amp;c., in any
+edition I have seen, but in 1.33. I do find Amfleet, and in John
+Smith's edition (Cambridge, 1722) as a note to Amj-leor he says "Vulgo
+Ambleteau or Ambleteuse, about 2 miles north of Boulogne"</p>
+
+</div> <div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_6"
+id="Footnote_6"></a><a href="#FNanchor_6"><span
+class="label">[6]</span></a> The Records were kept in the Tower, and at
+the Rolls Office, in a very neglected state, until they were removed to
+the present Record Office in Fetter Lane.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_7" id="Footnote_7"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_7"><span class="label">[7]</span></a> This is the only
+one left whose position is a matter of certainty.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_8" id="Footnote_8"></a><a href="#FNanchor_8"><span class="label">[8]</span></a>
+Afterwards known as "Peerless Pool," an unmeaning cognomen.</p>
+</div>
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_011-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_011-200.png" width="200" height="198" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_013-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_013-500.png" width="500" height="144" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER II.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">LONDON, for its size, was indeed very well supplied
+with water, although, of course, it was not laid on to every house, as
+now, but, with the exception of those houses provided with wells, it
+had to be fetched from fixed public places, which were fairly numerous.
+When the waters of the Fleet, and Wallbrook, in the process of time,
+became contaminated, Henry III., in the 21st year of his reign (1236),
+granted to the Citizens of London the privilege of conveying the waters
+of the Tye-bourne through leaden pipes to the City, "for the poore to
+drinke, and the rich to dresse their meate." And it is only a few years
+since, that close by what is now called "Sedley Place," Oxford Street,
+but which used to be the old hunting lodge of bygone Lord Mayors, some
+of these very pipes were unearthed, a fine cistern being uncovered at
+the same time.</p>
+
+<p>For public use there were the great Conduit in West <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span>
+Cheape: the Tonne or Tun in Cornhill, fountains at Billingsgate,
+at Paul's Wharf, and St. Giles', Cripplegate, and conduits at
+Aldermanbury, the Standard in Fleet Street, Gracechurch Street,
+Holborn Cross (afterwards Lamb's Conduit), at the Stocks Market (where
+the Mansion House now stands), Bishopsgate, London Wall, Aldgate,
+Lothbury&mdash;and this without reckoning the supply furnished from the
+Thames by the enterprising German, or Dutchman, Pieter Moritz, who in
+1582 started the famous waterworks close to where Fishmongers' Hall now
+stands.</p>
+
+<p>The Fleet river (I prefer that title to the other cognomen,
+"Ditch"), flowing through London, naturally became somewhat befouled,
+and in Henry the VII.'s time, <i>circa</i> 1502, it was cleansed, so that,
+as aforesaid, "boats with fish and fewel were rowed to Fleete bridge,
+and to Oldburne bridge." We also know, as Stow records, that more
+springs were introduced into the stream from Hampstead, without effect,
+either as to deepening or purifying the river, which had an evil
+reputation even in the time of Edward I., as we see in Ryley's "Placita
+Parliamentaria" (ed. 1661), p. 340&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote> <p>"<i>Ad peticionem Com. Lincoln.</i> querentis quod cum
+cursus aque, que currit apud <i>London</i> sub <i>Ponte</i> de <i>Holeburn</i>, &amp;
+<i>Ponte</i> de <i>Fleete</i> usque in <i>Thamisiam</i> solebat ita largus &amp;
+latus esse, ac profundus, quod decem Naves vel duodecim ad predictum
+Pontem de <i>Fleete</i> cum diversis rebus &amp; mercandisis solebant
+venire, &amp; quedam illarum Navium sub illo Ponte transire, usque ad
+predictum Pontem de <i>Holeburn</i> ad predictum cursum mundanmum <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span> &amp;
+simos exinde cariand, nunc ille cursus per fordes &amp; inundaciones
+Taunatorum &amp; p varias perturbaciones in predicta aqua, factas &amp;
+maxime per exaltationem Caye &amp; diversionem aque quam ipsi de <i>Novo
+Templo</i> fecerunt ad Molendina sua extra Castra <i>Baignard</i>, quod Naves
+predicte minime intrare possunt sicut solebant, &amp; facere debeant
+&amp;c. unde supplicat quod <i>Maior de London</i> assumptis secum Vice
+com. &amp; discretionibus Aldermannis cursum pred&#772;ce aque videat,
+&amp; quod per visum &amp; sacrm&#771; proborum &amp; legalium hominum
+faciat omnia nocumenta predicte aque que invinerit ammovere &amp;
+reparare cursum predictum, &amp; ipsum in tali statu manutenere in
+quo antiquitus esse solebat &amp;c. <i>Ita responsum est, Assignentur
+Rogerus le Brabazon &amp; Constabularius Turris, London Maior &amp;
+Vice Com. London, quod ipsi assumptit secum discretionibus Aldermannis
+London, &amp;c., inquirant per sacramentum &amp;c., qualiter fieri
+consuevit &amp; qualis cursus. Et necumenta que invenerint ammoveant
+&amp; manueri faciant in eadem statu quo antiquitus esse solebat.</i>"</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Latin for which a modern schoolboy would get soundly rated, or
+birched, but which tells us that even as far back as Edward I. the
+Fleet river was a nuisance; and as the endorsement (Patent Roll
+35 Edward I.) shows&mdash;"De cursu aquæ de Fleta supervivendo et
+corrigendo," <i>i.e.</i>, that the Fleet river should be looked after
+and amended. But the Commission issued to perfect this work was
+discontinued, owing to the death of the king. (Patent Roll 1 Edward
+II., pars 1. m. dorso.) "De Cursu Aquæ Flete, &amp;c., reducend et
+impedimenta removend."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg
+16]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>And Prynne, in his edition of Cotton's "Records" (ed. 1669, p.
+188), asks "whether such a commission and inquiry to make this
+river navigable to Holborn Bridge or Clerkenwell, would not now be
+seasonable, and a work worthy to be undertaken for the public benefit,
+trade, and health of the City and Suburbs, I humbly submit to the
+wisdom and judgment of those whom it most Concerns."</p>
+
+<p>So that it would appear, although otherwise stated, that the Fleet
+was not navigable in May, 1669, the date of the publication of Prynne's
+book.</p>
+
+<p>As a matter of fact it got to be neither more nor less than an
+open sewer, to which the lines in Coleridge's "Table Talk" would well
+apply&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">  <div class="stanza">
+<p>"In Cöln, that town of monks and bones,</p>
+<p>And pavements fang'd with murderous stones,</p>
+<p>And rags, and hags, and hideous wenches,</p>
+<p>I counted two-and-seventy stenches;</p>
+<p>All well-defined and genuine stinks!</p>
+<p>Ye nymphs, that reign o'er sewers and sinks,</p>
+<p>The river Rhine, it is well known,</p>
+<p>Doth wash the City of Cologne;</p>
+<p>But, tell me, nymphs, what power divine</p>
+<p>Shall henceforth wash the River Rhine?"</p>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p>The smell of the Fleet river was notorious; so much so, that
+Farquhar, in his <i>Sir Harry Wildair</i>, act ii., says, "Dicky! Oh! I
+was just dead of a Consumption, till the sweet smoke of <i>Cheapside</i>,
+and the dear perfume of <i>Fleet Ditch</i> made me a man again!" In Queen
+Anne's time, too, it bore an evil reputation: <i>vide The Tatler</i>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17"></a>[Pg 17]</span>
+(No. 238, October 17, 1710) by Steele and
+Swift.<a name="FNanchor_9" id="FNanchor_9"></a><a href="#Footnote_9" class="fnanchor">[9]</a></p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width24">  <div class="stanza">
+<p>"Now from all parts the swelling kennels flow,</p>
+<p>And bear their trophies with them as they go:</p>
+<p>Filth of all hues and odours seem to tell</p>
+<p>What street they sail'd from, by their sight and smell.</p>
+<p>They, as each torrent drives, with rapid force,</p>
+<p>From Smithfield or St. Pulchre's shape their course,</p>
+<p>And in huge confluent join'd at Snow Hill ridge,</p>
+<p>Fall from the Conduit, prone to Holborn Bridge.</p>
+<p>Sweepings from butchers' stalls, dung, guts, and blood,</p>
+<p>Drown'd puppies, stinking sprats, all drench'd in mud,</p>
+<p>Dead cats and turnip-tops come tumbling down the flood."</p>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p>We get a glimpse of prehistoric London, and the valley of the Fleet,
+in Gough's "British Topography," vol. i. p. 719 (ed. 1780). Speaking of
+John Conyers, "apothecary, one of the first Collectors of antiquities,
+especially those relating to London, when the City was rebuilding....
+He inspected most of the gravel-pits near town for different sorts and
+shapes of stones. In one near the sign of Sir J. Oldcastle, about 1680,
+he discovered the skeleton of an elephant, which he supposed had lain
+there only since the time of the Romans, who, in the reign of Claudius,
+fought the Britons near this place, according to Selden's notes on
+the Polyolbion. In the same pit he found the head of a British spear
+of flint, afterwards in the hands of Dr. Charlett, and engraved in
+Bagford's letter." We, now-a-days, with our more accurate knowledge of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span>
+Geology and Palæontology, would have ascribed a far higher ancestry to
+the "elephant."</p>
+
+<p>As a matter of course, a little river like the Fleet must have
+become the receptacle of many articles, which, once dropped in its
+waters, could not be recovered; so that it is not surprising to read
+in the <i>Mirror</i> of March 22, 1834 (No. 653, p. 180), an account of
+antiquarian discoveries therein, which, if not archæologically correct,
+is at least interesting.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"In digging this Canal between Fleet Prison and Holborn Bridge,
+several Roman utensils were lately discovered at the depth of 15 feet;
+and a little deeper, a great quantity of Roman Coins, in silver, brass,
+copper, and all other metals except gold. Those of silver were ring
+money, of several sizes, the largest about the bigness of a Crown, but
+gradually decreasing; the smallest were about the size of a silver
+Twopence, each having a snip at the edge. And at Holborn Bridge were
+dug up two brazen lares, or household gods, about four inches in
+length, which were almost incrusted with a petrified matter: one of
+these was Bacchus, and the other Ceres; but the coins lying at the
+bottom of the current, their lustre was in a great measure preserved,
+by the water incessantly washing off the oxydizing metal. Probably
+the great quantity of coin found in this ditch, was thrown in by the
+Roman inhabitants of this city for its preservation at the approach
+of Boadicæa at the head of her army: but the Roman Citizens, without
+distinction of age or sex, being barbarously murdered by the justly
+enraged Britons, it was not discovered till this time.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg
+19]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Besides the above-mentioned antiquities, several articles of a
+more modern date were discovered, as arrow-heads, scales, seals with
+the proprietors' names upon them in Saxon characters; spur rowels
+of a hand's breadth, keys and daggers, covered over with livid
+rust; together with a considerable number of medals, with crosses,
+crucifixes, and Ave Marias engraven thereon."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>A paper was read, on June 11, 1862, to the members of the British
+Archæological Association, by Mr. Ganston, who exhibited various relics
+lately recovered from the bed of the river Fleet, but they were not
+even of archæological importance&mdash;a few knives, the earliest
+dating from the fifteenth century, and a few knife handles.</p>
+
+<p>Previously, at a meeting of the same Society, on December 9, 1857,
+Mr. C. H. Luxmore exhibited a green glazed earthenware jug of the
+sixteenth century, found in the Fleet.</p>
+
+<p>And, before closing this antiquarian notice of the Fleet, I cannot
+but record some early mention of the river which occur in the archives
+of the Corporation of the City of London:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>(17 Edward III., <span class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1343,
+Letter-book F, fol. 67.) "Be it remembered that at the Hustings of
+Common Pleas, holden on the Monday next before the Feast of Gregory
+the Pope, in the 17th year of the reign of King Edward, after the
+Conquest, the Third, Simon Traunceys, Mayor, the Aldermen and the
+Commonalty, of the City of London, for the decency and cleanliness
+of the same city, granted upon lease to the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span>
+butchers in the Parish of St. Nicholas Shambles, in London, a piece of
+land in the lane called 'Secollane' (sea coal), neare to the water of
+Flete, for the purpose of there, in such water, cleansing the entrails
+of beasts. And upon such piece of land the butchers aforesaid were to
+repair a certain quay at their charges, and to keep the same in repair;
+they paying yearly to the Mayor of London for the time being, at the
+Feast of our Lord's Nativity, one boar's head."<a name="FNanchor_10"
+id="FNanchor_10"></a> <a href="#Footnote_10" class="fnanchor">[10]</a>
+</p>
+
+<p>(31 Edward III., <span class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1357, Letter-book
+G, fol. 72.) "Also, it is ordered, that no man shall take, or cause to
+be carried, any manner of rubbish, earth, gravel, or dung, from out of
+his stables or elsewhere, to throw, and put the same into the rivers of
+Thames and Flete, or into the Fosses around the walls of the City: and
+as to the dung that is found in the streets and lanes, the same shall
+be carried and taken elsewhere out of the City by carts, as heretofore;
+or else by the <i>raykers</i>
+
+<a name="FNanchor_11" id="FNanchor_11"></a><a href="#Footnote_11" class="fnanchor">[11]</a> to
+certain spots, that the same may be put into the <i>dongebotes</i>,
+<a name="FNanchor_12" id="FNanchor_12"></a><a href="#Footnote_12" class="fnanchor">[12]</a>
+without throwing anything into the Thames; for saving the body of the
+river, and preserving the quays, such as Dowegate, Quenhethe, and
+Castle Baynards, (and) elsewhere, for lading and unlading; as also,
+for avoiding the filthiness that is increasing in the water, and upon
+the banks of the Thames, to the great abomination and damage of the
+people. And, if any one shall be found doing the Contrary hereof, let
+him have the prison for his body, and other heavy punishment as <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span> well,
+at the discretion of the Mayor and of the Aldermen."<a name="FNanchor_13" id="FNanchor_13">
+</a><a href="#Footnote_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a>
+</p>
+
+<p>(7 Henry V. <span class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1419, Journal 1, fol. 61.)
+"It is granted that the <i>risshbotes</i><a name="FNanchor_14" id="FNanchor_14"></a><a href="#Footnote_14" class="fnanchor">[14]</a>
+at the Flete and elsewhere in London shall be taken into the hands of
+the Chamberlain; and the Chamberlain shall cause all the
+streets to be cleansed."<a name="FNanchor_15" id="FNanchor_15"></a><a href="#Footnote_15" class="fnanchor">[15]</a>
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>The northern heights of London, the "ultima Thule" of men like
+Keats, and Shelley, abound in springs, which form the bases of several
+little streams, which are fed on their journey to their bourne, the
+Thames (to which they act as tributaries), by numerous little brooklets
+and rivulets, which help to swell their volume. On the northern side
+of the ridge which runs from Hampstead to Highgate, birth is given
+to the Brent, which, springing from a pond in the grounds of Sir
+Spencer Wells, is pent up in a large reservoir at Hendon, and finally
+debouches into the Thames at Brentford, where,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span>
+from a little spring, which it is at starting, it becomes so far a
+"fleet" as to allow barges to go up some distance.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_022-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_022-500.png" width="500" height="459" alt="SHEPHERD'S WELL, HAMPSTEAD." /></a>
+<div class="caption">SHEPHERD'S WELL, HAMPSTEAD.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>On the southern side of the ridge rise the Tybourne, and the
+Westbourne. The former had its rise in a spring called Shepherd's Well,
+in Shepherd's Fields, Hampstead, which formed part of the district
+now known as Belsize Park and FitzJohn's Avenue, which is the finest
+road of private houses in London. Shepherd's
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span>
+Well is depicted in Hone's "Table Book," pp. 381, 2, and shows it as it
+was over fifty years since. Alas! it is a thing of the past; a railway
+tunnel drained the spring, and a mansion, now known as The Conduit
+Lodge, occupies its site. It meandered by Belsize House, through St.
+John's Wood, running into Regent's Park, where St. Dunstan's now is,
+and, close to the Ornamental Water, it was joined by a little rivulet
+which sprang from where now, is the Zoological Gardens. It went across
+Marylebone Road, and, as nearly as possible, Marylebone Lane shows
+its course; then down South Molton Street, passing Brook Street, and
+Conduit Street, by Mayfair, to Clarges Street, across Oxford Street
+and into a pond in the Green Park called the Ducking Pond, which was
+possibly used as a place of punishment for scolds, or may have been an
+ornamental pond for water-fowl. Thence it ran in front of Buckingham
+Palace, where it divided, which was the cause of its name. Twy, or Teo
+(double), and Bourne, Brook&mdash;one stream running into the Thames
+west of Millbank, doing duty by the way in turning the Abbey Mill
+(whence the name), and the other debouching east of Westminster Bridge,
+thus forming the Island of Thorns, or Thorney Isle, on which Edward the
+Confessor founded his abbey, and the City of Westminster.</p>
+
+<p>The Westbourne took its rise in a small pond near "Telegraph Hill,"
+at Hampstead; two or three brooklets joined it, and it ran its course
+across the Finchley Road, to the bottom of Alexandra Road, Kilburn,
+where it was met by another stream, which had its source at Frognal,
+Hampstead. It then became the West bourne,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span>
+as being the most westerly of all the rivers near London, taking the
+Wallbrook, the Fleet, and the Tybourne.</p>
+
+<p>Its course may be traced down Kilburn Park Road, and Shirland
+Road. Crossing the Harrow Road where now is Westbourne Park Station,
+<i>Eastbourne</i> and <i>Westbourne</i> Terraces mark the respective banks, and,
+after crossing the Uxbridge Road, it runs into the Serpentine at the
+Engine House. Feeding that sheet of water, it comes out again at the
+Albert Gate end, runs by Lowndes Square, Cadogan Place, &amp;c., and,
+finally, falls into the river at Chelsea Hospital.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes"> <blockquote> <p class="footnote"><span
+class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_9" id="Footnote_9"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_9"> <span class="label">[9]</span></a> <i>Journal to
+Stella</i>, October 17, 1710&mdash;"This day came out <i>The Tatler</i>, made
+up wholly of my Shower, and a preface to it. They say it is the best
+thing I ever writ, and I think so too."</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_10" id="Footnote_10"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_10"><span class="label">[10]</span></a> "Memorials of
+London and London Life in the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth
+Centuries," by H. J. Riley, 1868, p. 214.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_11" id="Footnote_11"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_11"><span class="label">[11]</span></a> The street
+sweepers.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_12" id="Footnote_12"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_12"><span class="label">[12]</span></a> Dung boats.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_13" id="Footnote_13"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_13"><span class="label">[13]</span></a> See Riley, p.
+299.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_14" id="Footnote_14"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_14"><span class="label">[14]</span></a> This was
+probably because the rushes were spilt in the river. At that time the
+house-floors were strewn with rushes, which were brought to London
+in "Rush boats;" and an ordinance, <i>temp.</i> 4 Henry V., provides that
+"all rushes in future, laden in boats or skiffs, and brought here for
+sale, should be sold by the cart-load, as from of old had been wont to
+be done. And that the same cart-loads were to be made up within the
+boats and skiffs in which the said rushes are brought to the City, and
+not upon the ground, or upon the wharves, walls, or embankments of
+the water of Thames, near or adjacent to such boats or skiffs; under
+a heavy penalty upon the owner or owners of such boats, skiffs, and
+rushes, at the discretion of the Mayor and Aldermen."</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_15" id="Footnote_15"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_15"><span class="label">[15]</span></a> See Riley, p.
+675.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_024-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_024-200.png" width="200" height="191" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_025-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_025-500.png" width="500" height="121" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER III.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THE Fleet, as far as can be ascertained, owes its
+birth to an ornamental water, fed by springs&mdash;one of the numerous
+ponds in Highgate and Hampstead&mdash;in the park of Ken Wood, the seat
+of Earl Mansfield, now occasionally occupied by the fourth successor to
+that title; who, being keeper of the royal Castle of Scone, prefers, as
+a rule, his northern residence. In the No Popery riots of 1780, with
+which Lord George Gordon was so intimately connected, Ken Wood House
+was on the brink of being destroyed by the rioters, who had, already,
+wrecked his lordship's house in Bloomsbury Square, and destroyed his
+most valuable library. Tradition says that Ken Wood was saved owing
+to the landlord of "The Spaniards," well known to all pedestrian
+frequenters of Hampstead, giving them his beer, &amp;c., until they
+were incapacitated, or unwilling, to fulfil their quest, meanwhile
+sending messengers for the Horse Guards, who opportunely arrived, and
+prevented the destruction of the mansion. It is quite possible
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span>
+that this is a true story, for a footnote (p. 69) in Prickett's "History
+of Highgate" says: "The following is copied from a receipt of one of the constables of
+the Hundred of Ossulston: 'Received 8s. 6d., being the proportion taxed
+and assessed for and towards the payment of the several taxations and
+assessments which have been made upon the said Parish (amounting to the
+sum of &pound;187. 18s. 7d.) towards an equal contribution, to be had
+and made for the relief of the several inhabitants of said Hundred;
+against whom, the several persons who were damnified by rioters within
+the same Hundred, in the month of June, 1780, have obtained verdicts,
+and had their executions respectively.'"</p>
+
+<p>Commencing thus in one of the prettiest parts of the most
+picturesque suburbs of London, it flows from one to the other, right
+through the chain of the Highgate Ponds, fed by several rills, the
+first being near the Hampstead end of Millfield Lane&mdash;which
+is, by some, regarded as its source. From the lower pond it crossed
+the Highgate Road, and, for some distance, it ran parallel with it,
+although a little way eastward. It again crossed the Highgate Road
+not far from its junction with the Kentish Town Road, the course of
+which it followed, until it came to Hawley Road, where it was joined
+by a sister brook, whose source was the pond in the Vale of Health at
+Hampstead, flowing from which, it was fed by a brooklet, over which the
+abortive viaduct of Sir Thomas Marion Wilson's construction is carried.
+It ran into, and through, the Hampstead Ponds, which end at the lower
+east heath, near Pond Street (a locality
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span>
+easily recognized when once any one has seen St. Stephen's Church,
+Haverstock Hill, one of the most beautiful churches in London). These
+ponds are immortal, if they needed immortality, as the very first
+page of "Pickwick" gives an entry in the Transactions of the Pickwick
+Club:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<i>May 12, 1827.</i> Joseph Smiggers, Esq., P.V.P., M.P.C.,
+presiding. The following resolutions unanimously agreed to&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"'That this Association has heard read, with feelings of unmingled
+satisfaction, and unqualified approval, the paper communicated by
+Samuel Pickwick, Esq., G.C., M.P.C., entitled, "Speculations on the
+Source of the Hampstead Ponds, with some observations on the Theory
+of Tittlebats"; and that this Association does hereby return its
+warmest thanks to the said Samuel Pickwick, Esq., G.C., M.P.C., for the
+same.'"</p> </blockquote>
+
+<p>Its memory is still retained in the Fleet Road.</p>
+
+<p>On its way through Kentish Town it passed through a purely pastoral
+country, such as we, who know the district only as covered with houses,
+can hardly reconcile with existing circumstances. The Guildhall
+Collection relating to the Fleet River, is very rich in water-colour
+drawings and pen-and-ink sketches of undoubted authenticity, and
+from them I have selected what, in my opinion, are the most suitable
+for this work. <a name="FNanchor_16" id="FNanchor_16"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_16" class="fnanchor">[16]</a></p>
+
+<p>From the above, and this view of Highgate, so late back as
+1845, we can fairly judge of the pleasant
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span>
+scenery which existed almost at our doors&mdash;before the iron roads
+brought population, which begat houses, which destroyed all rusticity,
+leaving bricks and mortar on the site of verdant meads, and millions of
+chimneys vomiting unconsumed carbon and sulphur, in the place of the
+pure fresh air which once was dominant.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_028-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_028-500.png" width="500" height="420" alt="THE FLEET, KENTISH TOWN. Circa 1837." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE FLEET, KENTISH TOWN.<i> Circa</i> 1837.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Here we see the Fleet running its quiet course&mdash;and
+the other sketches bear witness to its rurality.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_029-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_029-500.png" width="500" height="454" alt="VIEW OF THE VALLEY OF THE FLEET AND
+HIGHGATE CHURCH, FROM FORTESS TERRACE, KENTISH TOWN, SEPT. 28, 1845." /></a>
+<div class="caption">VIEW OF THE VALLEY OF THE FLEET AND HIGHGATE<br />
+CHURCH, FROM FORTESS TERRACE, KENTISH TOWN,<br />
+SEPT. 28, 1845.
+<p class="smaller">(<i>Water colour by A. Crosby.</i>)</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>After the Fleet had recrossed the Highgate Road near the junction
+of that road and the Kentish Town Road, it passed near the <i>Gospel
+Oak</i>, which now gives its name to a railway station in the locality.
+About this oak, there was a tradition that it was so called because
+St. Augustine preached underneath its boughs&mdash;a fact which is
+probably as correct as the story that the Church of St. Pancras was the
+first Christian Church in England. In truth, there are, or were, many
+Gospel Oaks and Elms throughout the country; for instance, there is
+an iron foundry near the parishes of Tipton
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span>
+and Wednesbury called <i>Gospel Oak Works</i>. It was, as a matter of
+fact, a traditionary custom, in many places, when, on Holy Thursday
+(Ascension Day), the parochial bounds were beaten, to read a portion of
+the Gospels under some well-known tree, and hence its name. One or two
+quotations will easily prove this.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 476px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_030-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_030-500.png" width="476" height="500" alt="THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>In the "Bury Wills," p. 118, is the following passage in the will
+of John Cole of Thelnetham, dated May 8,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span>
+1527: "Item, I will haue a newe crosse made according to Trappett's
+crosse at the Hawe lanes ende, and set vp at Short Grove's end,
+where the gospell is sayd vpon Ascension Even, for y<sup>e</sup>
+w<sup>ch</sup> I assigne x<sup>s</sup>."</p>
+
+<p>And, in the poem of Herrick's "Hesperides," which is addressed "To
+Anthea."</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i20">Dearest, bury me</p>
+<p>Under that holy Oke, or Gospel Tree;</p>
+<p>Where, (though thou see'st not,) thou may'st think upon</p>
+<p>Me, when thou yerely go'st procession."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>It also passed near Parliament, or Traitors', Hill&mdash;a name
+which is much in dispute; some maintaining that it was fortified by
+the Parliamentary Army, under Cromwell, for the protection of London,
+others that the 5th of November conspirators met here to view the
+expected explosion of the Houses of Parliament. This, which forms the
+most southern part of Hampstead Heath, and therefore the nearest, and
+most accessible to the great bulk of Londoners, has a beautiful view of
+Highgate and London, and has, I am happy to say, been preserved as an
+open space for the public.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_031-1200.png">
+<img src="images/i_031-500.png" width="500" height="151" alt="THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>We have now followed the Fleet in its course to Kentish Town,
+the etymon of which is, to say the least,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span>
+somewhat hazy. Being so, of course, an immense amount of theory has
+been expended upon it. Some contend that it springs from the Prebendary
+attached to St. Paul's Cathedral, of Cantelupe, or Cantelows, now (in
+<i>Crockford</i>, called Cantlers): one antiquary suggesting that it owes
+its name to the delta formed by the junction of the two branches of
+the Fleet&mdash;from <i>Cant</i> or <i>Cantle</i>, a corner;&mdash;whilst yet
+another authority thinks that, as the Fleet had its source from Ken
+Wood&mdash;it was called Ken-ditch&mdash;hence Kenditch or Kentish
+Town. Be it as it may, it was a very pleasant and rural suburb, and one
+of some note, for herein William Bruges, Garter King-at-Arms, had a
+country house, at which he entertained, in the year 1416, the Emperor
+Sigismund, who came over here, in that year, to try and mediate between
+our Henry V. and the King of France.</p>
+
+<p>In still older times it formed part of the great Middlesex forest,
+which was full of wolves, wild boars, deer, and wild oxen; but we find
+that, in 1252, Henry III. granted to Thomas Ive, permission to inclose
+a portion of the highway adjoining his mansion at Kentessetone. And in
+1357, John of Oxford, who was Mayor of London in 1341, gave, amongst
+other things, to the Priory of the Holy Trinity, in London, a mill
+at Kentish Town&mdash;which, of course, must have been turned by the
+Fleet. The kind donor was one of the very few Mayors who died during
+his mayoralty.</p>
+
+<p>It is said, too, that Nell Gwynne had a house in Kentish Town, but I
+can find not the slightest confirmation of the rumour; still, as there
+is a very good pen-and-ink sketch of the old house said to be hers,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span>
+I give it, as it helps to prove the antiquity of Kentish Town, now,
+alas! only too modern.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_033-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_033-500.png" width="500" height="298" alt="OLD HOUSE, KENTISH TOWN, SUPPOSED TO HAVE BEEN NELL GWYNNE'S." /></a>
+<div class="caption">OLD HOUSE, KENTISH TOWN, SUPPOSED TO HAVE BEEN NELL GWYNNE'S.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>And there was another old house close by the Fleet
+there, an old farmhouse known as Brown's dairy.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_034-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_034-500.png" width="500" height="363" alt="THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN&mdash;BROWNE'S DAIRY FARM, SEPT. 21, 1833." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE FLEET AT KENTISH TOWN&mdash;BROWNE'S DAIRY FARM,<br /> SEPT. 21, 1833.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>This old Farmhouse had, evidently, a nobler origin, for it was
+moated; and, in 1838, the moat existed on
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span>
+the east and north sides. It belonged to the College of Christ Church,
+Oxford, and was held of the Manor of Cantelows at a small fine.
+There was a good orchard, which at the above date (the time of its
+demolition) contained a large walnut tree and some mulberry trees. The
+building materials were sold for £60, so that it evidently had done its
+work, and passed away in the ripeness of old age.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_035-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_035-500.png" alt="CASTLE, KENTISH TOWN ROAD, 1848." width="500" height="280" /></a>
+<div class="caption">CASTLE, KENTISH TOWN ROAD, 1848.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>The Castle Inn is said to have been the oldest house in Kentish
+Town, and there is a tradition that Lord Nelson once lived here,
+"in order that he might keep his eye upon the Fleet," and planted a
+sycamore in the garden.</p>
+
+<p>Before taking leave of Kentish Town, I cannot help recording a legal
+squabble, which resulted in a victory for the public.&mdash;<i>Times</i>,
+February 12, 1841:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Court of Queen's Bench</span>, <i>Thursday, February
+11, 1841</i>. (Sittings at Nisi Prius, at Westminster, before
+Lord Denman and a special jury.)</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span></p>
+
+<p class="center">"<span class="smcap">The Queen</span> <i>v.</i> <span class="smcap">Tubb</span>.</p>
+
+<p>"This was an Indictment against the Defendant for obstructing a
+footpath leading from Pond Lane, at Hampstead, over Traitors' and
+Parliament Hill, to Highgate.</p>
+
+<p>"The case lasted the whole day.</p>
+
+<p>"The jury brought a verdict for the Crown, thus establishing
+the right of the Public to one of the most beautiful walks in the
+neighbourhood of the metropolis."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>The Fleet babbled through the meadows, until its junction with
+that other stream which flowed from the pond in the Vale of Health at
+Hampstead, which took place where now is Hawley Street, and the united
+brook, or river, ran across what are now the Kentish, and Camden, Town
+Roads, and between Great College Street, and King Street; it then
+followed the course of the present road to King's Cross, passing by St.
+Pancras Church&mdash;which, originally, was of great antiquity, and
+close by which was a celebrated healing well, known as Pancras' Wells.
+These waters cured everything&mdash;scurvy, king's evil, leprosy,
+cancers, ulcers, rheumatism, disorders of the eyes, and pains of the
+stomach and bowels, colds, worms, &amp;c., &amp;c.</p>
+
+<p>In the Church, and Churchyard, were interred many illustrious
+dead, especially Roman Catholics, who seem to have taken a particular
+fancy to have their remains buried there, probably on account of the
+tradition that this was the last church in which mass was celebrated.
+It was a favourite burial-place of the French clergy&mdash; <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span>
+and a story is told (how true I know not) that, down to the French
+Revolution, masses were celebrated in a church in the south of France,
+dedicated to St. Pancras, for the souls of the faithful interred
+here.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_037-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_037-500.png" width="500" height="329" alt="THE BRILL." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE BRILL.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Many historical names are here preserved&mdash;amongst whom are
+Pasco de Paoli, the famous Corsican; Walker, whose dictionary is
+still a text book; the Chevalier d'Eon, respecting whose sex there
+was once such a controversy; Count O'Rourke, famous in the world of
+fashion in 1785; Mrs. Godwin&mdash;better known, perhaps, as Mary
+Woolstencraft&mdash;who also was married here; William Woollett, the
+eminent landscape engraver, a branch of art in which he may be said
+to have been the father; Samuel Cooper, whose miniatures cannot be
+surpassed; Scheemaker the younger, a sculptor of no small note. Nor in
+this <i>campo santo</i> was Music unrepresented, for there, amongst <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span>
+others, lie the bodies of Mazzinghi, who brought the violin into
+fashion here in 1740; and Beard, a celebrated singer in 1753. The river
+flows hence to Battle Bridge, or King's Cross, as it is now termed,
+forming in its way a sort of pond called "Pancras Wash," and running
+through a low-lying district called "The Brill." <a name="FNanchor_17"
+id="FNanchor_17"></a><a href="#Footnote_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a>
+This peculiarly unsavoury neighbourhood has now been cleared away, in
+order to afford siding room, &amp;c., for the Midland Railway.</p>
+
+<p>But Dr. Stukeley, who certainly had Roman Camps on the brain,
+discovered one in the Brill. He planned it out beautifully. Here were
+the Equites posted, there the Hastati, and there were the Auxiliarii.
+He made the Fleet do duty for a moat which nearly surrounded Cæsar's
+Prætorium, and he placed a Forum close by St. Pancras' Church, to the
+northward of which he assigned a Prætorium to Prince Mandubrace. Is it
+not true? for is it not all written in his "Itinerary"? and does he not
+devote the first seventeen pages of the second volume of that work,
+entirely to the Brill, assuring us of the great pleasure he received
+in striding over the ground&mdash;following, in imagination, the
+footsteps of the Roman Camp Master, who <i>paced</i> out the dimensions of
+the Camp?</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_16" id="Footnote_16"></a><a href="#FNanchor_16"><span class="label">[16]</span></a>
+See pages <a href="#Page_28">28</a>, 29, 30, 31, &amp;c.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_17" id="Footnote_17"></a><a href="#FNanchor_17"><span class="label">[17]</span></a>
+See<a href="#Page_37"> previous page</a>.</p>
+</div>
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_038-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_038-200.png" width="200" height="129" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_039-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_039-500.png" width="500" height="143" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER IV.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THAT it was <i>countrified</i> about this
+part of London, is shown by the accompanying Copy of an
+engraving, by J. T. Smith, of a view "near Battle Bridge."<a
+name="FNanchor_18" id="FNanchor_18"></a><a href="#Footnote_18"
+class="fnanchor">[18]</a></p>
+
+<p>The etymology of Battle Bridge, which consists of only one arch,
+and now forms a part of the Fleet Sewer, is a much vexed question. At
+one time it was an article of faith, not to be impugned, that here,
+<span class="smcap">A.D.</span> 61, was fought the famous battle
+between the Romans, under Suetonius Paulinus, and the Britons, under
+Boadicea, Queen of the Iceni, which ended so disastrously for the
+natives&mdash;eighty thousand of whom are said to have been killed.
+But there seems to be a doubt, as to whether this was the exact spot
+where this historical contest took place, for Tacitus makes no mention
+of the little river Fleet, which must then have been navigable for
+light and small craft, for an anchor was found, in its bed, at Kentish
+Town. He only describes it (Tacit. Ann. lib. xiv. c. 34) a spot of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span>
+ground, "narrow at the entrance, and sheltered in the rear by a thick
+forest." No remains have ever been exhumed, nor have Roman, or British,
+relics been found near the spot.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_040-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_040-500.png" width="500" height="366" alt="BATTLE BRIDGE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">BATTLE BRIDGE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>In the first quarter of this century the Fleet, for the greater
+part of its time, ran placidly along, as we see by these two
+pen-and-ink sketches, taken at Battle Bridge. <a name="FNanchor_19"
+id="FNanchor_19"></a><a href="#Footnote_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a>
+But, occasionally, it forgot its good manners, and overflowed its
+banks, flooding portions of Kentish Town, Somers Town, and Battle
+Bridge, as we read in the <i>Gentlemans Magazine</i>, vol. lxxxviii. part i.
+p. 462, Saturday, May 9, 1818:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"From the heavy rain, which commenced yesterday <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span>
+afternoon at six o'clock, and continued pouring incessantly till four
+this morning, Battle Bridge, St. Pancras, and part of Somers Town were
+inundated. The water was several feet deep in many of the houses, and
+covered an extent of upwards of a mile. The carcases of several sheep
+and goats were found near Hampstead Reservoir, and property was damaged
+to a very considerable amount."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_041-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_041-500.png" width="500" height="260" alt="BATTLE BRIDGE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">BATTLE BRIDGE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>There must have been a Mill here, for Stow tells us
+that in the reign of Edward VI. "A Miller of Battaile
+Bridge was set on the Pillory in Cheape, and had both
+his eares cut off, for seditious words by him spoken
+against the Duke of Somerset."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_042-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_042-500.png" width="500" height="280" alt="BATTLE BRIDGE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">BATTLE BRIDGE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Here, as elsewhere, just outside London, the road was <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span> not
+too safe for travellers, as the following account of a highway robbery
+will show. It was committed by one John Everett, whose career in life
+had been rather chequered. As an apprentice he ran away, and enlisted
+in Flanders, rising to the rank of sergeant. When the troops returned,
+he purchased his discharge, and got a situation in the Whitechapel
+Debtors' Court, but had to leave it, and he became a companion of
+thieves, against whom he turned king's evidence. He got into debt, and
+was locked up in the Fleet Prison, but was allowed to reside within
+the Rules, a district round about the prison, out of which no prisoner
+might wander; and there, in the Old Bailey, he kept a public-house. But
+he could not keep away from evil doing, and was sent to Newgate. On the
+expiration of his sentence, he turned highwayman. In the course of his
+professional career he, on December 24, 1730, stopped a Coach at Battle
+Bridge, which coach contained two ladies, a child, and a maidservant,
+and he despoiled them, but not uncivilly. The husband of one of the
+ladies coming up, pursued him, and next day he was caught. It was not
+then, any more than it is now, that every rogue got his deserts, but
+this one did, for he was hanged at Tyburn, February 20, 1731.</p>
+
+<p>The name of "Battle Bridge" is well-nigh forgotten, and "King's
+Cross" reigns in its stead. Yet how few Londoners of the present
+generation know whence the name is derived! If they ever trouble their
+heads about it at all, they probably imagine that it was a cross, like
+the Eleanor Crosses, raised to the memory of some king.</p>
+
+<p>And what king, think you, was it intended to keep in perpetual
+remembrance? None other than his Most Gracious Majesty King George
+the Fourth, of pious memory. Why this monument was raised I have
+never been able to learn, unless it was to celebrate his death, <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span> which
+took place in 1830, and probably to hold up his many virtues, as bright
+exemplars, to ages yet unborn; but a mad fit came over the inhabitants
+of Battle Bridge, and the hideous structure arose. It was all shoddy;
+in the form of an octagon building ornamented with pilasters, all
+substantially built of brick, and covered over with compo or cement,
+in order to render it more enduring. It was used as a police-station,
+and afterwards as a public-house, whilst the pediment of the statue
+was utilized as a camera obscura. I don't think they knew exactly what
+they were about, for one party wanted it to be called Boadicea's Cross,
+another went in for it being nationally named St. George's Cross; but
+the goodness of the late king was more popular, and carried the day,
+and we now enjoy the <i>nominis umbra</i> of King's Cross, instead of the
+old cognomen of Battle Bridge. It had a very brief existence. It was
+built between 1830 and 1835, and was demolished in 1845; the stucco
+statue only having been <i>in situ</i> for ten years. It is said that the
+nose of this regal statue had, for its base, an earthen draining tile,
+and that it was offered to a gentleman for sixpence!</p>
+
+<p>There hardly seems to be any connection between "the first gentleman
+in Europe" and dustmen, but there is a slight link. Battle Bridge was
+peculiarly the home of the necessary dustman, and in a song called "The
+Literary Dustman," commencing&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width14">  <div class="stanza">
+<p>"They call me Adam Bell, 'tis clear</p>
+<p>That Adam vos the fust man,</p>
+<p>And by a co-in-side-ance queer</p>
+<p>Vy I'm the fust of dustmen,"</p>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>is the following verse:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width14">  <div class="stanza">
+<p>"Great sculptors all conwarse wi' me,</p>
+<p>And call my taste divine, sirs,</p>
+<p>King George's statty at King's Cross,</p>
+<p>Vos built from my design, sirs."</p>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p>Close by here, in Gray's Inn Road, was a mountain of refuse and
+dust; but it was as profitable as were the heaps of Mr. Boffin in
+Charles Dickens's "Our Mutual Friend." This mound once had a curious
+clearance, so it is said. It was bought in its entirety, and sent over
+to Russia, to help make bricks to rebuild Moscow; and the ground on
+which it stood was, in 1826, sold to a Company for £15,000.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_045-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_045-500.png" width="500" height="190" alt="DUST HEAP AT BATTLE BRIDGE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">DUST HEAP AT BATTLE BRIDGE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width14">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"My dawning Genus fust did peep,</p>
+<p>Near Battle Bridge,'tis plain, sirs:</p>
+<p>You recollect the cinder heap,</p>
+<p>Vot stood in Gray's Inn Lane, sirs?"</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Let us turn to a sweeter subject, and gossip about St. Chad's
+Well, the site of which is now occupied by
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span>
+the Metropolitan Railway at King's Cross. St. Chad is a saint in the
+English calendar, and might have been a distinguished temperance
+leader, if the number of wells dedicated to him, is any criterion. He
+lived in the seventh century, and was educated at Lindisfarne (at least
+so Bede says), and afterwards became Bishop of Lichfield, and, at his
+death, his soul is said to have been accompanied to heaven by angels
+and sweet music.</p>
+
+<p>A good modern account is given in Hone's "Every Day Book," vol. i.
+pp. 323, 4, 5, which, as it was taken from actual observation about
+fifty years since, may well be transcribed. Speaking of the aforesaid
+dust-heap he says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Opposite to this unsightly site, and on the right hand side of the
+road, is an anglewise faded inscription&mdash;</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 300px;">
+<img src="images/i_046.png" alt="Roadside Marker" width="300" height="126" />
+</div>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"It stands, or rather dejects, over an elderly pair of wooden
+gates, one whereof opens on a scene which the unaccustomed eye may
+take for the pleasure-ground of Giant Despair. Trees stand as if
+made not to vegetate, clipped hedges seem unwilling to decline, and
+nameless weeds straggle weakly upon unlimited borders. If you look
+upwards you perceive, painted on an octagon board, 'Health restored and
+preserved.' Further on, towards the left, stands a low, old-fashioned,
+comfortable-looking,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span>
+large-windowed dwelling, and, ten to one, but there also stands at
+the open door, an ancient ailing female, in a black bonnet, a clean,
+coloured cotton gown, and a check apron, her silver hair only in part
+tucked beneath the narrow border of a frilled cap, with a sedate and
+patient, yet somewhat inquiring look. She gratuitously tells you that
+'the gardens' of 'St. Chad's Well' are for 'Circulation' by paying for
+the waters, of which you may drink as much, or as little, or nothing,
+as you please, at one guinea per year, 9s. 6d. quarterly, 4s. 6d.
+monthly, or 1s. 6d. weekly. You qualify for a single visit by paying
+sixpence, and a large glass tumbler, full of warm water, is handed to
+you. As a stranger, you are told, that 'St. Chad's Well was famous at
+one time.'</p>
+
+<p>"Should you be inquisitive, the dame will instruct you, with an
+earnest eye, that 'people are not what they were,' 'things are not as
+they used to be,' and she 'can't tell what'll happen next.' Oracles
+have not ceased. While drinking St. Chad's water, you observe an
+immense copper, into which it is poured, wherein it is heated to
+due efficacy, and from whence it is drawn by a cock, into glasses.
+You also remark, hanging on the wall, a 'tribute of gratitude,'
+versified, and inscribed on vellum, beneath a pane of glass stained
+by the hand of time, and let into a black frame. This is an effusion
+for value received from St. Chad's invaluable water. But, above all,
+there is a full-sized portrait in oil, of a stout, comely personage,
+with a ruddy countenance, in a coat or cloak, supposed scarlet, a
+laced cravat falling down the breast, and a small red nightcap <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span>
+carelessly placed on the head, conveying the idea that it was painted
+for the likeness of some opulent butcher, who flourished in the reign
+of Queen Anne. Ask the dame about it, and she refers you to 'Rhone.'
+<a name="FNanchor_20" id="FNanchor_20"></a><a href="#Footnote_20"
+class="fnanchor">[20]</a> This is a tall old man, who would be taller
+if he were not bent by years. 'I am ninety-four,' he will tell you,
+'this present year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred, and
+twenty-five.' All that he has to communicate concerning the portrait
+is, 'I have heard say it is the portrait of St. Chad.' Should you
+venture to differ, he adds, 'this is the opinion of most people who
+come here.' You may gather that it is his own undoubted belief.</p>
+
+<p>"On pacing the garden alleys, and peeping at the places of
+retirement, you imagine the whole may have been improved and
+beautified, for the last time, by some countryman of William III., who
+came over and died in the same year with that king, and whose works
+here, in wood and box, have been following him piecemeal ever since.</p>
+
+<p>"St. Chad's Well is scarcely known in the neighbourhood save by its
+sign-board of invitation and forbidding externals; ... it is haunted,
+not frequented. A few years, and it will be with its waters, as with
+the water of St. Pancras' Well, which is enclosed in the garden of a
+private house, near old St. Pancras Churchyard."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>But, although the prophecy in "Hone" was destined <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span> to
+be fulfilled, yet it was twelve years before it came about, and it was
+not until September 14, 1837, that Messrs. Warlters and Co. sold, at
+Garraway's Coffee House, Change Alley, Cornhill, the "valuable Copyhold
+Property, situate in Gray's Inn Lane, near King's Cross, Battle
+Bridge," which consisted of "The well-known and valuable Premises,
+Dwelling-house, Large Garden, and Offices, with the very celebrated
+Spring of Saline Water called St. Chad's Well, which, in proper hands,
+would produce an inexhaustible Revenue, as its qualities are allowed by
+the first Physicians to be unequalled."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_049-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_049-500.png" width="500" height="283" alt="ST. CHAD'S WELL." /></a>
+<div class="caption">ST. CHAD'S WELL.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>It was a good sized piece of ground; in shape of a somewhat
+irregular triangle, of which the base measured about 200 feet, and from
+apex to base 95 feet. It was Copyhold. The vendor was not to be asked
+for a title prior to 1793, and it was held of the Manor of <i>Cantlowes</i>
+or <i>Cantlers</i>, subject to a small fine, certain, of 6s. 8d., on death
+or alienation, and to a Quit Rent of 5d. per annum. We should say,
+nowadays, that the assessment was very small, as, including the large
+gardens, both back and front, the whole was only valued, including
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span>
+the <i>Saline Spring</i>, at £81 10s. per annum, of which £21 10s. was let
+off, but which formed but a small portion of the property.</p>
+
+<p>What would not the waters of St. Chad's Well cure? Really I think
+the proprietor hardly knew himself, for a handbill I have before me
+commences&mdash; "The celebrity of these waters being confined
+chiefly to its own immediate vicinity for a number of years; the
+present proprietor has thought proper to give more extensive
+publicity to the existence of a nostrum provided by Nature, through
+Divine Providence, approaching nearest that great desideratum
+of scientific men and mankind in general, throughout all ages;
+namely, an <span class="smcap">Universal Medicine</span>....
+The many cures yearly performed by these waters does not come
+within the limits of a handbill, but, suffice it to say,
+that here, upon trial, the sufferer finds a speedy and sure
+relief from <span class="smcap">Indigestion</span> and its
+train, <span class="smcap">Habitual Costiveness</span>, the
+extensive range of <span class="smcap">Liver Complaints</span>,
+<span class="smcap">Dropsy</span> in its early stages, <span
+class="smcap">Glandular Obstructions</span>, and that bane of life,
+<span class="smcap">Scrophula</span>; for <span class="smcap">Eruptions
+on the Face or Skin</span> its almost immediate efficacy needs but a
+trial." This wonderful water, with use of garden, was then, say 1835,
+supposed to be worth to the sufferer £1 per annum, or threepence a
+visit, or you might have it supplied at eightpence per gallon.</p>
+
+<p>And yet it seems only to have been a mild aperient, and rather dear
+at the price. In the <i>Mirror</i> of April 13, 1833, Mr. Booth, Professor
+of Chemistry, professed to give an analysis of the "Mineral Waters in
+the neighbourhood of London," and he thus writes of St. Chad's
+
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span>
+Well:
+
+"It is aperient, and is yet much resorted to by the
+poorer classes of the metropolis, with whom it enjoys considerable
+reputation. From an examination, I find it to be a strong solution of
+sulphate of soda and sulphate of magnesia"&mdash; but he does not favour
+us with a quantitative analysis.</p>
+
+<p>Neither does the proprietor, one Wm. Lucas, who not only propounded
+the handbill from which I have quoted, but published a pamphlet on
+the healing virtues of the spring, and he also adds to Mr. Booth's
+qualitative analysis, "a small quantity of Iron, which is held in Solution by
+Carbonic Acid."</p>
+
+<p>"The Well from which the Waters are supplied, is excluded from the
+external air; the Water when freshly drawn is perfectly clear and
+pellucid, and sparkles when poured into a glass; to the taste it is
+slightly bitter, not sufficiently so to render it disagreeable; indeed,
+Persons often think it so palatable as to take it at the table for a
+common beverage."</p>
+
+<p>This, however, is slightly at variance with the following, "As a Purgative, more so than could be inferred from
+their taste, a pint is the ordinary dose for an Adult, which operates
+pleasantly, powerfully, and speedily:" qualities which are scarcely desirable for a Table water.</p>
+
+<p>That, at one time, this Well was in fashion, although in 1825 it was
+in its decadence, I may quote from the pamphlet (which, however, must
+be taken by the reader, <i>quantum valeat</i>):</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p><span class="smcap">Jonathan Rhone</span>, who was
+Gardener and Waiter at these Wells upwards of Sixty Years, says,
+that when he first came into office at about the middle of the <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span>
+eighteenth Century, the Waters were in great repute, and frequently
+were visited by eight or nine hundred Persons in a morning: the charge
+for drinking the Waters was Three pence each Person, and they were
+delivered at the Pump Room for exportation, at the rate of Twenty-four
+pint bottles, packed in hamper, for One Pound Cash."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_18" id="Footnote_18"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_18"><span class="label">[18]</span></a> See next
+page.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_19" id="Footnote_19"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_19"><span class="label">[19]</span></a> See pages 41,
+42.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_20" id="Footnote_20"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_20"><span class="label">[20]</span></a> Rhone was an
+old waiter at the Well. See p. 51.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_052-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_052-200.png" width="200" height="155" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_053-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_053-500.png" width="500" height="107" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER V.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">AS the Fleet was "the River of Wells" it may be as
+well to notice the Wells, which, although not absolutely contributing
+towards swelling its volume, are yet closely adjacent&mdash;namely,
+White Conduit, and Sadlers Wells. Both of these, as indeed were all
+the other Wells about London, were first known as mineral springs,
+a fact which drew the middle classes to seek relief from real, or
+fancied, ailments, by drinking the medicinal waters, as at Bath,
+Epsom, Cheltenham, Harrogate, Brixton, and elsewhere. Wherever people
+congregate, the mere drinking of salutary water, is but tame work, and
+the animal spirits of some of them must find an outlet in amusements,
+which materially assist, to say the least, in the agreeable passing of
+time. But the mere drinking of waters must have been irksome&mdash;even
+if people took to it as well as <i>Shadwell</i> in his play of "Epsom Wells"
+describes:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_054-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_054-500.png" width="500" height="325" alt="THE WHITE CONDUIT." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE WHITE CONDUIT.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<i>Brisket.</i> I vow it is a pleasurable Morning: the
+Waters taste so finely after <br /><span style="margin-left:2em;">being fudled last Night.
+Neighbour <i>Fribbler</i> here's a Pint to you.</span></p>
+
+<p>"<i>Fribbler.</i> I'll pledge you, Mrs. <i>Brisket</i>; I have
+drunk eight already.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Mrs. Brisket.</i> How do the Waters agree with your Ladyship?</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Mrs. Woodly.</i> Oh, Sovereignly: how many Cups <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span> have
+you arrived to?</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Mrs. Brisket.</i> Truly Six, and they pass so kindly."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>By degrees these medicinal waters, or Spas, as they were termed in
+later times, fell into desuetude, possibly because medical knowledge
+was advancing; and the Wells, with their gardens attached, became
+places of outdoor recreation, where the sober citizen could smoke his
+pipe, and have his beer, or cider, whilst his wife, and her gossips,
+indulged in tittle tattle over their Tea&mdash;which, although
+much dearer than at present, was a very popular beverage, and so,
+from health resorts, they imperceptibly merged into the modern Tea
+Garden&mdash;which, in its turn, has become nearly extinct, as have the
+Ranelagh and Vauxhall of a former age; which, however, we have seen, in
+our time, somewhat resuscitated in the outdoor portion of the several
+Exhibitions which have taken place, in the few past years, at South
+Kensington.</p>
+
+<p>The White Conduit had a history of its own, which we can trace
+back, at all events, to the fifteenth century, for it was built as a
+reservoir to supply what was, afterwards, the Charterhouse.</p>
+
+<p>This we can see by a royal licence, dated December 2, 9 Henry
+VI. an. 1431,<a name="FNanchor_21" id="FNanchor_21"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_21" class="fnanchor">[21]</a> which granted to John
+Feryby, and his wife Margery, that they might grant and assign to the
+Prior and Convent of the House of the Salutation of the Blessed Mary
+of the Carthusian Order, by London, a certain well spring (<i>fontein</i>)
+and 53 perches of land in length, and 12 feet in breadth, in the
+vill of Iseldon (Islington)
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span>
+to have to them and their successors for ever, and to the same
+Prior and Convent, to take the said land, and construct a certain
+subterraneous aqueduct from the aforesaid well spring, through
+the aforesaid land, and through the King's highway aforesaid, and
+elsewhere, as it may seem best &amp;c., <i>non obstante</i> the Act
+against mortmain (<i>Teste Humfride Duce Gloucestr' Custode Angliæ apud
+Westm.</i>).</p>
+
+<p>As we know, Henry VIII. put an end to the Monastic Orders in
+England, and, at the dissolution of the Priory, the reversion of
+the site, and house thereof, was granted, on April 14, 1545, <a
+name="FNanchor_22" id="FNanchor_22"></a><a href="#Footnote_22"
+class="fnanchor">[22]</a> to Sir Roger North, in fee, together
+with "all that the Head and original Well Spring of one Channel
+or Aqueduct situate and being in a certain field in the parish of
+Islington"&mdash;and it also gave, all the channels, aqueducts, and
+watercourses under ground "up to the site of the said House of the
+Carthusians."</p>
+
+<p>But, although the spring might, and did, supply the Charter House,
+yet it is possible that the Conduit House, from which it got the name
+of <i>White</i> Conduit, from its being built of white stone&mdash;was
+built by Thomas Sutton, who founded the Hospital of the Charter
+House,&mdash;in 1611. It was either built by him, or repaired in
+1641, for, incorporated in the building, was a stone containing his
+arms&mdash;and initials. <a name="FNanchor_23" id="FNanchor_23"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_23" class="fnanchor">[23]</a></p>
+
+<p>The other initials have not been identified. As the "White Conduit"
+it was known well into this century, but it fell somewhat into
+decay, about 1812&mdash;was never repaired, and, finally, was pulled
+down in 1831&mdash;to make
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span>
+way for the completion of some new buildings in Barnsbury Road, as a
+continuation of Penton Street: and the stone was broken up, and used in
+making the New Road.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 300px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_057-1200.png">
+<img src="images/i_057-300.png" width="300" height="67" alt="STONE IN THE WHITE CONDUIT." /></a>
+<div class="caption">STONE IN THE WHITE CONDUIT.<br />
+<span class="smaller"><i>Gentleman's Magazine</i>, vol. lxxi. p. 1161, A.D. 1801.</span>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>So much for the Conduit itself; but it, although inert, exercised
+a large share in the amusements of Londoners down to a comparatively
+recent period. It was pleasantly situated in the fields, and, until
+this century, during the latter half of which, the modern Babylon has
+become one huge mass of bricks and mortar, it served as a pleasant
+place of recreation for the Cits. There was an uninterrupted prospect
+of Hampstead and Highgate&mdash;which bounded the northern view, and
+which was purely pastoral, with the exception of sparsely-dotted
+farmhouses. There is a tradition that, on the site of the comparatively
+modern <i>White Conduit House</i>, was (in the reign of Charles I.), a
+tavern in the course of erection, and that, being finished, the workmen
+were carousing at the very moment of the monarch's decapitation.</p>
+
+<p>Doubtless, in these suburban fields, there was, for very many
+years, a place for refreshment, which probably took the form, in
+the Arcadian age of the seventeenth and eighteenth century, of
+new milk, curds and whey,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span>
+and syllabubs, for Islington was famous for its dairy produce, <a
+name="FNanchor_24" id="FNanchor_24"></a><a href="#Footnote_24"
+class="fnanchor">[24]</a> as we know by the account of the
+entertainment given to Queen Elizabeth at Kenilworth Castle in 1575 by
+the Earl of Leicester, when the Squier Minstrel of Middlesex made a
+long speech in praise of Islington, whose motto was said to be, "Lactis
+Caseus infans."</p>
+
+<p>The earliest really authentic notice of the White Conduit House,
+I can find, is in the <i>Daily Advertiser</i> August 10, 1754. "This is to
+acquaint the public, that, at the White Conduit House, the proprietor,
+for the better accommodation of the gentlemen and ladies, has completed
+a long walk, with a handsome circular Fish-pond, a number of shady,
+pleasant arbours inclosed with a fence 7 feet high to prevent being
+the least incommoded from the people in the fields. Hot loaves,
+<a name="FNanchor_25" id="FNanchor_25"></a><a href="#Footnote_25"
+class="fnanchor">[25]</a> and butter every day, milk directly from
+the Cows; coffee and tea, and all manners of liquors in the greatest
+perfection: also a handsome Long Room, from whence is the most Copious
+prospects and airy situation of any now in vogue. I humbly hope the
+continuance of my friends' favours, as I make it my chief study to have
+the best accommodations, and am, Gentlemen and Ladies, your obliged
+humble servant, Robert Bartholomew. <i>Note.</i> My Cows eat no grains,
+neither any adulteration <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59"
+id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span> in the Milk or Cream. Bats and Balls
+for Cricket, and a convenient field to play in."
+</p>
+
+<p>This gives us a very fair insight into the sober relaxations of our
+great-great-grandfathers: and that the White Conduit House was, about
+this time, a resort for harmless recreation; and, certainly, it would
+rejoice the modern temperance enthusiasts to find that the principal
+beverages there drank were "non-intoxicants." Oliver Goldsmith used
+frequently to go there, walking from his house at Islington; and, in
+his "Citizen of the World," letter 122, he writes, "After having surveyed the Curiosities of this fair and
+beautiful town, I proceeded forward, leaving a fair stone building on
+my right; here the inhabitants of London often assemble to celebrate
+a feast of hot rolls and butter. Seeing such numbers, each with their
+little tables before them, employed on this occasion, must no doubt be
+a very amusing sight to the looker-on, but still more so to those who
+perform in the Solemnity."</p>
+
+<p>And the same story of simplicity of amusement, and refreshment, is
+amusingly told in the <i>Gentleman's Magazine</i> for May, 1760, vol. xxx.
+p. 242, in a short poem by William Woty, the author of the "Shrubs of
+Parnassus, consisting of a variety of poetical essays, moral and comic,
+by I. Copywell, of Lincoln's Inn, Esq. 1760."</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"<i>And to</i> White Conduit <i>House</i></p>
+<p><i>We will go, will go, will go</i>."</p>
+<p class="i18">Grub Street <i>Register</i>.</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width24">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Wish'd Sunday's come&mdash;mirth brightens ev'ry face,</p>
+<p>And paints the rose upon the housemaid's cheek</p>
+<p><i>Harriot</i>, or <i>Mol</i> more ruddy. Now the heart</p>
+<p>Of prentice resident in ample street,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span>
+<p>Or alley, Kennel-wash'd <i>Cheapside</i>, <i>Cornhill</i></p>
+<p>Or <i>Cranborne</i>, thee, for calcuments renown'd,</p>
+<p>With joy distends. His meal meridian o'er,</p>
+<p>With switch in hand, he to <i>White Conduit</i> house</p>
+<p>Hies merry hearted. Human beings here</p>
+<p>In couples multitudinous assemble,</p>
+<p>Forming the drollest groupe, that ever trod</p>
+<p>Fair Islingtonian plains. Male after male,</p>
+<p>Dog after dog, succeeding&mdash;husbands&mdash;wives&mdash;</p>
+<p>Fathers and mothers&mdash;brothers&mdash;sisters&mdash;friends&mdash;</p>
+<p>And <i>pretty little boys and girls</i>. <i>Around,</i></p>
+<p><i>Across, along</i>, the garden's shrubby maze,</p>
+<p>They walk, they sit, they stand. What crowds press on,</p>
+<p>Eager to mount the stairs, eager to catch</p>
+<p>First vacant bench or chair in <i>long-room</i> plac'd.</p>
+<p>Here prig with prig holds conference polite,</p>
+<p>And indiscriminate, the gaudy beau,</p>
+<p>And sloven mix. Here <i>he</i>, who all the week</p>
+<p>Took bearded mortals by the nose, or sat</p>
+<p>Weaving dead hairs, and whistling wretched strain,</p>
+<p>And eke the sturdy youth, whose trade it is</p>
+<p>Stout oxen to contend, with gold bound hat,</p>
+<p>And silken stocking strut. The red-arm'd belle</p>
+<p>Here shews her <i>tasty</i> gown, proud to be thought</p>
+<p>The butterfly of fashion: and, forsooth,</p>
+<p>Her haughty mistress deigns for once to tread</p>
+<p>The same unhallow'd floor. 'Tis hurry all,</p>
+<p>And ratling cups and saucers. Waiter here,</p>
+<p>And waiter there, and waiter here <i>and</i> there,</p>
+<p>At once is call'd&mdash;<i>Joe&mdash;Joe&mdash;Joe&mdash;Joe&mdash;Joe&mdash;</i></p>
+<p><i>Joe</i> on the right&mdash;and <i>Joe</i> upon the left,</p>
+<p>For ev'ry vocal pipe re-ecchoes <i>Joe</i>.</p>
+<p>Alas, poor <i>Joe</i>! Like <i>Francis</i> in the play</p>
+<p>He stands confounded, anxious how to please</p>
+<p>The many-headed throng. But shou'd I paint</p>
+<p>The language, humours, customs of the place,</p>
+<p>Together with all curtsy's lowly bows,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span>
+<p>And compliments extern, 'twould swell my page</p>
+<p>Beyond it's limits due. Suffice it then,</p>
+<p>For my prophetic muse to say, 'So long</p>
+<p>As fashion rides upon the Wing of time,</p>
+<p>While tea and cream, and buttered rolls can please,</p>
+<p>While rival beaux, and jealous belles exist,</p>
+<p>So long <i>White Conduit</i> house, shall be thy fame.</p>
+<p class="i35">W. W."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Later on in the century, it was still
+a reputable place of resort. In 1774, there was a painting at one
+end of the garden, the perspective of which served, artificially, to
+augment its size; the round fish-pond in the centre of the garden,
+still existed, and the refreshment-rooms, or boxes, were hung with
+Flemish and other pictures.</p>
+
+<p>Hone ("Every Day Book," vol. ii. p. 1201, &amp;c.) says, "About
+1810, the late celebrated Wm. Huntingdon S.S.<a name="FNanchor_26"
+id="FNanchor_26"></a><a href="#Footnote_26" class="fnanchor">[26]</a>
+of Providence Chapel, who lives in a handsome house within sight, was
+at the expense of clearing the spring for the use of the inhabitants;
+but, because his pulpit opinions were obnoxious, some of the
+neighbouring vulgar threw loads of soil upon it in the night, which
+rendered the water impure, and obstructed its channel, and, finally,
+ceasing to flow, the public was deprived of the kindness he proposed.
+The building itself, was in a very perfect state at that time, and
+ought to have been boarded up after the field it stood in was thrown
+open. As the new buildings proceeded, it was injured, and defaced, by
+idle labourers and boys, from mere wantonness, and reduced to a mere
+ruin. There
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span>
+was a kind of upper floor or hayloft in it, which was frequently a
+shelter to the houseless wanderer. A few years ago some poor creatures
+made it a comfortable hostel for the night with a little hay. Early
+in the morning a passing workman perceived smoke issuing from the
+crevices, and as he approached, heard loud cries from within. Some
+mischievous miscreants had <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63"
+id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span> set fire to the fodder beneath the
+sleepers, and, afterwards, fastened the door on the outside: the
+inmates were scorched by the fire, and probably they would all have
+been suffocated in a few minutes, if the place had not been broken
+open.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_062-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_062-500.png" width="500" height="415" alt="THE WHITE CONDUIT." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE WHITE CONDUIT.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>"The 'White Conduit' at this time (1826) merely stands to those who
+had the power, and neglected to preserve it.</p>
+
+<p>"To the buildings grown up around, it might have been rendered a
+neat ornament, by planting a few trees, and enclosing the whole with an
+iron railing, and have stood as a monument of departed worth.</p>
+
+<p>"'White Conduit House' has ceased to be a recreation in the good
+sense of the word. Its present denomination is the 'Minor Vauxhall,'
+and its chief attraction during the passing summer has been Mrs.
+Bland.<a name="FNanchor_27" id="FNanchor_27"></a><a href="#Footnote_27"
+class="fnanchor">[27]</a> She has still powers, and, if their exercise
+here, has been a stay and support to this sweet melodist, so far the
+establishment may be deemed respectable. It is a ground for balloon
+flying and skittle playing, and just maintains itself above the
+very lowest, so as to be one of the most doubtful places of public
+resort. Recollections of it some years ago are more in its favour.
+Its tea gardens then, in summer afternoons,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span>
+were well accustomed by tradesmen and their families; they are now
+comparatively deserted, and, instead, there is, at night, a starveling
+show of odd company and coloured lamps, a mock orchestra, with
+mock singing, dancing in a room which decent persons would prefer
+to withdraw their young folks from, if they entered, and fireworks
+'as usual,' which, to say the truth, are, usually, very good."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_064-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_064-500.png" width="500" height="377" alt="WHITE CONDUIT GARDENS (INTERIOR)." /></a>
+<div class="caption">WHITE CONDUIT GARDENS (INTERIOR).
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; border: none;">
+<a href="images/i_065-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_065-500.png" width="500" height="373" alt="WHITE CONDUIT GARDENS (EXTERIOR)." /></a>
+<div class="caption">WHITE CONDUIT GARDENS (EXTERIOR).
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>As time went on, the place did not improve, as we may see by the
+<i>New Monthly Magazine</i> for 1833, in an article&mdash;part of "Four
+Views of London." Speaking of the White Conduit&mdash;"Here too is that Paradise of apprentice boys, White
+<i>Cundick Couse</i>, as it is cacophoniously pronounced by its visitors,
+which has done much to expel the decencies of the district. Thirty
+years ago this place was better frequented&mdash;that is, there
+was a larger number of respectable adults&mdash;fathers and <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span>
+mothers, with their children, and a smaller moiety of shop lads, and
+such like Sunday bucks, who were awed into decency by their elders.
+The manners, perhaps, are much upon a <i>par</i> with what they were. The
+ballroom gentlemen then went through country dances with their hats
+on, and their coats off:&mdash;hats are now taken off, but coats are
+still unfashionable on these gala nights. The belles of that day wore
+long trains to their gowns: it was a favourite mode of introduction
+to a lady there, to tread on it, and then, apologizing handsomely,
+acquaintance was begun, and soon ripened into an invitation to tea,
+and the hot loaves for which these gardens were once celebrated. Being
+now a popular haunt, those who hang on the rear of the march of human
+nature, the suttlers, camp followers, and plunderers, know that where
+large numbers of men and boys are in pursuit of pleasure, there is a
+sprinkling of the number to whom vice and debauchery are ever welcome:
+they have, therefore, supplied what these wanted; and Pentonville
+may now hold up its head, and boast of its depravities before any
+part of London."<a name="FNanchor_28" id="FNanchor_28"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_28" class="fnanchor">[28]</a></p>
+
+<p>It got more and more disreputable, until it was pulled down in 1849,
+and the present White Conduit Tavern was built upon a portion of its
+site.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_21" id="Footnote_21"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_21"><span class="label">[21]</span></a> Cart. Antiq. in
+Off. Augm. vol. ii. No. 43.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_22" id="Footnote_22"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_22"><span class="label">[22]</span></a> Pat. 36 Henry
+VIII. p. 13, m. 31.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_23" id="Footnote_23"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_23"><span class="label">[23]</span></a> See next
+page.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_24" id="Footnote_24"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_24"><span class="label">[24]</span></a> In an
+early sixteenth century book (unique) printed by Wynkyn de Worde,
+called "Cocke Lorelles Boke" the dairy farming at Islington is
+mentioned&mdash;</p>
+
+<p class="center"> "Also mathewe to the drawer of London,<br /> And
+sybly sole mylke-wyfe of Islington."</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_25" id="Footnote_25"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_25"><span class="label">[25]</span></a> These Rolls
+were as famous as Chelsea Buns. "White Conduit loaves" being a familiar
+street cry.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_26" id="Footnote_26"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_26"><span class="label">[26]</span></a> This revivalist
+used these initials as meaning "Sinner Saved."</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_27" id="Footnote_27"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_27"><span class="label">[27]</span></a> A somewhat
+famous singer in the latter part of the eighteenth and first quarter
+of the nineteenth centuries. She sang and acted at Drury Lane and the
+Haymarket&mdash;and also sang at Vauxhall. She became poor, and on
+July 5, 1824, she had a benefit at Drury Lane, which, with a public
+subscription, produced about £800. Lord Egremont also allowed her £80 a
+year. She was somewhat related to Royalty: her husband, Bland, an actor
+at Drury Lane, being the brother of Mrs. Jordan, who was the wife of
+William the Fourth.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_28" id="Footnote_28"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_28"><span class="label">[28]</span></a> A frequent
+visitor at these gardens was the late George Cruikshank, and many
+subjects were transferred to his sketch book. He was so well known, as
+to become a sort of terror to the habitués of the place, and children
+were threatened, when fractious, "that if they made such ugly faces,
+Mr. Cruikshank would put them in his book."</p> </div>
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_067-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_067-500.png" width="500" height="125" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER VI.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">SADLER'S WELLS does not really feed the Fleet
+River, but I notice the spring, for the same reason that I noticed the
+White Conduit.</p>
+
+<p>A very fair account of its early history is given in a little
+pamphlet entitled "A True and Exact Account of Sadlers Well: or the New
+Mineral Waters. Lately found out at Islington: Treating of its nature
+and Virtues. Together with an Enumeration of the Chiefest Diseases
+which it is good for, and against which it may be used, and the Manner
+and Order of Taking of it. Published for publick good by T. G. (Thomas
+Guidot) Doctor of Physick. Printed for <i>Thomas Malthus</i> at the <i>Sun</i> in
+the <i>Poultry</i>. 1684."</p>
+
+<p>It begins thus:&mdash;"The New Well at <i>Islington</i> is a certain Spring in
+the middle of a Garden, belonging to the Musick House built by Mr.
+<i>Sadler</i>, on the North side of the Great Cistern that receives the
+New River Water near Islington, the Water whereof was, before the
+Reformation, very much famed for several extraordinary Cures performed
+thereby, and was, thereupon, accounted
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span>
+sacred, and called <i>Holy Well</i>. The Priests belonging to the Priory of
+<i>Clarkenwell</i> using to attend there, made the People believe that the
+virtues of the Waters proceeded from the efficacy of their Prayers. But
+upon the Reformation the Well was stopt up, upon a supposition that the
+frequenting it was altogether superstitious, and so, by degrees, it
+grew out of remembrance, and was wholly lost, until found out, and the
+Fame of it revived again by the following accident.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. <i>Sadler</i> being made Surveyor of the High Ways, and having good
+Gravel in his own Gardens, employed two Men to Dig there, and when they
+had Dug pretty deep, one of them found his Pickax strike upon some
+thing that was very hard; whereupon he endeavoured to break it, but
+could not: whereupon thinking with himself that it might, peradventure,
+be some Treasure hid there, he uncovered it very carefully, and found
+it to be a Broad, Flat Stone: which, having loosened, and lifted up,
+he saw it was supported by four Oaken Posts, and had under it a large
+Well of Stone Arched over, and curiously carved; and, having viewed
+it, he called his fellow Labourer to see it likewise, and asked him
+whether they should fetch Mr. <i>Sadler</i>, and shew it to him? Who, having
+no kindness for <i>Sadler</i>, said no; he should not know of it, but as
+they had found it, so they would stop it up again, and take no notice
+of it; which he that found it consented to at first, but after a little
+time he found himself (whether out of Curiosity, or some other reason,
+I shall not determine) strongly inclined to tell <i>Sadler</i> of the Well;
+which he did, one Sabbath Day in the Evening.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"<i>Sadler</i>, upon this, went down to see the Well, and observing the
+Curiosity of the Stone Work, that was about it, and fancying within
+himself that it was a Medicinal Water, formerly had in great esteem,
+but by some accident or other lost, he took some of it in a Bottle, and
+carryed it to an Eminent Physician, telling him how the Well was found
+out, and desiring his Judgment of the Water; who having tasted and
+tried it, told him it was very strong of a Mineral taste, and advised
+him to Brew some Beer with it, and carry it to some Persons, to whom he
+would recommend him; which he did accordingly. And some of those who
+used to have it of him in Bottles, found so much good by it, that they
+desired him to bring it in Roundlets."</p>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p>Sadler's success, for such it was, provoked the envy of others, and
+one or two satires upon the Wells were produced.</p>
+
+<p>Soon after he opened the Wells, Evelyn visited them, as we read in
+his invaluable diary.  "June 11, 1686. I went to see Middleton's receptacle of
+water <a name="FNanchor_29" id="FNanchor_29"></a><a href="#Footnote_29"
+class="fnanchor">[29]</a> and the New Spa Wells, near Islington." The Spring
+was still known as Sadler's up to 1697 as we find in
+advertisements in the <i>Post Boy</i> and <i>Flying Post</i> of June, in that
+year. But the "Musick House" seems to have passed into other hands,
+for in 1699 it was called "Miles's Musick House." They seem to have
+had peculiar entertainments here, judging by an account in <i>Dawk's
+Protestant Mercury</i> of May 24, 1699. "On Tuesday last a fellow at Sadler's Wells, near
+Islington,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span>
+after he had dined heartily on a buttock of beef, for the lucre of five
+guineas, eat a live cock, feathers, guts, and all, with only a plate of
+oil and vinegar for sawce, and half a pint of brandy to wash it down,
+and afterwards proffered to lay five guineas more, that he could do the
+same again in two hours' time."</p>
+
+<p>That this was a fact is amply borne out by the testimony of Ned
+Ward, who managed to see most of what was going on in town, and he thus
+describes the sight in his rough, but vigorous language.</p>
+
+<p>"With much difficulty we crowded upstairs, where we
+soon got intelligence of the beastly scene in agitation. At last
+a table was spread with a dirty cloth in the middle of the room,
+furnished with bread, pepper, oil, and vinegar; but neither knife,
+plate, fork, or napkin; and when the beholders had conveniently mounted
+themselves upon one another's shoulders to take a fair view of his
+Beastlyness's banquet, in comes the lord of the feast, disguised in an
+Antick's Cap, like a country hangman, attended by a train of Newmarket
+executioners. When a chair was set, and he had placed himself in sight
+of the whole assembly, a live Cock was given into the ravenous paws of
+this ingurgitating monster."</p>
+
+<p>In the same year, in his "Walk to Islington," Ward gives a
+description of the people who frequented this "Musick House."</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width24">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"&mdash;&mdash;mixed with a vermin trained up for the gallows,</p>
+<p>As Bullocks<a name="FNanchor_30" id="FNanchor_30"></a><a href="#Footnote_30" class="fnanchor">[30]</a>
+and files,<a name="FNanchor_31" id="FNanchor_31"></a><a href="#Footnote_31" class="fnanchor">[31]</a>
+housebreakers and padders.<a name="FNanchor_32" id="FNanchor_32"></a><a href="#Footnote_32" class="fnanchor">[32]</a></p>
+<p>With prize fighters, sweetners,<a name="FNanchor_33" id="FNanchor_33"></a><a href="#Footnote_33" class="fnanchor">[33]</a>
+and such sort of traders,</p>
+<p>Informers, thief-takers, deer-stealers, and bullies."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>It seems to have been kept by Francis Forcer, a
+musician, about 1725, and the scene at the Wells is
+graphically described in "The New River, a Poem, by
+William Garbott."</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Through Islington then glides my best loved theme</p>
+<p class="i1">And Miles's garden washes with his stream:</p>
+<p class="i1">Now F&mdash;r's Garden is its proper name,</p>
+<p class="i1">Though Miles the man was, who first got it fame;</p>
+<p class="i1">And tho' it's own'd, Miles first did make it known,</p>
+<p class="i1">F&mdash;r improves the same we all must own.</p>
+<p class="i1">There you may sit under the shady trees,</p>
+<p class="i1">And drink and smoak, fann'd by a gentle breeze;</p>
+<p class="i1">Behold the fish, how wantonly they play,</p>
+<p class="i1">And catch them also, if you please, you may,</p>
+<p class="i1">Two Noble Swans swim by this garden side,</p>
+<p class="i1">Of water-fowl the glory and the pride;</p>
+<p class="i1">Which to the Garden no small beauty are;</p>
+<p class="i1">Were they but black they would be much more rare:</p>
+<p class="i1">With ducks so tame that from your hand they'll feed,</p>
+<p class="i1">And, I believe, for that, they sometimes bleed.</p>
+<p class="i1">A noble Walk likewise adorns the place,</p>
+<p class="i1">To which the river adds a greater grace:</p>
+<p class="i1">There you may sit or walk, do which you please,</p>
+<p class="i1">Which best you like, and suits most with your ease.</p>
+<p class="i1">Now to the Show-room let's awhile repair,</p>
+<p class="i1">To see the active feats performed there.</p>
+<p class="i1">How the bold Dutchman, on the rope doth bound,</p>
+<p class="i1">With greater air than others on the ground:</p>
+<p class="i1">What capers does he cut! how backward leaps!</p>
+<p class="i1">With Andrew Merry eyeing all his steps:</p>
+<p class="i1">His comick humours with delight you see,</p>
+<p class="i1">Pleasing unto the best of company," &amp;c.</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>But a very vivid description of Sadler's Wells is
+given in "Mackliniana, or Anecdotes of the late Mr.
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span>
+Charles Macklin, Comedian" in the <i>European Magazine</i>
+for 1801 (vol. xl. p. 16):&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Being met one night at Sadler's Wells by a friend,
+who afterwards saw him home, he went into a history
+of that place, with an accuracy which, though nature
+generally denies to the recollection of old age in recent
+events, seems to atone for it in the remembrance of
+more remote periods.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Sir, I remember the time when the price of admission
+<i>here</i> was but <i>threepence</i>, except a few places scuttled
+off at the sides of the stage at sixpence, and which was
+usually reserved for people of fashion, who occasionally
+came to see the fun. Here we smoked, and drank
+porter and rum and water, as much as we could pay
+for, and every man had his doxy that liked it, and so
+forth; and though we had a mixture of very odd company
+(for I believe it was a good deal the baiting place
+of thieves and highwaymen) there was little or no
+rioting. There was a <i>public</i> then, Sir, that kept one
+another in awe.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Q.</i> Were the entertainments anything like the
+present? <i>A.</i> No, no; nothing in the shape of
+them; some hornpipes and ballad singing, with a kind
+of pantomimic ballet, and some lofty tumbling&mdash;and all
+this was done by daylight, and there were four or five
+exhibitions every day.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Q.</i> How long did these continue at a time?
+<i>A.</i> Why, Sir, it depended upon circumstances. The
+proprietors had always a fellow on the outside of the
+booth, to calculate how many people were collected for
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span>
+a second exhibition, and when he thought there were
+enough, he came to the back of the upper seats, and
+cried out, 'Is <i>Hiram Fisteman</i> here?' This was the
+cant word agreed upon between the parties, to know the
+state of the people without&mdash;upon which they concluded
+the entertainment with a song, dismissed that audience,
+and prepared for a second representation.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Q.</i> Was this in Rozamon's time? <i>A.</i> No, no,
+Sir; long before&mdash;not but old Rozamon improved it a
+good deal, and, I believe, raised the price generally to
+sixpence, and in this way got a great deal of money."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Space prevents one going into the merits of the
+Theatre here, but it may not be out of place if I
+mention some of the singers, and actors, who have
+appeared on those boards&mdash;Joey Grimaldi, Braham,
+Miss Shields (afterwards Mrs. Leffler), Edmund Kean,
+the great traveller Belzoni, Miss Tree, Phelps, of
+Shakespearian fame, Marston, and others, testify to the
+talent which has had its home in this theatre. One peculiarity
+about Sadler's Wells Theatre was the introduction
+of real water as a scenic effect. It seems to have been first
+used on Easter Monday, April 2, 1804, in an entertainment
+called <i>Naumachia</i>. A very large tank was
+made under the stage, and filled with water from the
+New River; and in this tank mimic men o' war bombarded
+Gibraltar, but were repulsed, with loss, by the
+heroic garrison. Afterwards, it was frequently used for
+<i>Spectacles</i>, in which water was used as an adjunct.</p>
+
+<p>After this digression let us follow the course of the
+River Fleet. Leaving St. Chad's Well, and before
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span>
+coming to Bagnigge Wells, there stood in Gray's Inn
+Road an old public-house called the Pindar of Wakefield,
+the pounder, or keeper of the pound at that town,
+the famous George à Green, who gave Robin Hood a
+notable thrashing, extorting from that bold outlaw this
+confession&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width16">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"For this was one of the best pinders</p>
+<p class="i1">That ever I tryed with sword."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>This old house was destroyed by a hurricane in November,
+1723, when the two daughters of the landlord were
+killed by the falling walls. It was, however, at once
+rebuilt, and a public-house, bearing the same sign, exists
+at 328, Gray's Inn Road&mdash;most probably occupying the
+original site.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_29" id="Footnote_29"></a><a href="#FNanchor_29"><span class="label">[29]</span></a>
+The New River Head.</p>
+</div>
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_30" id="Footnote_30"></a><a href="#FNanchor_30"><span class="label">[30]</span></a>
+A hector, or bully.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_31" id="Footnote_31"></a><a href="#FNanchor_31"><span class="label">[31]</span></a>
+A pickpocket.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_32" id="Footnote_32"></a><a href="#FNanchor_32"><span class="label">[32]</span></a>
+A tramp.</p
+></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_33" id="Footnote_33"></a><a href="#FNanchor_33"><span class="label">[33]</span></a>
+A Sharper.</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_074-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_074-200.png" width="200" height="120" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75_76]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_075-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_075-500.png" width="500" height="268" alt=">THE PINDAR OF WAKEFIELD." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE PINDAR OF WAKEFIELD.
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_077-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_077-500.png" width="500" height="128" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER VII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">BETWEEN this house, and Bagnigge Wells, was
+Bagnigge Wash, or Marsh, and Black Mary's Wells, or Hole. The etymology
+of this place is contested. In the <i>Gentleman's Magazine</i> for 1813,
+part ii. p. 557, in an "Account of various Mineral Wells near London,"
+is the following: "Lastly, in the same neighbourhood, may be mentioned
+the spring or conduit on the eastern side of the road leading from
+Clerken Well to Bagnigge Wells, and which has given name to a very
+few small houses as <i>Black Mary's Hole</i>. The land here was, formerly,
+called Bagnigg Marsh, from the river Bagnigg,<a name="FNanchor_34"
+id="FNanchor_34"></a><a href="#Footnote_34" class="fnanchor">[34]</a>
+which passes through it. But, in after-time, the citizens resorting to
+drink the waters of the conduit, which then was leased to one Mary, who
+kept a black Cow, whose milk the gentlemen and ladies drank with the
+waters of the Conduit, from whence, the wits of that age used to say,
+'Come, let us go to Mary's black hole.' However, Mary dying,
+
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span>
+
+and the place degenerating into licentiousness, about
+1687, Walter Baynes Esqre, of the Inner Temple,
+enclosed the Conduit in the manner it now is, which
+looks like a great oven. He is supposed to have left
+a fund for keeping the same in perpetual repair. The
+stone with the inscription was carried away during the
+night about ten years ago. The water (which formerly
+fed two ponds on the other side of the road) falls into
+the old Bagnigge river."</p>
+
+<p>This etymon, however, is contested in a pamphlet called <i>An
+experimental enquiry concerning the Contents, Qualities, Medicinal
+Virtues of the two Mineral Waters of</i> Bagnigge Wells, &amp;c., by
+John Bevis, M.D. This pamphlet was originally published in 1767, but
+I quote from the third edition of 1819. "At what time these waters
+were first known cannot be made out with any degree of evidence. A
+tradition goes that the place of old was called Blessed Mary's Well;
+but that the name of the Holy Virgin having, in some measure, fallen
+into disrepute after the Reformation, the title was altered to Black
+Mary's Well, as it now stands upon Mr. Rocque's map, and then to Black
+Mary's Hole; though there is a very different account of these latter
+appellations; for there are those who insist they were taken from one
+Mary Woolaston, whose occupation was attending at a well, now covered
+in, on an opposite eminence, by the footway from Bagnigge to Islington
+to supply the soldiery, encamped in the adjacent fields, with water.
+But waving such uncertainties, it may be relied on for truth, that a
+late proprietor, upon taking possession of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span>
+the estate, found two wells thereon, both steaned in a workmanlike
+manner; but when, or for what purpose, they were sunk, he is entirely
+ignorant."</p>
+
+<p>But Black Mary's Hole, during the first half of the
+last century, had a very queer reputation. There was a
+little public-house with the sign of "The Fox at Bay,"
+which probably had something to do with the numerous
+highway robberies that occurred thereabouts.</p>
+
+<p>In Cromwell's "History of Clerkenwell," pp. 318,
+319, we hear of the last of Black Mary's Hole. He
+says, "Beneath the front garden of a house in <span class="smcap">Spring
+Place</span>, and extending under the foot-pavement almost
+to the turnpike gate called the Pantheon Gate, lies the
+capacious receptacle of a <i>Mineral Spring</i>, which in
+former times was in considerable repute, both as a
+chalybeate, and for its supposed efficacy in the cure of
+sore eyes.... About ten years back, when Spring
+Place was erected, the builder removed every external
+appearance of Walter Baynes's labours, and converted
+the receptacle beneath into a cesspool for the drainage
+of his houses. The spring thus degraded, and its
+situation concealed, it is probable that the lapse of a few
+more years would have effaced the memory of it for
+ever, had not an accident re-discovered it in the summer
+of 1826. Its covering, which was only of boards,
+having rotted, suddenly gave way, and left a large chasm
+in the footpath. After some efforts, not perfectly successful,
+to turn off the drainage, it was then arched with
+brickwork, and a leaden pump placed over it, in the
+garden where it chiefly lies. But the pump being stolen
+during the following winter, the spring has again fallen
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span>
+into neglect, and possibly this page alone will prevent its
+being totally forgotten."</p>
+
+<p>Still following the Fleet to its outfall, we next come
+to Bagnigge Well, a chalybeate spring, first used medicinally,
+and then, like all these Spas, merely as a
+promenade, and place of out-of-door recreation.</p>
+
+<p>Originally, this spring probably belonged to the
+Nunnery at Clerkenwell, and may possibly be the
+"Rode Well" mentioned in the Register of Clerkenwell.
+But we are indebted to Dr. Bevis, from whose
+pamphlet I have already quoted, for a history of its
+modern rise and development <a href="#Page_38">(p. 38)</a>.</p>
+
+<p>"In the year 1757, the spot of ground in which this
+well is sunk was let out to a gentleman curious in
+gardening, who observed that the oftener he watered his
+flowers from it the worse they throve. I happened,
+toward the end of that summer, to be in company with
+a friend who made a transient visit to Mr. <span class="smcap">Hughes</span>,
+and was asked to taste the water; and, being surprised
+to find its flavour so near that of the best German
+chalybeates, did not hesitate to declare my opinion, that
+it might be made of great benefit both to the public and
+himself. At my request, he sent me some of the water,
+in a large stone bottle, well corked, the next day; a
+gallon whereof I immediately set over a fire, and by a
+hasty evaporation found it very rich in mineral contents,
+though much less so than I afterwards experienced it to
+be when more leisurely exhaled by a gentle heat.
+Whilst this operation was carrying on, I made some
+experiments on the remainder of the water, particularly
+with powdered galls, which I found to give, in less than
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span>
+a minute, a very rich and deep purple tincture to it, that
+lasted many days without any great alteration. I reported
+these matters to Mr. Hughes, but, soon after, a
+very dangerous illness put a stop to my experiments,
+which I did not resume for a considerable time, when
+the proprietor called, and told me his waters were in very
+great repute, and known by the name of <span class="smcap">Bagnigge
+Wells</span>; which I remembered to have seen in the newspapers,
+without so much as guessing it had been given
+to these springs. Mr. <span class="smcap">Hughes</span> took me to his wells,
+where I was not a little pleased with the elegant accommodations
+he had provided for company in so short a
+time."</p>
+
+<p>The house attached to the Spa is said to have been
+the residence of Nell Gwyn, but tradition has assigned
+her so many houses; at Chelsea, Bagnigge Wells, Highgate,
+Walworth, and Filberts, near Windsor&mdash;nay, one
+enterprising tradesman in the Strand has christened
+a milk shop "Nell Gwyn's Dairy," and has gone to
+some expense, in pictorial tiles, to impress on passers-by
+the genuineness of his assertion.</p>
+
+<p>Still, local tradition is strong, and, in a book called
+"The Recreations<a name="FNanchor_35" id="FNanchor_35"></a><a href="#Footnote_35" class="fnanchor">[35]</a>
+of Mr. Zigzag the elder" (a pseudonym for Mr. John Wykeham Archer, artist and
+antiquary), which is in the Library of the City of
+London, and which is profusely "Grangerised" by the
+author, is a small water colour of Bagnigge House, the
+reputed dwelling of Nell Gwyn, which I have reproduced
+in outline, and on this drawing is a note, "Moreover
+several small tenements at the north end of the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span>
+Garden were formerly entitled Nell Gwynne's Buildings,
+which seems to verify the tradition."
+<a name="FNanchor_36" id="FNanchor_36"></a><a href="#Footnote_36" class="fnanchor">[36]</a></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_082-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_082-500.png" width="500" height="260" alt="BAGNIGGE HOUSE. (Said to have been Nell Gwyn's.)" /></a>
+<div class="caption">BAGNIGGE HOUSE. (Said to have been Nell Gwyn's.)
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>But the evidence is all of a <i>quasi</i> kind. In the long
+room, supposed to have been the banqueting room, was,
+over the mantel, a bust, an <i>alto relievo</i>, of a female,
+supposed to be Nell Gwyn, and said to be modelled by
+Sir Peter Lely, enclosed in a circular border of fruit,
+which, of course, was at once set down as a delicate
+allusion to the actress's former calling of orange wench
+in the theatres. The bust and border were painted to
+imitate nature, and on either side were coats of arms&mdash;one
+the Royal arms, and, on the other side, the Royal
+arms quartered with others, which were supposed to be
+those assumed by the actress. When the old house was
+pulled down, the bust disappeared, and no one knows
+whither it went.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>I give a quotation from the <i>Sunday Times</i>, July 5,
+1840, not as adding authority, or weight, to the idea
+that Bagnigge House was Nell's residence, but to show
+how deeply rooted was the tradition. It is a portion of
+the "<i>Maximms and Speciments of William Muggins,
+Natural Philosopher, and Citizen of the World</i>"&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Oh! how werry different London are now to wot
+it war at the time as I took my view on it from the post;
+none of them beautiful squares and streets, as lies heast
+and west, and north of the hospital, war built then; it
+war hall hopen fields right hup to Ampstead an Ighgate
+and Hislington. Bagnigge Well stood by itself at the
+foot of the hill, jist where it does now; and then it
+looked the werry pictur of countryfiedness and hinnocence.
+There war the beautiful white washed walls,
+with the shell grotto in the hoctagon summer house,
+where Nell Gwynne used to sit and watch for King
+Charles the Second. By the by, a pictur done by a
+famous hartist of them days, Sir Somebody Neller I
+thinks war his name, represents the hidentical ouse (it
+war a fine palace then) with the hidentical hoctagon
+summer house, with the beautiful Nelly leaning hout of
+the winder, with her lilly white hand and arm a-beckoning,
+while the King is seed in the distance galloping
+like vinking across the fields a waving his hat and
+feathers; while a little page, with little tobacker-pipe
+legs, in white stockings, stands ready to hopen a little
+door in the garden wall, and let hin the royal wisitor,
+while two little black and tan spanels is frisking about
+and playing hup hold gooseberry among the flower beds.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>That ere pictur used to hang hup in the bar parlor; its
+wanished now&mdash;so are the bust as were in the long room;
+but there's another portrait pictur of her, all alone by
+herself, done by Sir Peter Lely, still to be seen. (This
+here last coorosity war discovered honly a year or two ago,
+rolled hup among sum rubbige in the loft hunder the
+roof.)"</p></blockquote>
+
+<p>The old house, however, was evidently of some
+importance, for, over a low doorway which led into the
+garden, was a stone, on which was sculptured a head in
+relief, and the following inscription&mdash;</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="xxlarge">X</span><br />
+<span class="xlarge">THIS IS BAGNIGGE<br />
+HOUSE NEARE<br />
+THE PINDAR A<br />
+WAKEFIELDE<br />
+1680.</span><br />
+</p>
+
+<p>thus showing that the Pindar of Wakefield was the
+older house, and famous in that locality. This doorway
+and stone were in existence within the last forty years,
+for, in a footnote to page 572 of the <i>Gentleman's
+Magazine</i> of June, 1847, it says, "The gate and inscription
+still remain, and will be found, where we saw
+them a few weeks since, in the road called Coppice Row,
+on the left going from Clerkenwell towards the New
+Road."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The following illustration gives Bagnigge Wells as it
+appeared at the end of last century.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_085-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_085-500.png" width="500" height="287" alt="BAGNIGGE WELLS, NEAR BATTLE BRIDGE, ISLINGTON" /></a>
+<div class="caption">BAGNIGGE WELLS, NEAR BATTLE BRIDGE, ISLINGTON
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>We have read how these gardens were first started in
+1757, but they soon became well known and, indeed,
+notorious, as we read in a very scurrilous poem called
+"Bagnigge Wells," by W. Woty, in 1760&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width24">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">"Wells, and the place I sing, at early dawn</p>
+<p>Frequented oft, where male and female meet,</p>
+<p>And strive to drink a long adieu to pain.</p>
+<p>In that refreshing Vale with fragrance fill'd,</p>
+<p>Renown'd of old for Nymph of public fame</p>
+<p>And amorous Encounter, where the sons</p>
+<p>Of lawless lust conven'd&mdash;where each by turns</p>
+<p>His venal Doxy woo'd, and stil'd the place</p>
+<p><i>Black Mary's Hole</i>&mdash;there stands a Dome superb,</p>
+<p>Hight Bagnigge; where from our Forefathers hid,</p>
+<p>Long have two Springs in dull stagnation slept;</p>
+<p>But, taught at length by subtle art to flow,</p>
+<p>They rise, forth from Oblivion's bed they rise,</p>
+<p>And manifest their Virtues to Mankind."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The major portion of this poem (?) is rather too <i>risque</i>
+for modern publication, but the following extract shows
+the sort of people who went there with the view of
+benefiting their health&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">"Here ambulates th' Attorney looking grave,</p>
+<p class="i1">And Rake from Bacchanalian rout uprose,</p>
+<p class="i1">And mad festivity. Here, too, the Cit,</p>
+<p class="i1">With belly, turtle-stuff'd, and man of Gout,</p>
+<p class="i1">With leg of size enormous. Hobbling on,</p>
+<p class="i1">The Pump-room he salutes, and in the chair</p>
+<p class="i1">He squats himself unwieldy. Much he drinks,</p>
+<p class="i1">And much he laughs to see the females quaff</p>
+<p class="i1">The friendly beverage. He, nor jest obscene,</p>
+<p class="i1">Of meretricious wench, nor quibble quaint,</p>
+<p class="i1">Of prentic'd punster heeds, himself a wit</p>
+<p class="i1">And dealer in conundrums, but retorts</p>
+<p class="i1">The repartee jocosely. Soft! how pale</p>
+<p class="i1">Yon antiquated virgin looks! Alas!</p>
+<p class="i1">In vain she drinks, in vain she glides around</p>
+<p class="i1">The Garden's labyrinth. 'Tis not for thee,</p>
+<p class="i1">Mistaken nymph! these waters pour their streams," &amp;c.</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>And in the prologue to "Bon Ton: or <i>High</i> Life
+above Stairs," by David Garrick, acted at Drury Lane
+for the first time, for the benefit of Mr. King, in 1775,
+not much is said as to the character of its frequenters.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Ah! I loves life and all the joy it yields,</p>
+<p class="i1">Says Madam Fupock, warm from Spittlefields.</p>
+<p class="i1">Bon Ton's the space 'twixt Saturday and Monday,</p>
+<p class="i1">And riding in a one-horse chaise on Sunday,</p>
+<p class="i1">'Tis drinking tea on summer's afternoons</p>
+<p class="i1">At Bagnigge Wells, with china and gilt spoons."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_34" id="Footnote_34"></a><a href="#FNanchor_34"><span class="label">[34]</span></a>
+Otherwise the Fleet.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_35" id="Footnote_35"></a><a href="#FNanchor_35"><span class="label">[35]</span></a>
+These papers appeared in the <i>Illustrated Family Journal</i>.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_36" id="Footnote_36"></a><a href="#FNanchor_36"><span class="label">[36]</span></a>
+In Cromwell's "History of Clerkenwell," p. 322, we read,
+"In memory of its supposed proprietor, the owner of some small
+tenements near the north end of the gardens styled them 'Nell
+Gwynn's Buildings;' but the inscription was erased before 1803."</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_087-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_087-500.png" width="500" height="137" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER VIII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THE gardens were pretty, after the manner of the
+times; we should not, perhaps, particularly admire
+the formally cut lines and hedges, nor the
+fountain in which a Cupid is hugging a swan, nor the
+rustic statuary of the haymakers. Still it was a little
+walk out of London, where fresh air could be breathed,
+and a good view obtained of the northern hills of
+Hampstead and Highgate, with the interlying pastoral
+country, sparsely dotted with farmhouses and cottages.
+The Fleet, here, had not been polluted into a sewer as
+it was further on, and there were all the elements of
+spending a pleasant, happy day, in good air, amid rural
+scenes.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_088-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_088-500.png" width="500" height="291" alt="A VIEW TAKEN FROM THE CENTER BRIDGE IN THE GARDENS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS" /></a>
+<div class="caption">A VIEW TAKEN FROM THE CENTER BRIDGE IN THE GARDENS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 322px;">
+<a href="images/i_089a-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_089a-500.png" width="325" height="500" alt="WAITER FROM THE
+BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE HUMOURS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS." /></a>
+<div class="caption">WAITER FROM THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY;<br />
+OR, THE HUMOURS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_089b-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_089b-500.png" width="500" height="458" alt="THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE HUMOURS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE BREAD AND BUTTER MANUFACTORY; OR, THE HUMOURS OF BAGNIGGE WELLS.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>The place, however, rapidly became a disreputable
+<i>rendezvous</i>, and we get an excellent glimpse of the
+costumes of <i>circa</i> 1780 in the two following engravings
+taken from mezzotints published by Carington
+Bowles; although not dated, they are of that period,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span>
+showing the Macaronis and Belles of that time. The first is called "The
+<span class="smcap">Bread</span> and <span class="smcap">
+Butter Manufactory</span>,<a name="FNanchor_37" id="FNanchor_37">
+</a><a href="#Footnote_37" class="fnanchor">[37]</a>
+or the Humours of <span class="smcap">Bagnigge Wells</span>," and
+the second "A Bagnigge Wells Scene, or no resisting
+temptation," which gives a charming representation of
+the ultra fashion of dress then worn.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 473px;">
+<a href="images/i_090-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_090-500.png" width="473" height="500" alt="A BAGNIGGE WELLS SCENE; OR, NO RESISTING TEMPTATION." /></a>
+<div class="caption">A BAGNIGGE WELLS SCENE; OR, NO RESISTING TEMPTATION.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Yet another glance at the manners of the time is
+afforded by the boy waiter, who hurries along with his
+tray of tea-things and <i>kettle of hot water</i>.<a name="FNanchor_38" id="FNanchor_38"></a><a href="#Footnote_38" class="fnanchor">[38]</a></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 329px;">
+<a href="images/i_091-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_091-500.png" width="329" height="500" alt="THE BAGNIGGE ORGANIST." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE BAGNIGGE ORGANIST.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>And there was good music there, too&mdash;an organ in
+the long room, on which Charles Griffith performed, as
+may be seen in the accompanying illustration. The
+name of Davis on the music books, is that of the then
+proprietor, and the lines underneath are parodied from
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span>
+Dryden's "Song for St. Cecilia's day, 1687."</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"What passion cannot music raise and quell!</p>
+<p class="i4">When Jubal struck the corded shell,</p>
+<p class="i1">His listening brethren stood around,</p>
+<p class="i4">And, wondering, on their faces fell."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>It went on with varying fortunes, and under various
+proprietors. First of all Mr. Hughes, then, in 1792,
+Davis had it; in 1813 it was in the hands of one Salter;
+in 1818, a man named Thorogood took it, but let it to
+one Monkhouse, who failed, and it reverted to Thorogood.
+Then came as tenant, a Mr. Chapman, who
+was bankrupt in 1833, and, in 1834, Richard Chapman
+was proprietor. I fancy he was the last, as public house,
+and gardens, combined.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. William Muggins, before quoted, laments its
+decadence thus: "Besides the whitewashed walls, and
+hoctagon shell grotto, there war the tea garden, with its
+honey suckle and sweet briar harbours, where they used
+to drink tea hout of werry small cups, and heat the
+far famed little hot loaves and butter; then there war the
+dancing plot, and the gold and silver fish ponds, and the
+bowling green, and skittle alley, and fire work ground
+hall so romantic and rural, standing in the middle of a
+lot of fields, and shaded around with trees. Now it's
+a werry different concarn, for it's surrounded with buildings&mdash;the
+gardens is cut hoff to nuffin, and the ouse
+looks tumble down and miserable." That was in 1840.</p>
+
+<p>It was about this time that a song appeared in "The
+Little Melodist," 1839&mdash;dilating on the delights of the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span>
+neighbourhood of Islington, and the first verse ran
+thus:</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Will you go to Bagnigge Wells,</p>
+<p class="i12-5">Bonnet builder, O!</p>
+<p class="i1">Where the Fleet ditch fragrant smells,</p>
+<p class="i12-5">Bonnet builder, O!</p>
+<p class="i1">Where the fishes used to swim,</p>
+<p class="i1">So nice and sleek and trim,</p>
+<p class="i1">But the pond's now covered in,</p>
+<p class="i12-5">Bonnet builder, O!</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><i>Punch</i>, too, when it was young, and had warm
+blood coursing through its veins, visited Bagnigge
+Wells, and recorded the visit in its pages (Sept. 7,
+1843). After a description of the walk thither, it says, "We last
+visited Bagnigge Wells about the beginning
+of the present week, and, like many travellers, at first
+passed close to it without seeing it. Upon returning,
+however, our eye was first arrested by an ancient door
+in the wall over which was inscribed the following:&mdash;
+<a name="FNanchor_39" id="FNanchor_39"></a><a href="#Footnote_39" class="fnanchor">[39]</a></p>
+
+<p>"This inscription, of which the above is a <i>fac simile</i>
+was surmounted by a noseless head carved in stone;
+and, underneath, was a cartoon drawn in chalk upon the
+door, evidently of a later date, and bearing a resemblance
+to some of the same class in Gell's 'Pompeii.'
+Underneath was written in letters of an irregular
+alphabet, '<span class="smcap">Chucky</span>'&mdash;the entire drawing being,
+without doubt, some local pasquinade.</p>
+
+<p>"Not being able to obtain admittance at the door, we
+went on a short distance, and came to the ruins of the
+ancient 'Wells,' of which part of the banqueting room
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span>
+still exists. These are entirely open to the public
+as well as the adjoining pleasure grounds, although
+the thick layer of brick-bats with which they are
+covered, renders walking a task of some difficulty.
+The adjacent premises of an eminent builder separate
+them by some cubits from the road of Gray's Inn,
+near which, what we suppose to be the 'Well' is still
+visible. It is a round hole in the ground behind the
+ruins, filled up with rubbish and mosaics of oyster shells,
+but, at present, about eighteen inches deep.</p>
+
+<p>"It is very evident that the character of Bagnigge
+Wells has much altered within the last century. For,
+bearing that date, we have before us the 'Song of the
+'Prentice to his Mistress' in which the attractions of
+the place are thus set forth:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"'Come, come, Miss Priscy, make it up,</p>
+<p class="i4">And we will lovers be:</p>
+<p class="i1">And we will go to <i>Bagnigge Wells</i>,</p>
+<p class="i4">And there we'll have some tea.</p>
+<p class="i1">And there you'll see the ladybirds</p>
+<p class="i4">All on the stinging nettles;</p>
+<p class="i1">And there you'll see the water-works,</p>
+<p class="i4">And shining copper kettles.</p>
+<p class="i1">And there you'll see the fishes, Miss,</p>
+<p class="i4">More curious than whales;</p>
+<p class="i1">They're made of gold and silver, Miss,</p>
+<p class="i4">And wag their little tails.'<a name="FNanchor_40" id="FNanchor_40"></a>
+<a href="#Footnote_40" class="fnanchor">[40]</a></p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Of the wonders recounted in these stanzas, the stinging
+nettles alone remain flourishing, which they do in
+great quantity. The Waterworks are now confined to
+two spouts and a butt against the adjacent building;
+and the gold and silver fishes separately, in the form of
+red herrings and sprats, have been removed to the stalls
+in the neighbourhood, with a great deal more of the
+wag in the dealer, than in themselves.</p>
+
+<p>"The real Bagnigge Wells, where company assemble
+to drink, at the present day, is next door to the ruins.
+The waters are never drank, however, now, without
+being strongly medicated, by a process carried on at the
+various brewers and distillers of the Metropolis: without
+this, they are supposed, by some classes, to be highly
+injurious. Their analysis have produced various results.
+Soda has been detected in one species, analogous to the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span>
+German <i>Seltzer</i>, and designated 'Webb's'; others
+contain iron in appreciable quantities, and institute a
+galvanic circle, when quaffed from goblets formed from
+an alloy of tin and lead: in some constitutions quickening
+the circulation, and raising the animal temperature&mdash;in
+others, producing utter prostration.</p>
+
+<p>"Flannel jackets, and brown paper caps appeared to be
+the costume of the valetudinarians who were drinking
+at the Wells, during our stay. We patronized the
+tepid spa by ordering 'Sixpennyworth warm,' as the
+potion was termed in the dialect of Bagnigge, for the
+purpose of drawing the proprietor into conversation.
+But he was, evidently, reluctant to impart much
+information, and told us nothing beyond what we
+already knew&mdash;a custom very prevalent at all the
+springs we have visited.</p>
+
+<p>"Lodgings, provisions, clothing, &amp;c., are to be had
+at low rates in the neighbourhood, and there are several
+delightful spots in the vicinity of Bagnigge Wells.</p>
+
+<p>"The Excursion to Battle Bridge will be found highly
+interesting, returning by the Brill; and, to the admirers
+of nature, the panorama from the summit of King's
+Cross, embracing the Small Pox Hospital, and Imperial
+Gas Works, with the very low countries surrounding
+them, is peculiarly worthy of especial notice."
+</p>
+
+<p>Two years previous to this notice, there was a paragraph
+in the <i>Times</i> (April 6, 1841) which shows how
+the Wells had fallen into decadence.</p>
+
+<p>"The Old Grotto, which had all the windows out, and was greatly
+dilapidated, and the upper part of the Garden Wall, was knocked down by
+some persons going along Bagnigge Road, early this morning."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97-98]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The old place had fulfilled its mission. It had
+ministered to the recreation and amusement, harmless,
+or otherwise, of generations of Londoners, and it came
+to final grief, and disappeared in 1844. Its name is
+still preserved in "The Bagnigge Wells" Tavern, 39,
+King's Cross Road, and that is all the reminiscence we
+have of this once famous place of recreative resort.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_37" id="Footnote_37"></a><a href="#FNanchor_37"><span class="label">[37]</span></a>
+An allusion to the hot buttered rolls, which were in vogue there.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_38" id="Footnote_38"></a><a href="#FNanchor_38"><span class="label">[38]</span></a>
+See p. <a href="#Page_89">89</a></p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_39" id="Footnote_39"></a><a href="#FNanchor_39"><span class="label">[39]</span></a>
+See ante-p. <a href="#Page_84">84</a></p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_40" id="Footnote_40"></a><a href="#FNanchor_40"><span class="label">[40]</span></a>
+With all due deference to <i>Punch</i>, I think his version is slightly,
+only slightly, inaccurate. I have before me five copies, two MS.
+and three printed, all of which run&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width40">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Come, prithee make it up, Miss,</p>
+<p class="i4">And be as lovers be,</p>
+<p class="i1">We'll go to Bagnigge Wells, Miss,</p>
+<p class="i4">And there we'll have some tea.</p>
+<p class="i1">It's there you'll see the Lady-birds</p>
+<p class="i4">Perch'd on the Stinging Nettles;</p>
+<p class="i1">The Chrystal water Fountain,</p>
+<p class="i4">And the Copper, shining Kettles.</p>
+<p class="i1">It's there you'll see the Fishes,</p>
+<p class="i4">More curious they than Whales,</p>
+<p class="i1">And they're made of Gold and Silver, Miss,</p>
+<p class="i4">And wags their little tails.</p>
+<p class="i1">Oh! they wags their little Tails</p>
+<p class="i4">&mdash;They wags their little Tails</p>
+<p class="i1">Oh! they're made of gold and silver, Miss,
+and they wags their little Tails.</p>
+<p class="i4">Oh!&nbsp; dear!&nbsp; Oh!&nbsp; la!&nbsp; Oh!&nbsp; dear!&nbsp; Oh!&nbsp; la!</p>
+<p class="i10">Oh!&nbsp;  dear!&nbsp;  Oh!&nbsp;  la!</p>
+<p class="i20">How funny!"</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+</div>
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 191px; ">
+<a href="images/i_097-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_097-200.png" width="191" height="200" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_099-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_099-500.png" width="500" height="121" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER IX.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">A LITTLE farther on, it washed the walls of Cold
+Bath Fields Prison, the <i>House of Correction</i>, and
+we get a view of it in Hone's "Table Book,"<a name="FNanchor_41" id="FNanchor_41"></a><a href="#Footnote_41" class="fnanchor">[41]</a>
+p. 75. Here he says,</p>
+
+<p>"In 1825, this was the first open view, nearest London, of the ancient
+River Fleet: it was taken during the building of the high arched walls
+connected with the House of Correction, Cold Bath Fields, close to
+which prison the river ran, as here seen. At that time, the newly
+erected walls communicated a peculiarly picturesque effect to the
+stream flowing within their confines."</p>
+
+<p>This "House of Correction" was indebted for its birth to the famous
+John Howard, who had made an European tour, not to mention a home one,
+inquisitorially inspecting prisons. We all know the result of his
+labours; how he exposed abuses fearlessly, and made men's hearts soften
+somewhat towards those incarcerated.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_100-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_100-500.png" width="500" height="444" alt="THE ANCIENT RIVER FLEET, AT CLERKENWELL, 1825." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE ANCIENT RIVER FLEET, AT CLERKENWELL, 1825.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Howard, writing in 1789, held that capital punishment should be
+abolished except for <i>murder</i>, <i>setting houses on fire</i>, and for
+<i>house breaking, attended with acts of cruelty</i>. And speaking of his
+Penitentiaries, he says:</p>
+
+<p>"To these houses, however, I would have none but
+old, hardened offenders, and those who have, as the laws now stand,
+forfeited their lives by robbery, house breaking, and similar Crimes,
+should be committed; or, in short, those Criminals who are to be
+confined for a long term or for life....</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg
+101]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"The <i>Penitentiary houses</i>, I would have <i>built</i>, in a great
+measure, <i>by the convicts</i>. I will suppose that a power is obtained
+from Parliament to employ such of them as are now at work on the
+Thames, or some of those who are in the county gaols, under sentence
+of transportation, as may be thought most expedient. In the first
+place, let the surrounding wall, intended for full security against
+escapes, be completed, and proper lodges for the gate keepers. Let
+temporary buildings, of the nature of barracks, be erected in some part
+of this enclosure which would be wanted the least, till the whole is
+finished."</p>
+
+<p>This was a portion of his scheme, and he suggested that it
+should be located, where it was afterwards built, in Cold Bath
+Fields&mdash;because the situation was healthy, that good water could
+be obtained from the White Conduit, as the Charter House no longer
+required that source of supply, it being well served by the New River
+Company&mdash;that labour was cheap&mdash;and so was food, especially
+the coarse meat from the shambles at Islington.</p>
+
+<p>The prisoners were to have separate cells, so as to prevent the
+promiscuous herding of all, which had previously produced such
+mischievous results, and these cells were to be light and airy. The
+convicts of both sexes were to <i>work</i>, and their food was to be
+apportioned to the work they had to do. Also&mdash;a very great step
+in the right direction&mdash;they were all to wear a prison uniform.
+Howard, philanthropist as he was, was very far from lenient to the
+rogue. He was fully aware of the value of <i>work</i>, and specially
+provided that his rogues,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span>
+in their reformation, should pass through the purifying process of
+hard labour. In later times, the way of transgressors was hard in
+that place, and it became a terror to evildoers, being known by
+the name of the <i>English Bastile</i>&mdash;which, however, amongst
+its patrons, was diminished, until it finally was abbreviated into
+"the Steel" by which name it was known until its abolition.<a
+name="FNanchor_42" id="FNanchor_42"></a><a href="#Footnote_42"
+class="fnanchor">[42]</a></p>
+
+<p>This cognomen was so well known, that, in 1799, a book was written
+by "A Middlesex Magistrate" entitled "The Secrets of the English
+Bastile disclosed"&mdash;which was a favourable story of the management
+of the prison in Cold Bath Fields. Still, it was the subject of a
+Parliamentary inquiry, as we find in the <i>Gentleman's Magazine</i> for
+1798-9, under date of Dec. 31, 1798, p. 398, that, in the House of
+Commons, Sir Francis Burdett gave notice of his intention of moving, at
+some future day, for a report relative to the system practised in the
+prison, called the House of Correction, Cold Bath Fields, with regard
+to the persons therein confined.</p>
+
+<p>In the "Parliamentary History of England," vol. xxxiv. p. 566,
+we learn that on Mar. 6, 1799, Mr. W. Dundas moved that a Select
+Committee be appointed to
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span>
+inquire into the state of his Majesty's prison in Cold Bath Fields,
+Clerkenwell, and report the same, as it shall appear to them, together
+with their opinion thereupon, to the House; and a Committee was
+appointed accordingly. Unfortunately, the pages of what, afterwards,
+become <i>Hansard's</i>, do not record the result.</p>
+
+<p>But in the <i>Annual Register</i> for the same year on Dec. 21st there
+was a long report respecting it during a debate on the suspension of
+the Habeas Corpus Act. Mr. Courtenay said, that, "having visited the
+prisons, he found the prisoners without fire, and without candles,
+denied every kind of society, exposed to the cold and the rain, allowed
+to breathe the air out of their cells only for an hour, denied every
+comfort, every innocent amusement, excluded from all intercourse with
+each other, and, each night locked up from all the rest of the world.
+He supposed it was scarcely necessary to inform the House, that the
+prison of which he had been speaking, was that in Cold Bath Fields,
+known by the name of the Bastille." There was a lot more nonsense of the same type talked by other
+M.P.'s and, it is needless to say, that the exaggerated statements were
+anent a political prisoner&mdash;who afterwards suffered death for
+treason. And in the remainder of the debate even the very foundation
+for the libel was destroyed. It is a curious fact, that people have
+an idea that political prisoners, who have done as much harm to the
+commonweal as they have the possibility of doing, are to be treated
+daintily, and with every consideration for their extremely sensitive
+feelings. We, perhaps, in these latter days, may read a profitable
+lesson in the suppression of treason,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span>
+from the proper carrying out of the sentences legally imposed upon
+those who resist the law out of pure malice (legal).</p>
+
+<p>In the <i>Gentleman's Magazine</i> for 1796, is the following letter
+to&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p class="right"><i>Dec. 10, 1795.</i><br /></p>
+
+<p>Mr. <span class="smcap">Urban</span>.&mdash;Your respect for the
+memory of Mr. Howard, will induce you to insert the inclosed view of
+the House of Correction for the County of Middlesex, formed principally
+on his judicious suggestions. It is situated on the North side of
+London, between Cold Bath Fields, and Gray's Inn Lane. The spot on
+which it is erected having been naturally swampy, and long used for a
+public lay-stall, it was found prudent to lay the foundation so deep,
+and pile it so securely, that it is supposed there are as many bricks
+laid underground as appear to sight. What is more to the purpose, the
+internal regulations of this place of security are believed to be
+perfectly well adapted to the salutary purposes to which the building
+is appropriated.</p>
+
+<p class="right"><span style="margin-right:3em;">"Yours, &amp;c.,<br /></span>
+<span class="smcap">"Eugenio</span>." </p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Still Cold Bath Fields Prison had an evil name&mdash;in all
+probability, because prisoners there, were treated as if they had
+sinned against the social canons, and were not persons to be coaxed
+and <i>petted</i> into behaviour such as would enable them to rank
+among their more honest fellows, and in this way wrote Coleridge
+and Southey in "The Devil's Walk," which was suggested by the<span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span>
+<i>pseudo Christos</i> <span class="smcap">Brothers</span> who as these
+gentlemen wrote:&mdash;<a name="FNanchor_43" id="FNanchor_43"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_43" class="fnanchor">[43]</a></p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"He walked into London leisurely,</p>
+<p class="i1">The streets were dirty and dim:</p>
+<p class="i1">But there he saw Brothers, the Prophet,</p>
+<p class="i1">And Brothers the Prophet saw him."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Well, in the Devil's rambles he came across Cold Bath Fields
+Prison&mdash;which, as I have said, was not beloved of the criminal
+class, and, simply, as I think, for the sake of saying something smart,
+and not that they ever had experienced incarceration, or is there any
+evidence that they had even seen the prison, they write:</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"As he passed through Cold Bath Fields he look'd</p>
+<p class="i4">At a solitary Cell;</p>
+<p class="i1">And he was well-pleased, for it gave him a hint</p>
+<p class="i4">For improving the prisons of Hell.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">He saw a turnkey tie a thief's hands</p>
+<p class="i4">With a cordial try and a jerk;</p>
+<p class="i1">Nimbly, quoth he, a man's fingers move</p>
+<p class="i4">When his heart is in his work.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">He saw the same turnkey unfettering a man</p>
+<p class="i4">With little expedition;</p>
+<p class="i1">And he chuckled to think of his dear slave trade,</p>
+<p class="i1">And the long debates, and delays that were made</p>
+<p class="i4">Concerning its abolition."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>There is very little doubt, however, that, in the closing year
+of last, and the commencing one of this,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span>
+century, the conduct of the Governor&mdash;a man named Aris&mdash;was
+open to very grave censure. People outside imagined that all sorts of
+evils were being perpetrated within its walls, and, either through
+laxity, or too great severity, of discipline, something nigh akin to
+mutiny occurred in the prison in July, 1800&mdash;which was promptly
+stopped by the presence of a company of the Clerkenwell Volunteers. In
+August of the same year, there was another outbreak in the prison, the
+occupants shouting "Murder," and that they were being starved, in tones
+loud enough to be heard outside, and, once more the Volunteers were
+the active agents in enforcing law and order. This latter "seething of
+the pot" lasted a few days, and it culminated in the discharge of the
+obnoxious Governor Aris.</p>
+
+<p>There is nothing noteworthy to chronicle of this prison from that
+date,<a name="FNanchor_44" id="FNanchor_44"></a><a href="#Footnote_44"
+class="fnanchor">[44]</a> all prison details being, necessarily, <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span>
+unsavoury&mdash;and this particular one was not watered with rose
+water. It was a place of hard work, and not likely to impress the
+unproductive class, with a wish to be permanent inhabitants thereof.
+Yet, as this present year witnessed its demolition, something more must
+be said respecting it. In the <i>Globe</i> newspaper of January 1, 1887, is
+this short paragraph: "Notices were yesterday posted on the walls of
+Coldbath Fields Prison, intimating that it is for sale. Tenders are
+invited for the site, and all buildings, &amp;c., contained within
+the boundary walls. The prison covers an area of eight acres and three
+quarters."</p>
+
+<p>There ought to be some record of its dying days, for the demolition
+of a prison in a large community of people, like ours in London, must
+mean one of two things, either a diminution of crime, or, that the
+prison is not suitable to the requirements of the age.</p>
+
+<p>The Ninth Report of the Commissioners of Prisons, for the Year ended
+March 31, 1886, speaking of Pentonville Prison, says:</p>
+
+<p>"In November, 1885, the majority of the prisoners
+confined in Coldbath Fields Prison were transferred to this Prison; and
+since that date, the remainder have also been removed here, that prison
+being now vacated, and in charge of a warder acting as caretaker.</p>
+
+<p>"The tread-wheel<a name="FNanchor_45" id="FNanchor_45"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_45" class="fnanchor">[45]</a> has been taken down at
+Coldbath Fields Prison, and is in process of re-erection here.</p>
+
+<p>"The behaviour of the officers has been good, with the exception of
+four, discharged by order of the Prison Commissioners.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg
+108]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"The conduct of the prisoners has been generally good.</p>
+
+<p>"The materials and provisions supplied by the Contractors have been
+good, and have given satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>"To meet the requirements of the local prison service, a room is
+being completed for the convenience of the members of the Visiting
+Committee who attend here, also a room for the daily collection of
+prisoners to see the medical officer, and other purposes, as well as
+various minor alterations found necessary since the transfer.</p>
+
+<p>"A bakehouse has been completed, and is in working order, supplying
+bread to all metropolitan prisons.</p>
+
+<p>"The routine and discipline have been carried out in the same
+general manner as heretofore.</p>
+
+<p>"The industrial labour continues to be attended with satisfactory
+results; the greater portion is still devoted to supplying the wants of
+other prisons or Government establishments instead of the market.</p>
+
+<p>"Uniform clothing for officers is cut out here for all local
+prisons, and made up for a considerable number of the smaller prisons,
+also prisoners' clothing and bedding, hospital slippers for the
+Admiralty, as well as a large number of Cases and other articles for
+the General Post Office have been supplied.</p>
+
+<p>"The duties of the Chaplain's department have been performed
+uninterruptedly during the year, morning prayers have been said
+daily, and Divine Service has been performed on Sundays, Good Friday,
+and Christmas day, in the morning and afternoon, with a sermon at
+both services. The Holy Communion has been
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span>
+celebrated from time to time on Sundays and on the great Sunday
+Festivals. The hospital has been daily visited; special attention
+has been paid to the prisoners confined in the punishment Cells, and
+constant opportunity has been offered to all of private instruction and
+advice. Books from the prisoners' library have been issued to all who
+are entitled to receive them, all prisoners who cannot pass standard
+three, as set forth by the Education Committee have been admitted to
+school instruction.</p>
+
+<p>"School books and slates and pencils are issued to prisoners in
+their cells.</p>
+
+<p>"The medical officer states that the health of the prisoners at
+Coldbath Fields, and since the transfer to this prison, has been good.
+One case of smallpox occurred at Coldbath Fields; as the prisoner had
+been some months in gaol, it was clear that he had caught the disease,
+either from a warder, or from some prisoner recently received; he
+had been a cleaner in the rotunda, and, of course, had been coming
+into contact with warders and prisoners alike, in the busiest part of
+the prison, the presumption is that the disease had been carried by
+the uniform of some warder. There were five cases of erysipelas at
+Coldbath Fields, and one at this prison, at the former place the cases
+came from all parts of the prison, new and old. The air shafts were
+thoroughly swept and limewashed, and disinfected as far as could be
+reached, and there is no doubt that it checked the disease.</p>
+
+<p>"The dietary has been satisfactory during the year, and the new
+pattern clothing a great improvement.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg
+110]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Every precaution is taken in classing prisoners for labour suited
+to their age, physique and health.</p>
+
+<p>"The sanitary arrangements are most carefully supervised; the
+ventilation in the cells is very good."</p>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p>I offer no apology for intruding this report of Prison life, which,
+if one took the trouble to look up the yearly reports, he would find
+they are all couched in almost identical language.<a name="FNanchor_46"
+id="FNanchor_46"></a><a href="#Footnote_46" class="fnanchor">[46]</a>
+I simply give it for the consideration of my readers&mdash;who, with
+myself, do not belong to the criminal classes&mdash;to show them
+how those who have preyed upon them, and have deservedly merited
+punishment, meet with treatment such as the indigent and industrious
+poor, when, fallen upon evil times, can not obtain, and the sooner
+these pampered criminals feel, through their flesh&mdash;either by the
+whip, hard labour, or hunger&mdash;that the wages of sin are not paid
+at a higher rate than that procurable by honest labour, the probability
+is that the community at large would be considerably benefited, and
+the criminal classes would be in a great measure deprived of clubs
+to which there is neither entrance fee, nor annual subscription, in
+which everything of the best quality is found them free of charge, and
+the health of their precious carcases specially looked after, and
+gratuitously attended to.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_41" id="Footnote_41"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_41"><span class="label">[41]</span></a> See next
+page.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_42" id="Footnote_42"></a>
+<a href="#FNanchor_42"><span class="label">[42]</span></a>
+J. T. Smith in his "Vagabondiana," ed. 1815-1817, p. 51, alludes
+thus to the prison:
+
+"Perhaps the only waggery in public-house customs now remaining, is in
+the tap room of the Appletree, opposite to Cold Bath Fields Prison.
+There are a pair of hand cuffs fastened to the wires as bell-pulls, and
+the orders given by some of the company, when they wish their friends
+to ring, are, to 'Agitate the Conductor.'"</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_43" id="Footnote_43"></a>
+<a href="#FNanchor_43"><span class="label">[43]</span></a>
+"After this I was in a vision, having the angel of God near me, and saw
+Satan walking leisurely into London" ("Brothers' Prophecies,"
+part i. p. 41).</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_44" id="Footnote_44"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_44"><span class="label">[44]</span></a> I have met
+with a Newspaper Cutting, with no clue to its authenticity or date.
+"<span class="smcap">Dreadful Ravages of the Influenza in the House
+of Correction.</span>&mdash;Yesterday afternoon, Inquests were
+holden by William Baker, Esq., one of the Coroners for the County of
+Middlesex, at the House of Correction, Coldbath Fields, on no less
+than five individuals, namely, Peter Griffiths, Michael Hughes, James
+Jones, Thomas Lillie, and Ann Connard, all of whom had died from the
+effects of the present prevalent epidemic, or influenza, and who were
+inmates of that prison, and had been sentenced to different periods
+of imprisonment. It is a fact that, for the last two months, more
+prisoners have died in this prison, principally from the effects of
+influenza, than had died there during the whole of the preceding year."
+Possibly the poor Fleet River, at that time hardly degraded to the
+level of the Sewer&mdash;which now it is&mdash;may have had something
+to do with the unsanitary condition of the prison.&mdash;J. A.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_45" id="Footnote_45"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_45"><span class="label">[45]</span></a> Adopted at
+Coldbath Fields Prison, July, 1822.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_46" id="Footnote_46"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_46"><span class="label">[46]</span></a> Let any one
+compare, for instance, reports for 1884 and 1886.</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg
+111]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_111-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_111-500.png" width="500" height="141" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER X.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">COLDBATH FIELDS were, a hundred and twenty years
+ago, fairly rural, for (although it certainly is recorded as an
+abnormal occurrence) we find, in the <i>Daily Courant</i>, November 12,
+1765, "Friday afternoon, about two o'clock, a hare crossed the New
+Road, near Dobney's Bowling green, ran to the New River Head, and from
+thence to Coldbath Fields, where, in some turning among the different
+avenues, she was lost. She appeared to have been hard run, by her dirty
+and shabby coat."</p>
+
+<p>These fields took their name from a spring (part of the River
+of Wells) which had its source there. A Mr. Walter Baynes of the
+Temple, who was, for his day, far-seeing, and made the most of the
+"town lots" which were in the market, bought this plot of land, and
+at once utilized it to his profit. It was of some note, as we read
+in a book published in Queen Anne's reign, "A New View of London,"
+1708, vol. ii. p. 785. "Cold Bath. The most noted and
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span>
+first<a name="FNanchor_47" id="FNanchor_47"></a><a href="#Footnote_47"
+class="fnanchor">[47]</a> about <i>London</i> was that near <i>Sir John
+Oldcastle's</i>, where, in the Year 1697, Mr. <i>Bains</i> undertook and yet
+manages this business of Cold Bathing, which they say is good against
+Rheumatisms, Convulsions of the Nerves, &amp;c., but of that, those
+that have made the Experiments are the best judges. The Rates are 2s.
+6d. if the Chair is used,<a name="FNanchor_48" id="FNanchor_48"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_48" class="fnanchor">[48]</a> and 2s. without it. Hours
+are from five in the morning to one, afternoon."</p>
+
+<p>We learn two things from this&mdash;the pristine existence of "tub,"
+and the fact that it was purely matutinal. Nay, from the same book we
+learn more, for, under the heading of "Southwark Cold Bath," we find
+that the "utmost time to be in, three minutes." At this latter places
+were "ex votos," so frequently seen at shrines on the Continent. "Here
+are eleven Crutches, which they say, were those of persons cured by
+this Water." Bathing was a luxury then&mdash;water was bought by the
+pailful, and a warm bath at the <i>Hummums</i> cost 5s., equal to between
+10s. and 15s. of our money.</p>
+
+<p>Walter Baynes, Esq., of the Middle Temple, seems to have been a
+pushing man of business, and willing to make the most of his property.
+He traded on the uncleanliness
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span>
+of the times, when baths were mostly used in case of illness, and
+daily ablution of the whole body was unknown. Ladies were quite content
+to dab their faces with some "fucus" or face wash, or else smear them
+with a greasy larded rag. The shock of a veritable cold bath from a
+spring, must have astonished most of those who endured it, and no doubt
+invested it with a mysterious merit which it did not possess, otherwise
+than by cleansing the skin, both by the washing, and the subsequent
+rubbing dry.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_113-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_113-500.png" width="500" height="374" alt="SOUTH VIEW OF THE COLD BATHS." /></a>
+<div class="caption">SOUTH VIEW OF THE COLD BATHS.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>However, we find Mr. Baynes advertising in the _Post Boy_, March
+28, 1700, the curative effects of his wonderful spring. "This is to give notice that the Cold Baths in Sir John Oldcastle's
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span>
+field near the north end of Gray's Inn Lane, London, in all seasons
+of the year, especially in the spring and summer, has been found, by
+experience, to be the best remedy in these following distempers, viz.,
+Dizziness, Drowsiness, and heavyness of the head, Lethargies, Palsies,
+Convulsions, all Hectical creeping Fevers, heats and flushings.
+Inflammations and ebullitions of the blood, and spirits, all vapours,
+and disorders of the spleen and womb, also stiffness of the limbs, and
+Rheumatick pains, also shortness of the breath, weakness of the joints,
+as Rickets, &amp;c., sore eyes, redness of the face, and all impurities
+of the skin, also deafness, ruptures, dropsies, and jaundice. It both
+prevents and cures colds, creates appetite, and helps digestion, and
+makes hardy the tenderest constitution. The coach way is by Hockley in
+the Hole."
+</p>
+
+<p>Of course, viewed by the light of modern medical
+science, Mr. Baynes was a charlatan, and a quack, but
+he acted, doubtless, according to his lights, in those
+days; and, if a few were killed, it is probable that
+many more were benefited by being washed.</p>
+
+<p>Sir Richard Steele, writing in 1715, says thus:</p>
+
+<p class="center">"<span class="smcap"><b>On the Cold Bath at Oldcastle's.</b></span>"</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Hail, sacred Spring! Thou ever-living Stream,</p>
+<p class="i1">Ears to the Deaf, Supporters to the Lame,</p>
+<p class="i1">Where fair Hygienia ev'ry morn attends,</p>
+<p class="i1">And with kind Waves, her gentle Succour lends.</p>
+<p class="i1">While in the Cristal Fountain we behold</p>
+<p class="i1">The trembling Limbs, Enervate, Pale and Cold;</p>
+<p class="i1">A Rosy Hue she on the face bestows,</p>
+<p class="i1">And Nature in the chilling fluid glows,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span>
+<p class="i1">The Eyes shoot Fire, first kindled in the Brain,</p>
+<p class="i1">As beds of Lime smoke after showers of Rain;</p>
+<p class="i1">The fiery Particles concentred there,</p>
+<p class="i1">Break ope' their Prison Doors and range in Air;</p>
+<p class="i1">Hail then thou pow'rful Goddess that presides</p>
+<p class="i1">O'er these cold Baths as Neptune o'er his Tides,</p>
+<p class="i1">Receive what Tribute a pure Muse can pay</p>
+<p class="i1">For Health that makes the Senses Brisk and Gay,</p>
+<p class="i1">The fairest Offspring of the heavenly Ray."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>At one time there was a famous house of refreshment
+and recreation, either called the Cobham's Head, or the
+Sir John Oldcastle&mdash;or there were one of each. Authorities
+differ, and, although I have spent some time
+and trouble in trying to reconcile so-called facts, I have
+come to the conclusion that, for my reader's sake, <i>le
+jeu ne vaut pas la chandelle</i>. There is a tradition that
+Sir John Oldcastle who was a famous Lollard in the
+time of Henry V., either had an estate here, or hid in
+a house of entertainment there, during his persecution
+for faith. But the whole is hazy.</p>
+
+<p>We know that there was a Sir John Oldcastle, who was
+born in the fourteenth century, and who was the fourth
+husband of Joan, Lady Cobham, in whose right he took
+the title of Lord Cobham. We know also, that he
+enjoyed the friendship of Henry V., and was of his
+household. But he got imbued with the doctrines of
+Wyclif, was cited to appear, more than once, before the
+ecclesiastical authorities, declined the invitations, and
+was duly excommunicated. He wrangled with the
+priests, got committed to the Tower, escaped and hid
+in Wales, was accused of heading a trumpery insurrection,
+and was, finally, captured, tried, and hanged in
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span>
+chains alive, upon a gallows in St. Giles' Fields, when,
+fire being put under him, he was slowly roasted to death
+in December, 1417. A pious nobleman, like the late
+Lord Shaftesbury, for instance, was not popular at that
+time, if we may believe a few lines from "Wright's
+Political Songs from Edward II. to Henry VI."</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width24">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Hit is unkindly for a Knight</p>
+<p class="i1">That shuld a kynges castel kepe,</p>
+<p class="i1">To bable the Bible day and night,</p>
+<p class="i1">In restyng time when he shuld slepe,</p>
+<p class="i1">And carefoly away to crepe;</p>
+<p class="i1">For alle the chefe of chivalrie,</p>
+<p class="i1">Wel ought hym to wail and wepe,</p>
+<p class="i1">That swyche<a name="FNanchor_49" id="FNanchor_49"></a>
+<a href="#Footnote_49" class="fnanchor">[49]</a> lust is in Lollardie."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>The English were always famous bowmen, and
+archery&mdash;although gunpowder has long superseded bows
+and arrows in warfare&mdash;still is a favourite and fashionable
+pastime, witness the Toxopholite Society in
+Regent's Park, and the various Archery associations
+throughout the kingdom; so that it is not remarkable
+that an open space like Coldbath Fields should vie
+with the Artillery ground at Finsbury, in favour with
+the citizens, as a place for this sport; and we find, in
+Queen Anne's reign, that the <i>Sir John Oldcastle</i> was
+frequented by Archers. And for this information we
+may thank that old sinner, John Bagford (who spoilt so
+many books for the sake of their title-pages) for preserving.
+It tells its own story:&mdash;<a name="FNanchor_50" id="FNanchor_50"></a><a href="#Footnote_50" class="fnanchor">[50]</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"All gentlemen of the ancient and noble exercise of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span>
+Archery, are invited to the annual dinner of the Clerkenwell
+Archers, Mrs. Mary Barton's, at the sign of Sir
+John Oldcastle (Cold Bath Fields) on Friday, July 18,
+1707, at one o'clock, and to pay the bearer, Thomas
+Beaumont, Marshall, 2s. 6d., taking a sealed ticket,
+that a certain number may be known, and provision
+made accordingly. Nath. Axtall, Esq., and Edward
+Bromwich, Gent., Stewards."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>There were very pleasant gardens attached to this
+tavern, and, like all the suburban places of recreation,
+they were well patronized, and they gave a very decent
+amusement in the shape of music&mdash;instrumental and
+vocal&mdash;and, occasionally, fireworks. But there seems to
+have been the same difficulty then, as now, as to keeping
+outdoor amusements, if not select, at least decorous, for,
+acccording to the <i>Daily Advertisement</i> of June 3, 1745,
+"Sir John Oldcastle's Gardens, Cold Bath Fields. This
+evening's entertainment will continue the Summer
+Season. The Band consists of the best masters. Sixpence
+for admission, for which they have a ticket, which
+ticket will be taken as sixpence in their reckoning.
+Particular care will be taken that the provisions shall be
+the very best in their separate kinds; likewise to keep a
+just decorum in the gardens. Note.&mdash;Several ladies and
+gentlemen that come to the gardens give the drawers
+their tickets, which is no benefit to the proprietor;
+therefore it's humbly desired that if any gentlemen or
+ladies don't chuse to have the value of their tickets in
+liquor, or eating, they will be so kind as to leave them
+at the bar."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_118-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_118-500.png" width="500" height="322" alt="THE SMALLPOX HOSPITAL IN COLD BATH FIELDS." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE SMALLPOX HOSPITAL IN COLD BATH FIELDS.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>As a place of amusement, it seems, even in 1745, to
+have been on the wane. In 1758 the Smallpox Hospital
+was built close to it, and in 1761 the Sir John Oldcastle
+was bought by the trustees of the hospital, in order to
+enlarge it, and was pulled down in 1762. Noorthouck
+("New History of London," ed. 1763, p. 752),
+speaking of Cold Bath Square, in which was the famed
+cold bath, says, "The North side of this square is, as
+yet, open to the fields, but a little to the east stands the
+Small Pox Hospital for receiving patients who catch the
+disease in the natural way; and is a very plain, neat
+structure. The Center, which projects a little from the
+rest of the building, is terminated on the top by an
+angular pediment, on the apex of which is placed a vase
+upon a small pedestal. This excellent charity was instituted
+in the year 1746, and is supported by a subscription
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span>
+of noblemen, gentlemen, and ladies, who were
+desirous that a charity useful in itself, and so beneficial
+to the public, might be begun near this great metropolis,
+there not being any hospital of the kind in Europe. A
+neat hospital for inoculating this disorder has been lately
+built clear of the town on the north side of the New
+Road."<a name="FNanchor_51" id="FNanchor_51"></a><a href="#Footnote_51" class="fnanchor">[51]</a></p>
+
+<p>In 1791 this hospital wanted extensive repairs, which
+would need an outlay of about &pound;800; and the trustees,
+not willing to incur this expense, built another on the
+site of the Inoculating Hospital at Islington; and thither,
+when it was finished, all the patients were removed from
+Cold Bath Fields. But their new home was wanted for
+the Great Northern Railway, and another place was built,
+and still is, on Highgate Hill. The old building in
+Cold Bath Fields was first of all used as a distillery, and
+afterwards subdivided. Quoting again from Noorthouck: "Eastward
+from the Small Pox Hospital, on the south side of
+the Spawfield, is an humble imitation of the Pantheon in
+Oxford Road; calculated for the amusement of a suitable class
+of company; here apprentices, journeymen, and clerks
+dressed to ridiculous extremes, entertain their ladies on
+Sundays; and to the utmost of their power, if not
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span>
+beyond their proper power, affect the dissipated manners
+of their superiors. Bagnigge Wells and the White
+Conduit House, two other receptacles of the same kind,
+with gardens laid out in miniature taste, are to be found
+within the compass of two or three fields, together with
+Sadler's Wells, a small theatre for the summer exhibition
+of tumbling, rope-dancing, and other drolls, in vulgar
+stile. The tendency of these cheap, enticing places of
+pleasure just at the skirts of this vast town is too obvious
+to need further explanation; they swarm with
+loose women, and with boys, whose morals are thus
+depraved, and their constitution ruined, before they
+arrive at manhood; indeed, the licentious resort to the
+tea-drinking gardens was carried to such excess every
+night, that the magistrates lately thought proper to
+suppress the organs in their public rooms."</p>
+
+<p>There is no doubt but that some of these tea-gardens
+needed reform; so much so, that the grand jury of
+Middlesex, in May, 1744, made a presentment of several
+places which, in their opinion, were not conducive to
+the public morality; and these were two gaming-houses
+near Covent Garden, kept by the ladies Mordington and
+Castle; <i>Sadler's Wells near the New River head</i>, the
+New Wells in Goodman's Fields, the New Wells near
+the London Spaw in Clerkenwell; and a place called
+Hallam's Theatre in Mayfair.</p>
+
+<p>A possibly fair account of these gardens is found in
+the <i>St. James's Chronicle</i>, May 14-16, 1772:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p class="center">"To the Printer of the <span class="smcap">S. J. Chronicle</span>.</p>
+
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Sir</span>,&mdash;Happening to dine last Sunday with a Friend
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span>
+in the City, after coming from Church, the Weather
+being very inviting, we took a walk as far as Islington.
+In our Return home towards Cold Bath Fields, we
+stepped in, out of mere Curiosity, to view the Pantheon
+there; but such a Scene of Disorder, Riot, and Confusion
+presented itself to me on my Entrance, that I
+was just turning on my Heel, in order to quit it, when
+my friend observing to me that we might as well have
+something for our Money (for the Doorkeeper obliged
+each of us to deposit a <i>Tester</i> before he granted us
+Admittance), I acquiesced in his Proposal, and became
+one of the giddy Multitude. I soon, however, repented
+of my Choice; for, besides having our Sides almost
+squeezed together, we were in Danger every Minute of
+being scalded by the Boiling Water, which the officious
+Mercuries<a name="FNanchor_52" id="FNanchor_52"></a><a href="#Footnote_52" class="fnanchor">[52]</a>
+were circulating with the utmost Expedition
+thro' their respective Districts: We began therefore to
+look out for some Place to sit down in, which, with the
+greatest Difficulty, we at length procured, and, producing
+our Tickets, were served with Twelve pennyworth
+of Punch. Being seated towards the Front of
+one of the Galleries, I had now a better Opportunity of
+viewing this dissipated Scene. The Male Part of the
+Company seemed to consist chiefly of City Apprentices,
+and the lower Class of Tradesmen. The Ladies, who
+constituted by far the greater Part of the Assembly,
+seemed, most of them, to be Pupils of the Cyprian
+Goddess, and appeared to be thoroughly acquainted with
+their Profession, the different Arts and Man&oelig;uvres of
+which they played off with great Freedom, and I doubt
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span>
+not with equal Success. Whatever Quarter I turned my
+Eyes to, I was sure to be saluted with a Nod, a Wink,
+or a Smile; and was even sometimes accosted with,
+'Pray, Sir, will you treat me with a Dish of Tea?'...
+A Bill, I think, was in Agitation this Session of
+Parliament for enforcing the Laws already made for the
+better Observance of Sunday. Nothing, in my Opinion,
+tends more to its Profanation, among the lower Class of
+People, than the great Number of Tea Houses, in the
+Environs of London; the most exceptionable of which
+that I have had Occasion to be in, is the <i>Pantheon</i>. I
+could wish them either totally suppressed or else laid
+under some Restrictions, particularly on the Sabbath
+Day.</p>
+
+<div class="center">
+<p class="center">"I am,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:4em;">"Sir,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:0em;">"Your Constant Reader,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:4em;">"and occasional Correspondent,</span><br />
+"<i>Chiswick</i>, May 5.<span style="margin-left: 6em;"><span class="smcap">Speculator</span>."</span><br />
+</p>
+</div>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>This <span class="smcap">Pantheon</span> was a large circular building surmounted
+by a statue of Fame. It was well warmed by
+a stove in its centre, and the grounds were prettily laid
+out. There were the usual walks, flower-beds, and pond,
+in the centre of which was a statue of Hercules, and, of
+course, the usual out-of-door refreshment boxes, or
+arbours. But it is just possible that it was owing to its
+somewhat disreputable conduct that the landlord became
+bankrupt in 1774, and the Pantheon was offered for
+sale. It was closed as a place of amusement in 1776,
+and the famous Countess of Huntingdon had some
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span>
+idea of utilizing it for the propagation of her peculiar
+religious views. However, the sum necessary for
+alterations, proved too much for her ladyship, yet by a
+strange mutation of fortune, somewhat akin to what we
+have seen in our time, in the Grecian Theatre in the
+City Road, being taken by the Salvation Army, the
+Pantheon was turned into a Proprietary Chapel, called
+Northampton Chapel, which was served by clergymen of
+the Church of England of strictly Evangelical principles,
+and it filled so well, that the incumbent of the parish
+church asserted his right to preach there whenever he
+liked, and also to nominate its chaplains. This the proprietors
+did not quite see, and they closed the chapel.
+Then Lady Huntingdon bought it, and, henceforth, it
+was called Spa Fields Chapel.</p>
+
+<p>The illustration<a name="FNanchor_53" id="FNanchor_53"></a><a href="#Footnote_53" class="fnanchor">[53]</a>
+is taken from the <i>New Spiritual
+Magazine</i>, and I do not think that an uglier
+building could be produced. Probably the statue of
+Fame was obliged to be removed, but the ventilator in
+its place was certainly not an improvement. However,
+it is now pulled down; but, before its demolition, it had
+to pass through the ordeal of more proceedings at law.
+As long as the chapel was served by clergy, nominally
+belonging to the Church of England, so long did the
+incumbent of St. James's, Clerkenwell, assert his right
+to the patronage of it. The Countess relied on her
+privilege as a peeress, to appoint her own Chaplain, but
+this was overridden by competent legal opinion, and
+nothing was left but for the officiating clergy to secede
+from the Church of England, and take the oath of
+allegiance as Dissenting Ministers. This the Countess did not relish;
+she would fain be in the fold, and yet not of the fold, as do many
+others of this age, but she had to eat the leek. She had the proud
+privilege of founding a religious sect, and she left the bulk of her
+large property, after very generous legacies, to the support
+of sixty-four chapels which she had established
+throughout the kingdom. She died at her house in Spa
+Fields, and was buried at Ashby-de-la-Zouch, in Leicestershire,
+"dressed in the suit of white silk which she
+wore at the opening of a chapel in Goodman's Fields."<a name="FNanchor_54" id="FNanchor_54"></a><a href="#Footnote_54" class="fnanchor">[54]</a></p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124-6]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_124-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_124-500.png" width="500" height="285" alt="VIEW OF NORTHAMPTON OR SPA FIELDS CHAPEL, WITH THE
+COUNTESS OF HUNTINGDON'S HOUSE ADJOINING." /></a>
+<div class="caption">VIEW OF NORTHAMPTON OR SPA FIELDS CHAPEL, WITH THE
+COUNTESS OF HUNTINGDON'S HOUSE ADJOINING.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_47" id="Footnote_47"></a><a href="#FNanchor_47"><span class="label">[47]</span></a>
+Conduit.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_48" id="Footnote_48"></a><a href="#FNanchor_48"><span class="label">[48]</span></a>
+This, I take it, refers to a practice mentioned in a pamphlet,
+"A Step to the Bath" (London, 1700), which I think is by Ned
+Ward. "The usual time being come to forsake that fickle
+Element, <i>Half Tub Chairs</i>, Lin'd with Blankets, Ply'd as thick as
+<i>Coaches</i> at the <i>Play House</i>, or <i>Carts</i> at the <i>Custom House</i>." It has
+been suggested that the Chair was used for debilitated patients;
+but, knowing the use of the term "Chair" at that epoch, I venture
+to propose my solution.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_49" id="Footnote_49"></a><a href="#FNanchor_49"><span class="label">[49]</span></a>
+Such pleasure.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_50" id="Footnote_50"></a><a href="#FNanchor_50"><span class="label">[50]</span></a>
+Harl. MSS., 5961.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_51" id="Footnote_51"></a><a href="#FNanchor_51"><span class="label">[51]</span></a>
+Noorthouck (book i. p. 358) says, "It is to be observed that in
+1746, an hospital was founded by subscription between London and
+Islington, for relieving poor people afflicted with the smallpox, and
+for inoculation. This is said to be the first foundation of the
+kind in Europe, and consisted of three houses; one in Old Street
+for preparing patients for inoculation; another in Islington"
+(Lower Street) "when the disease appeared, and the third in Cold
+Bath fields for patients in the natural way."</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_52" id="Footnote_52"></a><a href="#FNanchor_52"><span class="label">[52]</span></a>
+See p. <a href="#Page_89">89</a>.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_53" id="Footnote_53"></a><a href="#FNanchor_53"><span class="label">[53]</span></a>
+See next page.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_54" id="Footnote_54"></a><a href="#FNanchor_54"><span class="label">[54]</span></a>
+<i>Gentleman's Magazine</i>, vol. lxi. (1791), p. 589. The Chapel
+was pulled down in January or February, 1887.</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_125-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_125-200.png" width="200" height="191" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_127-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_127-500.png" width="500" height="121" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XI.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">IT is almost impossible to write about anything connected
+with Spa Fields, without mentioning the
+famous "Spa Fields Riots," which occurred on Dec. 2,
+1816. In every great city there will always be a leaven
+of disquietude: demagogues who have nothing to lose,
+but all to gain, will always find an audience for their
+outpourings; and, often, the ignorant, and unthinking,
+have only to be told, by any knave, that they are underpaid,
+downtrodden, or what not, and they are ready to
+yell, with their sweet breaths, that they are. So was it
+then in 1816.</p>
+
+<p>And it is also remarkable how history repeats itself;
+for, part of the scheme proposed by the agitators on
+that day, was exactly similar to the proposals of certain
+Irishmen and Socialists of our time&mdash;<i>teste</i> the following
+handbill, taken from the <i>Times</i>, the newspaper of
+Dec. 7, 1816.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Spence's Plan.</span> For Parochial Partnerships in the
+Land, is the only effectual Remedy for the Distresses
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span>
+and Oppression of the People. The Landowners are
+not Proprietors in Chief; they are but the <i>Stewards</i> of
+the Public; For the <span class="smcap">Land</span> is the <span class="smcap">People's Farm</span>.
+The Expenses of the Government do not cause the
+Misery that surrounds us, but the enormous exactions
+of these '<i>Unjust Stewards</i>.' Landed Monopoly is indeed
+equally contrary to the benign spirit of Christianity,
+and destructive of the Independence and Morality of
+Mankind.</p>
+
+<p>"'The Profit of the Earth is for all.'</p>
+
+<p>"Yet how deplorably destitute are the great Mass of
+the People! Nor is it possible for their situations to be
+radically amended, but by the establishment of a system,
+founded on the immutable basis of Nature and Justice.
+Experience demonstrates its necessity and the rights of
+mankind require it for their preservation.</p>
+
+<p>"To obtain this important object, by extending the
+knowledge of the above system, the Society of Spencean
+Philanthropists has been instituted. Further information
+of it's principles may be obtained by attending any
+of it's sectional meetings, where subjects are discussed,
+calculated to enlighten the human understanding, and
+where, also, the regulations of the society may be procured,
+containing a Complete development of the
+Spencean system. Every individual is admitted free of
+expense, who will conduct himself with decorum.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width40">
+<p><span style="margin-left: 3em;">First Section every Wednesday at the Cock, Grafton Street, Soho.</span><br />
+Second
+<span style="margin-left: 0.4em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1.7em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Thursday</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1.5em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1.2em;">Mulberry Tree, Mulberry Ct., Wilson Street, Moorfields.</span>
+<br />
+
+Third
+<span style="margin-left: 1.2em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1.7em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Monday</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 2em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1.2em;">Nag's Head, Carnaby Mrkt.</span>
+<br />
+
+Fourth
+<span style="margin-left: 0.7em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1.7em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1em;">Tuesday</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 2em;">"</span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1.2em;">No. 8, Lumber St., Mint, Borough."</span>
+</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>There! does not that read exactly like a modern speech
+delivered in Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, or Dublin?
+Of course it was the old story of Demagogy. The pot
+boiled, the scum came to the top, and it boiled over,
+so that, one fine day, there was a riot. It was a period
+of distress for the working classes, who did not then, as
+now, swarm into London from all parts of England,
+and expect Jupiter to help them; but then, as now, the
+rich were ever willing to help their poorer brethren, for,
+in the very same <i>Times</i> newspaper that gives an account
+of this Spa Fields Riot, there is a list of subscriptions
+towards the relief of distress in Spitalfields alone,
+amounting to over &pound;18,000.</p>
+
+<p>The story is one that should be told, because it has
+its lesson and its parallel in all time. The ruling spirit
+of the movement was Henry Hunt, generally called
+Orator Hunt, a man fairly well to do, and who did not
+agitate for the sake of his daily bread. The occasion of
+the meeting in Spa Fields, at which some 10,000 people
+were present, was to receive the answer of the Prince
+Regent to a petition from the distressed mechanics of
+London and its vicinity for relief. It was held first of
+all in front of the "Merlin's Cave" (a name which
+still survives at 131, Rosomon Street, Clerkenwell), and
+afterwards in the adjacent fields. The following account
+of the riots is from the <i>Times</i> of Dec. 3, 1816:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"As a prelude to the scene that followed, and with the
+spirit of the ruling demagogue, a person mounted a coal
+waggon with three flags, on which were inscribed certain
+mottoes; and, after having harangued a small audience,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span>
+draughted off from the general body, proceeded to the
+city, where the acts of violence were perpetrated, which
+will be found in another part of our paper.</p>
+
+<p>"The speech of this orator, and the conduct of his
+audience, we shall give in an extract from an evening
+paper as we were not present at the first part of the
+drama ourselves.</p>
+
+<p>"'In the field was a Coal waggon, upon which were
+mounted about twenty persons, chiefly in the dress of
+sailors. Several flags were displayed; two tricoloured
+ones, on one of which was the following inscription:</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width14">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"'Nature, Truth, and Justice!</p>
+<p class="i1">Feed the Hungry!</p>
+<p class="i1">Protect the Oppressed!</p>
+<p class="i1">Punish Crimes!'</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>"'On a second tricoloured flag, no inscription.</p>
+
+<p>"'On a third white flag was inscribed in red letters
+the following:</p>
+
+<p class="center">
+"'The brave Soldiers are our Brothers; treat them kindly.'
+</p>
+
+<p>"'Many had bludgeons, and others pockets full of
+stones. One person in the waggon then addressed the
+meeting in the following strain:&mdash;"I am sorry to tell
+you that our application to the Prince has failed. He,
+the father of his people, answered&mdash;'My family have
+never attended to Petitions but from Oxford and Cambridge,
+and the City of London.' And is this Man the
+father of the people? No. Has he listened to your
+petition? No. The day is come&mdash;(<i>It is, It is</i>, from the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span>
+mob.) We must do more than words. We have been
+oppressed for 800 years since the Norman Conquest.
+If they would give ye a hod, a shovel, a spade, and a
+hoe, your mother earth would supply you. (<i>Aye, aye,
+she would.</i> Loud Applause.) Country men, if you will
+have your wrongs redressed, follow me. (<i>That we will.</i>
+Shouts.) Wat Tyler would have succeeded had he not
+been basely murdered by a Lord Mayor, William of
+Walworth. Has the Parliament done their duty? No.
+Has the Regent done his duty? No, no. A man who
+receives one million a year public money gives only
+&pound;5,000 to the poor. They have neglected the starving
+people, robbed them of everything, and given them a
+penny. Is this to be endured? Four millions are in
+distress; our brothers in Ireland are in a worse state,
+the climax of misery is complete, it can go no farther.
+The Ministers have not granted our rights. Shall we
+take them? (<i>Yes, yes</i>, from the mob.) Will you
+demand them? (<i>Yes, yes.</i>) If I jump down will you
+follow me? (<i>Yes, yes</i>, was again vociferated.)."</p>
+
+<p>"'The persons on the waggon then descended with
+the flags; the constables immediately laid hold of the
+flags. Some persons attempted resistance, and two
+were therefore taken up forthwith, and sent to prison.
+The constables succeeded in getting one of the flags.</p>
+
+<p>"'When the second flag was displayed, it was supposed
+that it headed Mr. Hunt's procession, and there
+was a loud huzza, which stopped one of the waggon
+orators for five minutes.'</p>
+
+<p>"[For all the rest we hold ourselves responsible, as
+it is our own report of what passed.]."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The <i>Times</i> then gives in detail a report of the meeting,
+commencing from the arrival of "Orator" Hunt,
+who read the correspondence between himself and Lord
+Sidmouth, and said: "The statement of Lord Sidmouth
+to him was, that neither any King of the House
+of Brunswick, nor the Prince Regent, since he had
+attained sovereign power, ever gave any answer to
+petitions except they came from the Corporation of the
+City of London, or from the two Universities which
+had the privilege of being heard, and answered from
+the throne. 'If I were to carry your present petition
+to the levée (added his lordship) I should deliver it into
+his Royal Highness's hand, make my bow, and walk
+on; and if you, yourself, Mr. Hunt, were to appear,
+you would do just the same thing; you would deliver
+your petition, make your bow, and pass on.' This,
+Gentlemen, is a little more about Court matters than I
+was aware of before. (Loud laughter and applause.)
+The meeting had the consolation to think, that, if their
+petition was not answered by the Prince Regent, it had
+met with no worse fate than other petitions presented to
+the House of Hanover since the accession of this
+family to the throne. (Applause.)</p>
+
+<p>"He expected to have seen this day a deputation
+from the Soup Committee, for the purpose of returning
+thanks to this meeting for obtaining the £5,000 which
+the Prince Regent had granted. (Great applause.) He
+was convinced that it was owing to the exertions and
+patriotism of the last assembly in those fields that his
+Royal Highness was induced to give this pittance: but
+his Royal Highness had not gone the full length of the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span>
+requests which had then been made. It was required
+that he should bestow on the inhabitants of the
+metropolis &pound;2 or 300,000 out of the Civil List; but,
+instead of this, what had been done? Some enemy to
+his country, some corrupt minister had persuaded his
+Royal Highness to send &pound;5000 out of the Droits of
+the Admiralty, which properly belonged to the sailors:
+those droits, the piratical seizing of which had caused
+so much bloodshed, and the loss of so many British
+lives."</p>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p>This was the sort of fustian that was talked then, as
+now, and probably always will be, to an ignorant mob;
+and, as a natural sequence, words begot actions. Blind&mdash;foolishly
+blind&mdash;the idiotic mob marched towards the
+City, not knowing why, or what advantage they were
+to gain by so doing. Naturally, there were thieves
+about, and they plundered the shop of Mr. Beckwith, a
+gunmaker, in Skinner Street, Snow Hill, shooting a
+gentleman, named Platt, who happened to be in the
+shop, at the time.</p>
+
+<p>At the Royal Exchange, the Lord Mayor, Sir James
+Shaw, with his own hands, seized a man, who was
+bearing a flag, and the mob, unable to force the gates,
+fired inside; but as far as I can learn, without effect.
+Foiled in the attempt to sack, or destroy the Exchange,
+by the arrival of some civil force to the assistance of
+his Lordship, they moved on, seemingly aimlessly,
+towards the Tower: why&mdash;unless it was to supply
+themselves with arms&mdash;no one can guess. Of course,
+if they had tried to take it, they could not have accomplished
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span>
+their purpose, but it never came to that. They
+stole a few guns from two gunmakers in the Minories,
+Messrs. Brander and Rea; and then this gathering of
+rogues and fools dispersed, and the nine days' wonder
+was over.</p>
+
+<p>As usual, nothing was gained by violence. Socialism
+certainly did not advance&mdash;nor was any more employment
+found for anybody&mdash;and the thing fizzled out.
+But it was not the fault of the agitators. Let us read
+a short extract from a leading article in the <i>Times</i> of
+December 4, 1816:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"As to the <i>foreseeing</i> what was to happen&mdash;have we
+forgotten Mr. Hunt's advice on the first day to petition,
+then, if that failed to resort to <i>physical force</i>. They
+did petition, and he calls them together to tell them that
+their petition has failed; and yet it is to be supposed
+that he foresees on their part no resort to physical force!
+Why! this would be trifling with the understanding of
+an infant. But the second time Mr. Hunt said nothing
+about physical force! Oh, no. Whilst the bloody
+business was in hand by his myrmidons in Newgate
+Street, and at the Royal Exchange&mdash;whilst an innocent
+gentleman was in the hands of his assassins&mdash;whilst the
+life of the Chief Magistrate of the city was attacked
+by ruffians, the first inciter to the use of physical force
+was coolly haranguing on the comparative merits of
+himself and his hunter, in Spa Fields. What! did
+anybody expect that he would get up, and accuse
+himself openly of high treason? Did Catilina, in
+the Roman Senate, avow his parricidal intentions
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135-6]</a></span>
+against his country? But, to quit Mr. Hunt for
+awhile, let us recall to the recollection of our readers,
+the incendiary handbills thrust under the doors of
+public houses, several weeks ago. A copy of one of
+them was inserted in our paper of the 1st of last
+month; but, at the time it did not command that
+attention which its real importance perhaps deserved.
+It was of the following tenour:&mdash;'Britons to arms!
+<i>Break open all gun and sword shops</i>, pawnbrokers, and
+other likely places to find arms. No rise of bread, &amp;c.
+No <span class="smcap">Castlereagh</span>. Off with his head. No National
+Debt. <i>The whole country waits the signal from London</i>
+to fly <i>to arms</i>. Stand firm now or never.&mdash;N.B. <i>Printed
+bills containing further directions</i>, will be circulated as
+soon as possible.'"</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>I have dwelt thus at length on these Spa Fields riots
+because the Socialistic and Communistic development
+therein contained, runs fairly parallel with our own
+times; and it is comforting to know, that in this case,
+as in all others in England, the movement was purely
+evanescent; the love of law and order being too deeply
+seated in the breasts of Englishmen. Nay, in this
+case, the butchers from the shambles in Whitechapel
+attacked the mob, and compelled them to give up their
+arms, "which the butchers express a wish to retain, as
+trophies and proofs of their loyalty and courage."
+Hunt fizzled out, and returned to his previous nonentity.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_137-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_137-500.png" width="500" height="143" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">STILL continuing the downward course of the
+Fleet, an historical place is reached, "Hockley-in-the-Hole,"
+or Hollow, so famous for its
+rough sports of bear baiting and sword and cudgel
+playing. The combative nature of an Englishman
+is curious, but it is inbred in him; sometimes it
+takes the form of "writing to the papers," sometimes
+of going to law, sometimes of "punching"
+somebody's head; in many it ends in a stubborn fight
+against difficulties to be overcome&mdash;but, anyhow, I cannot
+deny that an Englishman is pugnacious by nature.
+Hear what Misson, an intelligent French traveller, who
+visited England in the reign of William III., says: "Anything
+that looks like fighting is delicious to an
+Englishman. If two little Boys quarrel in the Street,
+the Passengers stop, make a Ring round them in a
+Moment, and set them against one another, that they
+may come to Fisticuffs. When 'tis come to a Fight,
+each pulls off his Neckcloth and his Waistcoat, and
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span>
+give them to hold to some of the Standers by: then
+they begin to brandish their Fists in the Air; the
+Blows are aim'd all at the Face, they Kick at one
+another's Shins, they tug one another by the Hair, &amp;c.
+He that has got the other down may give him one
+Blow or two before he rises, but no more; and, let the
+Boy get up ever so often, the other is obliged to box
+him again as often as he requires it. During the Fight,
+the Ring of Bystanders encourage the Combatants with
+great Delight of Heart, and never part them while
+they fight according to the Rules. The Father and
+Mother of the Boys let them fight on as well as the rest,
+and hearten him that gives Ground, or has the Worst."</p>
+
+<p>This was about 1700; and, if it was so in the green
+tree (or boy), what would it be in the dry (or man)?
+I am afraid our ancestors were not over-refined. They
+did not all cram for examinations, and there were no
+Girton girls in those days, neither had they analytical
+novels: so that, to a certain extent, we must make
+allowances for them. Tea and coffee were hardly in
+use for breakfast, and men and women had a certain
+amount of faith in beer and beef, which may have had
+something to do in forming their tastes. Anyhow, the
+men were manly, and the women not a whit worse than
+they are now; and woe be to the man that insulted
+one. A code of honour was then in existence, and
+every gentleman carried with him the means of enforcing
+it. Therefore, up to a certain limit, they were combative,
+and not being cigarette-smoking <i>mashers</i>, and
+not being overburdened with novels and periodicals,
+and club smoking and billiard rooms being unknown,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span>
+they enjoyed a more physical existence than is led by
+the young men of the theatrical stalls of the present
+day, and attended Sword and Cudgel playing, and Bull
+and Bear baiting, together with fighting an occasional
+main of Cocks. It might be very wrong; but then
+they had not our advantages of being able to criticize
+the almost unhidden charms of the "chorus," or descant
+on the merits of a "lemon squash," so that, as man
+must have some employment, they acted after their
+lights, and I do not think we can fairly blame them.</p>
+
+<p>For Londoners, a favourite place, early in the
+eighteenth century, for rough sports, was Hockley-in-the-Hole.
+Here was bear and bull baiting for the
+public, a fact that was so well known, according to
+Gay,<a name="FNanchor_55" id="FNanchor_55"></a><a href="#Footnote_55" class="fnanchor">[55]</a>
+that</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width24">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Experienc'd Men, inur'd to City Ways,</p>
+<p class="i1">Need not the <i>Calendar</i> to count their Days.</p>
+<p class="i1">When through the Town, with slow and solemn Air,</p>
+<p class="i1">Led by the Nostril walks the muzzled Bear;</p>
+<p class="i1">Behind him moves, majestically dull,</p>
+<p class="i1">The Pride of <i>Hockley Hole</i>, the surly Bull;</p>
+<p class="i1">Learn hence the Periods of the Week to name,</p>
+<p class="i1"><i>Mondays</i> and <i>Thursdays</i> are the Days of Game."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Even earlier than Gay, Hockley-in-the-Hole is
+mentioned by Butler in his "Hudibras"<a name="FNanchor_56" id="FNanchor_56"></a><a href="#Footnote_56" class="fnanchor">[56]</a>
+in somewhat gruesome fashion:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"But <span class="smcap">Trulla</span> straight brought on the Charge,</p>
+<p class="i1">And in the selfsame Limbo put</p>
+<p class="i1">The Knight and Squire, where he was shut,</p>
+<p class="i1">Where leaving them in Hockley-i'-th'-Hole,</p>
+<p class="i1">Their Bangs and Durance to condole."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>But Butler also talks of Bear baiting, both in the
+first and second cantos of "Hudibras," especially in
+canto the first, where, beginning at line 675, he says:</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"But now a Sport more formidable</p>
+<p class="i1">Had rak'd together Village Rabble:</p>
+<p class="i1">'Twas an old Way of recreating&mdash;</p>
+<p class="i1">Which learned Butchers call Bear-Baiting:</p>
+<p class="i1">A bold advent'rous Exercise,</p>
+<p class="i1">With ancient Heroes in high Prize;</p>
+<p class="i1">For Authors do affirm it came</p>
+<p class="i1">From Isthmian or Nemean Game;</p>
+<p class="i1">Others derive it from the Bear</p>
+<p class="i1">That's fix'd in Northern Hemisphere,</p>
+<p class="i1">And round about the Pole does make</p>
+<p class="i1">A Circle like a Bear at Stake.</p>
+<p class="i1">That at the Chain's End wheels about,</p>
+<p class="i1">And overturns the Rabble Rout.</p>
+<p class="i1">For, after solemn Proclamation</p>
+<p class="i1">In the Bear's Name (as is the Fashion</p>
+<p class="i1">According to the Law of Arms,</p>
+<p class="i1">To keep men from inglorious Harms)</p>
+<p class="i1">That none presume to come so near</p>
+<p class="i1">As forty Foot of Stake of Bear;</p>
+<p class="i1">If any yet be so foolhardy</p>
+<p class="i1">T' expose themselves to vain Jeopardy;</p>
+<p class="i1">If they come wounded off, and lame,</p>
+<p class="i1">No honour's got by such a Maim;</p>
+<p class="i1">Altho' the Bear gain much; b'ing bound</p>
+<p class="i1">In Honour to make good his Ground,</p>
+<p class="i1">When he's engag'd and takes no Notice,</p>
+<p class="i1">If any press upon him, who 'tis,</p>
+<p class="i1">But let's them know, at their own Cost,</p>
+<p class="i1">That he intends to keep his Post."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Bear baiting was so identified, as a sport, to the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span>
+London Citizens who frequented Hockley-in-the-Hole,
+that we read that in 1709 Christopher Preston, who
+then kept the Bear Garden, was attacked and partly
+eaten by one of his own bears.</p>
+
+<p>Bear Gardens are proverbially rough, and this place
+was no exception; but there were two others in London
+where bears were baited, one at Marrybone Fields (at
+the back of Soho Square), and at Tuttle or Tothill
+Fields, at Westminster&mdash;thus showing the popularity of
+the Sports, which was not declared illegal until 1835.</p>
+
+<p>Of course in these our days, we know nothing of bear baiting,
+and if a Pyrenean bear were now taken about the country, as I have
+frequently seen them, even if he "danced to the genteelest of tunes,"
+his proprietor would be in danger of the judgment&mdash;some dear
+mollycoddling old woman in trousers, belonging to some special "faddy"
+society, being always ready to prosecute.</p>
+
+<p>Bears not, at present, being indigenous to Britain,
+were naturally scarce, so the homely and offensive Bull
+had to afford rough sport to the multitude, and several
+towns now bear testimony to the popularity of the sport
+of bull baiting in their "Bull rings" (Birmingham, to
+wit). In the fourteenth century we know that even horses
+were baited with dogs, and as long as fox hunting,
+coursing, or wild stag hunting, are recognized as sports
+among us, I fail to see the superior cruelty of our
+ancestors. It may be that people imagine that the
+larger the animal, the greater the cruelty; but I cannot
+see it. Anyhow, far earlier than the Bear garden of
+Hockley-in-the-Hole, both bear and bull baiting were
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span>
+not only popular, but aristocratic amusements. Erasmus, who visited
+England in Henry VIII.'s time, speaks of many herds of bears being
+kept for baiting; and when Queen Mary visited her sister the Princess
+Elizabeth, they were "right well content" with the bear baiting. Nay,
+when she became Queen, Elizabeth was a great patron of the <i>sport</i>; for
+when, on May 25, 1559, she entertained the French Ambassadors, as an
+after-dinner spectacle, she gave them some bull and bear baiting. Her
+delight in this diversion did not decrease with age, for, twenty-seven
+years later, she provided the same amusement for the delectation of the
+Danish Ambassador. Paul Hentzner, who visited England in 1598, speaking
+of this sport, says:&mdash; "There is still another Place, built in the
+Form of a Theatre, which serves for the baiting of Bulls and Bears;
+they are fastened behind, and then worried by the great <i>English</i> Bull
+dogs; but not without great Risque to the Dogs, from the Horns of the
+one, and the Teeth of the other; and it sometimes happens they are
+killed upon the Spot; fresh ones are immediately supplied in the Place
+of those that are wounded, or tired. To this Entertainment there often
+follows that of whipping a blinded Bear, which is performed by five or
+six Men standing circularly with Whips, which they exercise upon him
+without any Mercy, as he cannot escape from them because of his Chain;
+he defends himself with all his Force and Skill, throwing down all who
+come within his Reach, and are not active enough to get out of it, and
+tearing the Whips out of their Hands, and breaking them."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>And, again are we indebted to a foreigner for a description
+of a bull baiting, thus realizing Burns' aspiration
+seeing "oursen as others see us," <i>vide Misson</i>.</p>
+
+<p>"Here follows the Manner of those Bull Baitings which are so much
+talk'd of: They tie a Rope to the Root of the Ox or Bull, and fasten
+the other End of the Cord to an Iron Ring fix'd to a Stake driven into
+the Ground; so that this Cord being 15 Foot long, the Bull is confin'd
+to a Sphere of about 30 Foot Diameter. Several Butchers, or other
+Gentlemen, that are desirous to exercise their Dogs, stand round about,
+each holding his own by the Ears; and, when the Sport begins, they let
+loose one of the Dogs; The Dog runs at the Bull: the Bull immovable,
+looks down upon the Dog with an Eye of Scorn, and only turns a Horn to
+him to hinder him from coming near: the Dog is not daunted at this, he
+runs round him, and tries to get beneath his Belly, in order to seize
+him by the Muzzle, or the Dew lap, or the pendant Glands: The Bull then
+puts himself into a Posture of Defence; he beats the Ground with his
+Feet, which he joins together as close as possible, and his chief Aim
+is not to gore the Dog with the Point of his Horn, but to slide one of
+them under the Dog's Belly (who creeps close to the Ground to hinder
+it) and to throw him so high in the Air that he may break his Neck in
+the Fall. This often happens: When the Dog thinks he is sure of fixing
+his Teeth, a turn of the Horn, which seems to be done with all the
+Negligence in the World, gives him a Sprawl thirty Foot high, and puts
+him in danger of a damnable Squelch when he comes down. This danger
+would be unavoidable, if the Dog's Friends were not ready beneath
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span>
+him, some with their Backs to give him a soft Reception, and others
+with long Poles which they offer him slant ways, to the Intent that,
+sliding down them, it may break the Force of his Fall. Notwithstanding
+all this care, a Toss generally makes him sing to a very scurvy Tune,
+and draw his Phiz into a pitiful Grimace: But, unless he is totally
+stunn'd with the Fall, he is sure to crawl again towards the Bull,
+with his old Antipathy, come on't what will. Sometimes a second Frisk
+into the Air disables him for ever from playing his old Tricks; But,
+sometimes, too, he fastens upon his Enemy, and when he has seiz'd him
+with his Eye teeth, he sticks to him like a Leech, and would sooner die
+than leave his Hold. Then the Bull bellows, and bounds, and Kicks about
+to shake off the Dog; by his Leaping the Dog seems to be no Manner
+of Weight to him, tho in all Appearance he puts him to great Pain.
+In the End, either the Dog tears out the Piece he has laid Hold on,
+and falls, or else remains fix'd to him, with an Obstinacy that would
+never end, if they did not pull him off. To call him away, would be in
+vain; to give him a hundred blows would be as much so; you might cut
+him to Pieces Joint by Joint before he would let him loose. What is to
+be done then? While some hold the Bull, others thrust Staves into the
+Dog's Mouth, and open it by main Force. This is the only Way to part
+them."</p>
+
+<p>But the dogs did not always get the best of it&mdash;many
+a one was gored and killed by the bull. Cruelty, however,
+would scarcely rest content with simple bull baiting.
+It was improved upon, as we see in the following
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span>
+advertisement. "At the <i>Bear Garden</i> in <i>Hockley in
+the Hole</i>, 1710. This is to give notice to all Gentlemen,
+Gamsters, and Others, That on this present <i>Monday</i>
+is a Match to be fought by two Dogs, one from
+<i>Newgate</i> Market against one of <i>Honey Lane</i> Market, at
+a Bull, for a Guinea to be spent. Five Let goes out
+off Hand, which goes fairest and farthest in, Wins all;
+like wise a <i>Green Bull</i> to be baited, which was never
+baited before, and a Bull to be turned loose with Fire
+works all over him; also a Mad Ass to be baited;
+With variety of Bull baiting, and Bear baiting; and a
+Dog to be drawn up with Fire works."
+<a name="FNanchor_57" id="FNanchor_57"></a><a href="#Footnote_57" class="fnanchor">[57]</a></p>
+
+<p>I cannot, however, consider this as an ordinary programme,
+and it was evidently so considered at the time;
+for a book was advertised in the <i>Tatler</i>, January 3-5,
+1709 (1710):&mdash; "This Day is published The Bull Baiting
+or Sach&mdash;&mdash;ll<a name="FNanchor_58" id="FNanchor_58"></a><a href="#Footnote_58" class="fnanchor">[58]</a>
+dressed up in Fire works; lately brought
+over from the Bear Garden in Southwark, and exposed
+for the Diversion of the Citizens of London: at 6d. a
+piece." But Steele in No. cxxxiv. of the <i>Tatler</i>, condemns the cruelty of
+the age, and says he has "often wondered that we do not lay aside a
+custom which makes us appear barbarous to nations much more rude and
+unpolished than ourselves. Some French writers have represented this
+diversion of the common people much to our disadvantage, and imputed
+it to natural fierceness and cruelty of temper, as they do some other
+entertainments peculiar to our nation: I mean those elegant diversions
+of bull baiting and prize fighting, with the like ingenious recreations
+of the Bear-garden.
+
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span>
+I wish I knew how to answer this reproach which is cast
+upon us, and excuse the death of so many innocent
+cocks, bulls, dogs, and bears, as have been set together
+by the ears, or died untimely deaths, only to make us
+sport."</p>
+
+<p>Of all the places where these cruel pastimes were
+practised, certainly Hockley-in-the-Hole, bore off the
+palm for blackguardism; and it is thus mentioned in an
+essay of Steele's in the <i>Tatler</i> (No. xxviii.),</p>
+
+<p>"I have myself seen Prince Eugene make Catinat fly from the backside
+of Grays Inn Lane to Hockley-in-the-Hole, and not
+give over the pursuit, until obliged to leave the Bear
+Garden, on the right, to avoid being borne down by
+fencers, wild bulls, and monsters, too terrible for the
+encounter of any heroes, but such as their lives are livelihood." To this mention of Hockley-in-the-Hole,
+there is, in an edition of 1789, a footnote (p. 274), "There was a sort of amphitheatre here, dedicated
+originally to bull-baiting, bear-baiting, prize fighting,
+and all other sorts of <i>rough-game</i>; and it was not only
+attended by butchers, drovers, and great crowds of all
+sorts of mobs, but likewise by Dukes, Lords, Knights,
+Squires, &amp;c. There were seats particularly set apart for
+the quality, ornamented with old tapestry hangings, into
+which none were admitted under half a crown at least.
+Its neighbourhood was famous for sheltering thieves, pickpockets,
+and infamous women; and for breeding bulldogs."
+</p>
+
+<p>Bull baiting died hard, and in one famous debate in
+the House of Commons, on 24th of May, 1802, much
+eloquence was wasted on the subject, both <i>pro.</i> and <i>con.</i>,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span>
+one hon. gentleman (the Right Hon. W. Windham,
+M.P. for Norwich), even trying to prove that the bull
+enjoyed the baiting. Said he, "It would be ridiculous to say he felt no pain; yet, when on such
+occasions he exhibited no signs of terror, it was a demonstrable
+proof that he felt some pleasure." Other hon. gentlemen defended it on various grounds, and, although
+Wilberforce and Sheridan spoke eloquently in favour of the abolition
+of the practice, they were beaten, on a division, by which decision
+Parliament inflicted a standing disgrace, for many years, upon the
+English Nation. </p>
+
+<p>Hockley-in-the-Hole was not only the temple of <i>S. S. Taurus et
+Canis</i>; but the genus <i>Homo</i>, type <i>gladiator</i>, was there in his
+glory. It was there that sword play was best shown, but we do not
+hear much of it before William the Third, or Anne's reign, or that of
+George I., when the redoubtable Figg was the Champion swordsman of
+England. As Hockley-in-the-Hole belongs to the Fleet River, so do these
+gladiatorial exhibitions belong to Hockley-in-the-Hole. I have treated
+of them once,<a name="FNanchor_59" id="FNanchor_59"></a><a href="#Footnote_59" class="fnanchor">[59]</a>
+and on looking back, with the knowledge that many of my readers may not
+have seen that book, and having nothing better in the space allotted
+to this peculiar spot, to offer them (for I then drew my best on the
+subject) I quote, with apologies, from myself.
+</p>
+
+<p>"In those days, when every one with any pretensions
+to gentility wore a sword, and duelling was rife, it is
+no wonder that exhibitions of skill in that weapon were
+favourites. Like modern prize fights, they drew together
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span>
+all the scum and riff-raff, as well as the gentry,
+who were fond of so-called <i>sport</i>. They were disreputable
+affairs, and were decried by every class of
+contemporary. The preliminaries were swagger and
+bounce, as one or two out of a very large number will
+show.<a name="FNanchor_60" id="FNanchor_60"></a><a href="#Footnote_60" class="fnanchor">[60]</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="center">"'At the Bear Garden in Hockley-in-the-Hole.</p>
+
+<p>"'A Tryal of Skill to be Performed between two
+Profound Masters of the Noble Science of Defence on
+<i>Wednesday</i> next, being this 13th of the instant July,
+1709, at Two of the Clock precisely.</p>
+
+<p>"'I, <i>George Gray</i>, born in the City of Norwich, who
+has Fought in most Parts of the <i>West Indies</i>, viz.,
+<i>Jamaica</i>, <i>Barbadoes</i>, and several other Parts of the
+World; in all Twenty-five times, upon a Stage, and
+was never yet Worsted, and now lately come to <i>London</i>;
+do invite <i>James Harris</i>, to meet and Exercise at these
+following Weapons, viz.:
+</p>
+
+<table summary="weaponry" border="0">
+<tr>
+<td class="right"><i>Back Sword,</i></td>
+<td class="left" rowspan="3"><span style="font-size: 3em;">}</span></td>
+<td class="right" rowspan="3"><span style="font-size: 3em;">{</span></td>
+<td class="left"><i>Single Falchon</i></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="right"><i>Sword and Dagger,</i></td>
+<td class="left" >&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>and</i></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="right"><i>Sword and Buckler,</i></td>
+<td class="left"><i>Case of Falchons</i>.'</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>"'I, <i>James Harris</i>, Master of the said Noble Science
+of Defence, who formerly rid in the Horse Guards, and
+hath Fought a Hundred and Ten Prizes, and never
+left a Stage to any Man; will not fail, (God Willing)
+to meet this brave and bold Inviter, at the Time and
+Place appointed, desiring Sharp swords, and from him
+no Favour.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"'<img src="images/i_167-finger-35.png" width="35" height="22"
+alt="right-pointing hand" style="margin-bottom:-0.2em;" />
+<i>Note.</i>
+No persons to be upon the Stage but the
+Seconds. <i>Vivat Regina.</i>'"
+</p>
+
+<p>This is not the only available advertisement, but it
+is a typical one, and will serve for all.</p>
+
+<p>"The challenger would wager some twenty or thirty
+pounds, and the stakes would be deposited and delivered
+to the Challenged: the challenger receiving the money
+<a name="FNanchor_61" id="FNanchor_61"></a><a href="#Footnote_61" class="fnanchor">[61]</a>
+taken at the door, or as we should term it, <i>gate money</i>;
+which, frequently, twice or thrice exceeded the value
+of the stakes.</p>
+
+<p>"There is one remarkable exception, I have found, to
+this monetary arrangement, but it is the only one in
+my experience. For, in an advertisement of the usual
+character, there comes: 'Note.&mdash;That John Stokes
+fights James Harris, and Thomas Hesgate fights
+John Terriwest, three Bouts each at Back Sword, for
+Love.'</p>
+
+<p>"Preliminaries arranged, handbills printed and distributed,
+the Combat duly advertised in at least one
+newspaper, and the day arrived; like the bull and bear,
+the combatants paraded the streets, preceded by a drum,
+having their sleeves tucked up, and their Swords in
+hand. All authorities agree that the fights were, to a
+certain extent, serious.<a name="FNanchor_62" id="FNanchor_62"></a><a href="#Footnote_62" class="fnanchor">[62]</a> 'The Edge of the Sword was
+a little blunted, and the Care of the Prize-fighters was
+not so much to avoid wounding each other, as to avoid
+doing it dangerously: Nevertheless, as they were
+oblig'd to fight till some Blood was shed, without which
+no Body would give a Farthing for the Show, they
+were sometimes forc'd to play a little ruffly. I once
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span>
+saw a much deeper and longer Cut given than was intended.'
+"Ward<a name="FNanchor_63" id="FNanchor_63"></a><a href="#Footnote_63" class="fnanchor">[63]</a>
+gives a short description of one of these fights: 'Great Preparations at the Bear Garden all Morning, for the noble
+Tryal of Skill that is to be play'd in the Afternoon. Seats fill'd
+and crowded by Two. Drums beat, Dogs yelp, Butchers and Foot soldiers
+clatter their Sticks; At last the two heroes, in their fine borrow'd
+<i>Holland</i> Shirts, mount the Stage about Three; Cut large Collops out
+of one another, to divert the Mob, and Make Work for the Surgeons:
+Smoking, Swearing, Drinking, Thrusting, Justling, Elbowing, Sweating,
+Kicking, Cuffing, all the while the Company stays.'</p>
+
+<p>Steele gives a good account of a prize fight:
+<a name="FNanchor_64" id="FNanchor_64"></a><a href="#Footnote_64" class="fnanchor">[64]</a>
+'The Combatants met in the Middle of the Stage, and, shaking
+Hands, as removing all Malice, they retired with much
+Grace to the Extremities of it; from whence they
+immediately faced about, and approached each other.
+<i>Miller</i>, with an Heart full of Resolution, <i>Buck</i>, with
+a watchful, untroubled Countenance; <i>Buck</i> regarding
+principally his own Defence, <i>Miller</i> chiefly thoughtful
+of his Opponent. It is not easie to describe the many
+Escapes and imperceptible Defences between Two Men
+of Quick Eyes, and ready Limbs; but <i>Miller's</i> Heat
+laid him open to the Rebuke of the calm <i>Buck</i>, by
+a large Cut on the Forehead. Much Effusion of Blood
+covered his Eyes in a Moment, and the Huzzas of
+the Crowd undoubtedly quickened his Anguish. The
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span>
+Assembly was divided into Parties upon their different
+ways of Fighting: while a poor Nymph in one of the
+Galleries apparently suffered for <i>Miller</i>, and burst into
+a Flood of Tears. As soon as his Wound was wrapped
+up, he came on again in a little Rage, which still disabled
+him further. But what brave Man can be
+wounded with more Patience and Caution? The next
+was a warm eager Onset, which ended in a decisive
+Stroke on the Left Leg of <i>Miller</i>. The Lady in the
+Gallery, during the second Strife, covered her face; and
+for my Part, I could not keep my thoughts from being
+mostly employed on the Consideration of her unhappy
+Circumstances that Moment, hearing the Clash of
+Swords, and apprehending Life or Victory concerned
+her Lover in every Blow, but not daring to satisfie
+herself on whom they fell. The Wound was exposed
+to the View of all who could delight in it, and sowed
+up on the Stage. The surly Second of <i>Miller</i> declared
+at this Time, that he would, that Day Fortnight, fight
+Mr. <i>Buck</i> at the Same Weapons, declaring himself the
+Master of the renowned <i>German</i>; but <i>Buck</i> denied him
+the Honour of that Courageous Disciple, and, asserting
+that he himself had taught that Champion, accepted the
+Challenge."</p>
+
+<p>In No. 449, of the <i>Spectator</i>, is the following letter
+<i>re</i> Hockley-in-the-Hole:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Mr. Spectator</span>,&mdash;I was the other day at the Bear-garden,
+in hopes to have seen your short face; but not
+being so fortunate, I must tell you by way of letter,
+that there is a mystery among the gladiators which has
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span>
+escaped your spectatorial penetration. For, being in
+a Box at an Alehouse, near that renowned Seat or
+Honour above mentioned, I overheard two Masters of
+the Science agreeing to quarrel on the next Opportunity.
+This was to happen in the Company of a Set of the
+Fraternity of Basket Hilts, who were to meet that
+Evening. When that was settled, one asked the other,
+Will you give Cuts, or receive? the other answered,
+Receive. It was replied, Are you a passionate Man?
+No, provided you cut no more, nor no deeper than
+we agree. I thought it my duty to acquaint you with
+this, that the people may not pay their money for
+fighting, and be cheated.</p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left:10em">
+"Your humble servant,<br /></span>
+</p>
+<p><span style="margin-left:20em"><span class="smcap">"Scabbard Rusty</span>."</span>
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>It was not sword play alone that was the favourite
+pastime at Hockley-in-the-Hole, there was cudgel
+playing&mdash;and fighting with "the Ancient Weapon
+called the Threshing Flail." There is an advertisement
+extant of a fight with this weapon between John Terrewest
+and John Parkes of Coventry, whose tombstone
+affirms that he fought three hundred and fifty battles in
+different parts of Europe. Fisticuffs also came prominently
+into vogue early in the eighteenth century, and
+it is needless to say that Hockley was a favourite place
+with its professors. The site of the Bear Garden is
+said to be occupied by the "Coach and Horses," 29,
+Ray Street, Farringdon Road.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_55" id="Footnote_55"></a><a href="#FNanchor_55"><span class="label">[55]</span></a>
+"Trivia," book ii.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_56" id="Footnote_56"></a><a href="#FNanchor_56"><span class="label">[56]</span></a>
+Book iii. line 1,000, &amp;c.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_57" id="Footnote_57"></a><a href="#FNanchor_57"><span class="label">[57]</span></a>
+Harl. MSS. 5931, 46.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_58" id="Footnote_58"></a><a href="#FNanchor_58"><span class="label">[58]</span></a>
+Dr. Sacheverell.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_59" id="Footnote_59"></a><a href="#FNanchor_59"><span class="label">[59]</span></a>
+"Social Life in the Reign of Queen Anne," by John Ashton
+(<i>Chatto and Windus</i>).</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_60" id="Footnote_60"></a><a href="#FNanchor_60"><span class="label">[60]</span></a>
+Harl. MSS. 5931, 50.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_61" id="Footnote_61"></a><a href="#FNanchor_61"><span class="label">[61]</span></a>
+De. Sorbière.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_62" id="Footnote_62"></a><a href="#FNanchor_62"><span class="label">[62]</span></a>
+Misson.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_63" id="Footnote_63"></a><a href="#FNanchor_63"><span class="label">[63]</span></a>
+"Comical View of London and Westminster."</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_64" id="Footnote_64"></a><a href="#FNanchor_64"><span class="label">[64]</span></a>
+<i>Spectator</i>, No. 436.</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_0vii-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_0vii-500.png" width="500" height="128" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XIII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">IN connection with the Fleet, I have omitted to mention
+one locality, in this immediate neighbourhood, which
+certainly deserves notice from its associations, namely
+Laystall Street and Mount Pleasant; for here it was,
+that a fort to command Gray's Inn Road, was built,
+when the lines for the protection of the City were
+formed by order of Parliament in 1643&mdash;at the time
+when it was feared that Prince Rupert was coming to
+attack it. For nearly, if not quite, a hundred years
+those lines of defence were partially visible; and,
+certainly, among others, one was at Mount Pleasant.
+It is a somewhat curious thing that the names survive.
+A Laystall meant a dung or dust heap, and, after this
+artificial mound was utilized for the community its
+name was euphemised into Mount Pleasant, which it
+bears to this day.</p>
+
+<p>This work of intrenchment was almost impressment,
+for we can hardly consider that it was voluntary, when
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span>
+we read in a newspaper of 1643, that, by order of the
+Parliament, "many thousands of men and women
+(good housekeepers), their children, and servants, went
+out of the several parishes of London with spades,
+shovels, pickaxes, and baskets, and drums and colours
+before them; some of the chief men of every parish
+marching before them, and so went into the fields, and
+worked hard all day in digging and making of trenches,
+from fort to fort, wherebie to intrench the citie round
+from one end to the other, on this side of the Thames;
+and late at night the company came back in like manner
+they went out, and the next day a many more went,
+and so they continued daily, with such cheerfulnesse
+that the whole will be finished ere many dayes." And so these works of fortification went on, encouraged by the
+presence of a member of the Common Council, and some of the Trained
+Bands (the City Militia of that time) and it was a work in which all
+classes joined&mdash;willingly, or not, I know not&mdash;but the
+latter, probably, as the City of London was generally loyal to its
+king, although on occasion, the dwellers therein, knew how to hold
+their own in defence of their prerogatives. But the fear of Prince
+Rupert, and his familiar spirit&mdash;the white poodle dog "Boy" (who
+was killed, after passing through many a battle-field unscathed, at
+Marston Moor, July 2, 1644), may possibly have had something to do with
+it. Of course we know that tailors and shoemakers, are mostly radicals,
+and socialists in politics, probably on account of their sedentary
+work, where political discussion is rife, and from their constant
+inter-association, not mixing much with the outer world;
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span>
+therefore we can scarcely wonder that on the 5th of
+June, 1643, that some five thousand or six thousand
+Tailors went out to help intrench the City against the
+redoubted Prince, and that, afterwards, the shoemakers
+followed their example. Two thousand porters also
+helped in the work. Most probably, a moral "shrewd
+privie nipp" was administered to most people by those
+then in power, and they were forced into taking an
+active part in raising the fortifications, irrespective of
+their being either <i>Cavaliers</i> or <i>Roundheads</i>.</p>
+
+<p>At all events, the fort at Mount Pleasant was raised,
+although never used, and it belongs to the history of
+the Fleet River&mdash;as, close by, a little affluent joined it.
+Gardens sloped down to its banks, notably those of
+the great Priory of St. John's Clerkenwell, and, like
+Bermondsey, with its "Cherry Gardens"&mdash;the names
+of "Vineyard Walk" and "Pear Tree Court" bear
+testimony to the fruitfulness of this part of London.
+There is also "Vine Street" in Saffron Hill, which
+latter name is extremely suggestive of the growth of
+a plant which, in old times, was much used both in
+medicine and cooking. It was called "The Liberty
+of Saffron Hill, Hatton Garden, and Ely Place"&mdash;which
+was in the Manor of Portpool.</p>
+
+<p>Saffron Hill, nowadays, is the home of the Italian
+organ-grinder, who, although not unknown to the police,
+is undoubtedly a better citizen than previous dwellers
+therein. Specially was West Street, or Chick Lane, as
+it was formerly called, a neighbourhood to be avoided
+by all honest men. It ran both east and west of the
+Fleet, which it crossed by a bridge. Stow calls it
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span>
+Chicken Lane, but it certainly was not inhabited by
+young and innocent birds. It ran into Field Lane, of
+unsavoury memory, and now done away with.</p>
+
+<p>This was the state of West Street, as exemplified by
+a cutting from the <i>Morning Herald</i> of Feb. 11, 1834:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Yesterday an inquest was held at the Horse Shoe and
+Magpie, Saffron Hill, before <span class="smcap">Thomas Stirling</span>, Esq.,
+Coroner, on the body of James Parkinson, aged 36, who
+came by his death under the following circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>"The Jury proceeded to view the body of the deceased,
+which lay in the upper part of a low lodging-house
+for travellers, in West Street, Saffron Hill. It
+was in a high state of decomposition, and a report was
+generally circulated that he had come by his death by
+unfair means.</p>
+
+<p>"Mary Wood being sworn, deposed that she was the
+landlady of the house in West Street, which she let out
+in lodgings. The deceased occasionally lodged with
+her, and he was a dealer in cat's meat. On Tuesday
+night last he came home and asked her for a light, and
+proceeded to his bedroom. On the Wednesday witness
+proceeded upstairs to make the beds, when she saw the
+deceased lying on his bed apparently asleep, but she did
+not speak to him. On the Thursday she proceeded to
+the upper part of the house for the same purpose, when
+she again saw the deceased lying as if asleep, but she
+did not disturb him, and he was ultimately discovered
+to be a corpse, and his face quite black.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Juror.</i> Pray, how many beds are there in the room
+where the deceased slept?</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"<i>Witness.</i> Only eight, and please you, Sir.</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed, and how many persons are in the habit of
+sleeping in the same apartment?&mdash;There are generally
+two or three in a bed, but the deceased had a bed to
+himself.</p>
+
+<p>"Very comfortable truly. Is it not strange that none
+of his fellow lodgers ascertained that he was dead?&mdash;No,
+Sir, they go in and out without seeming to care for
+each other.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mean to say, if a poor man was to take a
+lodging at your house, you would let him lie for upwards
+of 48 hours without inquiring whether he required
+nourishment?&mdash;Why, Sir, I have known some of my
+lodgers, who have been out <i>upon the spree</i> to <i>lay</i> in bed
+for three and four days together, without a bit or a sup,
+and then they have gone out to their work as well and
+as hearty as ever they <i>was</i> in their lives; I have known
+it often to have been done. There was plenty of <i>grub</i>
+in the house if he liked to have asked for it; but I
+thought if I asked him to have victuals he would be
+offended, as he might receive it as a hint for the few
+nights' lodging that he owed me.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Appleby, the parish surgeon, proved that the
+deceased died a natural death, and the Jury returned a
+verdict of 'Died by the visitation of God.'"</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>There was an old house in West Street, pulled down
+in April, 1840, which tradition affirmed to have been
+the residence of the infamous Jonathan Wild, and, when
+destroyed, its age was considered to be about three
+hundred years. At one time it was the Red Lion Inn;
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span>
+but for a hundred years prior to its demolition it was a
+low lodging-house. Owing to the numerous facilities
+for secretion and escape, it was the haunt of coiners,
+secret distillers, thieves, and perhaps worse. There were
+trap doors connected with the Fleet River through which
+booty might be thrown, or a man get away, if hard
+pressed; a secret door in a garret led to the next house,
+and there were many hiding places&mdash;in one of which a
+chimney sweep named Jones, who had escaped from
+Newgate, lay hidden for about six weeks, although the
+house was repeatedly searched by the police.</p>
+
+<p>And there was Field Lane too, which was the house
+of the "Fence," or receiver of stolen goods. It was
+from this interesting locality that Charles Dickens drew
+that wonderful study of Fagin&mdash;who was a real character.
+Cruikshank has made him as immortal, but Kenny
+Meadows tried to delineate him in a clever series which
+appeared in <i>Bell's Life in London</i>, under the title of
+"Gallery of Comicalities."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 400px; ">
+<a href="images/i_159-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_159-500.png" width="400" height="500" alt="FAGIN, THE JEW." /></a>
+<div class="caption">FAGIN, THE JEW.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Welcome, Old Star, of Saffron hill.</p>
+<p class="i4">Of villainy a sample bright,</p>
+<p class="i1">Awake to Prigs, and plunder still,</p>
+<p class="i4">Thou merry, ancient Israelite!</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Thy face is rough, with matted shag,</p>
+<p class="i4">Foul is thy form, old shrivell'd wretch.</p>
+<p class="i1">How cunningly you eye the swag,</p>
+<p class="i4">Harden'd purveyor to Jack Ketch!</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Incrusted with continued crime,</p>
+<p class="i4">Your hopeful pupils still employ&mdash;</p>
+<p class="i1">Thou wert indeed a Tutor prime</p>
+<p class="i4">To Oliver, the Workhouse Boy.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Poor Lad! condemn'd to fate's hard stripes,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span>
+<p class="i4">To herd with Fagin's plundering pack;</p>
+<p class="i1">And learn the art of filching wipes,</p>
+<p class="i4">From Charley Bates, and Dawkins Jack.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">To hear 'The Dodger' patter slang,</p>
+<p class="i4">With knowing wink, and accent glib,</p>
+<p class="i1">Or learn from 'Sikes's' ruffian gang,</p>
+<p class="i4">In slap up style to crack a crib.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Hail, Fagin! Patriarch of the whole!</p>
+<p class="i4">Kind Patron of these knowing ones&mdash;</p>
+<p class="i1">In thee we trace a kindred soul</p>
+<p class="i4">Of honest Ikey Solomon's!</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">We leave you to your courses vile,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span>
+<p class="i4">For conscience you have none, old Codger!</p>
+<p class="i1">And in our next we'll trace in style,</p>
+<p class="i4">The mug of Jack, the <i>artful dodger</i>."</p>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 463px; ">
+<a href="images/i_160-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_160-500.png" width="463" height="500" alt="FIELD LANE NEGOTIATIONS; OR, A SPECIMEN OF 'FINE DRAWING.'" /></a>
+<div class="caption">FIELD LANE NEGOTIATIONS; OR, A SPECIMEN OF "FINE DRAWING."
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>The artistic merit of this poetry is <i>nil</i>, and my only
+excuse is the introduction of a forgotten sketch by a
+dead artist, who, in his day was popular and famous.
+Who, for instance, remembering Leech's pictures in
+<i>Punch</i>, would think that this illustration ever came
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span>
+from his pencil? but it did, and from <i>Bell's Life in
+London</i>; and so did another, of two children fighting in
+Chick Lane, whilst their parents, the father with a
+broken nose, and the mother with a black eye, look on
+approvingly.</p>
+
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Field Lane Negotiations; or, a Specimen of
+'Fine Drawing.</span>' Thish ish vot I callsh 'caushe and
+effect;' caushe if vee thidn't buy, no bothy vood shell,
+and if vee thidn't shell, nobothy vood buy; and vot's
+more, if peoplesh thidn't have foglesh, vy, nobothy could
+prig em" (<i>See</i> Abrahams on the "Economy of Wipes").</p>
+
+<p>Those were the days of large and valuable silk
+Bandana handkerchiefs, and the story used to be told
+that you might have your pocket picked of your handkerchief
+at one end of Field Lane, and buy it again at
+the other end, with the marking taken out.</p>
+
+<p>Long before Fagin's time, however, there was a school
+for young thieves in this neighbourhood, <i>vide Gentleman's
+Magazine</i> (1765), vol. xxxv. p. 145.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Four boys, detected in picking pockets, were examined
+before the Lord Mayor, when one was admitted
+as evidence, who gave an account, that a man who kept a
+public-house near <i>Fleet Market</i>, had a club of boys, whom
+he instructed in picking pockets, and other iniquitous
+practices; beginning first with teaching them to pick a
+handchief out of his own pocket, and next his watch; so
+that, at last, the evidence was so great an adept, that he
+got the publican's watch four times in one evening, when
+he swore he was as perfect as one of twenty years'
+practice. The pilfering out of shops was his next art;
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span>
+his instructions to his pupils were, that as many chandlers,
+or other shops, as had hatches,<a name="FNanchor_65" id="FNanchor_65"></a>
+<a href="#Footnote_65" class="fnanchor">[65]</a>
+one boy was to knock for admittance for some trifle, whilst another was
+lying on his belly, close to the hatch, who when the boy came out, the
+hatch on jar, and the owner withdrawn, was to crawl in, on all fours,
+and take the tills or anything else he could meet with, and to retire
+in the same manner. Breaking into shops by night was another article
+which was to be effected thus: as walls of brick under shop windows are
+very thin, two of them were to lie under a window as destitute beggars,
+asleep to passers by, but, when alone, were provided with pickers to
+pick the mortar out of the bricks, and so on till they had opened a
+hole big enough to go in, when one was to lie, as if asleep, before
+the breach, till the other accomplished his purpose."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_65" id="Footnote_65"></a><a href="#FNanchor_65"><span class="label">[65]</span></a>
+Dwarf doors.</p>
+</div>
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_162-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_162-200.png" width="200" height="150" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_163-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_163-500.png" width="500" height="144" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XIV.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">CLOSE by Saffron Hill, and Fleet Lane, is Hatton
+Garden, or Ely Place, formerly the seats of the
+Bishops of Ely; which Shakespeare has made so
+familiar to us in <i>Richard III.</i> act iii. sc. 4. "My
+Lord of Ely, when I was last in Holborn, I saw good
+strawberries in your garden there; I do beseech you,
+send for some of them."<a name="FNanchor_66" id="FNanchor_66"></a><a href="#Footnote_66" class="fnanchor">[66]</a>
+In Queen Elizabeth's time an arrangement was effected so that her
+favourite Chancellor Hatton, who "led the brawls, the Seal and
+Maces danc'd before him,"<a name="FNanchor_67" id="FNanchor_67"></a><a href="#Footnote_67" class="fnanchor">[67]</a>
+should have this little estate, the gardens of which sloped down to the
+Fleet River. Hence the Bishop of Ely's place assumed the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span>
+name of Hatton Garden.</p>
+
+<p>There is a legend&mdash;and I give it as such&mdash;that this
+Sir Christopher Hatton married a beautiful gipsy girl,
+who bewitched him; and the price she had to pay,
+according to her compact with the Evil One, was her
+soul, and body, after a given time. When that arrived,
+the Devil duly came for her, and seizing her, bore her
+aloft, and, whilst in the air, he rent her in pieces, and
+threw her still palpitating heart to earth. Where it
+fell was, for years, known as <i>Bleeding Heart Yard</i>; but
+now, the authorities, whoever they may be, have altered
+it to <i>Bleeding Hart</i>, which, in all probability was the
+cognizance of the family who resided there.</p>
+
+<p>This Ely Place had very extensive premises, consisting
+of numerous buildings, a Hall, Quadrangle, Cloisters,
+Chapel, a field, the historic garden, <i>cum multis aliis</i>;
+and they occupied a large space. Only the Chapel now
+remains, and that has had a curious career. At one
+time marriages were celebrated there, as at the Fleet,
+presumably that it was not under the jurisdiction of the
+Bishop of London, but this fiction was overruled in the
+case of <i>Barton</i> v. <i>Wells</i> in the Consistory Court, Nov.
+17, 1789, when Sir Wm. Scott (afterwards Lord Stowell)
+decided that Ely Chapel was under the authority of the
+Bishop of London, and that Curates thereto must be
+licensed by him.</p>
+
+<p>The Bishops came to London in former times, as
+now, and their residences, in several cases were known
+as <i>Places</i>, or <i>Palaces</i>. Thus, there was Winchester
+Place, in Southwark, now the headquarters of the Fire
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span>
+Brigade&mdash;formerly the palace of the Bishops of Winchester,
+a city which was once the metropolis of England,
+where Parliaments were held, and whose Bishops to
+this day are titular Prelates of the Garter. The Bishop
+of Bangor, who, although his see claims to be as old as
+any, has not the richest bishopric, had a palace in Shoe
+Lane, Holborn, and the Bishop of Lincoln also lived in
+Holborn.</p>
+
+<p>The first mention of the connection of the Bishops
+of Ely, is in the will of John de Kirkeby (who was
+appointed Bishop in 1286), and whose will was proved
+in 1290, or 18 Edward I., and in the Close Roll of that
+year, is the following (in Latin, of course):</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p class="center">"<i>For the Executors of the Will of the Bishop of Ely.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Whereas the King hath understood that John, late
+Bishop of Ely, deceased, of pious memory, hath in his
+last will bequeathed his houses which he had in the
+parish of St. Andrew near Holeburn, in the suburbs,
+and within the liberty of the city of London, to God,
+and the Church of St. Etheldreda<a name="FNanchor_68" id="FNanchor_68"></a><a href="#Footnote_68" class="fnanchor">[68]</a>
+of Ely, and his successors, bishops of the same place, so that they
+should pay the debts which the same deceased owed for those houses to
+Gregory de Rokesle, the King's Citizen, of London; Ralph de Sandwich,
+warden of the said City, is commanded, that, without delay, he deliver
+the aforesaid houses, with appurtenances, which are in the King's hand
+and custody, by reason of the death of the aforesaid bishop, thereof to
+make execution of the said will.</p>
+
+<p class="center">"Witness the King at Westminster on the 18th day
+of July."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The next bishop&mdash;William de Luda (who must have
+been a person of some distinction, for he had previously
+held the Deanery of St. Martin's le Grand, and the
+Archdeaconry of Durham, besides being Chamberlain,
+Treasurer, and Keeper of the Wardrobe to the King)
+bequeathed more property to the See, and in all likelihood,
+built the Chapel of St. Etheldreda, which, however,
+was most probably considerably modified by a later
+Bishop, Thomas de Arundel, who held the See from
+1374 to 1388&mdash;as the windows, mouldings, &amp;c., now
+existing show, being about as good an example, as
+possible, of <i>Decorated</i>, or <i>Second Pointed</i> architecture.</p>
+
+<p>"Old <i>Iohn of Gaunt</i>, time-honoured Lancaster" lived
+at Ely Place for a time&mdash;in all likelihood after his
+palace in the Savoy, had been destroyed by rioters.
+This fact is noted by Shakespeare in "The life and
+death of King Richard the Second," act i. sc. 4:</p>
+
+<p>
+<span style="margin-left: 4.5em;">"<i>Busby.</i></span>
+<span style="margin-left: 2.2em;">Old Iohn of Gaunt is verie sick, my Lord,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 10em;">Sodainly taken, and hath sent post haste</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 10em;">To entreat your Majesty to visit him.</span><br />
+
+<span style="margin-left: 5em;"><i>Richard.</i></span>
+<span style="margin-left: 1.25em;">Where lyes he?</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 5em;"><i>Busby.</i></span>
+<span style="margin-left: 2.1em;">At Ely house."</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Hollinshed, also, under date 1399, says: "In the meane time, the Duke of Lancaster departed out of this life
+at the Bishop of Elie's place, in Holborne, and lieth buried in the
+Cathedrall Church of St. Paule, in London, on the north side of the
+high altar, by the Ladie Blanche, his first wife."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The premises were of very great extent, as appears
+by plans taken before its almost total demolition in
+1772. Under the Chapel was a cellar, or under croft&mdash;divided
+into two&mdash;and this seems to have caused some
+inconvenience in the seventeenth century, for Malcolm,
+in his "Londinium Redivivum" (vol. ii. p. 236) says: "One half of
+the crypt under the chapel, which had been used for interments, was
+then frequented as a drinking-place, where liquor was retailed; and the
+intoxication of the people assembled, often interrupted the offices of
+religion above them." And this statement seems to be borne out by a reference
+to Harl. MSS. 3789, <i>et seq.</i>, where it says: "Even half of the vault or burying place under the Chapel is made
+use of as a public cellar (or was so very lately) to sell drink in,
+there having been frequently revellings heard there during Divine
+Service."</p>
+
+<p>More curious things than this happened to Ely Place,
+for the Journals of the House of Commons inform us
+how, on January 3, 1642-3, "The palace was this day
+ordered to be converted into a prison, and John Hunt,
+Sergeant-at-arms, appointed keeper during the pleasure
+of the House." He was, at the same time, commanded to take care that the gardens,
+trees, chapel, and its windows, received no injury. A sufficient sum
+for repairs was granted from the revenues of the see.</p>
+
+<p>Again, on March 1, 1660: "Ordered that it be referred to a Committee to consider how,
+and in what manner, the said widows, orphans, and maim'd soldiers,
+at Ely House, may be provided for, and paid, for the future, with
+the least prejudice, and most ease to the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span>
+nation; and how a weekly revenue may be settled for their maintenance;
+and how the maimed soldiers may be disposed of, so as the nation may
+be eased of the charge, and how they may be provided of a preaching
+minister."</p>
+
+<p>There were always squabbles about this property,
+and it nearly fell into ruin; but in 1772 an Act of
+Parliament was passed (Geo. III., an. 12, cap. 43)
+entitled "An Act for vesting <i>Ely House</i>, in <i>Holbourn</i>, in His Majesty,
+his Heirs and Successors, and for applying the Purchase Money, with
+another Sum therein mentioned, in the purchasing of a Freehold Piece of
+Ground in <i>Dover Street</i>, and in the building, and fitting up another
+House thereon, for the future Residence of the Bishops of <i>Ely</i>, and
+the Surplus to the Benefit of the See; and for other Purposes therein
+mentioned." And the town residence of the Bishop of Ely is now 37, Dover Street,
+Piccadilly. This little bargain was the sale to the Crown of Ely Place
+for £6,500, and a perpetual annuity of £200 to the Bishop of Ely and
+his successors.</p>
+
+<p>The site and materials were purchased by a Mr.
+Charles Cole, an architect and builder, and he built
+Ely Place, Holborn. The chapel was let, and, eventually,
+to the Welsh Episcopalians of London. But the
+property got into Chancery, and the estate was ordered
+to be sold; and it was sold on January 28, 1874, and
+the chapel alone fetched £5,250. As there was no
+stipulation as to its purchase by any particular religious
+body, it was bought by the Roman Catholics, and is
+now St. Etheldreda's Church, Convent, and schools.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_169-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_169-500.png" width="500" height="325" alt="ELY HOUSE, 1784." /></a>
+<div class="caption">ELY HOUSE, 1784.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span></p>
+
+<p><i>Apropos</i> of Ely House, when Bishop Coxe demurred
+at surrendering the property of his see to Hatton,
+Queen Elizabeth wrote him that famous letter, beginning
+"Proud Prelate," and telling him that, if he did
+not do as he was told, she, who had made him what he
+was, could unmake him, and if he did not immediately
+comply, she would unfrock him&mdash;signing this very
+characteristic and peremptory epistle, "Yours, as you
+demean yourself, <span class="smcap">Elizabeth</span>."</p>
+
+<p>On the other or east side of the Fleet was a tributary
+brook called Turnmill brook&mdash;a name now surviving
+in Turnmill Street&mdash;which, even in this century, drove
+flour and flatting mills, and we have indisputable evidence
+of its industrial powers, in an advertisement in
+the <i>Daily Courant</i> September 17, 1714, which calls
+attention to a house in Bowling (Green) Alley,
+<a name="FNanchor_69" id="FNanchor_69"></a><a href="#Footnote_69" class="fnanchor">[69]</a>
+Turnmill Street, which had the power of utilizing "a common
+sewer with a good stream, and a good current, for purposes
+of a Mill;" and it was on Turnmill Brook that
+Cave, the publisher, in 1740, went into an unprofitable
+partnership with one Lewis Paul, of Birmingham, to
+work a mill for the utilization of a patent taken out by
+Paul for a "Machine to spin wool or cotton into thread,
+yarn, or worsted." This experiment, however, was not
+a success.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 338px; ">
+<a href="images/i_171-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_171-500.png" width="338" height="500" alt="Fleet." /></a>
+</div>
+
+<p>The Fleet flowing to its bourne,
+<a name="FNanchor_70" id="FNanchor_70"></a><a href="#Footnote_70" class="fnanchor">[70]</a>
+the Thames, was bridged over at Holborn. Stow says: "Oldbourne bridge, over the said river of Wels more towards the
+north, was so called, of a bourn that sometimes ran
+down Oldbourne hill into the said river. This bridge
+of stone, like as Fleet bridge from Ludgate West,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span>
+serveth for passengers with Carriage, or otherwise, from
+Newgate toward the west and by north." This was written in 1598.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 404px; ">
+<a href="images/i_172-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_172-500.png" width="404" height="500" alt="Fleet" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<p>After the great fire of 1666 the Fleet was widened,
+and canalized, from the Thames, to Holborn Bridge;
+thence, to its source, it took its natural course, and,
+although there were then three bridges over it, from
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span>
+Holborn to Newgate Street, set close, side by side, yet
+it was considered too narrow for the traffic, as we see
+in an Act of Parliament passed in 1670 (22 Car. II.,
+cap. 11), entitled "An additional Act for the Rebuilding
+of the City of <i>London</i>, Uniting of Parishes, and
+Rebuilding of the Cathedral and Parochial Churches
+within the said City." Section 7 says: "And, whereas the Way or Passage of <i>Holborn-Bridge</i> is now too
+strait, or incommodious for the many Carriages and Passengers daily
+using and frequenting the same, and is therefore necessary to be
+enlarged; Be it therefore likewise enacted, That it shall and may
+be lawful for the said Mayor, Aldermen, and Commons, so to enlarge
+and make wider the same, as that the said Way and Passage may run in
+a Bevil Line from a certain Timber house on the North side thereof,
+commonly called or known by the Name or Sign of the <i>Cock</i>, into the
+Front of the Buildings of a certain Inn called the <i>Swan</i> Inn, situate
+on the North side of <i>Holborn Hill</i>, as aforesaid."</p>
+
+<p>Sir Christopher Wren built this bridge, which was
+meant to be the ornamental end of "The New Canal,"
+as it is described in the map of Farringdon Ward in
+Stow's "Survey" (ed. 1720). It must have taken some
+time to complete, for it was not finished until the
+Mayoralty of Sir William Hooker, whose name appeared
+carved upon it (although somewhat mutilated)
+when it was uncovered in March, 1840. Sir William
+Tite, C.B., M.P., F.S.A., &amp;c., Architect to the City of
+London, writing at that date, says: "The Sewer at Holborn Hill was opened, and as I was passing, I
+saw the southern face of the Bridge which crossed the Fleet <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span>
+at this place uncovered to some extent. It was built of red brick, and
+the arch was about twenty feet span. The road from the east intersected
+the bridge obliquely, which irregularity was obviated from a moulded
+and well-executed stone corbel arising out of the angle thus formed,
+which carried the parapet. On the plinth course of the parapet was cut
+the inscription following, recording the fact of the erection of the
+bridge, with the name of the Lord Mayor at the period:&mdash;"William
+Hooke(r). (A)nno D. 1674."</p>
+
+<p>Sir William Tite says it was a red brick bridge;
+Hatton, in his "New View of London" (1708), says
+it was of stone; but then, probably, he never really
+saw it, and Tite did. Hatton's description is: "<i>Holbourn Bridge</i> is built of Stone, it leads from <i>Holbourn</i> to
+<i>Snow Hill</i>, over the N. end of the <i>Fleet Brook</i>, where a little
+rivulet called <i>Wells</i>, falls by <i>Hockley Hole</i>, running a little E'd
+of <i>Saffron Hill</i>, crossing near the W. end of <i>Chick Lane</i>, and so
+into this Brook."</p>
+
+<p>The canalization of the Fleet after 1666 was a useful
+work, as it enabled barges to go up to Holborn
+Bridge; and that it was availed of, we can judge by
+the frontispiece, which was painted in the middle of the
+eighteenth century; but it was not much used, if we
+can trust Ned Ward, whose sharp eyes looked everywhere,
+and whose pen recorded his scrutiny
+<a name="FNanchor_71" id="FNanchor_71"></a><a href="#Footnote_71" class="fnanchor">[71]</a>
+: "From thence we took a turn down by the Ditch side, I
+desiring my Friend to inform me what great Advantages
+this costly Brook contributed to the Town, to
+Countervail the Expence of Seventy four Thousand
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span>
+Pounds, which I read in a very Credible Author, was
+the Charge of its making: He told me he was wholly
+unacquainted with any, unless it was now and then to
+bring up a few Chaldron of Coles to two or three
+Pedling <i>Fewel-Marchants</i>, who sell them never the
+Cheaper to the Poor for such a Conveniency: and, as
+for those Cellars you see on each side design'd for
+Ware-Houses, they are render'd by their dampness so
+unfit for that purpose that they are wholly useless,
+except ... or to harbour Frogs, Toads, and other
+Vermin. The greatest good that ever I heard it did
+was to the Undertaker, who is bound to acknowledge
+he has found better Fishing in that muddy Stream, than
+ever he did in clear Water."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_175-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_175-500.png" width="500" height="325" alt="END OF HOLBORN BRIDGE, TAKEN FROM THE SOUTH, AND PART OF HOLBORN HILL.
+JUNE 2, 1840." /></a>
+<div class="caption">
+END OF HOLBORN BRIDGE, TAKEN FROM THE SOUTH, AND PART OF HOLBORN HILL.
+JUNE 2, 1840.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Gay, too, in his "Trivia," more than once mentions
+the foulness of the Fleet in book ii.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Or who that rugged street<a name="FNanchor_72" id="FNanchor_72"></a><a href="#Footnote_72" class="fnanchor">[72]</a> would traverse o'er,</p>
+<p class="i1">That stretches, O Fleet-Ditch, from thy black shore</p>
+<p class="i1">To the Tour's moated walls?"</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>And again:</p>
+
+<p class="center">"If where Fleet-Ditch with muddy current flows."</p>
+
+<p>Here is a pen-and-ink sketch of Holborn Bridge&mdash;from
+some old engraving or painting (Crosby does not
+give his authority), which gives an excellent idea of
+old London&mdash;squalid and filthy according to our ideas.
+How different from that noble viaduct which now
+spans the course of the Fleet River! which her Majesty
+opened on November 6, 1869.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177-8]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 287px; ">
+<a href="images/i_177-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_177-500.png" width="287" height="500" alt="HOLBORN BRIDGE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">HOLBORN BRIDGE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_66" id="Footnote_66"></a><a href="#FNanchor_66"><span class="label">[66]</span></a>
+Hollinshed says&mdash;speaking of a Council at the Tower, relative
+to the Coronation of Edward V., at which the Protector presided,
+"After a little talking with them, he said unto the Bishop of Ely,
+'My Lord, you have verie good strawberries at your garden in
+Holborne, I require you let us have a messe of them.' 'Gladlie,
+my Lord,' quoth he, 'would God I had some better thing as readie
+to your pleasure as that!' And there withall, in all haste, he sent
+his servant for a messe of strawberries."</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_67" id="Footnote_67"></a><a href="#FNanchor_67"><span class="label">[67]</span></a>
+Gray, "<i>A long Story</i>."</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_68" id="Footnote_68"></a><a href="#FNanchor_68"><span class="label">[68]</span></a>
+Afterwards Anglicised into Audrey.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_69" id="Footnote_69"></a><a href="#FNanchor_69"><span class="label">[69]</span></a>
+There is now <i>Bowling Green Street</i>, Farringdon Street.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_70" id="Footnote_70"></a><a href="#FNanchor_70"><span class="label">[70]</span></a>
+See next two pages.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_71" id="Footnote_71"></a><a href="#FNanchor_71"><span class="label">[71]</span></a>
+"London Spy," part vi.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_72" id="Footnote_72"></a><a href="#FNanchor_72"><span class="label">[72]</span></a>
+Thames Street.</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_179-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_179-500.png" width="500" height="143" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XV.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THEN, close by (still keeping up its title of the
+River of the Wells) was Lamb's Conduit, on
+Snow Hill, which was fed from a little rill
+which had its source near where the Foundling Hospital
+now stands, its course being perpetuated by the
+name of Lamb's Conduit Street, where, according to the
+"Old English Herbal," watercresses used to flourish. "It groweth of its own accord in gardens and fields
+by the way side, in divers places, and particularly in
+the next pasture to the Conduit Head, behind Gray's
+Inn, that brings water to Mr. Lamb's Conduit in
+Holborn."</p>
+
+<p>William Lamb was a citizen of London, and of the
+Guild of Cloth-workers, besides which, he was some time
+Gentleman of the Chapel to Henry VIII. He benefited
+his fellow-citizens by restoring a conduit in 1577, which
+had been in existence since the fifteenth century; and,
+after the Great Fire, the busy Sir Christopher Wren was
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span>
+employed to design a covering for the spring, which he
+did, putting a <i>lamb</i> on the top, with a very short inscription
+on the front panel, to the effect that it was
+"Rebuilt in the year 1677 S<sup>r</sup> Tho<sup>s</sup> Davis Kn<sup>t</sup> L<sup>d</sup>
+Mayor."</p>
+
+<p>It is curious to learn how the suburbs of London
+have grown within the memory of living men. Take,
+for instance, the following, from <i>Notes and Queries</i>
+(April, 1857, p. 265), referring to Lamb's Conduit.
+A correspondent writes that "About sixty years since,
+I was travelling from the West of England in one
+of the old stage coaches of that day, and my fellow-travellers
+were an octogenarian clergyman and his
+daughter. In speaking of the then increasing size of
+London, the old gentleman said that when he was a
+boy, and recovering from an attack of smallpox, he
+was sent into the country to a row of houses standing
+on the west side of the present Lamb's Conduit Street;
+that all the space before him was open fields; that a
+streamlet of water ran under his window; and he saw
+a man snipe-shooting, who sprung a snipe near to the
+house, and shot it."</p>
+
+<p>It was no small gift of William Lamb to the City,
+for it cost him £1,500, which was equivalent to thrice
+that sum at present, and, to make it complete, he gave
+to one hundred and twenty poor women, pails wherewith
+to serve and carry water, whereby they earned an
+honest, although a somewhat laborious, living. Lamb
+left many charitable bequests, and also founded a chapel,
+by Monkwell Street, now pulled down. This Conduit
+existed until about 1755, when it was demolished, and
+an obelisk with lamps erected in its place, but, that
+being found a nuisance, was, in its turn, soon done
+away with.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 295px; ">
+<a href="images/i_181-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_181-500.png" width="295" height="500" alt="LAMB'S CONDUIT, SNOW HILL." /></a>
+<div class="caption">LAMB'S CONDUIT, SNOW HILL.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Lamb was buried in the Church of St. Faith's, under
+St. Paul's, and on a pillar was a brass to his memory,
+which is so quaint, that I make no apology for introducing
+it.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i-1">&nbsp;"William Lambe so sometime was my name,</p>
+<p class="i1">Whiles alive dyd runne my mortall race,</p>
+<p class="i1">Serving a Prince of most immortall fame,</p>
+<p class="i1">Henry the Eight, who of his Princely grace</p>
+<p class="i1">In his Chapell allowed me a place.</p>
+<p class="i1">By whose favour, from Gentleman to Esquire</p>
+<p class="i1">I was preferr'd, with worship, for my hire.</p>
+<p class="i1">With wives three I joyned wedlock band,</p>
+<p class="i1">Which (all alive) true lovers were to me,</p>
+<p class="i1">Joane, Alice, and Joane; for so they came to hand,</p>
+<p class="i1">What needeth prayse regarding their degree?</p>
+<p class="i1">In wively truth none stedfast more could be.</p>
+<p class="i1">Who, though on earth, death's force did once dissever,</p>
+<p class="i1">Heaven, yet, I trust, shall joyn us all together.</p>
+<p class="i1">O Lambe of God, which sinne didst take away;</p>
+<p class="i1">And as a Lambe, was offred up for sinne,</p>
+<p class="i1">Where I (poor Lambe) went from thy flock astray,</p>
+<p class="i1">Yet thou, good Lord, vouchsafe thy Lambe to winne</p>
+<p class="i1">Home to thy folde, and holde thy Lambe therein;</p>
+<p class="i1">That at the day, when Lambes and Goates shall sever,</p>
+<p class="i1">Of thy choice Lambes, Lambe may be one for ever.</p>
+<p class="i1">I pray you all, that receive Bread and Pence,</p>
+<p class="i1">To say the Lord's Prayer before ye go hence."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>It is said, also, that the old verses, so well known,
+were appended to the brass, or, rather, engraved on his
+tombstone.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"&nbsp;As I was, so are ye,</p>
+<p class="i1">As I am, you shall be,</p>
+<p class="i1">That I had, that I gave,</p>
+<p class="i1">That I gave, that I have.</p>
+<p class="i1">Thus I end all my cost,</p>
+<p class="i1">That I felt, that I lost."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>But there is one well must not be lost sight of; for, in its small
+way, it was tributary to the Fleet&mdash;and that is Clerk's Well,
+or Clerkenwell, which gives its name to a large district of London.
+It was of old repute, for we see, in Ralph Aggas' Map of London,
+published about 1560, a conduit spouting from a wall, into a stone tank
+or trough. This is, perhaps, the earliest pictorial delineation of
+it; but FitzStephen mentions it under "<i>fons Clericorum</i>" so called,
+it is said, from the Parish Clerks of London, who chose this place
+for a representation of <i>Miracle Plays</i>, or scenes from Scripture
+realistically rendered, as now survives in the Ober Ammergau Passion
+Play. This little Company, which still exists as one of the City
+Guilds, has never attained to the dignity of having a livery, but
+they have a Hall of their own (in Silver Street, Wood Street, E.C.),
+and in their time have done good service in composing the "Bills
+of Mortality;" and gruesome pamphlets they were&mdash;all skulls,
+skeletons, and cross-bones&mdash;especially during the great Plague.</p>
+
+<p>These plays were, as I have said, extremely realistic. One, played
+at Chester <span class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1327, <a name="FNanchor_73"
+id="FNanchor_73"></a><a href="#Footnote_73" class="fnanchor">[73]</a>
+represented Adam and Eve, both stark naked, but, afterwards, they
+wore fig leaves. The language used in them, would to our <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span>
+ears be coarse, but it was the language of the time, and, probably,
+men and women were no worse than they are now. But, at all events
+this Guild, which was incorporated in the 17 Henry III. <span
+class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1232, used occasionally to delight their
+fellow Citizens with dramatic representations in the open air (as have
+lately been revived in the "Pastoral plays" at Wimbledon) at what was
+then an accessible, and yet a rural, suburb of London.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<img src="images/i_184.png" alt="Map of Ray Street" width="500" height="346" />
+</div>
+
+<p>Hence the name&mdash;but the well, alas, is no more&mdash;but when
+I say that, I mean that it is no longer available to the public. That
+it does exist, is well known to the occupier of the house where it
+formerly was in use, for the basement has frequently to be pumped dry.
+The neighbourhood has been so altered of late years, that its absolute
+site was somewhat difficult to fix; yet any one can identify it for
+themselves from the accompanying slight sketch of the locality as it
+existed over sixty years since. Ray Street (at least this portion
+of it) is now termed Farringdon Road, and what with Model
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span>
+lodging-houses, and underground railways, its physical and geographical
+arrangement is decidedly altered.</p>
+
+<p>Early in the last century, in Queen Anne's time, the Spring had
+ceased to be a conduit, as shown in Ralph Aggas' Map, but had been
+turned into a pump; and this pump even was moved, in 1800, to a more
+convenient spot in Ray Street, where it was in existence (which I
+rather doubt), according to Pink's History of Clerkenwell in 1865.
+However, there is very good evidence of its being, in an engraving
+dated May 1, 1822, of the "Clerk's Well"&mdash;which shows the pump,
+and a stone tablet with the following inscription:</p>
+
+<table summary="Church Wardens" border="0">
+<tr>
+  <td class="th" colspan="3">"A.D. 1800.</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+  <td><span class="smcap">Willm. Bound</span></td>
+  <td rowspan="2"><span style="font-size: 2em;">}</span></td>
+  <td><span class="smcap">Church-</span></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+  <td><span style="margin-left: 1.2em"><span class="smcap">Joseph Bird</span></span></td>
+  <td><span class="smcap">Warden.</span></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>For the better accommodation of the Neighbourhood, this Pump was
+removed to the Spot where it now Stands. The Spring by which it is
+supplied is situated four Feet eastward, and round it, as History
+informs us, the Parish Clerks of London in remote Ages annually
+performed sacred Plays. That Custom caused it to be denominated
+Clerks' Well, and from which this Parish derives its Name. The Water
+was greatly esteemed by the Prior and Brethren of the Order of St.
+John of Jerusalem, and the Benedictine Nuns in the Neighbourhood."</p>
+
+<p>In later days, the Fleet, as every other stream on whose banks
+houses are built, became a sewer, and "behaved as sich;" so that
+it was deemed prudent to
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span>
+cover some portion of it, at all events, and that part where now is
+Farringdon Street, was arched over, and made into the Fleet <i>Market</i>.
+Our ancestors were far more alive to the advantages of ready cash,
+and consequent keen competition among dealers, than we are, although
+through the medium of Co-operative Stores, &amp;c., we are beginning
+to learn the lost lesson, but, at all events, they had the acumen to
+know that large centres of supply were cheaper to the consumer than
+small, isolated shops, and <i>the Market</i>, was the outcome. It is next to
+impossible to make a Market&mdash;witness in our own times, the Central
+Fish Market, and Columbia Market, both of which are not absolute
+failures, but, to use a theatrical slang term, <i>frosts</i>&mdash;and this
+was an example.</p>
+
+<p>The Canal, up to Holborn Bridge, was expensive to keep up, and
+as we saw, by the quotation from Ned Ward, it was next door to
+worthless. Meantime, sewage and silt played their work, as the stream
+was neglected, and, becoming a public nuisance, it was arched over,
+pursuant to an Act 6 Geo. II. cap. 22, entitled "An Act for filling up
+such Part of the Channell of <i>Bridewell Dock</i>, and <i>Fleet Bridge</i>, as
+lies between <i>Holborn Bridge</i> and <i>Fleet Bridge</i>, and for converting
+the Ground, when filled up, to the use of the City of <i>London</i>." The
+works were begun in 1734 and was arched over and finished in 1735;
+but, as buildings are necessary for a market, it was not opened, as
+such, until Sept. 30, 1737. For nearly a century it remained a market
+for meat, fish, and vegetables, although, of course, the largest
+meat market was Newgate, as being near Smithfield; and for fish,
+Billingsgate, which still maintains its pre-eminence But in 1829 it
+was pulled down, in order to make a wider street from Holborn to
+Blackfriars Bridge; and this part of the Fleet was called, and now is,
+Farringdon Street. </p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_187-650.jpg" >
+<img src="images/i_187-500.jpg" width="500" height="313" alt="FLEET MARKET, FROM HOLBORN BRIDGE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">FLEET MARKET, FROM HOLBORN BRIDGE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The Vegetable Market, for it had come to that only, was swept away,
+and a site found for it, nearly opposite the Fleet prison. It is still
+so used, but it is not much of a financial help to the City, as it only
+brings in an annual income (according to the last return I have been
+able to obtain) of between &pound;700 and &pound;800. It was thought
+that trade might be encouraged, and revived, if it were worthier
+housed, so what is now, the Central Fish Market, was erected; but,
+before the vendors of vegetables could enter into possession, a great
+cry had arisen as to the supply of fish to London, and the monopoly of
+Billingsgate, and the market was given over to the fishmongers. But it
+is not a success in a monetary point of view; is a great loss to the
+City, and, as a fish market, a very doubtful boon to the public.</p>
+
+<p>The Fleet Prison, which was on the east side of Farringdon Street,
+will be noticed in its place; and, as we have seen, the river was
+arched over from Holborn to Fleet Bridge, after which it still flowed,
+an open sewer, into the Thames.</p>
+
+<p>But, before going farther, we must needs glance at a curious little
+bit of Fleet history, which is to be found in "<span class="smcap">The
+Secret History</span> of the <span class="smcap">Rye House Plot</span>,
+and Monmouth's Rebellion," written by Ford. Lord Grey who was a party
+to the plot, addressed it to James the Second, 1685, but it was not
+printed until 1754. In p. 28 it states,
+
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span>
+
+"About the latter end of Oct. Monmouth s'd to Sir Thos.
+Armstrong and Lord Grey, that it was necessary for them to view the
+passage into the City, which, accordingly they did, from the lower
+end of <i>Fleet-ditch</i>, next the river, to the other end of it, by Snow
+Hill." And again (p. 34): "Sunday night was pitched upon for the rising
+in London, as all shops would be shut. Their men were to be armed at
+the Duke of Monmouth's in Hedge Lane, Northumberland House, Bedford
+House, and four or five meeting houses in the City.</p>
+
+<p>"The first alarm was designed to be between eleven and twelve at
+night, by attacking the train bands at the Royal Exchange, and then
+possessing ourselves of Newgate, Ludgate, and Aldersgate. The first two
+gates we did not design to defend, unless we were beaten from Fleet
+Bridge and Snow Hill, where we intended to receive the first attack of
+the King's Guards. At Snow Hill, we intended to make a Barricade, and
+plant three or four pieces of Cannon, upon Ship's Carriages; at Fleet
+Bridge we designed to use our Cannon upon the carriages, and to make a
+breast-work for our musqueteers bridge next us, and to fill the houses
+on that side the ditch with men who should fire from the windows, but
+the bridge to be clear."</p>
+
+<p>As a matter of fact, there seem to have been two bridges over the
+Fleet, crossing it at Fleet Street and Ludgate Hill, both side by side,
+as at Holborn. Crosby, upon whose collection I have so largely drawn,
+says that it is so, from personal observation,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span>
+one bridge being 24 ft. 6 in., and the other, 24 ft. wide, making in
+all, a roadway of 48 ft. 6 in. presumably including parapets. From
+his measurements, the span of the bridge was 12 ft., and the height
+of the arch was 11 ft. 6 in., but he does not say whence he takes his
+measurement&mdash;from the bottom of the Fleet, or from the river
+level.</p>
+
+<p>To this measurement hangs a tale, which is best told in Crosby's own
+words, from a memo of his in the Guildhall Library:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Fleet Bridge</span>, <i>Tuesday</i>,
+July 28th, 1840. As I could not depend upon the admeasurements which,
+at the beginning of the year, I had taken in a <i>hurried manner</i>, at
+Fleet Bridges, while bricklayers were placing in a brick bottom in
+place of the original one of alluvial soil, I determined to obtain them
+the first opportunity. This evening, therefore, at ten o'clock, I met
+Bridgewater, one of the workmen employed in constructing the New Sewer
+from Holborn Bridge to Clerkenwell, by appointment, at the Hoard there,
+water boots being in readiness. I lighted my lamps, and, assisted by
+the watchmen, King and Arion, we descended the ladder, and got into
+that branch of the sewer which joins Wren's bridge, at Holborn. We then
+walked carefully till we reached Fleet Bridge. I suspended my Argand
+lamp on the Breakwater of the Sewer, and with my Lanthorn light we
+proceeded towards the Thames. We got a considerable distance, during
+which the channel of the Sewer twice turned to the right, at a slight
+angle, the last portion we
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191-2]</a></span>
+entered, was barrelled at the bottom, the middle so full of holes,
+and the water so deep, as we approached the Thames, that we thought
+it prudent to return to Fleet bridge." (Here they lit up and took
+measurements). "All went well till about a quarter to twelve o'clock,
+when to our surprise we found the Tide had suddenly come in to the
+depth of two feet and a half. No time was to be lost, but I had only
+one more admeasurement to make, viz., the width of the north bridge. I
+managed this, and we then snatched up the basket, and holding our Lamps
+aloft, dashed up the Sewer, which we had to get up one half before out
+of danger. The air was close, and made us faint. However we got safe to
+Holborn Bridge...." </p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_73" id="Footnote_73"></a><a href="#FNanchor_73"><span class="label">[73]</span></a>
+Harl. MSS. 2013.</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 138px; ">
+<a href="images/i_191-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_191-200.png" width="138" height="200" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_193-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_193-500.png" width="500" height="121" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XVI.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">HATTON, writing in 1708, says: "<i>Fleet Bridge</i> is even with the Str(eet); it leads from <i>Fleet
+Street</i> over the <i>Fleet Ditch</i> to <i>Ludgate Hill</i>; is accommodated with
+strong Battlements which are adorned with six Peers and enriched with
+the Arms of <i>London</i>, and Supporters Pine-apples, &amp;c., all of
+Stone; and bet(wee)n the Peers are Iron Rails and Bannisters, on the N.
+&amp; S. sides of the Bridge." </p>
+
+<p>On either side of where the Bridge used to be, are two obelisks,
+one on the North, or Farringdon Street side, to Alderman Waithman, and
+on the South, or Bridge Street side, to John Wilkes the notorious. The
+first bears the following inscription:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p class="center">
+<span class="smcap">Erected<br />
+to the memory<br />
+of<br />
+Robert<br />
+Waithman<br />
+by<br />
+his friends and<br />
+fellow citizens</span>,<br />
+<span class="large">M.D.C.C.C.XXXIII.</span>
+<br /><br />
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>This Alderman Waithman was almost one of the typical class so often
+held up as an example for all poor boys to follow, <i>i.e.</i>, he began
+life with simply his own energy, and opportunity to help him. And, as
+a virtuous example of industry, when the times were not so pushing as
+now; and half, and quarter, or less commissions on transactions were
+unknown, we may just spend a minute in reading about him. Wrexham
+was his birthplace in 1764, and his father dying soon after, he was
+adopted by his uncle and sent to school. No one was then left very
+many years in <i>statu pupillari</i>, and, consequently, he had to join his
+uncle in business, as a linendraper at Bath. The uncle died in 1788,
+and he took a place at Reading, whence he came to London, and lived as
+a linendraper's assistant until he came of age. He then married, and
+opened a shop at the South end of the Fleet Market, nearly precisely on
+the spot where his monument now stands.</p>
+
+<p>He prospered in business, and moved to other, and larger premises,
+became Common Councilman, tried to get into Parliament for the City,
+and ultimately succeeded in 1818. Next election he lost it, but in
+all subsequent ones he was the favoured candidate. He was Alderman of
+Farringdon Without, Sheriff, and filled the office of Mayor in 1823-4.
+The obelisk to his memory remains, but he has dropped out of general
+memory, and this revival of his life, for imitation, in industry and
+rectitude of conduct, must be my excuse for taking up my readers'
+time.</p>
+
+<p>Far different is it with John Wilkes, about whom <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span>
+every one knows, and I have only to say that his obelisk bears the
+inscription&mdash;</p>
+
+<p class="center">
+<span class="large">A.D.<br />
+M.D.C.C.LXXV.</span><br />
+<span class="smcap">The Right<br />
+Honorable<br />
+<span class="gesperrt">John Wilkes</span></span>,<br />
+Lord Mayor.
+<br /><br />
+</p>
+
+<p>This inscription became effaced through the weather, and was, within
+the last few years, replaced with a new stone; but it was grumbled at
+for not having the original word "Esquire" after John Wilkes, which was
+surely a work of supererogation.</p>
+
+<p>Close by was Ludgate, with its debtors' prison of Lud-gate, which
+was rather aristocratic, being "purely for Insolvent Citizens of
+<i>London</i>, Beneficed Clergy, and Attorneys at Law," and which was even
+peculiar in the time when it existed; for Maitland, in his "History of
+London" (ed. 1775, pp. 28, 29) says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"The domestick Government of this Prison having
+something very singular and remarkable in it, I presume an Account
+thereof will not be unacceptable to the Reader. I shall, therefore,
+insert a compendious Abstract thereof from an Account published some
+Time ago by one who had been a long Time Prisoner there.</p>
+
+<p>"For the quiet and good Government of this Prison, and the
+Punishment of Crimes and Misdemeanors therein committed, the Master
+Keeper and Prisoners from among themselves chuse the following
+Officers, viz., A Reader of Divine Service; an upper Steward, called
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span>
+the Master of the Box; an Under Steward; seven Assistants, who by Turns
+officiate daily; a Running Assistant; two Churchwardens; a Scavenger;
+a Chamberlain; a Running Post; and the Criers or Beggars at the Gates,
+who are generally six in number.</p>
+
+<p>"The Reader is chosen by the Master Keeper, Stewards, and
+Assistants, and not at a General Election, as the other Officers are.
+The Reader, besides reading Prayers, was, originally, obliged to Ring
+the Bell twice a Day for Prayers, and also for the Space of a Quarter
+of an Hour before Nine at Night, as a Warning for all Strangers to
+depart the Prison; but for the Dignity of his Office, he is now exempt
+from those Services, and others in his stead are appointed to perform
+them. This Officer's salary is two Shillings and eight Pence <i>per</i>
+Month, and a Penny of every Prisoner at his Entrance, if his Garnish<a
+name="FNanchor_74" id="FNanchor_74"></a><a href="#Footnote_74"
+class="fnanchor">[74]</a> amount to sixteen Pence; and a Dish of Meat
+out of the Lord Mayor's Basket. </p>
+
+<p>"The Upper Steward, or Master of the Box, is, by all the Prisoners
+held in equal Esteem with the Keeper of the Prison; and to his Charge
+is committed the keeping of all the several Orders of the House, with
+the Accounts of Cash received upon Legacies; the Distribution of
+all the Provisions sent in by the Lord Mayor, and others; the cash
+received by Garnish, and begging at the Grates, which he weekly lays
+out in Bread, Candles, and other Necessaries. He likewise keeps a List
+of all the Prisoners, as well those that
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span>
+are upon the Charity, as those that are not; to each of whom, by
+the Aid of the Assistant for the Day, he distributes their several
+proportions of Bread and other Provisions. He receives the Gifts of the
+Butchers, Fishmongers, Poulterers, and other Market People, sent in
+by the Clerk of the Market, by the Running Post, for which he gives a
+Receipt, and, afterwards, in the Presence of the Assistant for the Day,
+exposes for Sale to the Charity Men, by Way of Market; and the Money
+arising thereby is deposited in the Common Stock, or Bank.</p>
+
+<p>"This Officer, with the Under Steward, Assistants, and
+Churchwardens, are elected monthly by the Suffrages of the Prisoners;
+but all the other Officers, except the Chamberlain, are appointed
+by the Master-Keeper, Stewards, and Assistants. The Design of these
+frequent Elections, is to prevent Frauds and Abuses in the respective
+Officers; but, when they are known to be Men of Probity, they are
+generally reelected, and often continue in such Posts many Months. The
+<i>Monday</i> after every Election, the Accounts are audited and passed,
+and the Balance divided; and, if it amount to three Shillings and four
+Pence <i>per</i> Man, the Keeper of the Prison arbitrarily extorts from
+each Prisoner two Shillings and Four Pence, without the least Colour
+of Right: But, if the Dividend arises not so high, then he only takes
+one Shilling and two Pence; the other Moiety being charged to the
+Prisoner's Account, to be paid at the Time of his Discharge; which new
+and detestable Impositions are apparently contrary to the Intention of
+the Founder.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg
+198]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Another great Grievance the distressed and miserable Prisoners are
+subject to, is, their being obliged to pay the Turnkey twelve Shillings
+<i>per</i> Month, for no other Service than that of opening the Door to let
+in Gifts and Charities sent to the Prison, which often amount to little
+more than what he receives.</p>
+
+<p>"The Under Steward is an Assistant, or Deputy, to the Upper Steward,
+in whose Absence or Indisposition he performs the several Functions of
+his Office.</p>
+
+<p>"The Assistants, being seven in Number, are chosen Monthly with
+the Stewards; one whereof, officiating daily, his Business is to
+attend in the Hall, to enter all Charities, and keep an Account of
+the Money taken out of the Boxes, which are opened at five o'Clock
+in the Afternoon, and at Nine at Night; which Money he pays to the
+Upper Steward, at the passing of whose Accounts the Assistants are
+Auditors.</p>
+
+<p>"Every Person put in Nomination for the Office of an Assistant,
+refusing to serve, forfeits one Shilling to the Use of the Publick, or,
+in lieu thereof, to be put in Fetters for three Days. The officiating
+Assistant is invested with a magisterial Power, whereby he can commit
+a Prisoner to the Stocks or Shackles, for the Abuse of any Person.
+This Officer is to see the Cellar cleared every Night, by ten o'Clock
+of all the Prisoners; for which he receives six Pence out of the
+Charity Money; two Pence whereof to his own Use, two Pence to the
+Upper Steward, and two Pence to the Running Assistant. This Office
+was anciently in such Esteem, that the Assistant, at his entering
+upon it, used nightly, at Eight o'Clock, to be ushered into the Hall,
+by an
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span>
+Illumination of forty or fifty great Candles, carried by so many
+Prisoners.</p>
+
+<p>"The Running Assistant's Business is, to attend upon the Criers at
+the Gates, to change Money; and open the Boxes: to put up Candles in
+their respective Places, attend upon the Stewards and Assistants, look
+after the Clock, ring the Bell for Prayers; and to be Crier at the
+Sale of Provisions. His Salary is four Shillings and eight Pence <i>per</i>
+Month, and an eighth part of the Garnish Money.</p>
+
+<p>"The Churchwardens are chosen from among the youngest Prisoners. The
+Upper Warden's Office is, to call to Prayers on <i>Sundays</i>, after the
+Bell has done ringing; and the Under Warden's is to call the Prisoners
+to Prayers all other Days. They are likewise to take cognizance of
+all Persons who are upon the Charity Foundation; who in default of
+Attendance are fined one Penny each. The Under Warden's Salary for this
+Service is four Pence <i>per</i> Month; and the Penalty for not serving,
+when duly elected, is four Pence.</p>
+
+<p>"The Scavenger's Office is, to keep clean the Prison, and to fetter,
+and put in the Stocks all Offenders; for which he is intitled to
+receive from each Criminal one Penny, together with a Salary of five
+Shillings and eight Pence <i>per</i> Month, and two Pence out of every
+sixteen Pence of the Garnish Money.</p>
+
+<p>"The Chamberlain is chosen by the Keeper of the Prison, whose
+Office it is to take Care of all the Bedding and Linen belonging to
+the Keeper; to place Men at their coming in, and to furnish them with
+Sheets, and
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span>
+to give Notice to Strangers to depart the Prison by Ten o'Clock at
+Night. This Officer, formerly, was obliged to make the Charity-Men's
+Beds, for which he received two Pence <i>per</i> Month.</p>
+
+<p>"The Running Post's Business is, to fetch in a Basket the broken
+Meat from the Lord-Mayor, Clerk of the Market, private Families, and
+Charities given in the Streets, which are often so inconsiderable as
+not to admit of a Dividend; wherefore it is disposed of by Sale or
+publick Market, as aforesaid. The Salary annexed to this office, is
+four Shillings <i>per</i> Month; one Penny <i>per</i> Month out of each Man's
+Dividend, and one Penny out of every sixteen Pence of Garnish money.</p>
+
+<p>"The Criers are six in Number; two whereof daily beg at the Grates;
+he at the Grate within is allowed one Fourth of what is given, and he
+at that on <i>Blackfriars</i> Side one Moiety of what is given there."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p>This custom is alluded to in the <i>Spectator</i>, No. lxxxii.:</p>
+
+<p>"Passing under <i>Ludgate</i> the other Day I heard a
+Voice bawling for Charity, which I thought I had
+somewhere heard before. Coming near to the Grate,
+the Prisoner called me by my Name, and desired I
+would throw something into the Box. I was out of
+Countenance for him, and did as he bid me, by putting
+in half a Crown."</p>
+
+<p>Of this Grate there is a pretty and romantic story
+told by Stow.<a name="FNanchor_75" id="FNanchor_75"></a><a href="#Footnote_75" class="fnanchor">[75]</a></p>
+
+<p>"When the Prison was in this Condition, there <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span>
+happened to be Prisoner there one <i>Stephen Foster</i>, who (as poor Men
+are at this Day) was a Cryer at the Grate, to beg the benevolent
+Charities of pious and commiserate Benefactors that passed by. As
+he was doing his doleful Office, a rich Widow of <i>London</i> hearing
+his Complaint, enquired of him, what would release him? To which he
+answered, Twenty Pound, which she in Charity expended; and, clearing
+him out of Prison, entertained him in her Service; who, afterward,
+falling into the Way of Merchandize, and increasing as well in Wealth
+as Courage, wooed his Mistress, Dame <i>Agnes</i>, and married her.</p>
+
+<p>"Her Riches and his Industry brought him both great Wealth and
+Honour, being afterwards no less than Sir <i>Stephen Foster</i>, Lord Mayor
+of the Honourable City of London: Yet whilst he lived in this great
+Honour and Dignity, he forgat not the Place of his Captivity, but,
+mindful of the sad and irksome Place wherein poor Men were imprisoned,
+bethought himself of enlarging it, to make it a little more delightful
+and pleasant for those who in after Times should be imprisoned and shut
+up therein. And, in order thereunto, acquainted his Lady with this his
+pious Purpose and Intention; in whom likewise he found so affable and
+willing a Mind to do Good to the Poor, that she promised to expend as
+much as he should do for the carrying on of the Work."</p>
+
+<p>And they did spend their money on it right royally, building,
+amongst many other conveniences, a Chapel for the inmates, <span
+class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1454, which they endowed, so as to maintain
+a "preacher" or chaplain. Sir Stephen
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span>
+Foster likewise provided that the place "should be free for all
+Freemen, and that they, providing their own Bedding, should pay nothing
+at their Departure for Lodging, or Chamber rent (as now they call
+it), which to many poor Men becomes oftentimes as burdensome as their
+Debts, and are by the Keeper detained in Prison as for Debt, only for
+their Fees, though discharged and acquitted of what they were committed
+for."</p>
+
+<p>Nor did his charitable goodness end here,
+for he gave a supply of water <i>gratis</i> to the prisoners, as was
+recorded on a brass in the Chapel, very pithily&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width30">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Devout Souls that pass this way</p>
+<p class="i1">For <span class="smcap">Stephen Foster</span>, late <i>Maior</i>, heartily pray,</p>
+<p class="i1">And Dame <span class="smcap">Agnes</span>, his Spouse, to God consecrate,</p>
+<p class="i1">That of Pity this House made for Londoners in <span class="smcap">Ludgate</span>.</p>
+<p class="i1">So that for Lodging and Water, Prisoners have nought to pay,</p>
+<p class="i1">As their Keepers shall all answer at dreadful Doomsday."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Dame Agnes survived her husband, but was ultimately buried by his
+side in the Church of St. Botolph, Billingsgate.</p>
+
+<p>For a Prison, Ludgate compared more than favourably with every
+other in London. As we have seen, the prisoners were select; they were
+helped, in the matter of food, by the king of the City, the Lord Mayor:
+their fees were infinitesimal as compared with other debtors' prisons.
+Strype (ed. 1720, book ii. p. 179) says:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Formerly Debtors that were not able to satisfy their Debts, put
+themselves into this Prison of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203-4]</a></span>
+<i>Ludgate</i>, for shelter from their Creditors. And these were Merchants
+and Tradesmen that had been driven to want by Losses at Sea. When King
+<i>Philip</i> in the Month of <i>August 1554</i> came first through <i>London</i>,
+these prisoners were Thirty in number; and owed £10,000, but compounded
+for £2,000. Who presented a well penned Latin Speech to that Prince,
+to redress their Miseries, and, by his Royal Generosity, to free them.
+'And the rather, for that that Place was not <i>Sceleratorum Carcer,
+sed miserorum Custodia</i>; <i>i.e.</i>, a Gaol for Villains, but a Place of
+Restraint for poor unfortunate Men. And that they were put in there,
+not by others, but themselves fled thither; and that not out of fear of
+Punishment, but in hope of better Fortune.' The whole Letter was drawn
+by the curious Pen of <i>Roger Ascham</i>, and is extant among his Epistles,
+Lib. iii.</p>
+
+<p>"If a Freeman or Freewoman of <i>London</i> be committed to <i>Ludgate</i>,
+they are to be excused from the ignominy of Irons, if they can find
+Sureties to be true Prisoners, and if the Sum be not above £100.
+There is another Custom of the liberal and mild Imprisonment of the
+Citizens in <i>Ludgate</i>, whereby they have Indulgence and Favour to go
+abroad into any place by <i>Baston</i>, as we term it, under the guard and
+superintendency of their Keeper, with whom they must return again to
+the Prison at Night." </p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_74" id="Footnote_74"></a><a href="#FNanchor_74"><span class="label">[74]</span></a>
+"Garnish" was the <i>footing</i> that every prisoner paid on his
+entrance, and woe become him if it were not forthcoming; he was
+simply stripped of his clothes.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a name="Footnote_75" id="Footnote_75"></a><a href="#FNanchor_75"><span class="label">[75]</span></a>
+Strype's "Stow's Survey," ed. 1720, vol. ii. p. 26 appendix.</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_205-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_205-500.png" width="500" height="107" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XVII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THE Course of the Fleet is nearly run, but, before
+closing this account of the river, we should not
+forget the residence of the mighty King-maker,
+the Earl of Warwick, whose pleasant gardens ran down
+to the Fleet; and there, in Warwick Lane, after the
+great Fire, was built the College of Physicians, described
+thus by Dr. Garth, in his "Dispensary":&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Not far from that most celebrated Place,</p>
+<p class="i1">Where angry Justice shews her awful Face;</p>
+<p class="i1">Where little Villains must submit to Fate,</p>
+<p class="i1">That great ones may enjoy the World in State,</p>
+<p class="i1">There stands a Dome, majestick to the sight,</p>
+<p class="i1">And sumptuous Arches bear its oval height;</p>
+<p class="i1">A golden Globe plac'd high with artful skill,</p>
+<p class="i1">Seems, to the distant sight, a gilded Pill."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Here they were housed until 1825, and, from the
+Fleet, could be seen the Apothecaries' Hall, in Water
+Lane, Blackfriars,</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Nigh where <i>Fleet Ditch</i> descends in sable Streams</p>
+<p class="i1">To wash his sooty <i>Naiads</i> in the <i>Thames</i>;</p>
+<p class="i1">There stands a Structure on a Rising Hill,</p>
+<p class="i1">Where <i>Tyro's</i> take their Freedom out to Kill."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Then there was the Monastery of the Dominicans, or Blackfriars,
+which has given its name to a whole district; and there was a
+fortification, or postern, on the little river, near Ludgate Hill;
+and, close to its junction with the Thames, was Bridewell Bridge,
+so called from the Royal Palace of that name, which, in its turn,
+received its cognomen from another well, which went to form the "River
+of Wells," St. Bridget's or Bride's Well. This bridge is shown in the
+frontispiece, and was necessarily made very high in order to allow
+sailing craft to go under it.</p>
+
+<p>It was here that Pope, in his "Dunciad" (book ii.),
+thus sings:</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"This labour past, by Bridewell all descend,</p>
+<p class="i1">(As morning pray'r, and flagellation end)</p>
+<p class="i1">To where Fleet-ditch with disemboguing streams</p>
+<p class="i1">Rolls the large tribute of dead dogs to Thames,</p>
+<p class="i1">The King of Dykes! than whom, no sluice of mud,</p>
+<p class="i1">With deeper sable blots the silver flood.</p>
+<p class="i1">'Here strip, my children! here at once leap in,</p>
+<p class="i1">Here prove who best can dash thro' thick and thin.'"<a name="FNanchor_76"
+id="FNanchor_76"></a><a href="#Footnote_76" class="fnanchor">[76]</a></p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Ward bursts into song over Bridewell, thus:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"'Twas once the Palace of a Prince,</p>
+<p class="i4">If we may Books Confide in;</p>
+<p class="i2">But given was, by him long since,</p>
+<p class="i4">For Vagrants to Reside in."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 306px; ">
+<a href="images/i_207-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_207-500.png" width="306" height="500" alt="BRIDEWELL BRIDGE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">BRIDEWELL BRIDGE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The Royal Palace of Bridewell stood on the site of
+the Castle of Montfichet, who is believed to have come
+over with William the Conqueror. Tradition assigns
+it a still earlier date, even Roman, but then, I don't say
+there was not a Roman fortress here, but I cannot say
+there was. Certainly Cardinal Wolsey lived here, and
+Henry VIII. held occasional Court.</p>
+
+<p>Strype, in his edition of Stow (1720) says that after
+the destruction of Montfichet Castle and its Stone being
+given away:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"This Tower or Castle being thus destroyed, stood,
+as it may seem, in Place where now standeth the House
+called <i>Bridewell</i>. For, notwithstanding the Destruction
+of the said Castle or Tower, the House remained large,
+so that the Kings of this Realm long after were lodged
+there and kept their Courts. For, in the Ninth Year
+of <i>Henry</i> the Third, the Courts of Law, and Justice
+were kept in the King's House, wheresoever he was
+lodged, and not else where. And that the Kings have
+been lodged, and kept their Law Courts in this Place,
+I could shew you many Authorities of Record....</p>
+
+<p>"More, (as <i>Matthew Paris</i> hath) about the Year
+1210, King <i>John</i>, in the Twelfth Year of his Reign,
+summoned a Parliament at <i>S. Brides</i> in <i>London</i>; where
+he exacted of the Clergy, and Religious Persons the Sum
+of One Hundred Thousand Pounds; And besides all
+this, the <i>White Monks</i> were compelled to cancel their
+Privileges, and to pay £4000 to the King, &amp;c. This
+House of <i>S. Brides</i> (of later Time) being left, and not
+used by the Kings, fell to Ruin; insomuch that the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span>
+very Platform thereof remained (for great part) waste,
+and as it were, but a Lay Stall of Filth and Rubbish,
+only a fair Well remained there. A great part whereof,
+namely, on the <i>West</i>, as hath been said, was given to
+the Bishop of <i>Salisbury</i>; the other Part toward the
+<i>East</i> remained waste, until King <i>Henry</i> the Eighth
+builded a stately and beautiful House, thereupon, giving
+it to Name, <i>Bridewell</i>, of the Parish and Well there.
+This House he purposely builded for the Entertainment
+of the Emperor <i>Charles</i> the Fifth;<a name="FNanchor_77" id="FNanchor_77"></a><a href="#Footnote_77" class="fnanchor">[77]</a>
+who in the Year 1522 came into this City.... Being in Decay, and
+long disused, King Edward VI. gave it to the City in
+the Seventh<a name="FNanchor_78" id="FNanchor_78"></a><a href="#Footnote_78" class="fnanchor">[78]</a>
+Year of his Reign.</p>
+
+<p>"It is seated near to <i>Blackfriars</i>; from which it is severed by the
+Canal of the <i>Fleet-ditch</i>. It was obtained of the King at first for
+an Harbour of poor Harbourless People, that lay abroad in the Streets.
+It was soon after improved to be a Workhouse, not only to give Lodging
+to poor, idle, wandring Persons, Beggars, and others; but to find them
+Work, to help to maintain themselves. But tho' this was granted in the
+Year 1553, yet it seems, it was not before Two Years after, that the
+City entred and took possession of it by <i>Gerard</i> their Maior, having
+obtained Queen <i>Mary's</i> Confirmation.</p>
+
+<p>"In the time of Queen <i>Elizabeth</i>, about the Year 1570 and odd,
+one <i>John Pain</i>, a Citizen, invented a Mill to grind Corn; which he
+got recommended to the Lord Maior, for the Use of <i>Bridewell</i>. This
+Mill had Two Conveniences: One was, That it would grind a greater
+Quantity considerably than any other Mills of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span>
+that Sort could do. And the other (which would render it so useful to
+<i>Bridewell</i>) was, That the Lame, either in Arms or Legs, might work at
+it, if they had but the Use of either. And, accordingly, these Mills
+were termed <i>Hand-Mills</i> or <i>Foot-Mills</i>.</p>
+
+<p>"This Mill he shewed to the Lord Maior, who saw it grind as much
+Corn with the Labour of Two Men, as they did then at <i>Bridewell</i> with
+Ten. That is to say, Two Men with Hands, two Bushels the Hour; or Two
+Men with Feet, two Bushels the Hour. If they were Lame in their Arms,
+then they might earn their Livings with their Legs. If Lame in their
+Legs, then they might earn their Livings with their Arms."</p>
+
+<p>&mdash;This, perhaps, is the earliest mention of the treadmill,
+as a punishment.</p>
+
+<p>Still quoting Strype, (same edition):</p>
+
+<p>"The Use of this Hospital now is for an House of Correction, and to
+be a Place where all Strumpets, Night-walkers, Pickpockets, vagrant
+and idle Persons, that are taken up for their ill Lives, as also
+incorrigible and disobedient Servants, are committed by the Mayor and
+Aldermen, who are Justices of the Peace within the said City; And
+being so committed are forced to beat Hemp in publick View, with due
+Correction of whipping, according to their Offence, for such a Time as
+the President and Court shall see Cause."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Bridewell is well shown by Hogarth in the fourth
+picture of the "Harlot's progress," where both men and
+women are seen "beetling" hemp.<a name="FNanchor_79" id="FNanchor_79"></a><a href="#Footnote_79" class="fnanchor">[79]</a></p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In a very rare tract called "Mr. William Fullers
+Trip to Bridewell" (1703) he gives a fairly graphic
+description of a prisoner's entry therein. "As soon as I came there, the Word was <i>Strip, pull off your Cloaths</i>,
+and with much intreaty, I prevail'd to keep on my Westcoat; then I was
+set to a Block, a punny of Hemp was laid thereon, and <i>Ralph Cumpton</i>
+(a Journy Man in the Shop) presented me with a Beatle, bidding me knock
+the Hemp with that, as fast as I could. This Beatle is of Brazel,
+<a name="FNanchor_80" id="FNanchor_80"></a><a href="#Footnote_80" class="fnanchor">[80]</a>
+and weigh'd about 12 pounds."</p>
+
+<p>Previously to this, poor Fuller had to stand twice in
+the pillory, on one of which occasions he was nearly
+killed by the mob, and when taken to Bridewell, all
+black and blue as he was, he had a whipping:&mdash; "My Hands were put in the Stocks, and then Mr. <i>Hemings</i> the
+Whipper, began to noint me with his Instrument, that had, I believe,
+about a dozen Strings notted at the end, and with that I had Thirty
+Nine Stripes (so that according to a certain Almanack Maker, who
+reckoned Dr. <i>Oates's</i> Stripes by every String, I had twelve times
+Thirty Nine). I had given the Rascal Half a Crown, but he afforded me
+very little favour, but struck home at every stroak; I confess I could
+not forbear bawling out, but good Sir <i>Robert</i>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span>
+<a name="FNanchor_81" id="FNanchor_81"></a><a href="#Footnote_81" class="fnanchor">[81]</a>
+knockt at last, and I was let out of the Stocks."</p>
+
+<p>The prisoners, if they chose, could find their own
+food, but they were kept strictly at work as is quaintly
+put by Fuller&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I had, in each Shop, the Thieves for my Fellow-labourers, and the
+Journeymen, our Deputy Task Masters, were frequently calling to the
+Prisoners, <i>Why don't you Work there, strike hard</i>: Then threaten,
+and sometimes beat them with a small Cane. These Task-masters are so
+accustomed to keeping their Prisoners hard at Work, that I have heard
+themselves say, they have, frequently, (forgetting themselves) called
+out, when they had no Prisoner in the Shop, as before, <i>Why don't you
+work there</i>."</p>
+
+<p>Ward (in the "London Spy") gives an almost too graphic account
+of this prison, but expresses unmitigated disgust at the whipping
+of women, which took place there, and solemnly protested against
+its continuance. His description of a woman being flogged, is as
+follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"My Friend Re-conducted me cc Quadrangle, and
+led me up a pair of Stairs into a Spacious Chamber, where the Court
+was sitting in great Grandeur and Order. A Grave Gentleman, whose
+Awful Looks bespoke him some Honourable Citizen, was mounted in the
+Judgement-Seat, Arm'd with a Hammer, like a <i>Change-Broker</i> at <i>Lloyd's
+Coffee House</i>, when selling Goods by Inch of Candle, and a Woman under
+the Lash in the next Room; where Folding doors were open'd, that the
+whole Court might see the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span>
+Punishment Inflicted; at last down went the Hammer, and the Scourging
+ceas'd.... Another Accusation being then deliver'd by a Flat-Cap
+against a poor Wench, who having no Friend to speak in her behalf,
+Proclamation was made, <i>viz. All you who are willing E&mdash;&mdash;th
+T&mdash;&mdash;ll, should have present Punishment, pray hold up your
+hands.</i> Which was done accordingly:</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 498px; ">
+<a href="images/i_213-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_213-500.png" width="498" height="500" alt="WOMEN BEATING HEMP." /></a>
+<div class="caption">WOMEN BEATING HEMP.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>And then she was order'd the Civility of the House, and was
+forc'd to shew her tender Back and Breasts to the Grave Sages of the
+August Assembly, who were mov'd by her Modest Mein, together with
+the whiteness of her Skin, to give her but a gentle Correction."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>John Howard, in his "State of the Prisons in England and Wales" (ed.
+1777) gives the following description of Bridewell:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"This building was formerly a Palace, near St.
+Bridget's (St. Bride's) Well; from whence it had the name; which, after
+it became a Prison, was applied to other Prisons of the same sort. It
+was given to the City by King Edward VI. in 1552.</p>
+
+<p>"That part of Bridewell which relates to my subject has
+wards for men and women quite separate. <a name="FNanchor_82"
+id="FNanchor_82"></a><a href="#Footnote_82" class="fnanchor">[82]</a>
+The men's ward on the ground floor, is a day room in which they beat
+hemp; and a night room over it. One of the upper chambers is fitting up
+for an Infirmary.&mdash;The woman's ward is a day room on the ground
+floor, in which they beat hemp; and a night room over it. I was told
+that the chamber above this is to be fitted up for an Infirmary. The
+sick, have, hitherto, been commonly sent to St. Bartholomew's Hospital.
+All the Prisoners are kept within doors.</p>
+
+<p>"The women's rooms are large, and have opposite windows, for fresh
+air. Their Ward, as well as the men's, has plenty of water: and there
+is a Hand-Ventilator on the outside, with a tube to each room of the
+women's ward. This is of great service, when the rooms are crowded with
+Prisoners, and the weather is warm.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_215-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_215-500.png" width="500" height="311" alt="PASS ROOM, BRIDEWELL, 1808." /></a>
+<div class="caption">PASS ROOM, BRIDEWELL, 1808.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>"The Prisoners are employed by a Hemp dresser, <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span>
+who has the profit of their labour, an apartment in the Prison, and
+a salary of £14. I generally found them at work: they are provided
+for, so as to be able to perform it. The hours of work are, in winter,
+from eight to four; in summer from six to six, deducting meal times.
+The Steward is allowed eightpence a day for the maintenance of each
+Prisoner; and contracts to supply them as follows:&mdash;On Sunday,
+Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, a penny loaf, ten ounces of dressed
+beef without bone, broth, and three pints of ten shilling beer; on
+Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, a penny loaf, four ounces of cheese,
+or some butter, a pint of milk pottage, and three pints of ten shilling
+beer.... In winter they have some firing. The night rooms are supplied
+with straw. No other Prison in <i>London</i> has any straw, or other
+bedding.... I found there in 1776:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div style="margin-left: 30%; margin-right: 30%; width:40%;">
+<table summary="prisoners" style="width:40%;">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">March</td><td class="tdr">13.</td><td class="tdc">Prisoners</td><td class="tdc">20</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">May</td><td class="tdr">1.</td><td class="tdc">"</td><td class="tdc">7</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Dec.</td><td class="tdr">3.</td><td class="tdc">"</td><td class="tdc">&nbsp;24."</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+</div>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>It continued as a House of Correction for the City of London
+until its abolition, with other Civic prisons by an Act of 40 and 41
+Vict. cap. 21, entitled "An Act to amend the Law relating to Prisons
+in England." But there was an exception made in its favour, and it
+still remains a House of Correction in a mild way&mdash;thanks <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span> to
+the very kindly and fatherly wishes and representations of the Civic
+Authorities.</p>
+
+<p>The good old days of Apprenticing boys to some craft for seven
+years, during which he was to serve his master faithfully, and in
+return, was to be housed, fed, and taught his business, have all
+but passed away, but not quite. There are still some refractory
+apprentices, as there ever have been. We know the common saying of
+"Boys will be boys," which is applied in mitigation of juvenile
+indiscretion, but there is also another apothegm, "Little boys, when
+they are naughty, must be smacked, and sent to bed." Bridewell has
+always been a place where idle or refractory City apprentices have
+had the opportunity of pondering over the errors of their ways, and
+in passing this Act, a special exemption was made, and there still
+exist six cells, which, I am sorry to say, are frequently occupied
+by erring youths. It is all done in the kindest, and most fatherly
+way. The City Chamberlain from the time of the Indentures of the lad
+being signed, to giving him his Freedom, acts as his guardian, to a
+great extent. Has the lad any complaint to make against his master it
+is to the Chamberlain he must appeal, and <i>vice versâ</i>. The Cause is
+heard <i>in camerâ</i>, and every effort is made to reconcile the parties,
+but, as will sometimes happen with a boy who is obstinate, sullen, or
+vicious, all attempts to bring him to a better sense fail, then the
+Chamberlain, by virtue of his office commits the boy to Bridewell,
+where he eats the bread, and drinks the water, of affliction for a
+while, a treatment, which combined with the confinement, hard work, and
+enforced sequestration from
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span>
+society, largely aided by the good advice of the Chaplain, very seldom
+fails to effect its object, and render that lad a decent member of
+the commonweal. It just arrests him in his downward path, there is no
+publicity, the thing is never chronicled in any Newspaper, as it might
+be, supposing no Bridewell existed, and the case was brought before
+a police magistrate&mdash;it need never be known outside his family
+circle, and he escapes the taint of being a gaol bird.</p>
+
+<p>Bridewell seems to have been long associated with apprentices, not
+all of them "<i>Thomas Idles</i>," I am happy to say; and Hatton in "The New
+View of London" (1708) writes, showing the tender care that the City of
+London have always had for their poor:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"It is also an Hospital for Indigent Persons, and
+where 20 Art Masters (as they are called) being decayed Traders as
+Shoemakers, Taylors, Flax-dressers, &amp;c., have Houses, and their
+Servants, or Apprentices (being about 140 in all) have Cloaths at the
+House Charge, and their Masters having the Profit of their Work do
+often advance by this means their own Fortunes, and these Boys, having
+served their time faithfully, have not only their Freedom, but also
+&pound;10 each towards carrying on their respective Trades, and many
+have even arrived from nothing to be Governors."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>This arrangement has, of course, had to "march with the times,"
+and in 1860 the Master of the Rolls approved of, and sanctioned, a
+scheme of the Charity Commissioners, whereby nearly all the funds
+appertaining to Bridewell are utilized by two industrial schools <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span>
+called "King Edward's Schools," most impartially divided&mdash;one at
+Witley, in Surrey, affording accommodation for two hundred and forty
+boys, and another in St. George's Fields, Lambeth, for two hundred
+and forty girls; so that, even in these latter days, Bridewell still
+exists, and, if the spirits of its numerous benefactors have the power
+to see the manner in which their money is being spent, I fancy they
+would not grumble.</p>
+
+<p>Before leaving the topic of Bridewell, as a prison, I must not fail
+to mention a notorious, but naughty, old woman who lived in the time of
+Charles II., commonly known as "Old Mother Cresswell." It is no slander
+on her memory, to say that her sense of morality was exceedingly lax,
+and she died in Bridewell. She evidently had saved some money, and with
+that curious spirit which possesses some people, and produces adulatory
+epitaphs, she would fain be better thought of after her death, than
+she was estimated when alive, for, in her will, she left a legacy for
+a sermon at her funeral, the preacher's remuneration to be £10, on one
+condition, that he should say nothing but what was <i>well</i> of her. A
+clergyman having been found, he preached a sermon generally adapted to
+the occasion, and wound up by saying: "By the will of the deceased, it is expected that
+I should mention her, and say nothing but what was <i>well</i> of her.
+All that I shall say of her, however, is this: she was born <i>well</i>,
+she lived <i>well</i>, and she died <i>well</i>; for she was born with the
+name of Cress<i>well</i>, she lived in Clerken<i>well</i>, and she died in
+Bride<i>well</i>."</p>
+
+<p>There was a fine old Court-room, which is thus described in the
+"Microcosm of London" (1808):</p>
+
+<p>"The Court-room is an interesting piece of antiquity,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg
+220]</a></span> as on its site were held courts of justice, and
+probably <i>parliaments</i>, under our early kings. At the upper end are the
+old arms of England; and it is wainscotted with English Oak, ornamented
+with Carved work. This Oak was formerly of the solemn colour which it
+attains by age, and was relieved by the carving being gilt. It must
+have been no small effort of <i>ingenuity</i> to destroy at one stroke all
+this venerable, time-honoured grandeur: it was, however, <i>happily</i>
+achieved, by daubing over with paint the fine veins and polish of the
+old oak, to make a bad imitation of the pale modern wainscot; and other
+decorations are added in similar <i>taste</i>.</p>
+
+<p>"On the upper part of the walls are the names, in gold letters, of
+benefactors to the hospital: the dates commence with 1565, and end
+with 1713. This is said to have been the Court in which the sentence
+of divorce was pronounced against Catherine of Arragon, which had been
+concluded on in the opposite monastery of the Black Friars.</p>
+
+<p>"From this room is the entrance into the hall, which is a very noble
+one: at the upper end is a picture by Holbein,<a name="FNanchor_83"
+id="FNanchor_83"></a><a href="#Footnote_83" class="fnanchor">[83]</a>
+representing Edward VI. delivering the Charter of the hospital to Sir
+George Barnes, then Lord Mayor; near him are William, Earl of Pembroke,
+and Thomas Goodrich, Bishop of Ely. There are ten figures in the
+picture, besides the king, whose portrait is painted with great truth
+and feeling: it displays all
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221-2]</a></span>
+that languor and debility which mark an approaching dissolution, and
+which, unhappily, followed so soon after, together with that of the
+painter; so that it has been sometimes doubted whether the picture was
+really painted by Holbein&mdash;his portrait, however, is introduced;
+it is the furthest figure in the corner on the right hand, looking over
+the shoulders of the persons before him.</p>
+
+<p>"On one side of this picture is a portrait of Charles II. sitting,
+and, on the other, that of James II. standing; they are both painted by
+Sir Peter Lely. Round the room are several portraits of the Presidents
+and different benefactors, ending with that of Sir Richard Carr Glyn.
+The walls of this room are covered with the names of those who have
+been friends to the institution, written in letters of gold."</p>
+
+<p>This Hall was pulled down in 1862.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_76" id="Footnote_76"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_76"><span class="label">[76]</span></a> See next
+page.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_77" id="Footnote_77"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_77"><span class="label">[77]</span></a> Of Spain.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_78" id="Footnote_78"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_78"><span class="label">[78]</span></a> <span
+class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1553.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_79" id="Footnote_79"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_79"><span class="label">[79]</span></a> A Beetle is
+a portion of a trunk of a tree, large or small as occasion demanded,
+sometimes more than one man could lift, <i>vide</i> Shakspeare (2 <i>Hen. IV.</i>
+act i. sc. 2), "Fillip me with a three-man beetle," <i>i.e.</i>, one with
+three handles. All exogenous fibres have to be crushed, in order to
+release the fibre from the wooden core, and this, which is now done by
+machinery, was then done by beetles, or wooden hammers.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_80" id="Footnote_80"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_80"><span class="label">[80]</span></a> Brazil
+wood.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_81" id="Footnote_81"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_81"><span class="label">[81]</span></a> Sir Robert
+Jeffries the President and Justice at Bridewell, when he knocked with a
+hammer the punishment ceased.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_82" id="Footnote_82"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_82"><span class="label">[82]</span></a> In Hogarth's
+picture both men and women are working together.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_83" id="Footnote_83"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_83"><span class="label">[83]</span></a> The writer is
+in error, as the event it represents took place some ten years after
+Holbein's death. The picture is now in Christ's Hospital.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_223-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_223-500.png" width="500" height="125" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XVIII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">BORDERING upon Bridewell, and almost part and
+parcel of it, was Whitefriars, which, westward, ran to the Temple, and
+eastward to the Fleet. It is so-called from a Carmelite monastery,
+established here in the reign of Edward I. Within its precincts was the
+right of sanctuary, and, like the Jewish Cities of Refuge, offenders
+against the law might flee thither, and be protected from arrest.
+Naturally, the very scum of London floated thither, to the Mint in
+Southwark, and the precincts of the Savoy in the Strand, in none of
+which the King's warrant ran, unless backed by a force sufficient
+to overawe the lawless denizens of these localities. Whitefriars we
+may take as its original name, but there was given it a nick-name,
+"Alsatia," from Alsace, or Elsass, on the frontier between France and
+Germany, which was always a battle-field between the two nations;
+and so, from the incessant fighting that went on in this unruly
+neighbourhood, it acquired its cognomen.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg
+224]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Sir Walter Scott, in "The Fortunes of Nigel," gives a vivid
+description of the utter lawlessness and debauchery of this quarter
+of the town, but his was second-hand. Perhaps one of the most graphic
+pictures of this sink of iniquity is given in Shadwell's "Squire of
+Alsatia," acted in 1688, and which was so popular, that it had a run
+of <i>thirteen</i> nights. Here we get at the manners and customs of the
+natives, without any glossing over; and, just to give an example of the
+real state of the district at that time, I make two or three extracts,
+showing how the denizens were banded together in mutual defence.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<i>Cheatly.</i> So long as you forbear all Violence, you are safe;<br />
+but, if you strike here, we command the <i>Fryers</i>, and will raise the
+<i>Posse</i>....</p>
+
+<p class="right">[<i>A Noise of Tumult without, and blowing a Horn.</i>]</p>
+
+<p><i>Cheatly.</i> What is this I hear?</p>
+
+<p><i>Shamwell.</i> They are up in the Friers; Pray Heav'n the Sheriff's
+Officers be not come.</p>
+
+<p><i>Cheatly.</i> 'Slife, 'tis so! 'Squire, let me conduct
+you&mdash;&mdash;This is your wicked Father with Officers.</p>
+
+<p class="right"><i>Exit.</i></p>
+
+<p class="right">[<i>Cry without, the Tip-Staff! an Arrest! an Arrest!
+and the horn blows.</i>]</p>
+
+<p class="right">[<i>Enter Sir William Belfond, and a Tip-Staff, with the
+Constable,<br /> and his Watchmen; and, against them, the Posse of the
+Friers<br /> drawn up, Bankrupts hurrying to escape.</i>]</p>
+
+<p><i>Sir Will.</i> Are you mad, to resist the Tip-Staff, the King's
+Authority?</p>
+
+<p class="right">[<i>They cry out, An Arrest! several flock to 'em with
+all sorts of<br /> Weapons, Women with Fire-Forks, Spits, Paring
+Shovels, &amp;c.</i>]</p>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p><i>Tip-Staff.</i> I charge you, in the King's Name, all to assist me.</p>
+
+<p><i>Rabble.</i> Fall on.</p>
+
+<p class="right">[<i>Rabble beat the Constable, and the rest run into the
+Temple. Tip-Staff runs away.</i>]."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>So that we see how an ordinary sheriff's officer and <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span>
+the civil authorities were treated when they attempted to execute
+the law; but, further on in the play, we find a Lord Chief Justice's
+warrant, backed up by a military force&mdash;and then we see the
+difference.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<i>Truman.</i> What do all these Rabble here?</p>
+
+<p><i>Constable.</i> Fire amongst 'em.</p>
+
+<p><i>Sergeant.</i> Present.</p>
+
+<p>[<i>The Debtors run up and dozen, some without their Breeches,
+others<br /> <span style="margin-left:2em;">without their Coats;
+some out of Balconies; some crying out,</span><br /> <span
+style="margin-left:2em;">Oars! Oars! Sculler! Five Pounds for a Boat!
+The Inhabitants</span><br /> <span style="margin-left:2em;">all come
+out arm'd as before; but as soon as they see the</span><br /> <span
+style="margin-left:2em;">Musqueteers, they run, and every one shifts
+for himself.</span></i>] </p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>And almost at the close of the play one of the characters, <i>Sir
+Edward Belfond</i>, moralizes thus:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Was ever such Impudence suffer'd in a Government?
+<i>Ireland's</i> conquer'd; <i>Wales</i> subdued; <i>Scotland</i> united: But there
+are some few Spots of Ground in <i>London</i>, just in the Face of the
+Government, unconquer'd yet, that hold in Rebellion still. Methinks
+'tis strange, that Places so near the King's Palace should be no
+Parts of his Dominions. 'Tis a Shame to the Societies of the Law, to
+countenance such Practices: Should any Place be shut against the King's
+Writ, or Posse Comitatus?"</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>This right of sanctuary was taken from Whitefriars by William III.,
+the nest of rogues, vagabonds, and thieves broken up, the occupants
+dispersed, and law reigned supreme in that once defiant place.</p>
+
+<p>We have now traced the Fleet River to its junction with the Thames.
+Poor little river! its life began pure enough, but men so befouled it,
+that their evil deeds rose against themselves, and the river retaliated
+in such
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span>
+kind, as to become a malodorous and offensive nuisance, dangerous to
+the health of those men who would not leave it in its purity. So it
+was covered over, about 1764 (for it took some time to do it), and
+the present Bridge Street is over its foul stream, which was curbed,
+and bricked in, forming a portion of our vast and wonderful system of
+sewers. It has taken its toll of human life, in its time, though but
+few instances are recorded. In the <i>Gentleman's Magazine</i>, January 11,
+1763, we read: "A man was found in the Fleet Ditch standing upright,
+and frozen to death. He appears to have been a barber at Bromley, in
+Kent; had come to town to see his children, and had, unfortunately,
+mistaken his way in the night, and slipt into the ditch; and, being in
+liquor, could not disentangle himself."</p>
+
+<p><i>Bell's Weekly Messenger</i>, August 2, 1835: "Some workmen have been for a few days past engaged in
+making a new sewer, communicating with the foulest of all streams, the
+Fleet Ditch. In consequence of the rain the men had left off work; and,
+soon afterwards, a young man named Macarthy, a bricklayer, proceeded
+to the sewer for the purpose of bringing away a ladder, when, owing
+to the slippery state of the works, he fell down the Sewer, but in
+his descent, caught hold of the ladder he was in search of, to which
+he hung for nearly a quarter of an hour, calling loudly all the time
+for assistance, though from some extraordinary cause or other, no
+person was able to afford him any. At length some of the labourers
+arrived&mdash;but too late; he had just before fallen into the Sewer,
+and was carried into the Fleet Ditch; and owing to its having been swollen
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span>
+by the heavy shower, floated along as far as the mouth of the Fleet
+Ditch, at Blackfriars, where his body was found, covered with the filth
+of the sewer, which the unfortunate man had met with in his progress to
+the Thames."</p>
+
+<p>And the <i>Times</i> of October 3, 1839, records another fatal accident
+during some repairs.</p>
+
+<p>Naturally, this River was celebrated in verse. There was a very
+foolish and dull poem by Arthur Murphy in 1761 called "Ode to the
+Naiads of Fleet Ditch;" and, previously, it had been sung by Ben
+Jonson, "On the famous Voyage," which will be found among his epigrams.
+This voyage was from Bridewell to Holborn, and describes very
+graphically the then state of the river. Too graphic, indeed, is it
+for the reading of the modern public, so I transcribe but a very small
+portion of it, showing its then state.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"But hold my torch, while I describe the entry</p>
+<p class="i1">To this dire passage. Say, thou stop thy nose;</p>
+<p class="i1">'Tis but light pains: indeed, this dock's no rose.</p>
+<p class="i1">In the first jaws appear'd that ugly monster</p>
+<p class="i1">Y'cleped mud, which, when their oars did once stir,</p>
+<p class="i1">Belched forth an air as hot, as at the muster</p>
+<p class="i1">Of all your night tubs, when the carts do cluster,</p>
+<p class="i1">Who shall discharge first his merd-urinous load;</p>
+<p class="i1">Through her womb they make their famous road."</p>
+<div><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></div>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 429px; ">
+<a href="images/i_228-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_228-500.png" width="429" height="500" alt="1768. THE ARREST. (Drawn from a late real scene.)" /></a>
+<div class="caption">1768. THE ARREST.&nbsp;&nbsp; (Drawn from a late real scene.)
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Sir Fopling Flutter through his Glass</p>
+<p class="i1">Inspects the ladies as they pass,</p>
+<p class="i1">Yet still the Coxcomb lacks the Wit</p>
+<p class="i1">To guard against the Bailiff's Writ."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_229-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_229-500.png" width="500" height="132" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h2 class="center"><span class="oldenglish-font">
+The Fleet Prison.</span></h2>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="__________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XIX.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THIS prison was of great antiquity, and its
+genealogy, like all respectable ones, dates back to William
+the Conqueror, at least; for we find, under date 1197, <a
+name="FNanchor_84" id="FNanchor_84"></a><a href="#Footnote_84"
+class="fnanchor">[84]</a> "Natanael de Leveland &amp; Robertus filius suus r.c.
+de LX marcis, Pro habenda Custodia Domorum Regis de Westmonasterio,
+&amp; Gaiolæ de Ponte de Fliete, quæ est hæreditas eorum a Conquestu
+Angliæ; ita quod non remaneat propter Finem Osberto de Longo Campo."
+Or, in English, "<i>Nathaniel de Leveland and his son Robert, fined in
+sixty marks, to have the Custody of the King's Houses at Westminster,</i>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span>
+<i>and the Prison at Fleet-bridge, which had been their
+inheritance ever since the Conquest of England; and that they may not
+be hindered therein by the Counterfine of</i> Osbert de Longchamp."</p>
+
+<p>There seems to have been some double dealing in this transaction,
+in which, as was only natural in those days, money went into
+the King's pocket.<a name="FNanchor_85" id="FNanchor_85"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_85" class="fnanchor">[85]</a> "And Osbert de
+Longchamp fined in five hundred marks, to have the King's favour,
+and seizin of all his lands and chatels whereof he was disseised
+by the King's Command, and to have seisin of the Custody of the
+Gaol of London, with the Appurtenances, and of the Custody of the
+King's Houses of Westminster: provided that Right be done therein in
+the King's Court, in case any one would implead him for the same."
+<a name="FNanchor_86" id="FNanchor_86"></a><a href="#Footnote_86"
+class="fnanchor">[86]</a></p>
+
+<p>Robert de Leveland, the son of the foregoing Nathaniel, was bitten
+by the then fashionable craze for Crusading, for he is found, in 1201,
+petitioning King John for leave to delegate the care of the King's
+Houses at Westminster, and the Fleet Prison, to Simon FitzRobert,
+Archdeacon of Wells, for the space of three years, during which time
+he should be in the Holy Land. His prayer seems to have been granted;
+but he evidently drew a little money before he went away, for, in the
+Chancery Rolls of the same year, he was paid £15 10s. by the City of
+London, on account of the King's Prison of Flete, and he also received
+other sums of &pound;10 12s. 10d. for the Custody of the King's Houses
+at Westminster, and &pound;7 12s. 1d. for the Custody of the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span>
+Gaol of <i>London</i>.<a name="FNanchor_87" id="FNanchor_87"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_87" class="fnanchor">[87]</a> By which, and also by the
+foregoing notice of Osbert de Longchamps, it is evident that, at that
+time, the Fleet prison was the principal, if not the only, prison in
+London.</p>
+
+<p>Robert de Leveland re-entered upon his duties after his three
+years' leave, and a document is extant<a name="FNanchor_88"
+id="FNanchor_88"></a><a href="#Footnote_88" class="fnanchor">[88]</a>
+in which he is excused payment of &pound;10 he had borrowed; but
+(possibly in lieu) he was bound to serve beyond the seas&mdash;<i>i.e.</i>,
+in foreign parts&mdash;with horses and arms. When he died is not known,
+but his widow evidently succeeded him as custodian, for in December,
+1217, <a name="FNanchor_89" id="FNanchor_89"></a><a href="#Footnote_89"
+class="fnanchor">[89]</a> his wife Margaret has the same allowance
+given her in regard of the King's Houses at Westminster "as the said
+Robert had been accustomed to during his life." Thus she was the first
+female Warden of the Fleet; there were others, as we shall see by and
+by.</p>
+
+<p>It is a moot question, and I put it forward with all reserve, as
+to whether there was not even an earlier mention of the Fleet before
+the very authentic case of Nathaniel de Leveland; but as it is open to
+objection that there were more Fleets than one, I only give the cases,
+and make no comment. <a name="FNanchor_90" id="FNanchor_90"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_90" class="fnanchor">[90]</a> 1189: "William de Flete
+gave a Mark to have his plea in the King's Court touching a hyde of
+land, versus Randolph de Broy." And again,<a name="FNanchor_91" id="FNanchor_91"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_91" class="fnanchor">[91]</a> in 1193: "Richard de Flet
+fined in one hundred Marks, that his daughter might be delivered from
+Ralf de Candos, who said he had espoused her."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg
+232]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In the Rolls are many cases which mention the Fleet, but, although
+it was a House of Detention, for debtors, especially to the King, and
+persons committing minor crimes, it never seems to have been degraded
+into what we should now term "a Gaol." No felons seem to have been
+incarcerated there, and there is no mention of gyves or chains, but
+they were used in after years.</p>
+
+<p>It would seem that another "lady" Warden of the Fleet existed in
+Edward II.'s time, for, in 1316, "Johanne, late Wife of John Schench deceased, who held
+of the King in chief the Serjeanties of the Custody of the King's
+Palace of Westminster, and of his Prison of Flete, married Edmund
+de Cheney, without licence obtained from the King, in that behalf.
+Whereupon the said serjeanties were taken into the King's hands, and
+straitway the Treasurer and the Barons committed the Custody of the
+Palace of Richard Abbot, who was sworn <i>de fideliter</i>, &amp;c., and the
+Custody of the Flete Prison to John Dymmok, Usher of the Exchequer,
+who was sworn in the like manner. Afterwards the said Edmund made Fine
+for the said Trespass, and the said serjeanties were restored."
+By which we see that thus early "women's rights" were fully
+recognized, and "employment for females" in occupations hitherto
+enjoyed exclusively by men, seems to have been in force.</p>
+
+<p>Although not in Chronological Order, I may as well add another,
+and the only other mention that has come under my notice of a
+female Warden (1677): <a name="FNanchor_92" id="FNanchor_92"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_92" class="fnanchor">[92]</a> "A Woman Guardian of the Fleet, marries her Prisoner in
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span>
+Execution; he is immediately out of Execution; for the Husband cannot
+be Prisoner to his Wife, it being repugnant that she, as jaylor, should
+have custody of him, and he, as husband, the custody of her."</p>
+
+<p>Without some effective supervision, as is the case with our Prison
+Commissioners, abuses were bound to creep in, and the Governor
+or Warden of any Prison, (who doubtless had paid heavily for the
+appointment) had to recoup himself by squeezing the unfortunate
+prisoners, and we shall find several examples of this in the Fleet.
+The earliest seems to have been in the second year of Henry IV. (1400)
+when a petition was presented to Parliament <a name="FNanchor_93"
+id="FNanchor_93"></a><a href="#Footnote_93" class="fnanchor">[93]</a>
+which prays, in its quaint Norman French that "les fees de Gardien de
+Flete sorént mys en certain" that the fees might be settled. </p>
+
+<p>It is possible that extra fees were taken for a certain amount of
+liberty allowed to the prisoners by the Warden, who would allow him
+to go out of gaol on certain conditions, and we may be certain, for
+a <i>consideration</i> also. The Warden was answerable for his Prisoner,
+and if he escaped, he had to pay the debt, so that we may be certain
+that his ephemeral liberty was highly purchased. That this was
+the case we find in 7 and 8 Hen. IV. (1406)<a name="FNanchor_94"
+id="FNanchor_94"></a><a href="#Footnote_94" class="fnanchor">[94]</a>
+ "que si ascun Gaoler lesseroit tiel Prisoner aler a
+large par mainprise <a name="FNanchor_95" id="FNanchor_95"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_95" class="fnanchor">[95]</a> ou en baile, que adonques
+le persone envers qi le dit Prisoner estoit condempne aureoit sa action
+et recoverir envers le dit Gaoler." Or in English, "<i>That if any Gaoler allowed</i>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span>
+<i>such Prisoner to go at large, either by mainprize or bail, that, then,
+the Person to whom the Prisoner was indebted might have his action, and
+recover against the said Gaoler.</i>" Yet, notwithstanding this, there were many actions brought against
+the Wardens for allowing their prisoners to escape. A relic of this
+power of the Wardens to accord a certain amount of liberty to their
+prisoners, obtained till the last hours of the Fleet. There was, in the
+<i>Rules</i>, a defined district surrounding the Prison, in which prisoners,
+on providing approved sureties for the amount of their debt, and paying
+some fee, might reside, on condition that they did not overstep the
+boundaries. That this custom of granting temporary <i>exeats</i> was very
+ancient, is indisputable, for, in the 1 Richard II. (1377) a complaint
+was made that the Warden of the Fleet "sometimes by mainprize, or by
+bail, and sometimes without any mainprize, with a Baston of the Fleet,"
+<i>i.e.</i>, accompanied by a prison official, would allow his charges to go
+abroad, "even into the country."</p>
+
+<p>It is impossible to give a list of all the prisoners of note who
+were committed to the Fleet, and they must only be glanced at, but
+with the accession of Mary, some illustrious and historical names
+appear. First, and foremost, and almost immediately after her accession
+to the throne, we read, thanks to the preservation and collation,
+of State Papers,<a name="FNanchor_96" id="FNanchor_96"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_96" class="fnanchor">[96]</a> that on the 29th of July,
+1553, a letter from the Privy Council was sent to the "Wardene of
+the Flete, for the apprehensyone and commyttyng of the Lord Russell,
+Anthonye Browne of Essex, and John Lucas." All these prisoners
+seem to
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span>
+have been treated with great leniency, for there is a letter (July 31)
+to the Warden of the Fleet bidding him to give Mr. Lucas and Mr. Cooke
+<i>the libertye of his Garden</i>, so that there must have been a garden
+then attached to the Fleet prison&mdash;and a postscript orders that "he shall delyuer Mr. Anthonye Browne, and suffer hym
+to goo to his awne Howse."</p>
+
+<p>Nor were the others kept long in durance, for on the 3rd of Aug.,
+1553, the Council wrote to the Warden willing him "To set at libertye John Lucas, and John Cocke,
+Esquiers, giueing them Commaundement withall to repaire to their
+Mancion Howses and their to make theire aboode vntill they shall here
+further of the Queene's Pleasure." And even the incarceration of Lord Russell was mollified, for a
+letter was written on 9th Aug. to Mr. Garret, one of the Sheriffs of
+London,  "whereby the Countesse of Bedforde is licensed to
+have free access twise or thrise in the week, unto the Lord Russell,
+her son, remayning in the said sheriff's custodie, so the sheriff be
+present at their Talke and Conference."</p>
+
+<p>I give the above so as not to spoil the continuity of the story,
+but there is mention of the Fleet prison long before; for instance, in
+1355, Edward III. wrote "to his well-beloved and trusty, Simon Fraunceys Mayor
+of the City of London, Hugh de Appleby, and Robert de Charwaltone,
+greeting. Whereas we have been given to understand that the Foss<a
+name="FNanchor_97" id="FNanchor_97"></a> <a href="#Footnote_97"
+class="fnanchor">[97]</a> by which the mansion of our Prison of
+Flete is surrounded, and which, for safety
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span>
+of the said prison was lately made, is now obstructed and choked up
+by filth from latrines built thereon, and divers others refuse thrown
+therein, that there is cause to fear for the abiding there of the
+persons therein detained, by reason of the same; and because that, by
+reason of the infection of the air, and the abominable stench which
+there prevails, many of those there imprisoned are often affected with
+various diseases and grievous maladies, not without serious peril unto
+themselves. We, wishing a befitting remedy to be applied thereto, and
+that the said Foss may be restored to its former state, in which it
+was when it was first made, and so improved; and, for making provision
+thereon, desiring upon the matters aforesaid more fully to be informed,
+have assigned you, and any two of you, to survey the Foss aforesaid,
+&amp;c."</p>
+
+<p>This warrant was followed by an Inquest held at the Church of St.
+Brigid in Fleet Street on Tuesday, the 9th of January, 1356, on the
+oath of Richard le Cok, (Cook) Nicholas le Sporière (Spurrier), and
+Thomas le Glaswrighte (Glassblower) and nine others. From it we learn
+that the "Foss of Flete" ought to be ten feet in breadth all round the
+Prison; that it ought to be so full of water that a boat laden with one
+tun of wine might easily float round it; and that the shelving banks of
+the Foss were then covered with trees. Also that it was quite choked up
+with the filth of laystalls and sewers discharging into it; and that
+no less than eleven necessary houses (or <i>wardrobes</i>, as they seem
+very generally to have been called in the thirteenth and fourteenth
+centuries) had been illegally built over it "to the corruption of the Water in the Foss
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span>
+aforesaid; and to such an extent is the flow of water obstructed and impeded
+thereby, that the said Foss can no longer surround the Prison with its
+waters, as it should do." <a name="FNanchor_98" id="FNanchor_98"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_98" class="fnanchor">[98]</a></p>
+
+<p>The Acts of the Privy Council throw some light on the Fleet, giving
+several instances of Committals thereto, one of the first being 9
+Hen. V. Oct. 14, 1421. <a name="FNanchor_99" id="FNanchor_99"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_99" class="fnanchor">[99]</a> Wherein Hugo Annesley,
+who probably was then Warden of the Fleet, was directed to incarcerate
+therein one Grey de Codenore, who had been exiled, and having received
+his passport, remained in England, notwithstanding.</p>
+
+<p>In 1 Henry VI.,<a name="FNanchor_100" id="FNanchor_100"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_100" class="fnanchor">[100]</a> 19 May, 1423, the
+"gardein de notre prisone de Flete" was commanded to bring before the
+King some prisoners whom he had in custody, namely Huguelyn de Chalons,
+Johan Billy, Johan de Cheviers, Regnault de Graincourt, Hellyn de
+Bassiers, Pierre de Mombreham, and Pierre de Pauniers "noz prisoniers prisez a la reddicion de notre ville de
+Harefleu."</p>
+
+<p>In the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries are many notices of
+committals to the Fleet, so numerous that I can only mention a few, one
+only of which I give in the original spelling. 32 Hen. VIII. Sept. 9,
+1540.</p>
+
+<p>"Lr&#771;es was also brought from the Lord
+P<sup>i</sup>vey Seale, declaring a certayn affray to be made by
+S<sup>r</sup> Geoffrey Poole in Hampshyre upon one Mr. Gunter a justice
+of peax, for that (as Poole sayd) one of Gunter's srvants <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span>
+had spoken evill of hym, and for that also that hymself Gunter had
+disclosed to the King's Counsail in the tyme of Poole's trouble certain
+secret conference which Poole had w<sup>t</sup> hym. And answer was
+made to the sayd Lord P<sup>i</sup>vy Seale that calling the complaynt
+eftesones before hym the lordes and others the gent&#771; and justices
+of peax in the cu&#772;trey to thentent the cryme of S<sup>r</sup>
+Geffrey might be notorious to all the Cu&#772;trey there he should
+c&#771;mytt the said S<sup>r</sup> Geffrey to the Flette to remayne
+there until further knowledge of the Kings pleas<sup>r</sup>."</p>
+
+<p>Evidently great interest was made for this naughty Sir Geoffrey,
+for we learn on Sept. 24th that "It was declared to the Lady
+Poole, the wife of Sir Geoffrey Poole, that the King's higness
+had pardoned her husband of his imprisonment," and the Lord Privy
+Seal was directed to release him. But he seems to have been a very
+cantankerous knight, for we find him in hot water again next year.
+April 8, 1541, "Whereas Sir Geoffrey Poole, Knight, had violently
+and contrary to the King's Highness' peace assaulted and hurt <a
+name="FNanchor_101" id="FNanchor_101"></a><a href="#Footnote_101"
+class="fnanchor">[101]</a> Sir John Mychaill clerk, parson of Racton in
+the County of Sussex," and he had to put in sureties to keep the peace
+towards the said parson, and to answer the bill preferred against him.
+But it seems that he had some provocation, for a letter was written to
+him requiring him to remember, as far as he could, the "haynous and
+traytorous woords spoken by S<sup>r</sup> John Michaell."</p>
+
+<p>On Nov. 7, 1540, Browne, the son and heir of Sir Matthew Browne
+of Surrey, was committed to the Fleet,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span>
+together with some of his servants, for burning a certain stack of wood
+in Surrey. On Jan. 8, 1541, John Gough of London, printer, was sent
+to the Fleet for printing and selling a seditious book. On March 18,
+1541, there seems to have been a riot among some of the servants of
+the Gentlemen of the Privy Chamber, and three of them were committed
+to the Fleet. On April 24, 1541, a smuggler was put into ward here,
+one Giles Hasebarde of Southampton, a "berebruer," who had put on
+board "a ship of Holland, named the Mary of Dordroyt," five pockets of
+wool, without a licence, intending to send them to Flanders. For this
+he was sent to the Fleet, the wool confiscated to the King's use, and
+the Master of the ship was mulcted in half the value of his vessel;
+but Hasebarde was not long in durance, as he was liberated on April
+30th. To thoroughly understand the reason of this man's imprisonment
+in the Fleet, we must remember that he was sent there as being a
+<i>Debtor</i> to the King, and in the fifteenth century it was a very common
+practice for delinquents who were confined in other London prisons
+to confess themselves, by a legal fiction, debtors to the King, in
+order to get into the Fleet prison, which was more comfortable. But
+to show the variety of so-called crimes, or misdemeanours, which were
+punishable by imprisonment here, there is the case of John Barkley
+of Canterbury, innholder, who was committed to the Fleet for having
+molested the King's Highness with sundry troublous supplications, and
+it was found that he "appered manyfestly to be a c&#333;men barrater
+<a name="FNanchor_102" id="FNanchor_102"></a><a href="#Footnote_102"
+class="fnanchor">[102]</a> and a malicious p&#333;moter of false
+and injust mattiers to the <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240"
+id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span> gret vexac&#771;on of the Kings
+faithfull subjects."</p>
+
+<p>It was also used as a house of detention, for we find Oct. 17, 1541,
+that Cowley the Master of the Rolls in Ireland, was examined, but
+because the time was too short to do it thoroughly, the Lord Chancellor
+sent him to the Fleet "untill syche tyme as the King sholde com&#771;
+to London." It seems to have been a refuge for misdemeanants, for April
+3, 1542, John Bulmer Esquire, for his wilful disobeying of an order
+taken between him and his wife by the Council, was committed to the
+Fleet. And does not Shakespeare make Sir John Falstaff a denizen of
+this prison? (Second Part <i>King Henry the Fourth</i>, last scene).</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>
+"<i>Chief Justice.</i> Go, carry Sir <i>Iohn Falstaffe</i> to the Fleete<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 6em;">Take all his Company along with him.</span><br />
+<br />
+<i>Falstaffe.</i>      My Lord, my Lord.<br />
+<br />
+<i>Chief Justice.</i> I cannot now speake, I will heare you soone:<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 5.5em;">Take them away."</span><br />
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Sir Rd. Empson, so well known in Henry the Seventh's
+time, was indicted for sending, without process, persons
+accused of murder, and other crimes, "to the late King's
+Prisons, to wit the Fleet, the Compter, and the Tower
+of London." And, from the Articles of Impeachment
+against Cardinal Wolsey, it would seem that he was in
+the habit of committing to the Fleet, those who
+thwarted him in his demands. One case (Article 38) is:
+"Also that the said Lord Cardinal did call before him
+Sir John Stanley K<sup>nt</sup> which had taken a Farm by
+C&#333;vent Seal of the Abbot and C&#333;vent of Chester, and
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span>
+afterw<sup>ds</sup> by his Power and Might, contrary to Right,
+committed the said Sir John Stanley to the Prison of
+the Fleet by the space of a Year, unto such time as he
+compelled the said Sir John to release his C&#333;vent Seal
+to one Leghe of Adlington, which married one Lark's
+daughter, which woman the said Lord Cardinal kept,
+and had with her two Children; whereupon the said
+Sir John made himself Monk in Westminster, and there
+died."</p>
+
+<p>Here is another example of the Cardinal's highhanded
+method of dealing with those who did not
+exactly bend to his will, in Article 41 of his Impeachment:
+"Also where one Sir Edward Jones, Clerk, parson
+of Orewly in the County of Bucks, in the 18th year of
+your most noble reign, let his s<sup>d</sup> parsonage with all
+tithes and other profits of the same to one William
+Johnson, for certain years; within which years, the
+Dean of the s<sup>'d</sup> Cardinal's College in<a name="FNanchor_103" id="FNanchor_103">
+</a><a href="#Footnote_103" class="fnanchor">[103]</a>
+Oxenford pretended title to a certain portion of Tithes within the
+s<sup>d</sup> parsonage, supposing the s<sup>d</sup> portion to belong
+to the parsonage of Chichley, which was appointed to the Priory of
+Tykeford, lately suppressed, where (of truth) the Parsons of Orewly
+have been peaceably possessed of the s<sup>'d</sup> portion <i>out of the
+time of mind</i>: Where upon a Subp&oelig;na was directed to the said Johnson
+to appear before the Lord Cardinal at Hampton Court, out of any term,
+with an injunction to suffer the said Dean to occupy the said portion.
+Whereupon the said Johnson appeared before the said Lord Cardinal at
+Hampton Court, where without <i>any</i> Bill the said Lord Cardinal
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span>
+committed him to the Fleet, where he remained by the space of twelve
+weeks, because he would not depart with the said Portion: and at last,
+upon a Recognizance made, that he should appear before the said Lord
+Cardinal, whensoever he was commanded, he was delivered out of the
+Fleet. Howbeit, as yet, the said Portion is so kept from him that he
+dare not deal with it."</p>
+
+  <div class="footnotes"> <blockquote> <p
+class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_84" id="Footnote_84"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_84"><span class="label">[84]</span></a> Mag. Rot. 9
+Ric. I. <i>Rot. 2a, Lond. &amp; Midd.</i></p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_85" id="Footnote_85"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_85"><span class="label">[85]</span></a> Mag. Rot. 9
+Ric. I. <i>Rot. 14b, Kent.</i></p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_86" id="Footnote_86"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_86"><span class="label">[86]</span></a> Liberate Rolls,
+p. 25. <i>Rot. Lit. Pat. Hardy</i>, p. 4.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_87" id="Footnote_87"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_87"><span class="label">[87]</span></a> Rot. Cancell. 3
+John, f. 100.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_88" id="Footnote_88"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_88"><span class="label">[88]</span></a> Close Rolls, 6
+John, f. 33.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_89" id="Footnote_89"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_89"><span class="label">[89]</span></a> Close Rolls, 2
+Hen. III., f. 346.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_90" id="Footnote_90"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_90"><span class="label">[90]</span></a> Mag. Rot. 1
+Ric. I. <i>Rot. 2b, Bedef.</i> Til de Oblatis Curiæ.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_91" id="Footnote_91"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_91"><span class="label">[91]</span></a> Mag. Rot. 5
+Ric. I. <i>Rot. 2a</i>, Nordfolch and Sudfolch.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_92" id="Footnote_92"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_92"><span class="label">[92]</span></a> See Platt's
+Case cited Vaughan's Reports 1677, p. 243.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_93" id="Footnote_93"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_93"><span class="label">[93]</span></a> Rolls of Parl.
+vol. iii. p. 469.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_94" id="Footnote_94"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_94"><span class="label">[94]</span></a> Ibid. vol iii.
+p. 593a.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_95" id="Footnote_95"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_95"><span class="label">[95]</span></a> Allowing a
+prisoner to go at liberty on finding sureties.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_96" id="Footnote_96"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_96"><span class="label">[96]</span></a> Hayne's State
+Papers, vol. i.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_97" id="Footnote_97"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_97"><span class="label">[97]</span></a> The moat or
+ditch fed by the Fleet, which washed the walls of the prison.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_98" id="Footnote_98"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_98"><span class="label">[98]</span></a> See "Memorials
+of London and London Life in the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth
+Centuries," by H. T. Riley, 1847, pp. 279, 280.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_99" id="Footnote_99"></a><a
+href="#FNanchor_99"><span class="label">[99]</span></a> "Proceedings
+and Ordinances of the Privy Council of England," edited by Sir H.
+Nicholas, 1834, vol. ii. p. 303.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_100"
+id="Footnote_100"></a><a href="#FNanchor_100"><span
+class="label">[100]</span></a> Ibid. vol. iii. p. 93.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_101"
+id="Footnote_101"></a><a href="#FNanchor_101"><span
+class="label">[101]</span></a> Beneficed Clergy were given the title
+of Dominus or Sir&mdash;as Sir Hugh Evans, in the <i>Merry Wives of
+Windsor</i>.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_102"
+id="Footnote_102"></a><a href="#FNanchor_102"><span
+class="label">[102]</span></a> A vexatious and litigious
+person&mdash;one who stirs up strife.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_103"
+id="Footnote_103"></a><a href="#FNanchor_103"><span
+class="label">[103]</span></a> Christ Church, Oxford.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_242-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_242-200.png" width="200" height="216" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_243-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_243-500.png" width="500" height="144" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XX.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THE Fleet was, evidently, a handy prison, elastic
+enough to suit all cases, for on Aug. 19, 1553, at the Star Chamber, "Roger Erthe, alias Kinge, servaunt to Therle of Pembroke, and
+William Ferror, servaunt to the Lord Sturton, were, for making of a
+Fraye, committed to the Charge of Warden of the Fleete."</p>
+
+<p>In September, 1553, the Fleet received a prisoner whose name is
+historical wherever the English language is read, for the Privy Council
+being held at Richmond, on the 1st of Sept. "This day appered before the Lordes, John Hooper, Bishop of
+Gloucester, and Miles Coverdale, Bishop of Exon. And the said Hooper,
+for Considerations the Councell moving, was sent to the Fleete." </p>
+
+<p>Turning from Mary's reign to that of Elizabeth, we find equal
+religious intolerance, for we read in Strype's
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span>
+"Annals of the Reformation, <span class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1582, "that Fleetwood, the Recorder of London, sent a letter to the Lord
+Treasurer, informing him that one Osborn, a priest and Franciscan
+friar, had been examined, and confessed that "<i>in crastino Epiphaniæ</i>,
+he said Mass in the Fleet (where many recusants were committed) in the
+Lord Vaux's Chamber, (to whom he was related) before that Lord, Mr.
+Tresham, Mr. Tyrwhit, and others," which three, at the London Sessions, in Guildhall, were convicted on
+Osborn's evidence.</p>
+
+<p>Fleet parsons were evidently an institution in the sixteenth
+century, for besides the above-mentioned Osborn, there was another
+committed to the Fleet, on May 27, 1584, one Sir R. Stapleton. His
+fault seems to have been that he had preached against the Archbishop
+of York, for which he was arraigned in the Star Chamber, and was, with
+others, ordered to read an apology&mdash;which he did&mdash;but in such
+a contemptuous manner, that he was sent to the Fleet.</p>
+
+<p>In the seventeenth century, many Puritans were incarcerated here,
+especially after the Restoration, when their gloomy fanaticism ill
+accorded with the ideas of the age. The bow had been strung too tightly
+during the Commonwealth, and when it was unstrung the reaction was
+great. So many were put into prison for conscience' sake. Even in
+Elizabeth's reign there were many in prison, and we can hardly wonder
+at it when we consider it was an age of religious intolerance, and
+the religion professed by these devotees was of a most unattractive
+character. Strype, writing of <span class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1588,
+says of them:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"In the Summer Time they meet together in the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span>
+Fields, a Mile or more.<a name="FNanchor_104" id="FNanchor_104"></a><a href="#Footnote_104" class="fnanchor">[104]</a>
+There they sit down upon a Bank. And divers of them expound out of the
+Bible, so long as they are there assembled.</p>
+
+<p>"In the Winter Time they assemble themselves by five of the Clock
+in the Morning to the House where they make their Conventicle for the
+Sabbath Day, Men and Women together. There they continue in their
+kind of Prayers, and Exposition of Scriptures, all the Day. They Dine
+together. After Dinner make Collections to pay for their Diet. And what
+money is left, some of them carryeth to the Prisons, where any of their
+sort be committed.</p>
+
+<p>"In their prayers, one speaketh, and the rest do
+groan and sob, and sithe,<a name="FNanchor_105" id="FNanchor_105"></a><a href="#Footnote_105" class="fnanchor">[105]</a>
+as if they could wring out Tears. But say not after him that prayeth.
+Their Prayer is <i>Extemporal</i>."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>In January, 1600, Lord Grey of Wilton was committed to the Fleet,
+by Queen Elizabeth's order, for assaulting the Earl of Southampton, on
+horseback, in the public street.</p>
+
+<p>There is a fair bibliography of the Fleet prison in the seventeenth
+century. In 1620-1 there was a broadsheet published "A briefe collection of the exactions, extortions, oppressions,
+tyrannies, and excesses towards the liues, bodies and goods of
+prisoners, done by <i>Alexander Harris</i>, Warden of the Fleete, in his
+foure yeares misgouernment, ready to be proued by oath and other
+testimonies." This was answered by Harris, and
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span>
+his MS., which is in the possession of the Duke of Westminster, was
+published by the Camden Society in 1879, entitled the "&OElig;conomy of the Fleete; or an Apologeticall
+Answeare of Alexander Harris (late Warden there) unto XIX Articles set
+forth against him by the prisoners." Of which book more anon.</p>
+
+<p>Then there was a "Petition to Parliament of the distressed prisoners
+in the King's Bench, Fleet and other prisons"&mdash;but this has no
+date. In 1647 was published "A Whip for the Marshal's Court by Robert
+Robins Gent, being his Petition to the House of Commons." The preface
+to the Reader, is dated from the Author's "Iron Cage in the Fleet."
+In 1653 there was "A Schedule; or, List of the Prisoners in the Fleet
+remaining in custody May 25, 1653."Some of them were very bad cases, as "<i>William Gregory</i> committed
+February 7, 1651, one Outlawry after Judgment, severall other
+Outlawries and Trespasses, no sums mentioned;" or "<i>Hustwayte Wright</i> committed June 29, 1650, for £31 1s., Execution,
+besides Outlawries, Latitats and Cap. no sum appearing."</p>
+<p>"<i>Thomas Keneston</i> committed Nov. 4, 1646, for 51,000 Actions, and
+severall Orders of the Exchequer." In 1669 appeared "A Companion for Debtors and Prisoners, and advice
+to Creditors, with a description of Newgate, the Marshalsea, the two
+Counties, Ludgate, <i>the Fleet</i>, and King's Bench prison." In 1671 was published "A Short Narrative, or Anatomie of the Fleet
+Prison &amp;c.," by John Knap, M.D. In 1690 there was "A plea for the
+City Orphans and Prisoners for Debt." In 1691 appeared a soul-harrowing
+little book, called
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span>
+"The Cry of the Oppressed, a tragicall Account of the unparalleled
+Sufferings of the poor imprisoned Debtors and Tyranny of their Gaolers,
+with the case of the Publisher (Moses Pitt)." Here the interest is much
+heightened by numerous engravings showing how prisoners were beaten,
+made to feed with hogs, were covered with boils and blains, the females
+outraged by their gaolers, and many other enormities. I would fain
+quote at length from this book, but space will not admit of it. In 1699
+we find "An Argument that it is impossible for the nation to be rid of the
+grievances occasioned by the Marshal of the King's Bench and Warden of
+the Fleet, without an utter extirpation of their present Offices."</p>
+
+<p>The Case as made out by the prisoners against the Warden, Alexander
+Harris, in 1620-1, was, if it could have been thoroughly substantiated,
+most damaging to him, but they overreached themselves by their manifest
+exaggeration. A few examples will suffice. There were nineteen counts
+against him all of grievous weight, but we will only take four as
+a fair sample. (1) Murder; (2) Felony; (3) Robbery; (4) Excessive
+Rates for Chambers. First, as to the Charge of Murder, this is the
+accusation: "After knowne quarrels and fightings between two prisoners, lodging
+them in one chamber, where, quarrelling and fighting againe, and
+notice to him thereof giuen, and of likely further mischiefe; this
+notwithstanding, continuance of them together, vntil the one murthered
+the other."</p>
+
+<p>This referred to two prisoners, Sir John Whitbrooke and
+another named Boughton. According to the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span>
+Warden's account Whitbrooke did not deserve much pity. In July, 1618,
+he was given into the Warden's Custody, by the order of two Courts, to
+be kept a close prisoner, but he soon developed "dangerous energy," for
+on the 10th of the same month, almost immediately after his committal,
+he "came into the Warden's studdy where the Warden (in his gowne)
+was wryteing, and fashioned his speech, sayeing that he came to
+speake with the Warden about his lodging, who answeared that he
+would willingly speake about that, and money for it, whereupon the
+Warden putting dust<a name="FNanchor_106" id="FNanchor_106"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_106" class="fnanchor">[106]</a> upon the wryteings and
+turneing his back to lay them aside, Sir John Whitbrooke strooke him on
+the head with the sharpe ende of a hammer, whereof one Cleft was before
+broken off, and the other cleft newly whett, giveing fower wounds to
+the scull, and some bruses before the Warden could close with him; but
+then the Warden thrusting him out of the studdy, did throwe Whitbrooke
+on the back, and took away the hammer, Whitbrooke (being undermost) did
+hould the forepart of the Warden's gowne soe as he could not rise; att
+which tyme the Warden's blood abundantly gushed downe upon Whitbrooke,
+and the Warden could have beaten out Whitbrooke's braynes with the
+hammer, but that he was neither wrothfull nor daunted.</p>
+
+<p>"Then after, two maydes servants (heareing the noyse) <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span>
+came into the roome, and one loosed Whitbrooke's hands from the
+Warden's gowne, or ells the Warden must have killed him to acquitt
+himselfe. Soe soone as the maydes came the Warden shewed them the
+hammer all bloody, telling them that Whitbrooke had wounded him
+therewith; the butler of the howse then alsoe comeing upp to cover the
+table, the Warden bidd him and others (which followed) to laye hands
+upon Whitbrooke &amp;c.; but to take heed they hurt him not; soe they
+letting him rise and rest himselfe, he took a stiletto out of his
+pockett and stabbed the Warden's deputie cleane through the middle
+of his hand, which (notwithstanding it was presently dressed by a
+good chirurgion) did rankle upp to his shoulder, and was like to have
+killed him; he also stabbed the porter of the howse directly against
+the heart, and drewe blood, but it pierced not: he stabbed the gaoler
+into the hand and twice through the sleeve of his dublett, so as then
+they lay violent hands upon him, put on irons and carryed him to the
+strongest warde of the prison (called Bolton's warde)."</p>
+
+<p>And a perfectly proper punishment for any one who
+ran <i>amuk</i> like Whitbrooke because there was an organized
+mutiny. "And upon this some three score prisoners breake upp all the
+strongest prisons and dores of the wards and Tower chamber, assaulting
+the Warden and his servants with weapons &amp;c., according to a plott
+and purpose before resolved upon, as appeares by depositions."</p>
+
+<p>The poor Warden had no bed of roses, more especially as the female
+element was afterwards introduced in the shape of Lady Whitbrooke, who
+of course, was a warm partisan of her husband. Harris writes:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span></p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"The lady alledgeth that in September the quarrell
+betweene the Warden and Whitbrooke was renewed.</p>
+
+<p>"The Warden answeareth that in July, 1619, Whitbrooke and Boughton
+with six others (being lodged in a great Chamber) they and six more
+shutt out thirtie of their Companie and fortefied the gaole against
+the Warden, refused all perswasions of the Warden, constables, and
+Alderman's Deputie, the comands of the Lord Cheife Justice, of the Lord
+Chauncellor and his Serjeant at Armes; yet yeilded to the clarke of the
+councell sent from the Lords. Whitbrooke and Boughton being then in one
+humour; and, upon unblocking the prison, Whitbrooke desired liberty; it
+was offred him upon security, he would give none, then he made question
+where to lye, to which was answeared there were five other roomes he
+might make his election of, which he would; but he said he would none
+other but where he formerly laye (it being indeed the fayrest). They
+fortified these roomes againe when the Warden was out of towne, soe
+as during Whitbrooke's life and Boughton's being there with their
+adherents the Warden had noe comand in that part of the prison."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>It is almost needless to say that these peculiarly unquiet spirits
+quarrelled among themselves. We have heard enough of Whitbrooke to
+know that he was a quarrelsome cur&mdash;impatient of restraint, and
+thoroughly lawless in his habits; but it is evident that he persuaded
+his wife that he was an injured innocent; for, in poor Harris's
+"Apologia pro sua vita," a story which he tells so naively, and so
+nicely, he says:</p>
+
+<p>"The lady alledgeth that the Warden (for revenge) <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span>
+resolved and reported he would send Whitbrooke to <i>Boulton</i> to
+keepe.</p>
+
+<p>"The Warden answeareth that he for governement sake and to suppresse
+misdemeanours doth thretten to putt prisoners (offending) into
+<i>Boulton's Wards</i> (Many yeares familiarlie soe called as he thinketh of
+bolts or irons put on them), where Whitbrooke was put when he wounded
+the Warden and his servants; he continued there but a small tyme, and
+was removed to a roome called the Tower Chamber (where Henry Boughton
+and many others did lye), thence Boughton was removed into the common
+prison in December, 1618, and Whitbrooke was removed thither June 16,
+1619, soe as to that tyme they lay five moneths within one lodging, and
+six moneths severed in other lodgings and noe quarrell stirred.</p>
+
+<p>"The Lady alledgeth that presently at their comeing together
+Boughton suddenly stabbed and wounded Whitbrooke, whereof he dyed.</p>
+
+<p>"The Warden answeareth that over and above the eleaven months
+aforesaid, yet from June 16th untill September 16, 1619, being 3
+moneths, they two combyned in their exploits against the Warden
+without falling out (for ought the Warden knewe), but 16 September
+Boughton fell out with Harvey (one of his chamber felowes), whom
+Boughton assayled with his teeth, and bitt him by the thombe, whereof
+Whitbrooke, Willis, Harvey, and others there lodged, advised the
+Warden, wishing him to take some course. The Warden sent divers
+messages by the gaoler to
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span>
+Whitbrooke to remove thence and to lye elsewhere; he would not, sayeing
+none should remove him but by violence, and they were so strong there,
+as the Warden could doe nothing, none ells durst come amongst them.
+Holmes and Maunsell offered him libertie amongst other gentlemen upon
+bonds.</p>
+
+<p>"The Warden acquainted the Lord Chauncellor of their fortifications,
+of some other stabbing there, of this particular brawle, and besought
+his lordshipp to send them to Newgate. The Lord Chauncellor comanded
+such motion to be made at the tyme of a seale; it was moved by Mr.
+Woomelayson, as appeares by his briefe, then his lordshipp wished oath
+to be made of this offence, and called for presidents<a name="FNanchor_107" id="FNanchor_107">
+</a><a href="#Footnote_107" class="fnanchor">[107]</a>
+to remove them, in which meane tyme Boughton (being provoked and
+wounded by Whitbrooke) did stabb him, whereof he dyed within 13 dayes,
+and it was about 14 moneths after he wounded the Warden and stabbed his
+3 servants as appeareth by the generall lodgeings and places where they
+laye, sometymes together, and sometymes severed, ensueing to be seene
+in the end of this answeare to this Article, and, if the testimony
+(which was long after delivered to the Warden, by a prisoner in the
+Fleete) be true, then the same Harvey, and one Tymothy Willis and Sir
+John Whitbrooke himselfe, did (of sett purpose) whett on Boughton to
+anger and quarrell, because they scorned Boughton and meant to assayle
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"When Whitbrooke, Boughton, &amp;c., ymured themselves upp in
+the wards as aforesaid, a view or survey
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span>
+of the roomes was given the Lordes of the Councell, and they (<i>were</i>)
+satisfied.</p>
+
+<p>"After the tyme of the supposed quarrell (which was about
+Whitbrooke's and Boughton's fortifieing the house) they contynued
+lyeing where they were before, amongst others.</p>
+
+<p>"Wheresoever they had lyen they might quarrell when they mett, as
+Whitbrooke many moneths before broke Willis his head with a pott or
+candlestick." These two ill-conditioned animals fell to loggerheads, and Boughton
+drew upon Whitbrooke, and so wounded him that eventually he died. And
+this shows the very lax discipline that then obtained in the Fleet. Of
+course, no weapons should have been allowed, but "It is alsoe alledged that Boughton did provide a sword, and it was
+brought him by a woeman from whom the porter of the Fleet tooke it, and
+delivered it to the Warden (as he did indeed) and therefore say their
+accusers that the Warden knew the same sword was to kill Whitbrooke.</p>
+
+<p>"The Warden had it about a yeare and a halfe before this accident
+(of Whitbrooke's death) happened, and delivered it back againe to
+the woeman that brought it, with charge not to bring any thither
+whatsoever.</p>
+
+<p>"It was avouched that the sword was Boughton's, and put to dressing
+to a Cutler, who sent it home againe, so as Boughton might have killed
+Whitbrooke with it before it went to dressing, if he had intended
+any such thing. Nay, Boughton had alwayes in his trunck (as appeared
+afterwards) a stilletto so keene, so cleane and ready, as would soone
+have done such a fact if he had meant it; yea, swords and other weapons
+want not in
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span>
+the Fleete, and the Warden cannot prevent it. This fact was mere
+accidentall, and not precogitate as the lawe hath founde it, which
+acquitted Boughton of Manslaughter upon his arraignement." Harris, I think, and, most probably, my readers will agree with me,
+has made out a very fair case in his own favour; but I must not deal
+with the other charges against him at such length.</p>
+
+  <div class="footnotes"> <blockquote> <p
+class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_104"
+id="Footnote_104"></a><a href="#FNanchor_104"><span
+class="label">[104]</span></a> Presumably, <i>from the town</i>.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_105"
+id="Footnote_105"></a><a href="#FNanchor_105"><span
+class="label">[105]</span></a> Sigh.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_106"
+id="Footnote_106"></a><a href="#FNanchor_106"><span
+class="label">[106]</span></a> There was no blotting paper in those
+days, but <i>pounce</i> was used, which was either <i>powdered</i> resin, gum
+sandarach, or copal, or powdered cuttle fish. I believe that <i>pounce</i>
+may even now be bought at law stationers. It was dusted on to the wet
+ink by means of a pepper caster.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_107"
+id="Footnote_107"></a><a href="#FNanchor_107"><span
+class="label">[107]</span></a> Precedents.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_254-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_254-200.png" width="200" height="170" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_255-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_255-500.png" width="500" height="143" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXI.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THE second count brought against him by his
+mutinous prisoners was "Remouing a prisoner out of his chamber, hauing 51 lib. 1 s. hid
+vnder his bed, which the prisoner required he might go to his chamber
+to dispose of, which was denied, and he thrust vp in another roome
+close prisoner, vntill the Warden and some of his seruants rifled his
+bed of that mony."</p>
+
+<p>Hear the Warden's defence:&mdash; "By this is pretended that one Coppin (who euer did beare the name
+of a poore fellowe) lost 51 li., with takeing whereof, if he dare
+charge any person or persons the Lawe is and hath beene open for him
+theis two yeares past. But his abettors haue putt it here rather to
+infame, then that they can think it true, as by the ensueing answeare
+appeares.</p>
+
+<p>"For Edward Coppin, liued as a poore prisoner in the Fleete for
+breach of a decree, and continueing above six yeares, would never be
+drawen to pay the Warden one
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span>
+penny for meate, drinke, lodging, or attendance; but at last he ran
+away, and was upon the Warden's pursuite taken againe, but before he
+ran away, he was sometymes restrayned of the libertye of the Fleete
+yards and walks (as is the custome of all prisons in England); and
+he lodging in the three Tower Chambers with sixteene persons, they
+often thretned their keeper to stabb him, to take away the keyes of
+the prison, to bind him, to hang him; lastly they fortefied that
+prison, soe that the Warden could not dispose or order them. And with
+two malletts and steele chissells they had cutt the stone workes of
+the dore, soe as noe locks or bolts could shutt them; and while they
+were thus doeinge Coppin came downe to fetch a mallett, wherewith he
+was taken beneath, and presentlie put into another warde aparte from
+his fellowes, about three a clock in the afternoone 15 July 1619, not
+speakeing of any money."</p>
+
+<p>Master Coppin was one of Boughton's gang, but even that <i>malfaiseur</i>
+could not back up his claim, for "A rumour was spredd in the Fleete
+that Coppin had lost 50 li. The Warden heareing thereof, sent for
+Coppin, and asked him: he said he would say nothing except Sir Francis
+Inglefield were present. Then the Warden said, Nay, Coppin, if you have
+nothing to say to me, you may depart againe.</p>
+
+<p>"Then the Warden was informed by Mr. Boughton and Wall, that the day
+before it happened that Coppin was removed, they had made meanes to
+borrowe some money upon a pawne, and Coppin professed and swore he had
+not so much (being fower (4) pounds) as they
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span>
+demanded. Then the Warden caused Coppin's trunck (being new and well
+locked) to be opened in Coppin's presence, and delivered it to him, in
+which Trunck within a Bagg put in a Box (as they said) there was about
+xxix<sup>s</sup>; and then was sett on foote this rumour when Coppin
+had advised with Mr. Rookwood to doe it.</p>
+
+<p>"About January 1620, Edward Coppin confessed that he never receaved
+any money since he came to Prison.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Williams saith that he hath heard that Coppin hath confessed
+that he lost noe money."</p>
+
+<p>So we may acquit the Warden on this count. Poor Man! he had a rough
+lot to deal with, but it is to our advantage that it was so, for
+his refutation of the charges brought against him throws a flood of
+light on the domestic manners of the time, and of the Fleet prison in
+particular.</p>
+
+<p>The third count against the Warden was one of robbery, "11 lib. 6 s. taken out of the Trunk, and by violence, from the
+person of a close prisoner sicke in his bed, by the Warden and his
+seruants." And Harris meets this, as all others, fairly and straightforwardly.
+Says he:&mdash; "This toucheth money taken from one Thraske, then a Jewdaiser, or
+halfe Jewe, committed close prisoner by the Lords of the Councell, from
+whom, and such like, though in the Gatehouse, King's Bench, Fleete,
+&amp;c., it hath beene used to take away and keepe their money, yet the
+Warden tooke not his until he abused it very dangerouslie, and whether
+this takeing away may be said Robbery, let the answeare followeing
+decide.</p>
+
+<p>"And although the complainte be used with a Circumstance, <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span>
+as if the Prisoner were sick, thereby to make a shewe as if the Warden
+gaped at his death and money; that was most untrue for Thraske was in
+perfect health."</p>
+
+<p>This prisoner was sent to the Fleet, to be put in the pillory,
+whipped and branded, and, besides, to suffer solitary confinement, but
+he found means to write letters to the King and the Lord Chancellor,
+and the Warden was much blamed for allowing him so to do. But poor
+Harris, who must have been plagued almost to death by his very
+recalcitrant charges, could not find out whence his prisoner procured
+his writing materials, and at last came to the correct conclusion
+that he was bribing the gaoler who waited upon him. So, with some
+servants, he personally searched Mr. Thraske's apartment and person,
+and found his pens, ink, and paper, and also &pound;11 6s. in money,
+together with a bag and cord with which he used to receive supplies
+from outside, and by means of which he disseminated his pernicious
+literature. All of which the Warden very properly confiscated, but the
+money was kept, and used for the prisoner's benefit. "When Thraske had worne out his cloathes and desired other, the Lord
+Chauncellor bid the Warden buy for Thraske some cloathes, which was
+done accordingly, even soe much as Thraske desired; the Warden alsoe
+gave him money to buy wyne for his comforte at tymes." And, in the long run, the poor Warden declares that he was about
+&pound;80 out of pocket by his prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>The last charge we will investigate, is that of "Excessiue rates of Chambers." (No. 13 on the list <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span>
+of 19) "Whereby orders no man ought to pay for any Chamber, the Warden
+allowing bed and bedding, aboue 2s. 4d. a weeke, he exacteth 8s., 10s.,
+13s. 4d. and of some twentie shillings a weeke without bedding."
+The Warden replies to this that "the Orders of the Prison are, That noe Parlor Comoners and Hall
+Comoners must lye two in a Bedd like Prisoners, They of the Parlor at
+ijs. iiijd. the weeke. They of the Hall at xiiijd. If any such will
+lye in the Prison then there is noe question of their payment, nor any
+more required. But the missery is this that none there will pay at all,
+but stand upon it that they should pay nothing, which is contrary to
+right, to Custome, and to usage.... An<sup>o</sup> 1597. The Prisoners
+then Articling against the Warden Sett forth that one Prisoner paid
+xxxs. others xxs., xvs., xiis., xs. a weeke for Chamber without Bedd.
+The Warden then made his Answeare to the Comittees that he took xs. a
+Chamber, and the rest was for more chambers than one, and in respect of
+Dyett, though they had none, but fetched it abroad.</p>
+
+<p>"Soe if Prisoners will have more ease than ordinarie, and a Chamber
+or two for themselves and theirs in the Warden's howse, they are by the
+orders and Constitutions to Compound with the Warden for it, it being
+the Warden's freehould, and demyseable.... To such prisoners as lye two
+in a Bedd, the Warden is to find them Bedd, and for Bedd and Chamber
+they are to pay. Whether by Bedd is meant all furniture of Bedding,
+that is to be doubted, for it was never put in practise; but as for
+those which lye in the Warden's freehould
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span>
+by agreement he is not bound to find them Bedd or Bedding except it
+be so conditioned. And such will hardly vouchsafe to lye on the comon
+Bedding which passeth from Man to Man; And the Warden can as hardlie
+buy a new Bedd for every new prisoner which cometh, and therefore the
+lodgings of ease were provided for men of quality and not for the mean
+sorte of prisoners, as the accusation would seeme to inferre; And when
+Mr. Chamberlayne informed against the Warden touching Chambers, All the
+cheife gentlemen in the Fleete certified under their hands that they
+held their Chambers by agreement to have a Chamber alone to each, and
+were contented with the rates."</p>
+
+<p>That the Wardenship of the Fleet was an onerous
+position, may be inferred from Harris's statement that "he hath had at one tyme the King's prisoners for two
+hundred thowsand<a name="FNanchor_108" id="FNanchor_108"></a><a href="#Footnote_108" class="fnanchor">[108]</a>
+pounds debt, besides the affayres of State."</p>
+
+<p>That the office of Warden of the Fleet was of very ancient origin we
+have seen in the case of Nathanael de Leveland, and he also proves that
+it was heritable, for he, and his family, had held it for 130 years,
+and more. And it had a far-reaching jurisdiction, for in the 3
+Eliz.<a name="FNanchor_109" id="FNanchor_109"></a><a href="#Footnote_109" class="fnanchor">[109]</a>
+we learn that "Upon an adjournment of the term to Hertford, several prisoners
+were committed to the Castle there. This Castle was part of the Duchy
+of Lancaster. The Queen had granted a patent to A. of the Custody of
+this Castle for his Life; resolved by the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span>
+Judges that the Warden of the Fleet shall have the Custody <i>there</i> of
+the Prisoners committed by the Chancery, Common Pleas and Exchequer:
+For he is the Officer of those Corts; and although the Patentee has
+the Custody of the Castle, and though it be the Prison of the County,
+yet his interest ought to give place to the public weal, and common
+justice."</p>
+
+<p>In course of time, the Wardenship became a position which was openly
+sold; and our old friend Harris makes no secret of it. "They likewise alledge that I<sup>o</sup> Elizabeth it was purchased
+by Tirrell at the rate of 160 li. per annum and that long after it
+was held at 100 li. per annum, and refused for 200 li. But now that
+(thorough extortion) there is made 4,000 li. per annum by the relation
+delivered to one Mr. Shotbolt.</p>
+
+<p>"To which is answeared, that the purchase paid by Tirrell, (as
+appears by the deed inrolled) was 6,000 markes or 4,000 li. which, if
+it be devided at tenne or twelve yeares purchase, being more than an
+office of that nature was worth in those dayes (which is above three
+score yeares past) it will bring 400 li. tenne yeares purchase, and
+therefore here is <i>sutor ultra crepidam</i>, for 160 li. at that rate
+would yeild but 1,600 li. in money, and there was not then the fift
+part of the buildings and lodgings which now are.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Anslowe (as is credibly informed) held it by fyne (and
+otherwise) at 600 li. per annum, and had but some part of the benefitts
+of the prison, nothing of the pallace at Westminster. And as for this
+Warden's valuation of it at 4000 li. per annum, it might be, supposeing
+that if the benefitts of the pallace were had
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span>
+&amp;c. But what if the one with the other cost in expences 4,000 li.
+per annum, what will be then advanced?" &amp;c.</p>
+
+<p>This selling of the Office of Warden, led to a great squabble in
+the early days of Queen Anne's reign, and it seems to have arisen in
+this way. A Warden of the Fleet, named Ford, in the reign of William
+and Mary, was found guilty of suffering one Richard Spencer to escape,
+but was acquitted of some minor charges, and a certain Col. Baldwin
+Leighton obtained a grant of the Office on April 6, 1690. On June 25,
+1691, this grant was quashed, and Leighton soon after died. A Mr.
+Tilley, in the fifth year of William and Mary purchased the Inheritance
+of the said Office, together with the Mansion and Gardens thereto
+appertaining, but on Dec. 23, 1704, judgment was given in the Queen's
+Bench that the Office be seized into her Majesty's hands, and this was
+affirmed in Parliament.</p>
+
+<p>The discipline in the prison at this time seems to have been very
+bad, so much so that many witnesses who could have spoken of Tilley's
+misdeeds were hindered from giving evidence, some by being put into
+dungeons; others, by violence, bribes, or other artifices. Take a case
+in point, which happened about this time. The case of Robert Elliot and
+others. "One Francis Chartyres was Arrested at the several Suits of the
+said several Persons, about the 4th of May last, all their Debts
+amounting to 140 l. and upwards, which cost them 20 l. to effect: And
+the said Francis Chartyres being a stubborn and an obstinate Man, and
+dangerous to Arrest, he having killed several Persons upon the <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span>
+like attempt, and at this Arrest run the Bayliffs through. And after he
+was taken, he by <i>Habeas Corpus</i> turned himself over to the said Fleet
+Prison. And Mr. Tilley, and the Turnkey, and one Whitwood, an Officer
+of the Fleet, were acquainted, by the persons above mentioned, what a
+dangerous Man he was, and what it cost them to take him; but they took
+no notice thereof, and declared they would let him out for all of them;
+and so they did, and the next Day the said Persons Arrested him again,
+and he went over to the Fleet a second time, and was immediately set
+at liberty; who coming to the Persons aforesaid, at whose Suit he was
+Arrested, bid them defiance; saying, <i>He was a Freeman, for that he had
+given 18 Guineas for it</i>, and they <i>should never have a farthing of
+their Debts</i>, which they now doubt of, the said Chartyres being gone
+for Scotland."</p>
+
+<p>Hatton, in his "New View of London," 1708, gives, the boundary of
+the <i>Rules</i>, and also descants on the pleasantness of the Prison, as an
+abode. "Fleet Prison, situate on the East side of the Ditch, between
+Ludgate Hill and Fleet Lane, but the Rules extend Southward on the
+East side of Fleet Canal to Ludgate Hill, and thence Eastward to Cock
+Ally on the South side of Ludgate Hill, and to the Old Bayly on the
+North, and thence Northward in the Old Bayley both sides the Street,
+to Fleet Lane, and all that Lane, and from the West End, southward
+to the Prison again. It is a Prison for Debtors from any part of the
+Kingdom, for those that act or speak any thing in contempt of the <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a></span>
+Courts of Chancery and Common Pleas; and for the pleasantness of the
+Prison and Gardens, and the aforesaid large extent of its Rules, it
+is preferred before most other Prisons, many giving Money to turn
+themselves over to this from others."</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_108"
+id="Footnote_108"></a><a href="#FNanchor_108"><span
+class="label">[108]</span></a> Equal in our currency to about three
+times the amount.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_109"
+id="Footnote_109"></a><a href="#FNanchor_109"><span
+class="label">[109]</span></a> Reports of Cases, &amp;c., by Sir James
+Dyer (ed. 1794) vol. ii. p. 204 a.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_264-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_264-200.png" width="200" height="142" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_265-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_265-500.png" width="500" height="107" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THINGS got so bad that Parliament ordered a
+Committee to inquire into it, and they began their sitting in
+Feb. 25, 1729. But, previously, the prisoners had petitioned
+the Lord Chief Justice and other justices without effect, and
+those petitions with Huggins' (who was the Warden) replies were
+published in a folio pamphlet, which contains much information.<a
+name="FNanchor_110" id="FNanchor_110"></a><a href="#Footnote_110"
+class="fnanchor">[110]</a> The first petition was in 1723, and it was
+mainly addressed to the extortions of the Master, the sixth Article
+alledging that the fees exacted by the Warden were in excess of those
+settled by Law, Nov. 14, 1693&mdash;instanced as follows:</p>
+
+<div style="margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; width:80%;">
+<table summary="Wardens Fees" style="width: 100%;">
+<tr>
+<td>&nbsp;</td>
+<td>&nbsp;Warden.</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Legal.</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>For liberty of the House and Irons at first coming in</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&pound;2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>Chaplain</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>Entering every Name and Cause</td>
+<td>&nbsp;</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>Porter's fee</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>Chamberlain's Fee</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>The Dismission Fee for every Action</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;12&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>Turnkey's Dismission</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6</td>
+<td>&nbsp;</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>&nbsp;</td>
+<td>&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</td>
+<td>&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td>&nbsp;</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&pound;3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&pound;1&nbsp;&nbsp;16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4</td>
+</tr><tr>
+<td>&nbsp;</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;=======</td>
+<td>&nbsp;&nbsp;=======</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The eleventh prayer of this Petition was, "And lastly, that for the better suppressing Prophaneness and
+Immorality among us, and that the Misery of Imprisonment may in some
+measure be alleviated by the Observance of good Manners, Cleanliness,
+and Quietude, we humbly pray your Lordships would enable us to regulate
+our selves in such Manner as the Prisoners in the King's Bench are
+empowered to do by a Rule of that Court, 20 <i>die post festim Sanctæ
+Trinitatis</i>. 11 Anne." </p>
+
+<p>Huggins replied to all the petition, but his answer to
+No. 6 was "The Warden saith, That so soon as the Fees were settled by this
+Honourable Court, he caused a Copy thereof to be framed and hung up in
+the Common Hall of the House, signed by Sir George Cook; also a Copy of
+the Rules and Orders of the House, which said copies the Prisoners were
+pleased to burn, tear to Pieces, and obliterate; and the Warden denies
+that he has taken or receiv'd, or any for him, to his knowledge, more,
+or greater, Fees than were contained in the said Copy of Fees hung up
+in the said Prison." </p>
+
+<p>And as to the Eleventh prayer of the Petitioners "The Warden saith, that the Prisoners in general, are so very
+ungovernable, that they have tore up the Trees around the Bowling
+Green, and cut down several of the Trees in the back part of
+the Prison, set by the Warden some years since, for the better
+Accommodation of the Prisoners; also broke down the Stocks in the said
+Prison, and the Houses of Easement were fitted up lately by the Warden,
+they have torn it almost to Pieces, and committed other Outrages, and
+most of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span>
+them, altho' two Years in Arrears of Rent to the Warden, refuse to pay
+him any Part thereof, and will by Force, and in defiance of the Warden
+and his Officers, keep in Possession of the Rooms and Furnitures,
+Swearing to stand by each other."</p>
+
+<p>Petition after petition was sent from the Prisoners to the Lord
+Chief Justice about the oppressions of Huggins and his myrmidons, and
+duly answered in some shape by the Warden, but there was one, in which
+the fourteenth Charge is as follows. "That the Warden, on the Death of any Prisoner detains the Body
+from his Friends and Relations untill they will pay him, what Chamber
+Rent was due from the Deceased; and in the mean Time his cruel and
+unchristian like Practice, is to make the best Bargain he can with the
+poor Family of the Deceased, for the Purchase of the Dead Body, in
+order to give it Christian Burial, at their own Expence, by which means
+he often extorts large Sums of Money, for granting the Relations the
+Liberty of taking away and burying the Dead Body; which tho' a very
+natural and reasonable Desire, is nevertheless often frustrated by
+their Inability to purchase it at his Price, and, rather than accept
+what may be in their Power to give him, he often suffers the Dead
+Body to lye above Ground seven or eight Days, and often Times eleven
+or twelve Days, to the great endangering of the Health of the whole
+Prison, by the nauseous Stench, which being often times the Case, is
+very offensive all over the House; and when he has refused what he
+thought not worth his Acceptance, he buries them in the common Burying
+place for Prisoners, when the Body is often
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a></span>
+taken up by their Friends to be bury'd their own Way, and the Warden
+seizes to his own Use the Cloaths, Furniture, and what ever else there
+is for Fees and Chamber Rent, which he pretends to be due from the said
+deceased Prisoner."</p>
+
+<p>Huggins' reply to this was diabolically insolent. "For Answer thereto, My Lords, the Deputy Warden saith, That
+scarcely a Prisoner hath died on the Masters-Side, that was not largely
+indebted to him; and therefore, possibly, he might have used endeavours
+to get what part of the Money was due to him, as he could fairly from
+the Deceased's Relations." </p>
+
+<p>But the Cup of his iniquities was rapidly filling. He made one
+Thomas Bambridge "<i>A Newgate Sollicitor, and a Person of abandon'd
+Credit</i>" (as the petition in the case of Mr. Mackphreadris describes
+him) his deputy warden, and then, things came to a climax. As we
+have seen, Parliament took cognizance of the scandal, and issued a
+Commission to inquire into the matter, and their first sitting was on
+Feb. 25, 1729. Their report was presented to Parliament on March 20th
+of the same year&mdash;so that no time was lost in looking into the
+evils complained of.</p>
+
+<p>It recites that Huggins by a gift of &pound;5,000 to Lord
+Clarendon "did by his interest, obtain a grant of the said office (<i>i.e.</i>,
+<i>Warden of the Fleet</i>) for his own and his son's life.</p>
+
+<p>"That it appeared to the Committee, That in the Year 1725, one
+Mr. Arne, an Upholder, was carried into a Stable, which stood where
+the strong room on the Master's side now is, and was there confined
+(being
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span>
+a place of cold restraint) till he died, and that he was in good state
+of health before he was confined to that room." </p>
+
+<p>Huggins growing old, sold his interest in the Wardenship of the
+Fleet, and his Son's reversion therein, to Bambridge and Cuthbert, for
+the sum he had originally given for the place; and then Bambridge,
+being his own master, went somewhat ahead, and the Committee found
+that he connived at escapes, sent his prisoners to Spunging-houses, or
+private prisons, not so long ago done away with, where they were well,
+or badly treated, according to the money at their disposal.</p>
+
+<p>And we read of one shocking case, which can best be given in the
+very words of the Report. "That these houses were further used by the said Bambridge,
+as a terror for extorting money from the prisoners, who, on
+security given, have the liberty of the rules; of which Mr.
+Robert Castell was an unhappy instance, a man born to a competent
+estate, but being unfortunately plunged into debt, was thrown into
+prison: he was first sent (according to custom) to Corbett's, <a
+name="FNanchor_111" id="FNanchor_111"></a><a href="#Footnote_111"
+class="fnanchor">[111]</a> from whence he, by presents to Bambridge,
+redeemed himself, and, giving security obtained the liberty of the
+rules; notwithstanding which he had frequently presents, as they are
+called, exacted from him by Bambridge, and was menaced, on refusal, to
+be sent back to Corbett's again.</p>
+
+<p>"The said Bambridge having thus unlawfully extorted large sums
+of money from him in a very short time, Castell grew weary of being
+made such a wretched property, and, resolving not to injure further
+his family
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a></span>
+or his creditors for the sake of so small a liberty, he refused to
+submit to further exactions; upon which the said Bambridge ordered him
+to be re-committed to Corbett's, where the smallpox then raged, though
+Castell acquainted him with his not having had that distemper, and that
+he dreaded it so much, that the putting him into a house where it was,
+would occasion his death, which, if it happened before he could settle
+his affairs, would be a great prejudice to his creditors, and would
+expose his family to destitution; and therefore he earnestly desired
+that he might either be sent to another house, or even into the gaol
+itself, as a favor. The melancholy case of this poor gentleman moved
+the very agents of the said Bambridge to compassion, so that they used
+their utmost endeavours to dissuade him from sending this unhappy
+prisoner to that infected house; but Bambridge forced him thither,
+where he (as he feared he should) caught the smallpox, and, in a few
+days, died thereof, justly charging the said Bambridge with his death;
+and unhappily leaving all his affairs in the greatest confusion, and a
+numerous family of small children in the utmost distress." </p>
+
+<p>He squeezed everybody, made what rules he liked, and introduced new
+and pernicious customs, for, says the Report, "It appeared to the Committee, that the letting out of the Fleet
+tenements to Victuallers, for the reception of Prisoners, hath been but
+of late practised, and that the first of them let for this purpose was
+to Mary Whitwood, who still continues tenant of the same, and that her
+rent has, from 32 l. per. ann. been increased to 60 l. and a certain
+number of prisoners stipulated
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span>
+to be made a prey of, to enable her to pay so great a rent; and that
+she, to procure the benefit of having such a number of prisoners sent
+to her house, hath, over and above the increased rent, been obliged
+to make a present to the said Bambridge of forty guineas, as also of
+a toy (as it is called), being the model of a Chinese ship, made of
+amber, set in silver, for which fourscore broad pieces had been offered
+her....</p>
+
+<p>"And, notwithstanding the payment of such large fees, in order to
+extort further sums from the unfortunate prisoners, the said Bambridge
+unjustly pretends he has a right, as warden, to exercise an unlimited
+power of changing prisoners from room to room; of turning them into
+the common side, though they have paid the master's side fee; and
+inflicting arbitrary punishments by locking them down in unwholesome
+dungeons, and loading them with torturing irons." </p>
+
+<p>According to the Committee's report, Jacob Mendez Solas, a
+Portuguese, was, as far as they knew, the first prisoner that was ever
+loaded with irons in the Fleet. He was thrown into a noisome dungeon,
+which is described as a place "wherein the bodies of persons dying in the said prison are usually
+deposited, till the coroner's inquest hath passed upon them; it has no
+chimney, nor fireplace, nor any light but what comes over the door,
+or through a hole of about eight inches square. It is neither paved
+nor boarded, and the rough bricks appear both on the sides and top,
+being neither wainscotted, nor plastered; what adds to the dampness
+and stench of the place is, its being built over the common sewer,
+and adjoining to the sink and dunghill where all the nastiness <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a></span>
+of the prison is cast. In this miserable place the poor wretch was
+kept by the said Bambridge, manacled and shackled for near two months.
+At length, on receiving five guineas from Mr. Kemp, a friend of Solas
+Bambridge released the prisoner from his cruel confinement. But, though
+his chains were taken off, his terror still remained, and the unhappy
+man was prevailed upon by that terror, not only to labour <i>gratis</i>
+for the said Bambridge, but to swear also at random all that he hath
+required of him: and the Committee themselves saw an instance of the
+deep impression his sufferings had made upon him; for on his surmising,
+from something said, that Bambridge was to return again, as Warden
+of the Fleet, he fainted, and the blood started out of his mouth and
+nose." </p>
+
+<p>The upshot of this Committee was that the House petitioned the King
+to prosecute Huggins, Bambridge, and their satellites, who were all
+ordered to be committed to Newgate for trial. Huggins was tried, or
+rather the preliminaries of his trial were arranged on the 20th of May,
+1729; but his trial for the murder of Edward Arne, a prisoner in the
+Fleet prison, by immuring him in the dungeon above described, from the
+effect of which confinement he subsequently died, did not take place
+until next day. After a long and patient trial, he was acquitted; and
+he managed, not only to survive his disgrace, but live to the age of
+90.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 207px; ">
+<a href="images/i_273-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_273-500.png" width="207" height="500" alt="BAMBRIDGE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">BAMBRIDGE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Bambridge was also tried, at the Old Bailey, for the murder of
+Robert Castell, as before described, but he was acquitted by the Jury.
+Upon this acquittal, Castell's widow brought an appeal against Thomas
+Bambridge, and Richard Corbett, for the murder of her husband; but here
+their luck still stood them in stead, for they were both acquitted.
+Bambridge, some twenty years after, committed suicide by cutting his
+throat.</p>
+
+<p>Hogarth, in 1729, received a Commission from Sir Archibald Grant of
+Monnymusk, Bart., who was one of the Committee, to paint a portrait
+picture of his brother Commissioners with Bambridge, and the irons used
+by him in the Fleet. Bambridge is decidedly nervous&mdash;and a poor
+prisoner is introduced into the picture, though I cannot find, from the
+Report, that he really was before the Committee of the House.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_274-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_274-500.png" width="500" height="438" alt="A PRISONER IN IRONS." /></a>
+<div class="caption">A PRISONER IN IRONS.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>These prosecutions somewhat purified the atmosphere of the
+Fleet, but still there were grumbles, as there naturally will be
+when men are restrained in their liberty, and are left to brood
+upon their miseries, and incarceration; but the little pamphlet,<a
+name="FNanchor_112" id="FNanchor_112"></a><a href="#Footnote_112"
+class="fnanchor">[112]</a> which airs these grievances, deals
+principally with the hardships of fees, and the dilapidated state of
+the Common Side. The title-page prepares one for a not over cheerful
+ten minutes' reading.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"When Fortune keeps Thee Warm;</p>
+<p class="i1">Then <i>Friends</i> will to Thee swarm,</p>
+<p class="i4">Like <span class="smcap">Bees</span> about a <i>Honey</i> pot:</p>
+<p class="i1">But, if she chance to frown,</p>
+<p class="i1">And rudely kick Thee down,</p>
+<p class="i4">Why then&mdash;What then?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <i>Lie there and ROT.</i>"</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>The writer says that after the reign of Huggins and Bambridge, the
+Chapel was adorned&mdash;and the great Hall adjoining, formerly for the
+Use of the Prisoners, "is now made into a commodious new Coffee House, and thought
+to be as Compleat a one, as any in Town (wherein one of the
+Warden's Servants is put, to be useful upon Occasion). <i>Part of
+the Pews in the Chapel being taken into it to make it compleat,<a
+name="FNanchor_113" id="FNanchor_113"> </a><a href="#Footnote_113"
+class="fnanchor">[113]</a> and serves for a Bar and Bedchamber.</i></p>
+
+<p>"Opposite to the Great Hall, or Coffee Room, is the Begging-Grate,
+where Prisoners had an Opportunity to speak with a Friend, and
+sometimes get Sight of one
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276-7]</a></span>
+whose Inclinations did not lead him to pay a Visit to the Place, wou'd
+drop a Shilling, and perhaps some Beer to the Beggars; but now the
+same, altho' of an ancient standing, is Brick'd up, and the unhappy
+Persons who can't submit to beg, depriv'd of viewing the Street, or
+seeing their Chance Friends." So we see, that although the comforts of the inmates had been
+somewhat looked after, this little privilege, which they had long
+enjoyed, and, doubtless, as long abused, was taken from them. It was,
+afterwards, restored.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_110"
+id="Footnote_110"></a><a href="#FNanchor_110"><span
+class="label">[110]</span></a> "A True State of the Proceedings of
+the Prisoners in the Fleet Prison, in Order to the Redressing their
+Grievances before the Court of Common Pleas."</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_111"
+id="Footnote_111"></a><a href="#FNanchor_111"><span
+class="label">[111]</span></a> A spunging-house.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_112"
+id="Footnote_112"></a><a href="#FNanchor_112"><span
+class="label">[112]</span></a> "Remarks on the Fleet Prison or
+Lumber-House for Men and Women. Written by a prisoner &amp;c.,
+published in the Fleet, 1733."</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_113"
+id="Footnote_113"></a><a href="#FNanchor_113"><span
+class="label">[113]</span></a> The <i>italics</i> are mine.&mdash;J. A.</p>
+</div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_276-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_276-200.png" width="200" height="145" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_278-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_278-500.png" width="500" height="277" alt="THE COMMON SIDE OF THE FLEET PRISON." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE COMMON SIDE OF THE FLEET PRISON.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_279-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_279-500.png" width="500" height="121" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXIII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">BUT enough of the miserables in connection with the
+Fleet Prison. We shall find that it is even possible for a prisoner to
+write pleasantly, nay, even somewhat humorously, upon his position,
+as we may see by the perusal of a poem entitled "The <i>Humours</i> of the
+Fleet. An humorous, descriptive Poem. Written by a Gentleman of the
+College" &amp;c., Lond. 1749. Under the frontispiece, which represents
+the introduction of a prisoner into its precincts, is a poem of
+thirty-two lines, of which the following is a portion:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 600px; ">
+<a href="images/i_280-music-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_280-music-500.png" width="600" height="527" alt="THE DEBTORS' WELCOME TO THEIR BROTHER." /></a>
+</div>
+
+<div class="center">
+<a href="music/debtorsong2.mid">midi file</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+<a href="music/debtorsong2.pdf">.pdf file</a>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_280-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_280-500.png" width="500" height="439" alt="The Introduction of a New Prisoner" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<p>Here we see, very vividly depicted, the introduction of a new
+prisoner; the Chamberlain is introducing him
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span>
+to the Cook, whilst the Goaler and Tapster seem, already, to have made
+his acquaintance.</p>
+
+<p>The notes appended to the Poem are in the original.</p>
+
+<p>After a somewhat long exordium on prosperity and poverty, together
+with the horrors of a spunging-house, and imagining that the debtor has
+obtained his <i>Habeas</i>, which would permit him to choose his prison, the
+Poet thus sings:</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width24">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Close by the Borders of a slimy Flood,</p>
+<p class="i1">Which now in secret rumbles thro' the Mud;</p>
+<p class="i1">(Tho' heretofore it roll'd expos'd to Light,</p>
+<p class="i1">Obnoxious to th' offended City's Sight.)<a name="FNanchor_114" id="FNanchor_114"></a><a href="#Footnote_114" class="fnanchor">[114]</a></p>
+   </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">"Twin Arches now the Sable Stream enclose</p>
+<p class="i1">Upon whose Basis late a Fabrick rose;</p>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>In whose extended oblong Boundaries,</p>
+<p class="i1">Are Shops and Sheds, and Stalls of all Degrees,</p>
+<p class="i1">For Fruit, Meat, Herbage, Trinkets, Pork and Peas</p>
+<p class="i1">A prudent City Scheme, and kindly meant;</p>
+<p class="i1">The Town's oblig'd, their Worships touch the Rent.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Near this commodious Market's miry Verge,</p>
+<p class="i1">The Prince of Prisons Stands, compact and large;</p>
+<p class="i1">When, by the Jigger's<a name="FNanchor_115" id="FNanchor_115"></a><a href="#Footnote_115" class="fnanchor">[115]</a>
+more than magick Charm,</p>
+<p class="i1">Kept from the Pow'r of doing Good&mdash;or Harm,</p>
+<p class="i1">Relenting Captives only ruminate</p>
+<p class="i1">Misconduct past, and curse their present State;</p>
+<p class="i1">Tho' sorely griev'd, few are so void of Grace,</p>
+<p class="i1">As not to wear a seeming chearful Face:</p>
+<p class="i1">In Drinks or Sports ungrateful Thoughts must die,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a></span></p>
+<p class="i1">For who can bear Heart-wounding Calumny?</p>
+<p class="i1">Therefore Cabals engage of various Sorts,</p>
+<p class="i1">To walk, to drink, or play at different Sports:</p>
+<p class="i1">Here, on the oblong Table's verdant Plain,</p>
+<p class="i1">The ivory Ball bounds, and rebounds again;
+<a name="FNanchor_116" id="FNanchor_116"></a><a href="#Footnote_116" class="fnanchor">[116]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">There, at Backgammon, two sit <i>tete a tete</i>,</p>
+<p class="i1">And curse alternately their Adverse Fate;</p>
+<p class="i1">These are at Cribbage, those at Whist engag'd</p>
+<p class="i1">And, as they lose, by turns become enrag'd:</p>
+<p class="i1">Some of more sedentary Temper, read</p>
+<p class="i1">Chance-medley Books, which duller Dullness breed;</p>
+<p class="i1">Or Politicks in Coffee-Room, some pore</p>
+<p class="i1">The Papers and Advertisements thrice o'er:</p>
+<p class="i1">Warm'd with the <i>Alderman</i>,<a name="FNanchor_117" id="FNanchor_117"></a>
+<a href="#Footnote_117" class="fnanchor">[117]</a> some set up late,</p>
+<p class="i1">To fix th' Insolvent Bill, and Nation's Fate;</p>
+<p class="i1">Hence, knotty Points at different Tables rise,</p>
+<p class="i1">And either Party's wond'rous, wond'rous wise:</p>
+<p class="i1">Some of low Taste, ring Hand Bells, direful Noise!</p>
+<p class="i1">And interrupt their Fellows' harmless Joys;</p>
+<p class="i1">Disputes more noisy now a Quarrel breeds.</p>
+<p class="i1">And Fools on both Sides fall to Loggerheads:</p>
+<p class="i1">Till wearied with persuasive Thumps and Blows,</p>
+<p class="i1">They drink, and Friends, as tho' they ne'er were Foes.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Without Distinction, intermix'd is seen,</p>
+<p class="i1">A 'Squire quite dirty, a Mechanick clean:</p>
+<p class="i1">The Spendthrift Heir, who in his Chariot roll'd,</p>
+<p class="i1">All his Possessions gone, Reversions sold,</p>
+<p class="i1">Now mean, as once Profuse, the stupid Sot</p>
+<p class="i1">Sits by a <i>Runner's</i> Side,
+<a name="FNanchor_118" id="FNanchor_118"></a><a href="#Footnote_118" class="fnanchor">[118]</a>
+ and <i>shules</i>
+<a name="FNanchor_119" id="FNanchor_119"></a><a href="#Footnote_119" class="fnanchor">[119]</a> a Pot.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Some Sots ill-manner'd, drunk, a harmless Fight!
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span></p>
+<p class="i1">Rant noisy thro' the Galleries all Night;</p>
+<p class="i1">For which, if Justice had been done of late,</p>
+<p class="i1">The Pump
+<a name="FNanchor_120" id="FNanchor_120"></a><a href="#Footnote_120" class="fnanchor">[120]</a> had been three pretty Masters Fate.</p>
+<p class="i1">With Stomacks empty, and Heads full of Care</p>
+<p class="i1">Some Wretches swill the Pump and walk the Bare;
+<a name="FNanchor_121" id="FNanchor_121"></a><a href="#Footnote_121" class="fnanchor">[121]</a></p>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>Within whose ample Oval is a Court,</p>
+<p class="i1">Where the more Active and Robust resort,</p>
+<p class="i1">And glowing, exercise a manly Sport</p>
+<p class="i1">(Strong Exercise with mod'rate Food is good,</p>
+<p class="i1">It drives in sprightful Streams the circling Blood;)</p>
+<p class="i1">While these with Rackets strike the flying Ball,</p>
+<p class="i1">Some play at Nine Pins, Wrestlers take a Fall;</p>
+<p class="i1">Beneath a Tent some drink, and some above</p>
+<p class="i1">Are slily in their Chambers making Love;</p>
+<p class="i1"><i>Venus</i> and <i>Bacchus</i> each keeps here a Shrine,</p>
+<p class="i1">And many Vot'ries have to Love and Wine.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Such the Amusement of this merry Jail,</p>
+<p class="i1">Which you'll not reach, if Friends or Money fail:<br /></p>
+<p class="i1">For e'er its three-fold Gates it will unfold,</p>
+<p class="i1">The destin'd Captive must produce some Gold:</p>
+<p class="i1">Four Guineas, at the least, for diff'rent Fees,</p>
+<p class="i1">Compleats your <i>Habeas</i>, and commands the keys;</p>
+<p class="i1">Which done, and safely in, no more you're led,</p>
+<p class="i1">If you have Cash, you'll find a Friend and Bed;</p>
+<p class="i1">But, that deficient, you'll but Ill betide,</p>
+<p class="i1">Lie in the Hall,<a name="FNanchor_122" id="FNanchor_122"></a><a href="#Footnote_122" class="fnanchor">[122]</a>
+perhaps, or Common Side.<a name="FNanchor_123" id="FNanchor_123"></a><a href="#Footnote_123" class="fnanchor">[123]</a>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a></span></p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"But now around you gazing <i>Jiggers</i><a name="FNanchor_124" id="FNanchor_124"></a><a href="#Footnote_124" class="fnanchor">[124]</a> swarm,</p>
+<p class="i1">To draw your Picture, that's their usual Term;</p>
+<p class="i1">Your Form and Features strictly they survey,</p>
+<p class="i1">Then leave you, (if you can) to run away.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2"><span class="right3">}</span>"To them succeeds the Chamberlain, to see</p>
+<p class="i1">If you and he are likely to agree;</p>
+<p class="i1">Whether you'll tip,<a name="FNanchor_125" id="FNanchor_125"></a><a href="#Footnote_125" class="fnanchor">[125]</a>
+or pay your Master's Fee.<a name="FNanchor_126" id="FNanchor_126"></a><a href="#Footnote_126" class="fnanchor">[126]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">Ask him how much? 'Tis one Pound six and eight;</p>
+<p class="i1">And, if you want, he'll not the Twopence bate:</p>
+<p class="i1">When paid, he puts on an important Face,</p>
+<p class="i1">And shews <i>Mount Scoundrel</i>
+<a name="FNanchor_127" id="FNanchor_127"></a><a href="#Footnote_127" class="fnanchor">[127]</a> for a charming Place:</p>
+<p class="i1">You stand astonish'd at the darken'd Hole,</p>
+<p class="i1">Sighing, the Lord have Mercy on my Soul!</p>
+<p class="i1">And ask, have you no other Rooms, Sir, pray?</p>
+<p class="i1">Perhaps enquire what Rent too, you're to pay:</p>
+<p class="i1">Entreating that he wou'd a better seek;</p>
+<p class="i1">The Rent (cries gruffly's)&mdash;Half a Crown a Week.</p>
+<p class="i1">The Rooms have all a Price, some good, some bad;</p>
+<p class="i1">But pleasant ones at present can't be had:</p>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>This Room, in my Opinion's not amiss;</p>
+<p class="i1">Then cross his venal Palm with half a Piece
+<a name="FNanchor_128" id="FNanchor_128"></a><a href="#Footnote_128" class="fnanchor">[128]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">He strait accosts you with another Face.</p>
+<p class="i1"><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span></p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Sir you're a Gentleman;&mdash;I like you well,</p>
+<p class="i1">But who are such at first, we cannot tell;<br /></p>
+<p class="i1">Tho' your Behaviour speaks you what I thought,</p>
+<p class="i1">And therefore I'll oblige you as I ought:</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"How your Affairs may stand, I do not know,</p>
+<p class="i1">But here, Sir, Cash does frequently run low.</p>
+<p class="i1">I'll serve you,&mdash;don't be lavish,&mdash;only mum!</p>
+<p class="i1">Take my Advice, I'll help you to a Chum!
+<a name="FNanchor_129" id="FNanchor_129"></a><a href="#Footnote_129" class="fnanchor">[129]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">A Gentleman, Sir,&mdash;see, and hear him speak,</p>
+<p class="i1">With him you'll pay but fifteen Pence a Week;
+<a name="FNanchor_130" id="FNanchor_130"></a><a href="#Footnote_130" class="fnanchor">[130]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">Yet his Apartment's on the Upper Floor,
+<a name="FNanchor_131" id="FNanchor_131"></a><a href="#Footnote_131" class="fnanchor">[131]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">Well furnish'd, clean and nice; who'd wish for more?</p>
+<p class="i1">A Gentleman of Wit and Judgment too!</p>
+<p class="i1">Who knows the Place;
+<a name="FNanchor_132" id="FNanchor_132"></a><a href="#Footnote_132" class="fnanchor">[132]</a> what's what, and who is who;</p>
+<p class="i1">My Praise, alas! can't equal his Deserts;</p>
+<p class="i1">In brief,&mdash;you'll find him, Sir, a Man of Parts.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Thus, while his fav'rite Friend he recommends,</p>
+<p class="i1">He compasses at once their several Ends;</p>
+<p class="i1">The new come Guest is pleas'd, that he should meet</p>
+<p class="i1">So kind a Chamberlain, a Chum so neat:</p>
+<p class="i1">But, as conversing thus, they nearer come,</p>
+<p class="i1">Behold before his Door, the destin'd Chum.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Why stood he there, himself could scarcely tell;</p>
+<p class="i1">But there he had not stood, had Things gone well:</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a></span>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>Had one poor Half-penny but blest his Fob,</p>
+<p class="i1">Or, if in Prospect he had seen a Job,</p>
+<p class="i1">H'had strain'ed his Credit for a Dram of Bob,<a name="FNanchor_133" id="FNanchor_133"></a><a href="#Footnote_133" class="fnanchor">[133]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">But now, in pensive Mood, with Head down cast,</p>
+<p class="i1">His Eyes transfix'd as tho' they look'd their last;</p>
+<p class="i1">One Hand his open Bosom lightly held,</p>
+<p class="i1">And one an empty Breeches Pocket fill'd.</p>
+<p class="i1">His Dowlas Shirt no Stock or Cravat bore,</p>
+<p class="i1">And on his Head, no Hat or Wig he wore;</p>
+<p class="i1">But a once black shag Cap, surcharg'd with Sweat;</p>
+<p class="i1">His Collar, here a Hole, and there a Pleat;</p>
+<p class="i1">Both grown alike in Colour, that&mdash;alack!</p>
+<p class="i1">This, neither now was White, nor that was Black;</p>
+<p class="i1">But match'd his dirty yellow Beard so true,</p>
+<p class="i1">They form'd a three-fold Cast of Brick dust Hue;</p>
+<p class="i1">Meagre his Look, and in his nether Jaw</p>
+<p class="i1">Was stuff'd an elemosynary Chaw;<a name="FNanchor_134" id="FNanchor_134"></a><a href="#Footnote_134" class="fnanchor">[134]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">(Whose Juice serves present Hunger to asswage,</p>
+<p class="i1">Which yet returns again with tenfold Rage;)</p>
+<p class="i1">His Coat, which catch'd the Droppings from his Chin,</p>
+<p class="i1">Was clos'd at Bottom with a Corking-Pin;</p>
+<p class="i1">His Breeches Waistband a long Skewer made fast,</p>
+<p class="i1">While he from <i>Scotland</i> Dunghill<a name="FNanchor_135" id="FNanchor_135"></a><a href="#Footnote_135" class="fnanchor">[135]</a> snatch'd in Haste;</p>
+<p class="i1">His Shirt-Tail thin as Lawn, but not so white,</p>
+<p class="i1">Barely conceal'd his lank Affairs from Sight;</p>
+<p class="i1">Loose were his Knee Bands, and unty'd his Hose,</p>
+<p class="i1">Coax'd
+<a name="FNanchor_136" id="FNanchor_136"></a><a href="#Footnote_136" class="fnanchor">[136]</a> in the Heel, in pulling o'er his Toes;</p>
+<p class="i1">Which spite of all his circumspective Care,</p>
+<p class="i1">Did thro' his broken dirty Shoes appear.</p>
+
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span>
+
+<p class="i2">"Just in this hapless Trim and pensive Plight,</p>
+<p class="i1">The old Collegian<a name="FNanchor_137" id="FNanchor_137"></a><a href="#Footnote_137" class="fnanchor">[137]</a>
+stood confess'd to Sight;</p>
+<p class="i1">Whom, when our new-come Guest at first beheld,</p>
+<p class="i1">He started back, with great Amazement fill'd;</p>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>Turns to the Chamberlain, says, bless my Eyes!</p>
+<p class="i1">Is this the Man you told me was so nice? </p>
+<p class="i1">I meant his Room was so Sir, he replies;</p>
+<p class="i1">The Man is now in Dishabille and Dirt,</p>
+<p class="i1">He shaves To-morrow tho', and turns his Shirt;</p>
+<p class="i1">Stand not at Distance, I'll present you, come</p>
+<p class="i1">My Friend, how is't? I've brought you here a Chum;</p>
+<p class="i1">One that's a Gentleman; a worthy Man,</p>
+<p class="i1">And you'll oblige me, serve him all you can.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"The Chums salute, the old Collegian first</p>
+<p class="i1">Bending his Body almost to the Dust;</p>
+<p class="i1">Upon his Face unusual Smiles appear</p>
+<p class="i1">And long abandon'd Hope his Spirits chear</p>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>Thought he, Relief's at hand, and I shall eat;</p>
+<p class="i1">Will you walk in, good Sir, and take a Seat!</p>
+<p class="i1">We have what's decent here, tho' not compleat;</p>
+<p class="i1">As for myself, I scandalize the Room,</p>
+<p class="i1">But you'll consider, Sir, that I'm at Home;</p>
+<p class="i1">Tho' had I thought a Stranger to have seen,</p>
+<p class="i1">I should have ordered Matters to've been clean;</p>
+<p class="i1">But here, amongst ourselves, we never mind,</p>
+<p class="i1">Borrow or lend&mdash;reciprocally kind;</p>
+<p class="i1">Regard not Dress;&mdash;tho' Sir, I have a Friend</p>
+<p class="i1">Has Shirts enough, and, if you please, I'll send.</p>
+<p class="i1">No Ceremony, Sir, you give me Pain;</p>
+<p class="i1">I have a clean Shirt, Sir.&mdash;But have you twain?</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a></span>
+<p class="i1">O, yes, and twain to boot, and those twice told,</p>
+<p class="i1">Besides, I thank my Stars, a Piece of Gold.</p>
+<p class="i1">Why, then I'll be so free, Sir, as to borrow,</p>
+<p class="i1">I mean a Shirt, Sir,&mdash;only till To-morrow.</p>
+<p class="i1">You're welcome, Sir,&mdash;I'm glad you are so free.</p>
+<p class="i1">Then turns the old Collegian round with Glee;</p>
+<p class="i1">Whispers the Chamberlain with secret Joy,</p>
+<p class="i1">We live to-night!&mdash;I'm sure he'll pay his Foy:</p>
+<p class="i1">Turns to his Chum again with Eagerness,</p>
+<p class="i1">And thus bespeaks him with his best Address;</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"See, Sir, how pleasant, what a Prospect's there;</p>
+<p class="i1">Below you see them sporting on the Bare;</p>
+<p class="i1">Above, the Sun, Moon, Star, engage the Eye,</p>
+<p class="i1">And those Abroad can't see beyond the Sky:</p>
+<p class="i1">These rooms are better far than those beneath,</p>
+<p class="i1">A clearer Light, a sweeter Air we breath;</p>
+<p class="i1">A decent Garden does our Window grace,</p>
+<p class="i1">With Plants untainted, undistain'd the Glass;</p>
+<p class="i1">And welcome Showers descending from above</p>
+<p class="i1">In gentle Drops of Rain, which Flowers love:</p>
+<p class="i1">In short, Sir, nothing can be well more sweet:</p>
+<p class="i1">But, I forgot&mdash;perhaps you chuse to eat;</p>
+<p class="i1">Tho', for my part, I've nothing of my own,</p>
+<p class="i1">To-day I scrap'd my Yesterday's Blade Bone;</p>
+<p class="i1">But we can send&mdash;Ay, Sir, with all my Heart,</p>
+<p class="i1">(Then very opportunely enters <i>Smart</i>).
+<a name="FNanchor_138" id="FNanchor_138"></a><a href="#Footnote_138" class="fnanchor">[138]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">O, here's our Cook, he dresses all Things well;</p>
+<p class="i1">Will you sup here, or do you chuse the Cell?</p>
+<p class="i1">There's mighty good Accommodations there,</p>
+<p class="i1">Rooms plenty, or a Box in Bartholm' Fair;
+<a name="FNanchor_139" id="FNanchor_139"></a><a href="#Footnote_139" class="fnanchor">[139]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">There, too, we can divert you, and may shew</p>
+<p class="i1">Some Characters are worth your while to know,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>Replies the new Collegian, nothing more</p>
+<p class="i1">I wish to see, be pleas'd to go before;</p>
+<p class="i1">And, <i>Smart</i>, provide a handsome Dish for Four.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Too generous Man! but 'tis our hapless Fate</p>
+<p class="i1">In all Conditions, to be wise too late;</p>
+<p class="i1">For, even in Prison, those who have been free,</p>
+<p class="i1">Will shew, if able, Generosity;</p>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>Yet find, too soon, when lavish of their Store,</p>
+<p class="i1">How hard, when gone, it is to come at more;</p>
+<p class="i1">And every Artifice in vain explore.</p>
+<p class="i1">Some Messages Abroad, by Runners send.</p>
+<p class="i1">Some Letters write to move an absent Friend;</p>
+<p class="i1">And by Submission, having begg'd a Crown,</p>
+<p class="i1">In one night's Revel here they'll kick it down.
+<a name="FNanchor_140" id="FNanchor_140"></a><a href="#Footnote_140" class="fnanchor">[140]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">'Tis true, this one Excuse they have indeed,</p>
+<p class="i1">When others <i>Cole it</i>,<a name="FNanchor_141" id="FNanchor_141"></a><a href="#Footnote_141" class="fnanchor">[141]</a>
+they as freely <i>bleed</i>;<a name="FNanchor_142" id="FNanchor_142"></a><a href="#Footnote_142" class="fnanchor">[142]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">When the Wind's fair, and brings in Ships with Store<a name="FNanchor_143" id="FNanchor_143"></a><a href="#Footnote_143" class="fnanchor">[143]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">Each spends in turn, and trusts to Fate for more.</p>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p class="i2">"The future Chums and Chamberlain descend</p>
+<p class="i1">The Dirt<a name="FNanchor_144" id="FNanchor_144"></a><a href="#Footnote_144" class="fnanchor">[144]</a>
+knot Stairs, and t'wards the kitchen bend;</p>
+<p class="i1">Which gain'd, they find a merry Company,</p>
+<p class="i1">Listening to Tales (from <i>Smart</i>) of Baudry,</p>
+<p class="i1">All introduced with awkward Simile,<a name="FNanchor_145" id="FNanchor_145"></a><a href="#Footnote_145" class="fnanchor">[145]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">Whose Applications miss the Purpose pat.</p>
+<p class="i1">But in the Fire now burns th' unheeded Fat,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a></span>
+<p class="i1">Whose sudden Blaze brings L&mdash;nd&mdash;r<a name="FNanchor_146" id="FNanchor_146"></a><a href="#Footnote_146" class="fnanchor">[146]</a> roaring in;</p>
+<p class="i1">Then <i>Smart</i> looks foolish, and forsakes his Grin.</p>
+<p class="i1">The laughing Audience alter, too, their Tone,</p>
+<p class="i1">For who can smile, that sees Tom L&mdash;nd&mdash;r frown?</p>
+<p class="i1">He, magisterial rules the panic Cell,</p>
+<p class="i1">And rivals <i>Belzebub</i>,&mdash;in looking well:</p>
+<p class="i1">Indignant now, he darts malicious Eyes,</p>
+<p class="i1">While each Dependant from the Kitchen flies;</p>
+<p class="i1">Leaves <i>Smart</i> to combat with his furious Ire,</p>
+<p class="i1">Who heeds him not, but strives to clear the Fire;</p>
+<p class="i1">Blowing and stirring still, no Pains he spares,</p>
+<p class="i1">And mute remains, while <i>Major Domo</i> swears;</p>
+<p class="i1">Who bellows loud Anathemas on <i>Smart</i>,</p>
+<p class="i1">And the last Curse he gives is D&mdash;n your Heart;</p>
+<p class="i1">His trembling Lips are pale, his Eyeballs roll;</p>
+<p class="i1">Till, spent with Rage, he quits him with a Growl.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Now, as our new-come Guest observ'd this Scene,</p>
+<p class="i1">(As odd an one, perhaps, as could be seen)</p>
+<p class="i1">He first on <i>Smart</i>, next on his Master gaz'd,</p>
+<p class="i1">And at the two extreams seem'd much amaz'd;</p>
+<p class="i1"><span class="right3">}</span>Which <i>Smart</i> perceiving, says in sober Mood,</p>
+<p class="i1">Sir, I've a thousand Times his Fury stood;</p>
+<p class="i1">But, yet, the Man tho' passionate, is good;</p>
+<p class="i1">I never speak when he begins to bawl,</p>
+<p class="i1">For, should I swear like him, the House would fall."</p>
+</div></div></div>
+
+<p class="i1">Here follow two or three pages of but little interest
+to the reader and the Story continues:</p>
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width22">  <div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"But I forgot;&mdash;the Stranger and his Chum,</p>
+<p class="i1">With t'other to, to <i>Barth'l'mew Fair</i> are come;</p>
+<p class="i1">Where, being seated, and the Supper past,</p>
+<p class="i1">They drink so deep, and put about so fast,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291-2]</a></span>
+<p class="i1">That 'ere the warning Watchman walks about,</p>
+<p class="i1">With dismal Tone repeating,&mdash;Who goes out?<a name="FNanchor_147" id="FNanchor_147"></a><a href="#Footnote_147" class="fnanchor">[147]</a><br /></p>
+<p class="i1">'Ere St. <i>Paul's</i> Clock no longer will withold</p>
+<p class="i1">From striking Ten, and the Voice cries,&mdash;All told.<a name="FNanchor_148" id="FNanchor_148"></a><a href="#Footnote_148" class="fnanchor">[148]</a></p>
+<p class="i1">'Ere this, our new Companions, every one</p>
+<p class="i1">In roaring Mirth and Wine, so far were gone,</p>
+<p class="i1">That every Sense from ev'ry Part was fled,</p>
+<p class="i1">And were with Difficulty got to Bed;</p>
+<p class="i1">Where in the Morn, recover'd from his Drink,</p>
+<p class="i1">The new <i>Collegian</i> may have Time to think;</p>
+<p class="i1">And, recollecting how he spent the Night,</p>
+<p class="i1">Explore his Pockets, and not find a Doit.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i2">"Too thoughtless Man! to lavish thus away</p>
+<p class="i1">A Week's Support in less than half a Day;</p>
+<p class="i1">But 'tis a Curse attends this wretched Place,</p>
+<p class="i1">To pay for dear bought Wit in little Space:</p>
+<p class="i1">The Time shall come, when this new Tenant here,</p>
+<p class="i1">Will in his Turn <i>shule</i> for a Pot of Beer;</p>
+<p class="i1">Repent the melting of his Cash too fast,</p>
+<p class="i1">And snap at Strangers for a Nights Repast."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_114"
+id="Footnote_114"></a><a href="#FNanchor_114"><span
+class="label">[114]</span></a> Where the <i>Fleet Market</i> is now, there
+was, a few Years since, a Ditch, with a Muddy Channel of Water.
+The Market was built at the expense of the Lord Mayor and Court of
+Aldermen, who receive the Rent for it.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_115"
+id="Footnote_115"></a><a href="#FNanchor_115"><span
+class="label">[115]</span></a> The Doorkeeper, or he who opens and
+shuts the <i>Jigg</i>, is call'd the <i>Jigger</i>.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_116"
+id="Footnote_116"></a><a href="#FNanchor_116"><span
+class="label">[116]</span></a> Billiards is a very common Game
+here.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_117"
+id="Footnote_117"></a><a href="#FNanchor_117"><span
+class="label">[117]</span></a> Fine Ale drank in the Coffee-Room,
+call'd the <i>Alderman</i>, because brew'd at Alderman <i>Parson's</i>.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_118"
+id="Footnote_118"></a><a href="#FNanchor_118"><span
+class="label">[118]</span></a> A <i>Runner</i>, is a Fellow that goes Abroad
+of Errands for the Prisoners.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_119"
+id="Footnote_119"></a><a href="#FNanchor_119"><span
+class="label">[119]</span></a> A common Cant word for Mumping.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_120"
+id="Footnote_120"></a><a href="#FNanchor_120"><span
+class="label">[120]</span></a> Persons who give any considerable
+Offence, are often try'd, and undergo the Discipline of the Pump. The
+Author was one of these in a drunken Frolick, for which he condemns
+himself.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_121"
+id="Footnote_121"></a><a href="#FNanchor_121"><span
+class="label">[121]</span></a> A spacious Place, where there are all
+Sorts of Exercises, but especially Fives.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_122"
+id="Footnote_122"></a><a href="#FNanchor_122"><span
+class="label">[122]</span></a> A Publick Place, free for all
+Prisoners.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_123"
+id="Footnote_123"></a><a href="#FNanchor_123"><span
+class="label">[123]</span></a> Where those lie who can't pay their
+Master's Fee.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_124"
+id="Footnote_124"></a><a href="#FNanchor_124"><span
+class="label">[124]</span></a> There are several of those <i>Jiggers</i> or
+Doorkeepers, who relieve one another, and when a Prisoner comes first
+in, they take a nice Observation of him, for fear of his escaping.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_125"
+id="Footnote_125"></a><a href="#FNanchor_125"><span
+class="label">[125]</span></a> A cant Word for giving some Money in
+order to shew a Lodging.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_126"
+id="Footnote_126"></a><a href="#FNanchor_126"><span
+class="label">[126]</span></a> Which is One Pound Six Shillings and
+Eightpence, and then you are entitled to a Bed on the Master's Side,
+for which you pay so much per week.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_127"
+id="Footnote_127"></a><a href="#FNanchor_127"><span
+class="label">[127]</span></a> <i>Mount Scoundrel</i>, so call'd from its
+being so highly situated, and belonging once to the Common Side, tho'
+lately added to the Master's; if there be room in the House, this Place
+is first empty, and the Chamberlain commonly shews this to raise his
+price upon you for a better.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_128"
+id="Footnote_128"></a><a href="#FNanchor_128"><span
+class="label">[128]</span></a> Half a Guinea.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_129"
+id="Footnote_129"></a><a href="#FNanchor_129"><span
+class="label">[129]</span></a> A Bedfellow so call'd.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_130"
+id="Footnote_130"></a><a href="#FNanchor_130"><span
+class="label">[130]</span></a> When you have a Chum, you pay but 15
+Pence per Week each, and, indeed, that is the Rent of the whole Room,
+if you find Furniture.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_131"
+id="Footnote_131"></a><a href="#FNanchor_131"><span
+class="label">[131]</span></a> The Upper Floors are accounted best
+here, for the same reason as they are at <i>Edinburgh</i>, which, I suppose,
+every Body knows.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_132"
+id="Footnote_132"></a><a href="#FNanchor_132"><span
+class="label">[132]</span></a> It is common to mention the <i>Fleet</i> by
+the Name of the <i>Place</i>, and I suppose it is call'd <i>the Place</i> by way
+of Eminence, because there is not such another.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_133"
+id="Footnote_133"></a><a href="#FNanchor_133"><span
+class="label">[133]</span></a> A Cant Word for a Drain of Geneva.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_134"
+id="Footnote_134"></a><a href="#FNanchor_134"><span
+class="label">[134]</span></a> A Chew of Tobacco, suppos'd to be given
+him.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_135"
+id="Footnote_135"></a><a href="#FNanchor_135"><span
+class="label">[135]</span></a> The Necessary House, is (by the
+Prisoners) commonly call'd <i>Scotland</i>, near which is a dunghill.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_136"
+id="Footnote_136"></a><a href="#FNanchor_136"><span
+class="label">[136]</span></a> When there are Holes above Heel, or the
+Feet are so bad in a Stocking, that you are forced to pull them to hide
+the Holes, or cover the Toes, it is called coaxing.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_137"
+id="Footnote_137"></a><a href="#FNanchor_137"><span
+class="label">[137]</span></a> As the Prison is often call'd the
+<i>College</i>, so it is common to call a prisoner, a <i>Collegian</i>; and this
+character is taken from a man who had been many Years in the Place, and
+like to continue his Life; but it is hard for those who had not seen
+him to judge of the Truth of the Draught.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_138"
+id="Footnote_138"></a><a href="#FNanchor_138"><span
+class="label">[138]</span></a> The name of the Cook in the Kitchen.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_139"
+id="Footnote_139"></a><a href="#FNanchor_139"><span
+class="label">[139]</span></a> A place in the Cellar, called
+<i>Bartholomew Fair</i>.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_140"
+id="Footnote_140"></a><a href="#FNanchor_140"><span
+class="label">[140]</span></a> A phrase for spending Money fast.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_141"
+id="Footnote_141"></a><a href="#FNanchor_141"><span
+class="label">[141]</span></a> <i>Cole</i>, signifies Money.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_142"
+id="Footnote_142"></a><a href="#FNanchor_142"><span
+class="label">[142]</span></a> <i>Bleed</i> also signifies spending.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_143"
+id="Footnote_143"></a><a href="#FNanchor_143"><span
+class="label">[143]</span></a> When a Messenger or Friend brings Money
+from abroad to the Prisoners, it is usual to say a Ship is arriv'd.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_144"
+id="Footnote_144"></a><a href="#FNanchor_144"><span
+class="label">[144]</span></a> Some of the Dirt upon the Stairs is trod
+into knots so hard it is almost impossible to break it.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_145"
+id="Footnote_145"></a><a href="#FNanchor_145"><span
+class="label">[145]</span></a> <i>Smart</i> generally begins his Stories
+with a <i>That's like</i>, &amp;c., tho' it is not at all like the Story he
+tells.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_146"
+id="Footnote_146"></a><a href="#FNanchor_146"><span
+class="label">[146]</span></a> The Master of the Cellar, a Man of a
+variable Temper, very passionate, malicious, and ill-natur'd at some
+times, at others very well.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_147"
+id="Footnote_147"></a><a href="#FNanchor_147"><span
+class="label">[147]</span></a> <i>Who goes out?</i> is repeated by Watchmen
+Prisoners, from half an Hour after Nine, till St. Paul's Clock strikes
+Ten, to give Visitors Notice to depart.</p></div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_148"
+id="Footnote_148"></a><a href="#FNanchor_148"><span
+class="label">[148]</span></a> While St. Paul's Clock is striking Ten,
+the Watchmen don't call <i>Who goes out?</i> but when the last Stroke is
+given, they cry <i>All told!</i> at which Time the Gates are lock'd, and
+nobody suffer'd to go out upon any Account.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_292-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_292-200.png" width="200" height="184" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_293-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_293-500.png" width="500" height="133" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXIV.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">WE saw in the lines, under the Frontispiece to the
+foregoing poem, <i>Garnish</i> was mentioned, and the fact was stated as a
+Custom then in force of taking the prisoner's coat to pay for his fees
+on entrance.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width14">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"But kind Sir, as you'r a Stranger,</p>
+<p class="i1">Down your Garnish you must lay,</p>
+<p class="i1">Or your Coat will be in danger,</p>
+<p class="i1">You must either Strip or pay."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>In the Criminal prisons, the prisoners themselves demanded Garnish
+from a new-comer, that is, a trifle of money&mdash;to drink. In 1708,
+at Newgate, this sum seems to have been Six shillings and Eightpence "Which they, from an old Custom, claim by Prescription, Time out of
+Mind, for entring into the <i>Society</i>, otherwise they strip the poor
+Wretch, if he has not wherewithal to pay it."<a name="FNanchor_149" id="FNanchor_149">
+</a><a href="#Footnote_149" class="fnanchor">[149]</a> And in the old Play of the <i>Lying Lover</i> we are introduced
+to a Scene in Newgate
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a></span>
+where the prisoners are demanding <i>Garnish</i> from some new-comers.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1.6em;">"<i>Storm.</i></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Nay, nay, you must stay here.</span></p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 2em;"><i>Simon.</i></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Why, I am <i>Simon</i>, Madam <i>Penelope's</i> Man.</span></p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 2em;"><i>Storm.</i></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Then Madam <i>Penelope's</i> Man must strip for Garnish;
+indeed Master <i>Simon</i> you must.</span></p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 2em;"><i>Simon.</i></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Thieves! Thieves! Thieves!</span></p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 2em;"><i>Storm.</i></span><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Thieves! Thieves! Why, you senseless Dog, do</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 5.7em;">you think there's Thieves in <i>Newgate</i>? Away with</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 5.7em;">him to the Tap House (<i>Pushes him off</i>). We'll drink</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 5.7em;">his Coat off. Come, my little Chymist, thou shalt</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 5.7em;">transmute this Jacket into Liquor."</span>
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 398px; ">
+<a href="images/i_294-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_294-500.png" width="398" height="500" alt="Prisoner Dending Garnish from Newcomers" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<p>Yet although this custom was general, I have only
+once met with an engraving of the actual process, which,
+judging by the man's agonized countenance, was not a
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span>
+pleasant one to him. It occurs in the frontispiece to a
+little pamphlet called "An Oration on the Oppression
+of Jailors; which was spoken in the Fleet Prison, on
+the 20th of February, 1730/1," &amp;c. And under the
+engraving, are these lines.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20"><div class="stanza">
+<p>"Unhappy, friendless Man! how hard thy Fate!</p>
+<p class="i1">Whose only Crime is being Unfortunate.</p>
+<p class="i1">Are Jailors suffer'd in such Acts as these?</p>
+<p class="i1">To strip the Wretch, who cannot pay his Fees?</p>
+<p class="i1">Is there no kind <i>Samaritan</i> will lend</p>
+<p class="i1">Relief, and save him from th' accursed Fiend?"</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Respecting this practice let us hear what Howard in
+his "State of the Prisons in England and Wales," 1777,
+says, in his Chapter on "Bad Customs in Prisons." "A cruel custom obtains in most of our Gaols, which is that of the
+prisoners demanding of a new-comer <span class="smcap">Garnish</span>,
+<span class="smcap">Footing</span>, or (as it is called in some London
+Gaols) <span class="smcap">Chummage</span>. 'Pay or strip' are the
+fatal words. I say <i>fatal</i>, for they are so to some; who having no
+money, are obliged to give up part of their scanty apparel; and, if
+they have no bedding or straw to sleep on, contract diseases, which I
+have known to prove mortal. </p>
+
+<p>In many Gaols, to the Garnish paid by the new-comer, those who
+were there before, make an addition; and great part of the following
+night is often spent in riot and drunkenness. The gaoler or tapster
+finding his account in this practice, generally answers questions
+concerning it with reluctance. Of the Garnish which I have set down to
+sundry prisons, I often had my information
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a></span>
+from persons who paid it.... In some places, this demand has been
+lately waved: in others, strictly prohibited by the Magistrates" &mdash;so that we see that this custom was already in its death
+throes, in the last quarter of the eighteenth century.</p>
+
+<p>But in the interval between Bambridge and Howard, the prison was not
+a pleasant place of residence, if we may judge from "The Prisoner's
+Song" published in 1738, of which I give an illustration and the
+Words.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_296-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_296-500.png" width="500" height="288" alt="THE FLEET PRISON." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE FLEET PRISON.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"A Starving life all day we lead,</p>
+<p class="i2">No Comfort here is found,</p>
+<p class="i1">At Night we make one Common bed,</p>
+<p class="i2">Upon the Boarded Ground;</p>
+<p class="i1">Where fleas in troops and Bugs in shoals</p>
+<p class="i2">Into our Bosoms Creep,</p>
+<p class="i1">And Death watch, Spiders, round y<sup>e</sup> Walls,</p>
+<p class="i2">Disturb us in our Sleep.</p>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span>
+<p class="i1">Were Socrates alive, and Bound</p>
+<p class="i2">With us to lead his life,</p>
+<p class="i1">'Twould move his Patience far beyond</p>
+<p class="i2">His crabbed Scolding Wife;</p>
+<p class="i1">Hard Lodging and much harder fare,</p>
+<p class="i2">Would try the wisest Sage,</p>
+<p class="i1">Nay! even make a Parson Swear,</p>
+<p class="i2">And curse the Sinful Age.</p>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Thus, we Insolvent debtors live,</p>
+<p class="i2">Yet we may Boldly say,</p>
+<p class="i1">Worse Villains often Credit give,</p>
+<p class="i2">Than those that never pay;</p>
+<p class="i1">For wealthy Knaves can with applause</p>
+<p class="i2">Cheat on, and ne'er be try'd,</p>
+<p class="i1">But in contempt of human Laws,</p>
+<p class="i2">In Coaches Safely ride."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>When Howard visited this prison in 1774 and 1776, he found on the
+former occasion 171 prisoners in the House, and 71 in the Rules. On the
+latter there were 241 in the House and 78 in the Rules. And he says:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"The Prison was rebuilt a few years since. At the front
+is a narrow courtyard. At each end of the building there is a small
+projection, or wing. There are four floors, they call them <i>Galleries</i>,
+besides the Cellar floor, called <i>Bartholomew-Fair</i>. Each gallery
+consists of a passage in the middle, the whole length of the Prison,
+<i>i.e.</i>, sixty six yards; and rooms on each side of it about fourteen
+feet and a half by twelve and a half, and nine and a half high. A
+chimney and window in every room. The passages are narrow (not seven
+feet wide) and darkish, having only a window at each end. </p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"On the first floor, the <i>Hall Gallery</i>, to which you ascend eight
+steps, are a Chapel, a Tap room, a Coffee room (lately made out of two
+rooms for Debtors), a room for the Turnkey, another for the Watchman,
+and eighteen rooms for Prisoners.</p>
+
+<p>Besides the Coffee-room and Tap-room, two of those eighteen rooms,
+and all the cellar-floor, except a lock up room to confine the
+disorderly, and another room for the Turnkey, are held by the Tapster,
+John Cartwright, who bought the remainder of the lease at public
+auction in 1775. The cellar floor is sixteen steps below the hall
+Gallery. It consists of the two rooms just now mentioned, the Tapster's
+kitchen, his four large beer and wine Cellars, and fifteen rooms for
+Prisoners. These fifteen, and the two before mentioned, in the hall
+gallery, the Tapster lets to Prisoners for four to eight shillings a
+week.</p>
+
+<p>"On the <i>first Gallery</i> (that next above the hall-gallery) are
+twenty-five rooms for Prisoners. On the <i>second Gallery</i>, twenty seven
+rooms. One of them, fronting the staircase, is their Committee room. A
+room at one end is an Infirmary. At the other end, in a large room over
+the Chapel, is a dirty Billiard-table, kept by the Prisoner who sleeps
+in that room. On the highest story there are twenty seven rooms. Some
+of these upper rooms, <i>viz.</i>, those in the wings, are larger than the
+rest, being over the Chapel, the Tap-room, &amp;c.</p>
+
+<p>"All the rooms I have mentioned are for the Master's side
+Debtors. The weekly rent of those not held by the Tapster, is one
+shilling and three pence unfurnished. They fall to the Prisoners in
+succession,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span>
+thus: when a room becomes vacant, the first Prisoner upon the list of
+such as have paid their entrance-fees, takes possession of it. When the
+Prison was built, the Warden gave each Prisoner his choice of a room,
+according to his seniority as Prisoner.... Such of the Prisoners (on
+the Common Side) as swear in Court, or before a Commissioner that they
+are not worth five pounds, and cannot subsist without charity, have the
+donations which are sent to the Prison, and the begging box, and grate.
+Of them there were, at my last visit, sixteen....</p>
+
+<p>"I mentioned the billiard table. They also play in the yard at
+skittles, missisipi, fives, tennis, &amp;c. And not only the Prisoners;
+I saw among them several butchers and others from the Market; who are
+admitted here, as at another public house. The same may be seen in
+many other Prisons where the Gaoler keeps or lets the tap. Besides the
+inconvenience of this to Prisoners; the frequenting a Prison lessens
+the dread of being confined in one.</p>
+
+<p>"On Monday night there is a Wine Club: on Thursday night a Beer
+Club; each lasting usually till one or two in the morning. I need not
+say how much riot these occasion; and how the sober Prisoners are
+annoyed by them.</p>
+
+<p>"Seeing the Prison crowded with women and Children, I procured
+an accurate list of them; and found that on (or about), the 6th of
+April, 1776, when there were, on the Master's side 213 Prisoners; on
+the Common side 30. Total 243; their wives (including women of an
+appellation not so honorable) and children, were 475." </p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In Howard's time the fees payable by the Prisoners were the same
+as were settled in 1729 after the trials of Huggins and Bambridge;
+but the prisoners exercised a kind of local self-government, for he
+writes:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"There is, moreover, a little Code of Laws, eighteen in number,
+enacted by the Master's-side Debtors, and printed by D. Jones, 1774. It
+establishes a President, a Secretary, and a Committee, which is to be
+chosen every month, and to consist of three members from each Gallery.
+These are to meet in the Committee room every Thursday; and at other
+times when summoned by the Cryer, at command of the President, or of
+a majority of their own number. They are to raise contributions by
+assessment; to hear complaints; determine disputes; levy fines; and
+seize goods for payment. Their Sense to be deemed the sense of the
+whole House. The President or Secretary to hold the cash; the Committee
+to dispose of it. Their Scavenger to wash the Galleries once a week;
+to water, and sweep them every morning before eight; to sweep the yard
+twice every week; and to light the lamps all over the House. No person
+to throw out water, &amp;c., anywhere but at the sinks in the yard.
+The Cryer may take of a Stranger a penny for calling a Prisoner to
+him; and of a Complainant two pence for summoning a Special Committee.
+For blasphemy, swearing, riot, drunkenness, &amp;c., the Committee
+to fine at discretion; for damaging a lamp, fine a shilling. They
+are to take from a New Comer, on the first Sunday, besides the two
+shillings Garnish, to be spent in wine, one shilling and sixpence to be
+appropriated to the use of the House.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Common-side Prisoners <i>to be confined to their own apartments</i>, and
+not to associate with these <span class="smcap">Law Makers</span>, nor
+to use the same conveniences." </p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>In 1780 the famous Lord George Gordon, or "No Popery" Riots took
+place&mdash;those Riots which were so intensely Protestant, that
+(according to the Contemporary <i>Gentleman's Magazine</i>) "The very Jews in Houndsditch and Duke's Place were so intimidated,
+that they followed the general example, and unintentionally gave an air
+of ridicule to what they understood in a very serious light, by writing
+on their Shutters, "This House is a true Protestant." </p>
+
+<p>These Riots are very realistically brought before us in Charles
+Dickens' "Barnaby Rudge," but then, although the account is fairly
+historically faithful, yet the weaving of his tale necessarily
+interfered with strict historical details; which, by the way, are
+extremely meagre as to the burning of the Fleet prison. The fact was,
+that, for the few days the riot existed, the outrages were so numerous,
+and the Newspapers of such small dimensions, that they could only be
+summarized, and the burning of Newgate eclipsed that of the Fleet. But,
+on the Wednesday, June 7, 1780, the <i>Annual Register</i>, p. 261 (which
+certainly has the best description I have been able to see) absolutely
+breaks down, saying:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"It is impossible to give any adequate description of the events of
+Wednesday. Notice was sent round to the public prisons of the King's
+Bench, Fleet, &amp;c., by the mob, at what time they would come and
+burn them down. The same kind of infernal humanity was exercised <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a></span>
+towards Mr. Langdale, a distiller in Holborn, whose loss is said to
+amount to &pound;100,000, and several other Romish individuals. In the
+afternoon all the shops were shut, and bits of blue silk, by way of
+flags, hung out at most houses, with the words "No Popery" chalked on
+the doors and window shutters, by way of deprecating the fury of the
+insurgents, from which no person thought himself secure.</p>
+
+<p>"As soon as the day was drawing towards a Close, one of the most
+dreadful spectacles this country ever beheld was exhibited. Let those,
+who were not spectators of it, judge what the inhabitants felt when
+they beheld at the same instant the flames ascending and rolling in
+clouds from the King's Bench and Fleet Prisons, from New Bridewell,
+from the toll gates on Blackfriars Bridge, from houses in every quarter
+of the town, and particularly from the bottom and middle of Holborn,
+where the Conflagration was horrible beyond description." </p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>The burning of the Fleet was done calmly and
+deliberately, as is well told in "A Narrative of the
+Proceedings of Lord Geo. Gordon," &amp;c., 1780. "About one o'clock this morning (Tuesday, June 6), the Mob went to the
+Fleet Prison, and demanded the gates to be opened, which the Keepers
+were obliged to do, or they would have set fire to it. They were then
+proceeding to demolish the prison, but the prisoners expostulating with
+them, and begging that they would give them time to remove their goods,
+they readily condescended, and gave them a day for that purpose, in
+consequence of which, the prisoners were removing all this day out of that
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span>
+place. Some of the prisoners were in for life."
+And in the evening of the next day, they fulfilled their threat, and
+burnt it. This was the second time it had been burnt down, for the
+great fire of 1666 had previously demolished it.
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_303-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_303-500.png" width="500" height="310"
+alt="RACKETS IN THE FLEET PRISON, 1760." /></a>
+<div class="caption">RACKETS IN THE FLEET PRISON, 1760.<br />
+(<i>Published by Bowles and Carver, 69, St. Paul's Churchyard.</i>)
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>It was rebuilt, and remained the same, with some few alterations
+and additions until its final destruction. We get a good view of "the
+Bare" or racket ground in 1808, an outline of which I have taken
+from Pugin and Rowlandson's beautiful "Microcosm of London," 1808,
+<a name="FNanchor_150" id="FNanchor_150"></a><a href="#Footnote_150"
+class="fnanchor">[150]</a> according to which book, "The Fleet Prison, it is believed, after the fire of London in
+1666, was removed to that site of ground upon which the almshouses
+through Vauxhall turnpike, on the Wandsworth road, now stand, until
+the old prison was rebuilt, Sir Jeremy Whichcott, then Warden, having
+his family seat there, which he converted into a prison; for which
+patriotic
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a></span>
+act, and rebuilding the old one at his own expence, he and his heirs
+were wardens as long as they lived. The Office of Warden of the Fleet
+was formerly of such consequence, that a brother of one of the Edwards
+is said to have been in the list of Wardens."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_304-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_304-500.png" width="500" height="390" alt="Prisoners playing at rackets and skittles." /></a>
+</div>
+
+<p>In this illustration we find the prisoners by no means <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span>
+moody, but playing at rackets and skittles. The Racket ground was
+under the superintendence of a Racket Master, who was elected by the
+Collegians, annually at Christmas. This post was eagerly sought after,
+as it was one to which some pecuniary profit was attached, a small fee
+being demanded from each person, the Racket Master having to find bats
+and balls. I have before me three printed handbills of aspirants for
+the post in 1841. One bases his claim on the fact that he is already
+Racket Master, and says, "I feel the situation is one that requires attention and unceasing
+exertion, not so much from the individual position, as from the
+circumstance that the amusement, and (what is more vitally important)
+the health of my fellow inmates is in some measure placed in the hands
+of the person appointed." Another candidate pleads as a qualification, that he has served as
+Watchman for Seven years, and at last election for Racket Master, he
+only lost the appointment by five votes. And the third publishes the
+caution "Collegians, Remember! All Promises that have been (<i>sic</i>)
+before the Vacancy, are Null and Void!!!" This gentleman was determined
+to secure, if possible, some of the good things going about, for, at
+this very same Annual Election, he issues another circular, "Having had many years experience in the Tavern Department and
+Eating House Business, I beg leave to offer myself for the Situation
+in the Public Kitchen, now about to become vacant." He, too, had an opponent, who had been engaged for nine years as a
+baker, and was, by profession, a Cook. The Office of Skittle Master was
+also contested in that year; the holder of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a></span>
+the place being opposed by one whose claim to the position seems to be
+that he had a wife and one child.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_306-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_306-500.png" width="500" height="364"
+alt="A WHISTLING SHOP IN THE FLEET, 1821." /></a>
+<div class="caption">A WHISTLING SHOP IN THE FLEET, 1821.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>They made themselves merry enough in the Fleet, as we read in Egan's
+"Life in London," where Jerry Hawthorn, and Corinthian Tom, visit Bob
+Logic, who was detained in the Fleet. Among other places there, they
+went to a Whistling Shop&mdash;of which the brothers Robert and George
+Cruikshank have given a faithful representation. Here at a table,
+screened off from the draught of the door we see, Tom, Jerry, and
+the unfortunate Logic, whilst the other frequenters of the place are
+excellently depicted. Spirits were not allowed in the prison, under any
+circumstances, other than by the doctor's order; but it is needless to
+say, the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span>
+regulation was a dead letter. Of course it was not sold openly, but
+there were rooms, known to the initiated where it could be procured.
+It was never asked for, and if it were the applicant would not have
+received it, but if you whistled, it would be at once forthcoming.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_307-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_307-500.png" width="500" height="354" alt="Whistling Shop." /></a>
+</div>
+
+<p>Says Logic to his Corinthian friends, "'In the evening I will introduce you both to my friend the
+<i>Haberdasher</i>. He is a good <i>whistler</i>; and his shop always abounds
+with some prime articles which you will like to look at.' The <span
+class="smcap">Trio</span> was again complete; and a fine dinner, which
+the <span class="smcap">Corinthian</span> had previously ordered from a
+Coffee house, improved their feelings: a glass or two of wine made them
+as gay as larks; and a <i>hint</i> from <span class="smcap">Jerry</span>
+to <span class="smcap">Logic</span> about the <i>Whistler</i>, brought
+them into the shop of the latter in
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a></span>
+a <i>twinkling</i>. <span class="smcap">Hawthorn</span>, with great
+surprise, said, 'Where are we? this is no <i>haberdasher's</i>. It is a
+&mdash;&mdash;' 'No <i>nosing</i>, <span class="smcap">Jerry</span>,'
+replied <span class="smcap">Logic</span>, with a grin.
+'You are wrong. The man is a dealer in <i>tape</i>.'" <a
+name="FNanchor_151" id="FNanchor_151"></a><a href="#Footnote_151"
+class="fnanchor">[151]</a> </p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_308-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_308-500.png" width="500" height="369" alt="The Evening after a Mock Election in The Fleet Prison" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>There was a class in the Fleet, who acted, as far as in their power
+lay, up to the Epicurean "<i>dum vivimus vivamus</i>," and among them the
+prison, however inconvenient it might have been, was made the best
+of, and the door of the Cupboard which contained the skeleton was
+shut as far as it would go. We have an exemplification of this in
+Robert Cruikshank's water colour drawing of "The Evening after a Mock
+Election in the Fleet Prison," June, 1835. In this drawing, which I
+have simply outlined (see previous page), we get a graphic glimpse at
+the uproarious fun that obtained among a certain set. The gradations in
+Society of this singular mixture is well shown in the following key to
+the picture:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>1. Bennett the Candidate.</p>
+
+<p>2. Mr. Fellowes of the Crown
+P. H. Fleet Street.</p>
+
+<p>3. Mr. Houston, <i>alias</i> Jack in
+the Green.</p>
+
+<p>4. Mr. Perkins, <i>alias</i> Harlequin Billy (Architect), who tried
+to sink a<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;">shaft at Spithead to supply the Navy with Water.</span></p>
+
+<p>5. Mr. Shackleford (Linen
+Draper).</p>
+
+<p>6. Mr. Bennett, the Watchman.</p>
+
+<p>7. Geo. Weston, Esqr. (Banker,
+of the Boro').</p>
+
+<p>8. Mr. Hutchinson (Dr. at
+Liverpool).</p>
+
+<p>9. L. Goldsmith, Esqre.</p>
+
+<p>10. Mr. Thompson (Irishman).</p>
+
+<p>11. Robert Barnjum <i>alias</i> Rough
+Robin (Hammersmith
+Ghost).</p>
+
+<p>12. Robert Ball, <i>alias</i> Manchester
+Bob (wore a Murderer's
+Cap).</p>
+
+<p>13. Captain Wilde, R.N.</p>
+
+<p>14. Mr. Hales, the Cook.</p>
+
+<p>15. Mr. Walker.</p>
+
+<p>16. Captain McDonnough,
+11th Hussars (real gentleman).</p>
+
+<p>17. Mr. Halliday (Manchester
+Merchant).</p>
+
+<p>18. Harry Holt the Prize
+Fighter.</p>
+
+<p>19. Captain Penniment (Trading
+Vessel, Yorkshire).</p>
+
+<p>20. Mr. Palmer, Cutler to Geo.
+III., near the Haymarket
+Theatre.</p>
+
+<p>21. Mr. Scrivener (Landlord of
+the Tap).</p>
+
+<p>22. Captain Oliver, Smuggler
+and Tapster. Capias,
+£117,000.</p>
+
+<p>23. Mr. Goldsbury, <i>alias</i> Jailsbury,
+driver of omnibus all
+round the Fleet.</p>
+
+<p>24. Mr. George Kent.</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>As a souvenir of the talented Isaac Robert Cruikshank, I append a
+facsimile of his autograph, which was written in the Parlour, No. 16,
+Hall, in the Fleet Prison, June 24, 1842. His method of utilizing the
+blot of Ink is unique.</p>
+
+<p>The remaining Notices of the Fleet must be taken as they come, as
+far as possible, chronologically&mdash;and first of all let us look
+at the enormous quantity of people who were imprisoned for debt. In
+the <i>Mirror</i>, No. 615, vol. xxii. July 20, 1833, is a cutting from the
+<i>Times</i>: "By the return of persons imprisoned for debt in 1832, in England
+and Wales, just printed by order of the House of Commons, it appears
+that the gross number was 16,470: of whom maintained themselves 4,093,
+so that three fourths of the whole were too poor to provide themselves
+with bread." </p>
+
+<p>The terrible destitution to which some prisoners were reduced is
+shown in an extract from the <i>Morning Herald</i> of August 12, 1833.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<i>Guild hall.</i> A Gentleman complained that the Overseers of St.
+Bride's had refused to relieve a distressed prisoner in the Fleet. The
+Prisoner was Mr. Timothy Sheldvake, who had been well known for his
+skill in treating deformities of the body. He once kept his carriage,
+and obtained £4,000 a year by his practice, but he was now quite
+destitute. He was eighty years of Age, and of that temper that he would
+rather starve than make a complaint. When applicant saw him he had
+actually fasted forty-eight hours. St. Bride's Parish had assisted the
+unfortunate Gentleman, but they denied that he was legally entitled to
+such relief. The Applicant contended that, as the Prison was in St.
+Bride's parish, and was rated at &pound;70 a year, St. Bride's was
+bound to afford casual relief to those within the walls of the prison,
+and to recover it from the respective parishes to which those who have
+been relieved belonged.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_311-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_311-500.png" width="500" height="256"
+alt="AUTOGRAPH DONE AT THE PARLOUR NO 1, PALAIS DE LA FLETE, THIS 24 DAY JUNE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">AUTOGRAPH DONE AT THE PARLOUR NO 1, PALAIS DE LA FLETE, THIS 24 DAY JUNE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"The Vestry Clerk said, relief must be given out of the County
+rate.</p>
+
+<p>"Sir C. Marshall said he would take time to consider the Point, but
+he thought a sufficient relief should be afforded out of the County
+rate." </p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_149"
+id="Footnote_149"></a><a href="#FNanchor_149"><span
+class="label">[149]</span></a> "<i>Memoirs of the Right Villanous John
+Hall</i>," &amp;c.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_150"
+id="Footnote_150"></a><a href="#FNanchor_150"><span
+class="label">[150]</span></a> See next page.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_151"
+id="Footnote_151"></a><a href="#FNanchor_151"><span
+class="label">[151]</span></a> A cant word for gin.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_312-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_312-200.png" width="200" height="184" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_313-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_313-500.png" width="500" height="132" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXV.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">IN a Return of the number of persons in the several
+Gaols of England, confined for Debt, ordered by the House of Commons to
+be printed, May 13, 1835, we have an "Account of the Number of Persons
+confined for Debt in the Fleet Prison during the following Years:
+</p>
+
+<div style="margin-left: 18%; margin-right: 18%; width:64%;">
+<table summary="debtors" style="width:60%">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl"></td>
+<td class="tdr">1830</td>
+<td class="tdr">1831</td>
+<td class="tdr">1832</td>
+<td class="tdr">1833</td>
+<td class="tdr">1834</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Number confined</td>
+<td class="tdr">742</td>
+<td class="tdr">700</td>
+<td class="tdr">884</td>
+<td class="tdr">746</td>
+<td class="tdr">769</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Number charged in Execution</td>
+<td class="tdr">105</td>
+<td class="tdr">136</td>
+<td class="tdr">134</td>
+<td class="tdr">126</td>
+<td class="tdr">156</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+</div>
+
+<p>And the amount of the debt and costs for which each party was so
+charged varied from &pound;2 to &pound;18,017.</p>
+
+<p>I look in vain in the <i>Times</i> for the paragraph to which the Warden
+alludes in the following letter:</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"The Warden presents his compliments to the Editor of
+the <i>Times</i>, and begs to state, that a paragraph having appeared in
+the paper of this morning, stating that the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a></span>
+Fleet Prison is very full, and that a guinea and a half a week is paid
+for a single room, and that four, five, and six persons are obliged to
+live in a small apartment.</p>
+
+<p>"The Warden, not being aware of this, should it in any case exist,
+and which is contrary to the established regulations against any person
+so offending, the prison not being so full as in former years, there
+being considerably less, on an average, than two prisoners to each
+Room, and being also exceedingly healthy.</p>
+
+<p>"The Warden has also to add, that the rest of the paragraph relating
+to the Fleet is totally without foundation.</p>
+
+<p class="left">"Fleet Prison, March 7, 1836."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>In the outside sheet of the <i>Times</i>, February 21, 1838, occurs the
+following advertisement: "<span class="smcap">One Hundred Pounds
+Reward.</span>&mdash;Escape.&mdash;<span class="smcap">Escaped</span>
+from the Fleet Prison, on the evening of Wednesday the 14th day of
+February instant. <span class="smcap">Alfred Morris</span>, late of 22
+Dean Street, Tooley Street, Southwark. The said Alfred Morris is about
+30 years of Age, about 5 feet 6 inches high, dark complexion, and of a
+Jewish Caste, prominent Nose, somewhat flat pointed, dark, irregular
+whiskers, stout figure, and rather bow legged," &amp;c., &amp;c. </p>
+
+<p>Anent this escape, the <i>Times</i> of February 16th has a paragraph such
+as we can hardly imagine ever could have appeared in a paper so steady
+and sober, as the <i>Times</i> now is: "<span class="smcap">The Warden of the Fleet</span>&mdash;(From a
+Correspondent). Yesterday a gentleman of some misfortune and of great
+appearance, for he wore
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span>
+a wig, moustaches, and a Spanish Cloak, was introduced as an inmate
+of Brown's Hotel, so called from the Warden having a license to sell
+wines, beer, and ale to his prisoners, through the 'patent never
+ending always improving Juddery spigot and fawcet tap,' &amp;c. In
+about half an hour the said bewhiskered gentleman leaves cloak, wig,
+and moustaches in the room of a Mister Abrahams, a prisoner, and walks
+quietly out, very politely bidding the turnkey 'good morning.' At night
+the excellent crier of the Prison, Mr. Ellis, made the galleries echo,
+and the rooms re-echo, with his sometimes very cheering voice (when he
+announces to those who wish such things as a discharge, for it is not
+all who do), in calling, <i>altissimo voce</i>, 'Mr. Alfred Morrison! Mr.
+Alfred Morrison! Mr. Alfred Morrison!' but as no Mr. Alfred Morrison
+answered to the interesting call, every room was searched in the due
+performance of the crier's duty, but no Mr. Alfred Morrison was to
+be found. And the Worthy and excellent warder, the keeper of so many
+others in, is himself let in to the tune of £2,600; some say more, none
+say less.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>'Go it, ye cripples! crutches are cheap!</p>
+<p>W. Brown is no longer asleep!'"</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>In a leading article in the <i>Times</i> of November 13, 1838, upon
+juvenile crime, and the incitors thereto, we read the following: "The Traders in crime do not wholly confine their seductions to
+the young; they often find apt scholars among the unfortunates of riper
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a></span>
+years, especially in the <i>debtor's prison</i>. Mr. Wakefield<a
+name="FNanchor_152" id="FNanchor_152"></a><a href="#Footnote_152"
+class="fnanchor">[152]</a> says he knows many such victims; and he
+particularizes one 'Who was not indeed executed, because he took
+poison the night before he was to have been executed, who told me he
+had been, (and who I firmly believe was) first incited to crime when a
+Prisoner in the <i>Fleet</i> for debt. The crime into which he was seduced
+was that of passing forged Bank of England Notes. He was a Man of very
+showy appearance, and he had been a Captain in the Army; a man of good
+family. He said this crime was first suggested to him by persons who
+were Prisoners in the Fleet; but he afterwards discovered, having been
+a Prisoner there more than once, that one of a gang of Utterers of
+forged Notes lived constantly in the <i>Fleet</i>, and for no other purpose
+but that of inducing reckless young men of good appearance, who could
+easily pass notes, to take Notes from them, and to dispose of them in
+transactions. I could hardly believe that that was true, and I got
+some inquiries to be made for the person whom he had pointed out to
+me as one of a Gang, and I found that that person was constantly in
+the <i>Fleet</i>. The Gang committed a robbery upon a Bank in Cornwall,
+and they were entirely broken up, and from that time forth the Person
+who had resided in the <i>Fleet</i> disappeared, though he was not one of
+the persons convicted, or suspected of that particular Crime. I never
+heard of him since, but the inquiries which I then made, convinced me
+that it was a fact that one of the Gang of <span class="pagenum"><a
+name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span> what are termed
+'family men,' that is, rich thieves and receivers of stolen goods, did
+reside continually in the <i>Fleet</i>, for the purpose of seducing young
+men into the commission of Crime. He was in and out of the Prison, but
+a Prisoner on a friendly arrest."</p>
+
+<p>The time was coming, when imprisonment for debt was to be abolished.
+An Act of 1 &amp; 2 Vict. cap. 110 had already abolished Arrest on
+Mesne Process in Civil Actions, so that no prisoners could be committed
+to the Fleet from the Courts of Chancery, Exchequer, and Common Pleas,
+and the Debtors and Bankrupts might as well be in the Queen's Bench.
+The Demolition of the Fleet was therefore confidently anticipated, as
+we find by the following paragraph from the <i>Times</i>, March 3, 1841. "<span class="smcap">Removal of Prisoners.</span> On Saturday a
+deputation from the Woods and Forests, attended by the Marshal, visited
+the Queen's Bench Prison, preparatory to moving over the Debtors from
+the Fleet, which prison is about to be pulled down. By this arrangement
+the Country will save about &pound;15,000 per annum, besides getting
+rid of an ugly object, and room being made for other contemplated
+improvements. It is supposed the Judges will find some difficulty in
+removing the Prisoners from the Fleet by Habeas Corpus, and that a
+short Bill will be necessary for that purpose. The expenses of the
+Queen's Bench Prison in its present profitless employment, is about
+&pound;30,000 per annum to the Country." </p>
+
+<p>This announcement was slightly premature, for the Act for its
+demolition (5 &amp; 6 Victoriæ, cap. 22) was not passed until
+May 31, 1842. The Prisoners objected to
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a></span>
+the Transfer to the Queen's Bench, preferring their comparative liberty
+as they were, to the more stringent rules of the other prison: one
+clause in the new Act being: "And be it enacted, That after the passing of this Act, no Prisoner
+in the Queen's Prison shall be allowed to send for, or to have any
+Beer, Ale, Victuals or other Food, or to send for, have or use any
+Bedding, Linen, or other Things, except such as shall be allowed to be
+brought by them respectively under such Rules, to be made in the Manner
+directed by this Act, as may be reasonable and expedient to prevent
+Extravagance and Luxury, and for enforcing due Order and Discipline
+within the Prison." </p>
+
+<p>I have before me the Original Subscription list of a
+scheme of</p>
+
+<div class="center">
+"Resistance<br /><br />
+to<br /><br />
+The Abolition of the Fleet Prison.
+
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+April 9th, 1842."<br /><br /></div>
+
+<p>The author of the Letter of "Fleta to the Lords, calling upon them
+individually to Oppose the Bill <i>for transferring the Debtors in the
+Fleet</i> to the Queen's Prison, respectfully calls upon all Parties
+interested in an <i>Opposition to the said Bill</i>, to render him such
+pecuniary assistance in forwarding his Object, as may be consistent
+with their Views or Convenience." A list of Subscriptions follows, but
+although 25/- was promised, only 15/- appears to be paid. They held meetings, a notice calling one of which is facsimiled; but
+it was of no avail, and they had to go.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_319-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_319-500.png" width="500" height="459" alt="Memorial Notice" /></a>
+<div class="caption">Memorial Notice
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p> One Philip Ball, a Chancery Prisoner, composed</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">The Last Days of the Fleet!</span><br />
+<br />
+A melancholy Chaunt,<br />
+<br />
+<i>Written by a</i> <span class="smcap">Collegian</span>, <i>on the occasion of the Queen's<br />
+Prison Bill receiving the Royal Assent.</i>
+<br />
+<br />
+
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a></span>
+
+Air. 'The Fine Old English Gentleman.'</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="center">1</p>
+<p>I'll sing to you a bran new song</p>
+<p>Made by my simple pate,</p>
+<p>About the end of the good old Fleet,</p>
+<p>Which on us now shuts its gate.</p>
+<p>It has kept confin'd the choicest lads</p>
+<p>That e'er together met&mdash;</p>
+<p>Of merry, jolly, rattling dogs,</p>
+<p>A regular slap up set.</p>
+<p class="i2">Of jovial Fleet prisoners,</p>
+<p class="i2">All of the present day.<br /><br /></p>
+<p class="center">2</p>
+<p>This good old pris'n in every room</p>
+<p>Contains a merry soul,</p>
+<p>Who for his doings out of doors</p>
+<p>Is now drop't 'in the hole.'</p>
+<p>But surely this is better far</p>
+<p>Than your simple plodding way,</p>
+<p>Get deep in debt, go through the Court,</p>
+<p>And whitewash it all away.</p>
+<p class="i2">Like a jovial Fleet prisoner,</p>
+<p class="i2">All of the present day.<br /><br /></p>
+<p class="center">3</p>
+<p>Such right good hearts are rarely found,</p>
+<p>As round me now I see;</p>
+<p>With such, I'm 'most inclined to say,</p>
+<p>Hang liberty for me.</p>
+<p>For T&mdash;&mdash;y, S&mdash;&mdash;y, V&mdash;&mdash;h,</p>
+<p>In spirits who excel?</p>
+<p>How could we better live than here,</p>
+<p>Where friendship weaves her spell?</p>
+<p class="i2">'Mongst jovial Fleet prisoners,</p>
+<p class="i2">All of the present day.<br /><br /></p>
+<p class="center">4</p>
+<p>To racquets, skittles, whistling shops,</p>
+<p>We must soon say farewell;</p>
+<p>The Queen's assent to her prison bill</p>
+<p>Has rung their funeral knell;</p>
+<p>And Bennett, Gray, and Andrew too</p>
+<p>Must close their welcome doors,</p>
+<p>For sing song and tape spinning now,</p>
+<p>This damn'd new Act all floors,</p>
+<p class="i2">For the jovial Fleet prisoner,</p>
+<p class="i2">All of the present day.<br /><br /></p>
+<p class="center">5</p>
+<p>But to her gracious Majesty</p>
+<p>You'll long be loyal and true,</p>
+<p>Although this latest act of hers</p>
+<p>Must be felt by some of you.</p>
+<p>Speed through the Court, or compromise</p>
+<p>Like gallant Captain T&mdash;&mdash;h,</p>
+<p>Or else you'll soon be sent to grieve</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span>
+<p>Your guts out in the Bench.</p>
+<p class="i2">All melancholy prisoners<a name="FNanchor_153" id="FNanchor_153"></a><a href="#Footnote_153" class="fnanchor">[153]</a></p>
+<p class="i2">Unlike those of the present day.</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>Much, however, as the prisoners might grieve, it was of no use
+kicking against an Act of Parliament, and those prisoners who did not
+take advantage of the Insolvent Debtors Act, were transferred to the
+Queen's Prison, which in its turn ceased to be a debtor's prison, and
+was used by Military offenders, until it was sold on Oct. 30, 1879,
+and pulled down in that and the following year. Now, legally speaking,
+there is no imprisonment for debt, but people are only committed for
+Contempt of Court.</p>
+
+<p>The Commissioners of Woods and Forests invited Tenders for the site
+and buildings of the late Fleet Prison, the estate of which contained
+above One Acre, with a frontage of about 251 feet, towards Farringdon
+Street, and a depth of about 230 feet. The tenders were returnable on
+Oct. 22, 1844, and the Corporation of the City of London became the
+owners of the property at a sum variously stated at &pound;25,000 to
+&pound;29,000, and the sale of its building materials commenced on
+April 5, 1845. Its exterior was not particularly attractive.</p>
+
+<p>And so it passed away, and half the present inhabitants of London
+the Great do not even know its site, which was not finally cleared
+until 1846. As a guide to those who wish to know its locality I may
+mention that the <span class="smcap">Congregational Memorial Hall
+and Library</span>, in Farringdon Street, stands on a portion of its
+site.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_322-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_322-500.png" width="500" height="319" alt="FARRINGDON STREET AND THE FLEET PRISON." /></a>
+<div class="caption">FARRINGDON STREET AND THE FLEET PRISON.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px;">
+<a href="images/i_323a-650.png">
+<img src="images/i_323a-500.png" width="500" height="355" alt="GROUND PLAN OF FLEET PRISON." /></a>
+<div class="caption">GROUND PLAN OF FLEET PRISON.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_323b-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_323b-500.png" width="500" height="302" alt="SECTION OF THE PRISON." /></a>
+<div class="caption">SECTION OF THE PRISON.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Before quitting the subject of the Fleet prison I cannot help
+referring to "the grate." Like Ludgate, it had a room open to the
+street, but furnished with a strong iron grating, behind which sat
+a prisoner, who called the attention of the passers-by monotonously
+chanting, "Pray Remember the poor Prisoners." A box was presented
+for the reception of contributions, but very little money was thus
+obtained.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 406px; ">
+<a href="images/i_324-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_324-500.png" width="406" height="500" alt="EXTERIOR OF THE GRATE." /></a>
+<div class="caption">EXTERIOR OF THE GRATE.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>The begging grate was served by poor prisoners who had to swear
+that they were not worth £5 in the world.
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325-6]</a></span>
+He was then entitled to share the contents of the begging box, and
+also be a partaker of the charities and donations to the Prison, which
+amounted to the magnificent sum of £39 19s., besides meat, coals, and
+bread.</p>
+
+<p>Prisoners of all sorts and conditions met here, on one common
+basis, one of the last of any mark being Richard Oastler, who was the
+leader of the Ten Hours' Bill Movement, and from this prison he issued
+a series of "Fleet Papers" about Free Trade, Factories Acts, and the
+Amalgamation of the Prisons. He died in 1861, and a memorial to him was
+erected at Leeds.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_152"
+id="Footnote_152"></a><a href="#FNanchor_152"><span
+class="label">[152]</span></a> Evidence of Mr. Wakefield before
+Parliamentary Committee of 1837.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_153"
+id="Footnote_153"></a><a href="#FNanchor_153"><span
+class="label">[153]</span></a> When the prisoners were removed there
+were two who had been incarcerated upwards of thirty years, and were in
+the Queen's prison in 1845.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_325-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_325-200.png" width="200" height="151" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_327-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_327-500.png" width="500" height="141" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h2><span class="oldenglish-font"><span class="small">Fleet Marriages.</span></span></h2>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="__________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXVI.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THERE is no doubt that in the seventeenth and
+eighteenth centuries, the Marriage laws, as we now understand them,
+were somewhat lax, and it is possible that it was so long before that
+time, for in Edward VI.'s time an Act was passed (2 and 3 Ed. VI., c.
+21, s. 3) entitled "An Act to take away all positive laws made against
+marriage of priests." Section 3 provides that it shall not "give any
+liberty to any person to marry without asking in the church, or without
+any ceremony being appointed by the order prescribed and set forth in
+the book intituled "<i>The Book of Common Prayer, and administration of
+the Sacraments</i>, &amp;c." Mary, of course, repealed this Act, and it
+was revived and made perpetual by 1 Jas. 1. c. 25, s. 50.</p>
+
+<p>It was only after the Council of Trent, that the offices <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[Pg 328]</a></span>
+of the Church were considered indispensable, for that Council decreed
+that a priest, and two witnesses were necessary for the proper
+celebration of the Nuptial tie. Still, the law of England, like the law
+of Scotland, allowed the taking of a woman as wife before witnesses,
+and acknowledging her position, which constituted at common law a good
+and lawful marriage, which could not be annulled by the Ecclesiastical
+Court. That many such took place among the Puritans and Sectarians of
+the time of Charles I. and the Commonwealth is undoubted, for it needed
+an Act of Parliament (12 Chas. II. c. 33) to render such marriages
+legal. This enacted "That all marriages had, or solemnized, in any of his Majesty's
+dominions since the first day of <i>May</i>, in the year of our Lord, one
+thousand six hundred forty and two, before any justice of the Peace,
+or reputed justice of the Peace of <i>England</i>, or <i>Wales</i>, or other his
+Majesty's dominions, ... shall be, and shall be adjudged, esteemed,
+and taken to be, and to have been of the same, and no other force or
+effect, as if such marriages had been had, and solemnized, according
+to the rites and ceremonies established, or used in the Church or
+kingdom of <i>England</i>; any law, custom, or usage to the contrary thereof
+notwithstanding."</p>
+
+<p>This short synopsis of the Marriage law in England is necessary, in
+order to understand the subject of Fleet Marriages, which, however,
+were not all disreputable. The Fleet, as we have seen, had a Chapel
+of its own; and in old times, a Chaplain&mdash;so that Marriages
+might well be celebrated there, in as proper and dignified a manner
+as elsewhere. And, we must
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span>
+bear in mind that early in the seventeenth century, the prisoners
+were of a very different stamp to those of the latter half of the
+eighteenth century, until the demolition of the prison. Therefore we
+see no impropriety in the first Marriage known on record&mdash;which
+is that of Mr. Geo. Lester, then a prisoner in the Fleet, to a woman
+of fortune one Mistress Babbington. This is mentioned in a letter of
+September, 1613, from Alderman Lowe to Lady Hicks, and may be found in
+the Lansdowne MSS. 93-17. He writes: "Now I am to enform you that an ancyentt acquayntence of
+y<sup>e</sup> and myne is yesterday marryed in the Fleete, one
+Mr. George Lester, and hath maryed M<sup>ris</sup> Babbington,
+M<sup>r</sup> Thomas Fanshawe mother in lawe. Itt is sayd she is a
+woman of goode wealthe, so as nowe the man wyll be able to lyve and
+mayntayne hymself in pryson, for hether unto he hath byne in poor
+estate. I praye God he be nott encoryged by his marige to do as becher
+doth, I meane to troble his frynds in lawe, but I hope he wyll have a
+better conscyence and more honestye than the other men hathe."</p>
+
+<p>Towards the middle of the seventeenth century
+clandestine, and irregular marriage was prevalent, and
+it is easily accounted for. A public marriage had come
+to be a very expensive affair. There was a festival,
+which lasted several days, during which open house had
+to be kept; there were the Marriage Settlements, presents,
+pin money, music, and what not&mdash;so that the
+binding of their Children in the holy Estate of Matrimony
+was a serious matter to parents; who probably
+preferred giving the young couple the money that
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a></span>
+otherwise would go in useless waste and profusion.
+So they used to get married quietly: a custom which
+Pepys reprobates in the marriage of the daughter of
+Sir William Penn to Mr. Anthony Lowther. "No
+friends, but two or three relations of his and hers."
+The bride was married in "palterly clothes, and
+nothing new but a bracelet that her servant had given
+her." And he further says, remarking on the meanness
+of the whole affair, "One wonder I observed to day,
+that there was no musique in the morning to call up
+our new married people, which is very mean, methinks."</p>
+
+<p>Misson, who visited England in the reign of
+William III., speaks of these private marriages. "The Ordinary ones, as I said before, are generally incognito.
+The <i>Bridegroom</i>, that is to say, the Husband that is to be, and the
+<i>Bride</i>, who is the Wife that is to be, conducted by their Father and
+Mother, or by those that serve them in their room, and accompany'd by
+two Bride men, and two Bride Maids, go early in the Morning with a
+Licence in their Pocket, and call up Mr. Curate and his Clerk, tell
+them their Business; are marry'd with a low Voice, and the Doors shut;
+tip the Minister a Guinea, and the Clerk a Crown; steal softly out,
+one one way, and t'other another, either on Foot or in Coaches; go
+different Ways to some Tavern at a Distance from their own Lodgings,
+or to the House of some trusty Friend, there have a good Dinner, and
+return Home at Night as quietly as Lambs. If the Drums and Fiddles have
+notice of it, they will be sure to be with them by Day Break, making a
+horrible Racket, till they have got the Pence;
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span>
+and, which is worst of all, the whole Murder will come out."</p>
+
+<p>This senseless custom survives, in a modified degree, in our times,
+when on the marriage of a journeyman butcher, his companions treat
+him to a performance of the "Marrow bones and Cleavers," and also in
+the case of marriage of persons in a superior station of life, in the
+playing, on the Organ, of a Wedding March.</p>
+
+<p>The oldest entry of a Marriage in those Registers of the Fleet which
+have been preserved is <span class="smcap">A.D.</span> 1674, and there
+is nothing to lead us to imagine that it was more irregular than that
+of Mistress Babbington; on the contrary, it is extremely probable that,
+previously, prisoners were married in their chapel, with the orthodox
+publication of banns, and by their own Chaplain. But marriages were
+performed without licence or banns in many churches, which claimed to
+be <i>peculiars</i>, and exempt from the Visitation of the Ordinary: as
+St. James', Duke's Place, now pulled down, denied the jurisdiction
+of the Bishop of London because the Mayor, Commonalty, and Citizens
+of London, were Lords of the Manor, and Patrons of the Church: but
+the Rector found that the Ecclesiastical Law was stronger than he,
+and that its arm was long and powerful, and the Rev. Adam Elliott was
+suspended (Feb. 17, 1686) for three years, <i>ab officio et beneficio</i>,
+for having married, or having suffered persons to be married, at the
+said Church, without banns or licence. He did not suffer the full term
+of his punishment, for he managed to get re-instated on May 28, 1687,
+and began his old practices the very next day.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[Pg
+332]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The Chapel of Holy Trinity, Minories, pleaded privilege, on the
+ground that it was a Crown living, and as much a <i>peculiar</i> as
+Westminster Abbey, or the Deanery of Windsor; while the Chapels of the
+Tower and the Savoy sought exemption because they were Royal Chapels,
+and therefore the Bishop had no jurisdiction over them. Besides these,
+there were very many more chapels scattered over the Metropolis where
+irregular marriages were performed, a list of about ninety having been
+preserved.</p>
+
+<p>These Marriages so increased that it was found necessary to
+legislate about them, and, in 1689, an Act (6 and 7 Will. III. c.
+6, s. 24) was passed making it compulsory, under a penalty of One
+Hundred pounds, for every parson to keep an accurate register of
+births, Marriages, and deaths. Another Act was passed in 1696 (17 and
+18 Will. III. c. 35, s. 2-3) whereby a penalty of £100 was imposed on
+any Clergyman who married, or permitted another to marry, couples,
+otherwise than by banns or licence. This was enforced by another Act
+in 1711 (10 Anne c. 19, s. 176), which confirmed the penalty, and
+moreover, this section shows that irregular marriages were getting to
+be common in prisons, for it provides that "if any gaoler, or keeper of any prison, shall be privy to, or
+knowingly permit any marriage to be solemnized in his said prison,
+before publication of banns, or licence obtained, as aforesaid, he
+shall, for every such offence, forfeit the sum of one hundred pounds,"
+&amp;c.</p>
+
+<p>Of course, this did not stop the practice, although it prevented
+Marriages in the Fleet Chapel. Yet there
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[Pg 333]</a></span>
+were the <i>Rules</i>, and real and pretended clergymen for many years plied
+their illicit vocation with impunity.</p>
+
+<p>But there seems to have been some compunctions of conscience
+even among this graceless lot, for one of them, Walter Wyatt, has
+left behind him, in a pocket-book dated 1736, the following moral
+reflections.</p>
+
+<p>"Give to every man his due, and learn y<sup>e</sup> way of
+Truth. This advice cannot be taken by those that are concerned in
+y<sup>e</sup> Fleet Marriages; not so much as y<sup>e</sup> Priest can
+do y<sup>e</sup> thing y<sup>t</sup> is just and right there, unless
+he designs to starve. For by lying, bullying, and swearing, to extort
+money from the silly and unwary people, you advance your business and
+gets y<sup>e</sup> pelf, which always wastes like snow in sun shiney
+day."</p>
+
+<p>"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. The Marrying in
+the Fleet is the beginning of eternal woe."</p>
+
+<p>"If a clark or plyer <a name="FNanchor_154" id="FNanchor_154"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_154" class="fnanchor">[154]</a> tells a lye, you must
+vouch it to be as true as y<sup>e</sup> Gospel; and if disputed, you
+must affirm with an oath to y<sup>e</sup> truth of a downright damnable
+falsehood&mdash;Virtus laudatur et alget."</p>
+
+<p>That this custom of swearing prevailed at Fleet Marriages is borne
+out by contemporary evidence. The <i>Grub Street Journal</i> July 20, 1732,
+says: "On Saturday last, a Fleet Parson was convicted before Sir <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[Pg 334]</a></span>
+Ric. Brocas of forty three-oaths (on the information of a plyer for
+weddings there) for which a warrant was granted to levy &pound;4 6s. on
+the goods of the said parson; but, upon application to his Worship, he
+was pleased to remit 1s. per oath; upon which the plyer swore he would
+swear no more against any man upon the like occasion, finding he got
+nothing by it."</p>
+
+<p>And an anonymous Newspaper cutting dated 1734,
+says, "On Monday last, a tall Clergyman, who plies about the Fleet Gate
+for Weddings, was convicted before Sir Richard Brocas of swearing 42
+Oaths, and ordered to pay &pound;4 2s."</p>
+
+<p>There were regular Chaplains attached to the Fleet Prison to serve
+the Chapel there, and, as we have seen, the Warder made every prisoner
+pay 2d. or 4d. weekly, towards his stipend. Latterly the Chaplaincy was
+offered to a Curate of St. Bride's Church&mdash;as is now done in the
+case of Bridewell.</p>
+
+<p>A complete list of Chaplains cannot be given, because all documents
+were destroyed when the Fleet was burnt by the Lord George Gordon
+rioters; but Mr. Burn in his "History of Fleet Marriages" (a book to
+which I am much indebted, for it has all but exhausted the subject)
+gives the names of some, as Haincks in 1698; Robert Elborough, 1702;
+John Taylor, 1714; Dr. Franks, 1728; 1797, Weldon Champneys; 1815, John
+Manley Wood, and John Jones: and in 1834, the date of the publication
+of Mr. Burn's book, the Rev. Richard Edwards, was the Chaplain.</p>
+
+<p>These Clergymen, of course, married couples according to Law,
+and probably used the Chapel for that
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span>
+purpose. We know that it was so used, for the <i>Original Weekly Journal</i>
+of Sept. 26, 1719, says: "One Mrs. Anne Leigh, an heiress of £200 per annum and £6000 ready
+cash, having been decoyed away from her friends in Buckinghamshire, and
+married at the Fleet chapel against her consent; we hear the Lord Chief
+Justice Pratt hath issued out his warrant for apprehending the authors
+of this contrivance, who have used the young lady so barbarously, that
+she now lyes speechless." </p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 394px; ">
+<a href="images/i_335-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_335-500.png" width="394" height="500" alt="Waiting to get Married" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>But it is not of the Chaplains I would speak, but of the irregular
+Clergy, or Lay men, who performed the Marriages. One thing they
+all agreed in, the wearing of the Cassock, Gown, and Bands. They
+would never have been believed in had they not. The accompanying
+illustration<a name="FNanchor_155" id="FNanchor_155"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_155" class="fnanchor">[155]</a> gives an excellent idea
+of the Fleet Parson, and it is taken from an Engraving entitled "<i>The</i>
+<span class="smcap">Funeral</span> <i>of Poor</i> <span class="smcap">Mary
+Hackabout</span>, <i>attended by the Sisterhood of Drury Lane</i>" and it
+has a footnote calling attention to the "wry-necked" parson. "<i>The famous</i> <span class="smcap">Couple Beggar</span> <i>in the
+Fleet, a</i> <span class="smcap">Wretch</span>, <i>who there screens himself
+from the Justice due to his</i> <span class="smcap">Villanies</span>, <i>and
+daily repeats them.</i>"</p>
+
+<p>The lady holds a sprig of Rosemary in her hand, which in polite
+society was always presented by a servant, when the funeral cortége was
+about to leave the house:&mdash;In this case, a dish full of sprigs is
+placed upon the floor, and a child is playing with them. The Mourners
+carried them to the grave, and then threw them in, as we now do,
+flowers and wreaths of the same.</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps one of the earliest notices of these irregular Fleet
+Parsons is in the first year of Queen Anne's reign, very soon after
+she came to the throne, as it appears, in the Registry of the
+Consistory Court,&mdash;that on June 4, 1702, the Bishop of London
+visited the common prison called the Fleet, London, and took Master
+Jeronimus Alley, clerk, to task, requiring him to exhibit to the
+Chancellor of the Diocese, before the 24th June instant, his letters of
+ordination, "and his Lords<sup>p</sup> ordered him not to marry or perform
+any divine Office in y<sup>e</sup> Chapell in y<sup>e</sup> ffleet,
+or any place within y<sup>e</sup> Dioces untill he has <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span>
+exhibited y<sup>e</sup> same. Mr. Alley soon afterwards fled
+from y<sup>e</sup> s<sup>d</sup> Prison, and never exhibited his
+orders."</p>
+
+<p>But if Alley fled, there were others left, and the practice of
+marrying without banns, or licence, brought forth the act of the 10th
+Anne, before quoted. It was probably before this, but certainly during
+her reign, that the following letter was written, which also is in the
+Bishop's Registry.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Sir</span>,&mdash;I think it my Duty to God
+and y^e Queen to acquaint you with y<sup>e</sup> illegal practices of
+y<sup>e</sup> Ministers and Clark in y<sup>e</sup> Fleet Chappell for
+marrying Clandestinely as they do som weeks fifty or sixty couple.
+The Ministers that are there are as follows, Mr. Robt. Elborough, he
+is an ancient man and is master of y<sup>e</sup> Chapple, and marries
+but very few now without Banns or Licence, but under a colour doth
+allow his Clark to do w<sup>t</sup> he pleases, his name is Barth.
+Basset. There is there also one Mr. James Colton a Clergyman, he lives
+in Leather Lane next door to y<sup>e</sup> Coach and horses, he hath
+bin there these four years to marry, but no Prisoner, he marries in
+Coffee houses, in his own house, and in and about y<sup>e</sup> Fleet
+gate, and all y<sup>e</sup> Rules over, not excepting any part of City
+and Suburbs. This Clark Basset aforesaid registers wherever Colton
+marries in y<sup>e</sup> Fleet Register and gives him Certificates.
+Colton had a living in Essex till y<sup>e</sup> Bishop of London
+deprived him for this and other ill Practices. There is also one Mr.
+Nehemiah Rogers, he is a prisoner but goes at larg to his P. Living
+in Essex, and all places else, he is a very wicked man, as lives
+for drinking, whoring, and
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a></span>
+swearing, he has struck and boxed y<sup>e</sup> bridegroom in
+y<sup>e</sup> Chapple, and damned like any com'on souldier; he marries
+both within and without y<sup>e</sup> Chapple like his brother Colton.
+There was one Mr. Alley; he was a Prisoner, and y<sup>e</sup> benefit
+of weddings, but is gone to some other preferm<sup>t</sup>. The
+abovesaid Basset rents y<sup>e</sup> sellers of y<sup>e</sup> Fleet,
+and pays for y<sup>t</sup> and two watchmen 100 and &pound;20 p. ann.
+but he him pays but &pound;20 per ann. for y<sup>e</sup> Clergy pay
+all y<sup>e</sup> rest, and if they do not, they are threatened to be
+confined or outed. This Clark hath bin sworn in D<sup>rs</sup> Commons
+not to marry any without Banns or Licence, unless it be such poor
+people as are recommended by y<sup>e</sup> Justices in case of a big
+belly, but have married since many hundreds, as I and many can testifie
+who are confined Prisoners. The Chief days to marry are Sundays,
+Tuesdays, and Saturdays, but evry day more or less. The Clark Basset
+keeps a Register book, altho he told y<sup>e</sup> Bishop of London he
+had none; he also antidates as he pleases, as you may see when you look
+over y<sup>e</sup> Registers; he hath another at his son's; he does
+what he pleases, and maintains a great family by these ill practices.
+&pound;200 p. ann. he hath at least. The Ministers and Clark bribe one
+Mr. Shirley, I think him to be Collector for y<sup>e</sup> Oueen's
+Taxes. I hope, Sir, you will excuse me for concealing my name, hoping
+y<sup>t</sup> you will inspect into these base practices.</p>
+
+<p>
+<span style="margin-left: 18em;">For</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 20em;">Dr. Newton Chancell<sup>rs</sup></span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 22em;">to My Lord of London</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 24em;">at D<sup>rs</sup> Commons</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 26em;">These."</span><br />
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_154"
+id="Footnote_154"></a><a href="#FNanchor_154"><span
+class="label">[154]</span></a> These were touts, like those
+white-aproned gentry who used to infest Doctors' Commons, telling
+people where they could procure Marriage licences&mdash;only these
+"plyers" touted for the parsons.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_155"
+id="Footnote_155"></a><a href="#FNanchor_155"><span
+class="label">[155]</span></a> See previous page.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_339-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_339-500.png" width="500" height="117" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXVII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">BUT the Act of 1712 failed to stop these illicit
+marriages, for one John Mottram was tried at Guildhall, before Lord
+Chief Justice Parker, found guilty, was suspended from his ministerial
+functions for three years, and was fined &pound;200. Of this case there
+is an account in the <i>Weekly Journal</i>, February 13, 1717.
+"John Mottram, Clerk, was tryed for solemnizing clandestine and
+unlawful marriages in the Fleet Prison, and of keeping fraudulent
+Registers, whereby it appear'd that he had dated several marriages
+several years before he enter'd into orders, and that he kept no less
+than nine several Registers at different houses, which contained many
+scandalous frauds. It also appeared, that a marriage was antedated
+because of pregnancy; and, to impose on the ignorant, there was written
+underneath this scrap of barbarous Latin, "Hi non nupti fuerunt,
+sed obtinerunt Testimonium propter timorem parentum," meaning that
+they were not marryed, but obtained this
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a></span>
+private Register for fear of their parents. It rather appeared from
+evidence, that these sham marriages were solemnized in a room in the
+Fleet they call the Lord Mayor's Chappel, which was furnished with
+chairs, cushions, and proper conveniences, and that a coal heaver was
+generally set to ply at the door to recommend all couples that had a
+mind to be marry'd, to the Prisoner, who would do it cheaper than any
+body. It further appear'd that one of the Registers only, contained
+above 2,200 entrys which had been made within the last year." </p>
+
+<p>Pennant, writing at the end of the last century, gives us his
+personal reminiscences of Fleet Parsons ("Some Account of London," 3rd
+ed., 1793, p. 232), "In walking along the street, in my youth, on the side next to the
+prison, I have often been tempted by the question, <i>Sir, will you be
+pleased to walk in and be married?</i> Along this most lawless space
+was hung up the frequent sign of a male and female hand conjoined,
+with, <i>Marriages performed within</i>, written beneath. A dirty fellow
+invited you in. The parson was seen walking before his shop; a squalid
+profligate figure, clad in a tattered plaid night gown, with a fiery
+face, and ready to couple you for a dram of gin, or roll of tobacco."
+</p>
+
+<p>Burn gives a list of Fleet Parsons, first of whom comes John
+Gaynam, who married from about 1709 to 1740. He rejoiced in a peculiar
+soubriquet, as will be seen by the following. In the trial of Ruth
+Woodward for bigamy, in 1737, he is alluded to by a witness:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<i>John Hall.</i> I saw her married at the Fleet to <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[Pg 341]</a></span>
+Robert Holmes; 'twas at the Hand and Pen, a barber's shop.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Counsel.</i> And is it not a wedding shop too?</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Hall.</i> Yes, I don't know the parson's name, but 'twas a man that
+once belonged to Creed Church, a very, lusty, jolly man.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Counsel.</i> Because there's a complaint lodged in a proper court,
+against a Fleet Parson, whom they call The Bishop of Hell."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Some verses, however, absolutely settle the title upon
+Gaynam.
+<br /><br /></p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="large">"THE FLEET PARSON</span>
+<br />
+<br />
+A Tale,
+<br />
+<br />
+BY ANTI MATRIM.... OF LONDON.
+</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Some errant Wags, as stories tell,</p>
+<p>Assert the gloomy prince of Hell</p>
+<p>In th' infernal Region has</p>
+<p>His Officers of all degrees,</p>
+<p>Whose business is to propagate</p>
+<p>On Earth, the interests of his State,</p>
+<p>Ecclesiastics too are thought</p>
+<p>To be subservient to him brought;</p>
+<p>And, as their zeal his service prize,</p>
+<p>He never fails to make them rise</p>
+<p>As Dignitaries in his Church,</p>
+<p>But often leaves them in the lurch;</p>
+<p>For, if their Fear surmount their Zeal,</p>
+<p>(They) quickly his resentment feel;</p>
+<p>(Are) sure to meet with dire disgrace,</p>
+<p>(And) warmer Zealots fill their place.</p>
+<p>(To) make these Vacancies repleat,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[Pg 342]</a></span>
+<p>He borrows P&mdash;&mdash;ns from the Fleet,</p>
+<p class="i2">Long has old G&mdash;&mdash;m with applause</p>
+<p>Obeyed his Master's cursed Laws,</p>
+<p>Readily practis'd every Vice,<br /></p>
+<p>And equall'd e'en the Devil for device.</p>
+<p>His faithful Services such favour gain'd</p>
+<p>That he, first B&mdash;&mdash;p was of H&mdash;l ordain'd.</p>
+<p>Dan. W&mdash;&mdash;e (rose) next in Degree,</p>
+<p>And he obtained the Deanery.</p>
+<p>Ned Ash&mdash;&mdash;ll then came into grace,</p>
+<p>And he supplied th' Archdeacon's place,</p>
+<p>But, as the Devil when his ends</p>
+<p>Are served, he leaves his truest friends;</p>
+<p>So fared it with this wretched three,</p>
+<p>Who lost their Lives and Dignity."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>There is mention of Gaynam in two trials for bigamy&mdash;first in
+chronological order coming that of Robert Hussey.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<i>Dr. Gainham.</i> The 9th of September, 1733, I married a couple at
+the Rainbow Coffee House, the corner of Fleet Ditch, and entered the
+marriage in my register, as fair a register as any Church in England
+can produce. I showed it last night to the foreman of the jury, and my
+Lord Mayor's Clerk, at the London Punch House.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Counsel.</i> Are you not ashamed to come and own a
+clandestine marriage in the face of a Court of Justice?</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Dr. Gainham</i> (bowing). <i>Video meliora, deteriora
+sequor.</i></p>
+
+<p>"<i>Counsel.</i> You are on your oath, I ask you whether
+you never enter marriages in that book, when there is
+no marriage at all?</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"<i>Dr. Gainham.</i> I never did in my life. I page my
+book so, that it cannot be altered."
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>The other case is from the trial of Edmund Dangerfield
+in 1736.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"<i>Dr. Gainham.</i> I don't know the prisoner. I did marry a man and
+woman of these names. Here, this is a true register: <i>Edwd Dangerfield
+of St. Mary Newington Butts, Batchelor, to Arabella Fast</i>. When I marry
+at any house, I always set it down, for I carry one of the books in my
+pocket, and when I go home I put it in my great book.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Court.</i> Do you never make any alteration?</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Gainham.</i> Never, my Lord. These two were married at Mrs. Ball's,
+at the Hand and Pen, by the Fleet Prison, and my name is to her
+book.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Counsel.</i> 'Tis strange you should not remember the prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Gainham.</i> Can I remember persons? I have married 2000 since that
+time."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>We have heard of Alley, who married from 1681 to 1707; of Elborrow,
+1698 to 1702; and of Mottram, who flourished between 1709 and 1725.</p>
+
+<p>Of Daniel Wigmore, the Dean of the previous poem, we know little
+except that he married between 1723 and 1754. The <i>Daily Post</i> of May
+26, 1738, says of him, "Yesterday Daniel Wigmore, one of the parsons noted for marrying
+people within the Rules of the Fleet, was convicted before the Right
+Honourable the Lord Mayor, of selling spirituous liquors contrary to
+law." </p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[Pg 344]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The third dignitary, Edward Ashwell, the Archdeacon, was notorious,
+and some of his misdeeds are recounted in a letter from Wm. Hodgson, to
+his brother, a Clergyman. (Lansdowne MSS., 841, fol. 123).</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p class="right">
+<i>June</i> 21, 1725.<br />
+</p>
+
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Reverend Sir</span>,&mdash;There was lately,
+at Southam, in Warwickshire, one Edward Ashwell, who, in my absence,
+got possession of our School, and preach'd in Several Churches in this
+Neighbourhood. I take the Liberty to Inform you, Since I hear he is at
+Kettering, that he is A Most Notorious Rogue and Impostor. I have now
+certificates on my hand, of his having two wives alive at this present
+time, and he was very Near Marrying the third, in this Town, but the
+fear of a prosecution upon the Discovery of the flaming and Scandalous
+Immoralities of his life, forc'd him away from us. In a short time
+Afterwards, in a Village not far from us, he attempted to Ravish a
+Woman, but was prevented by a Soldier then in the house. I Can assure
+you he is in no Orders, tho' the Audacious Villain preaches when he Can
+get a pulpit. I have a whole packet of Letters by Me, all tending to
+the Same Character, which I think Exceeds, for variety of all Manner of
+Inormous practices, what Can be Charg'd upon the very Scum of Mankind.
+The Accounts are from persons of integrity and known Reputation.</p>
+
+<p>"I prevented him preaching one Day at Brawnstin, Mr. Somes's parish.
+It would be A very kind and Christian Office to give some information
+among the Clergy, that they may not be Impos'd upon by him, <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_345" id="Page_345">[Pg 345]</a></span>
+particularly to Mr. Heyrick, for I Married Mr. Allicock's sister of
+Loddington. I know you will pardon this trouble if the fellow be
+amongst you.</p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 20em;">"I am, your affectionate
+Brother,</span></p> <p><span style="margin-left: 30em;"><span
+class="smcap">W. Hodgson</span>."</span><br /></p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>We hear occasionally of this "professional beauty" in the Registers,
+and give two or three examples:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"June 21st, 1740. John Jones of Eaton Sutton in Bedfordshire, and
+Mary Steward of the same, came to Wood's in Fleet Lane about six
+o'clock in the morning. Mr. Ashwell and self had been down the Market.
+Wood called him, and I went with him there, found the said man and
+woman, offer'd Mr. Ashwell 3 shilling to marry him; he would not, so he
+swore very much, and would have knocked him down, but for me.&nbsp; was not
+married.&nbsp; took this memorandum that they might not Pretend afterwards
+they was married, and not Register'd."</p>
+
+<p>"July 15 (1744). Came a man and wooman to the Green Canister, he
+was an Irishman and Taylor to bee married. Gave Mr. Ashwell 2 : 6. but
+would have 5s., went away, and abused Mr. Ashwell very much, told him
+he was a Thief, and I was worse. Took this account because should not
+say they was married, and not Registered. N.B. The Fellow said Mr.
+Warren was his relation."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>It was the custom for these Fleet Parsons to carry with them
+pocket books, in which were roughly entered the names of the Married
+Couple, and, occasionally, if
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_346" id="Page_346">[Pg 346]</a></span>
+they wished their names to be kept secret, and paid, of course, a
+proportionate fee, their full names were not transcribed into the
+larger Register, as the following shows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"September y<sup>e</sup> 11th, 1745. Edwd. &mdash;&mdash; and
+Elizabeth &mdash;&mdash; were married, and would not let me know their names,
+y<sup>e</sup> man said he was a weaver, and liv'd in Bandy leg walk in
+the Borough.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+Pr. E. Ashwell."
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>He was so famous that he was honoured with an obituary notice in the
+press, <i>vide</i> the <i>General Advertiser</i>, Jan. 15, 1746.
+"On Monday last, died, in the Rules of the Fleet, Doctor Ashwell,
+the most noted operator in Marriages since the death of the
+never-to-be-forgotten Dr. Gaynam."</p>
+
+<p>John Floud, or Flood, did a good business from the time of Queen
+Anne, 1709, to Dec. 31, 1729, when he died within the Rules of the
+Fleet. He was a very queer Character, keeping a mistress who played
+jackall to his lion, and touted for couples to be married. He died
+suddenly whilst celebrating a wedding. Yet even he seems to have had
+some compunction as to his course of life, like Walter Wyatt: for, in
+one of his pocket books is the following verse.</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width18">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"I have Liv'd so long I am weary Living,</p>
+<p class="i1">I wish I was dead, and my sins forgiven:</p>
+<p class="i1">Then I am sure to go to heaven,</p>
+<p class="i1">Although I liv'd at sixes and sevens."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>John Floud had a peculiarity; if ever he wanted to make memoranda,
+which were not convenient to introduce
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_347" id="Page_347">[Pg 347]</a></span>
+into his ordinary Register he partially used the Greek character, as
+being "Caviar to the general," thus:</p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">"13 Jan. 1728. &mu;&alpha;&rho;&rho;: &tau;h&rho;&eta;&eta;</span>
+&sigmaf;h&iota;&lambda;&lambda;&iota;&nu;&gamma;&sigmaf;
+&amp; &omicron;&nu;&eta; &delta;<sup>o</sup>
+&chi;&eta;&rho;&tau;&iota;<i>f</i>&iota;&chi;&alpha;&tau;&eta;. &Tau;h&eta;
+&beta;&rho;&iota;&delta;&eta;&gamma;&rho;&omicron;&omicron;&mu;
+w&alpha;&sigmaf; &tau;h&eta;
+&beta;&rho;&omicron;&tau;h&eta;&rho; &omicron;<i>f</i> &tau;h&eta;
+&mu;&eta;&mu;&omicron;&rho;&alpha;&beta;&lambda;&eta;
+J&omicron;&nu;&alpha;&tau;h&alpha;&nu; W&iota;&lambda;&delta;
+E&chi;&eta;&chi;&upsilon;&tau;&eta;&delta; &alpha;&tau;
+Ty&beta;&upsilon;&rho;&nu;." </p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Marr.: three shillings and one ditto Certificate. The bridegroom was</span>
+the brother of the memorable Jonathan Wild, Executed at Tyburn.</p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">"8 Mar. 1728. &Nu;&omicron;&tau;h&iota;&nu;&gamma;</span>
+&beta;&upsilon;&tau; &alpha; &nu;&omicron;&tau;&eta;
+&omicron;<i>f</i> h&alpha;&nu;&delta; <i>f</i>&omicron;&rho;
+&tau;h&iota;&sigmaf; &mu;&alpha;&rho;&rho;&iota;&alpha;&gamma;&eta;
+wh&iota;&chi;h &nu;&eta;&upsilon;&eta;&rho; w&alpha;&sigmaf;
+&phi;&alpha;&iota;&delta;." </p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Nothing but a note of hand for this marriage, which</span>
+never was paid.</p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">"27 August, 1728. &mu;&alpha;&rho;&rho;&iota;&alpha;&gamma;&eta;</span>
+&tau;h&iota;&rho;&tau;&eta;&eta;&nu;
+&sigma;h&iota;&lambda;&lambda;&iota;&nu;&gamma;&sigmaf; &amp;
+&omicron;&nu;&eta; &amp; &sigmaf;&iota;&chi;&pi;&eta;&nu;&chi;&eta;
+&chi;&eta;&rho;&tau;&iota;<i>f</i>&iota;&chi;&alpha;&tau;&eta;.
+&tau;h&eta; w&omicron;&mu;&alpha;&nu; &nu;&omicron;&tau;
+&chi;&alpha;&rho;&iota;&nu;&gamma; &tau;&omicron; &beta;&eta;
+&mu;&alpha;&rho;&rho;&iota;&eta;&delta; &iota;&nu; &tau;h&eta;
+&Phi;&lambda;&eta;&eta;&tau; &Iota; h&alpha;&delta; &tau;h&eta;&mu;
+&mu;&alpha;&rho;&rho;&iota;&eta;&delta; &alpha;&tau; &mu;&rho;
+&Beta;&rho;&omicron;w&nu;&sigmaf; &alpha;&tau; &mu;&rho;
+H&alpha;&rho;&rho;&iota;&sigmaf;&omicron;&nu;&sigmaf; &iota;&nu;
+&phi;&epsilon;&iota;&delta;&gamma;&eta;&omicron;&nu;&eta;
+&chi;&omicron;&upsilon;&rho;&tau; &iota;&nu; &tau;h&eta;
+&Omicron;&lambda;&delta; &Beta;&alpha;&iota;&lambda;&eta;y &alpha;&tau;
+<i>f</i>&omicron;&upsilon;&rho; &alpha;&chi;&lambda;&omicron;&chi;&chi;
+&iota;&nu; &tau;h&eta; &mu;&omicron;&rho;&nu;&iota;&nu;&gamma;." </p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Marriage thirteen shillings, and one and sixpence Certificate. The</span>
+woman not caring to be married in the Fleet, I had them married at Mr.
+Brown's, at Mr. Harrison's in Pidgeone Court, in the Old Bailey at four
+a'clock in the morning.</p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">"12 Aug. 1729. &phi;&delta; <i>f</i>&iota;&upsilon;&eta;</span>
+&sigmaf;h&iota;&lambda;&lambda;&iota;&nu;&gamma;&sigmaf;
+&phi;&eta;&rho; &tau;&omicron;&tau;&alpha;&lambda;. N.B.
+&Tau;h&eta; 28th &omicron;<i>f</i> &Alpha;&phi;&rho;&iota;&lambda; 1736
+&mu;&rho;&sigmaf; &Beta;&eta;&lambda;&lambda; &chi;&alpha;&mu;&eta;
+&alpha;&nu;&delta; &Epsilon;&alpha;&rho;&nu;&eta;&sigmaf;&tau;&lambda;y
+&iota;&nu;&tau;&rho;&eta;&alpha;&tau;&eta;&delta; &mu;&eta;
+&tau;&omicron; &Epsilon;&rho;&alpha;&sigmaf;&eta;
+&Tau;h&eta; &mu;&alpha;&rho;&rho;&iota;&alpha;&gamma;&eta;
+&omicron;&upsilon;&tau; &omicron;<i>f</i> &tau;h&eta;
+&beta;&omicron;&omicron;&chi; for &tau;h&alpha;&tau;
+h&eta;&rho; h&upsilon;&sigmaf;&beta;&alpha;&nu;&delta;
+h&alpha;&delta; &beta;&eta;&alpha;&tau; &alpha;&nu;&delta;
+&alpha;&beta;&upsilon;&sigmaf;&eta;&delta; h&eta;&rho; &iota;&nu;
+&alpha; &beta;&alpha;&rho;&beta;&alpha;&rho;&omicron;&upsilon;&sigmaf;
+&mu;&alpha;&nu;&nu;&eta;&rho;.... &Iota; &mu;&alpha;&delta;&eta;
+h&eta;&rho; &beta;&eta;&lambda;&epsilon;&iota;&upsilon;&eta;
+&Iota; &delta;&iota;&delta; &sigmaf;&omicron;, <i>f</i>&omicron;&rho;
+wh&iota;&chi;h &Iota; h&alpha;&delta; h&alpha;&lambda;<i>f</i>
+&alpha; &gamma;&upsilon;&iota;&nu;&eta;&alpha;,
+&alpha;&nu;&delta; &sigmaf;h&eta; &alpha;&tau;
+&tau;h&eta; &sigmaf;&alpha;&mu;&eta; &tau;&iota;&mu;&eta;
+&delta;&eta;&lambda;&iota;&upsilon;&eta;&rho;&eta;&delta;
+&mu;&eta; &upsilon;&phi; h&eta;&rho;
+&chi;&eta;&rho;&tau;&iota;<i>f</i>&iota;&chi;&alpha;&tau;&eta;.
+&Nu;&omicron; &phi;&eta;&rho;&sigmaf;&omicron;&nu;
+&phi;&rho;&eta;&sigmaf;&eta;&nu;&tau;
+(&Alpha;&chi;&chi;&omicron;&rho;&delta;&iota;&nu;&gamma; &tau;&omicron;
+h&eta;&rho; &delta;&eta;&sigmaf;&iota;&rho;&eta;)." </p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 1em;">Paid five shillings per total. N.B.&mdash;The 28th of April, 1736,</span>
+Mrs. Bell came and earnestly intreated me
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_348" id="Page_348">[Pg 348]</a></span>
+to erase the Marriage out of the book, for that her husband had beat
+and abused her in a barbarous manner.... I made her believe I did so,
+for which I had half a guinea, and she, at the same time, delivered me
+up her certificate. No person present (according to her desire).
+</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps, next to Dr. Gaynam, the bishop, no one did more business
+in Fleet Marriages than Walter Wyatt. We have already read some of his
+moral apothegms. He made a large income out of his Marriages, and,
+looking at the value of money, which was at least three times that of
+the present time, his profession was highly lucrative. Take one Month
+for instance. October, 1748&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="center">
+Oct. y<sup>e</sup><span style="margin-left: 0.5em;"> 1&nbsp;&nbsp;at home&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2&nbsp;11&nbsp; 6&nbsp;&nbsp; abroad &nbsp;nil.</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 4em;">2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5&nbsp;13&nbsp; 6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11&nbsp; 6</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 4em;">3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2&nbsp;15&nbsp; 6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 16&nbsp; 0</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 4em;">4&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12&nbsp; 3 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;" &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10&nbsp; 0</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 4em;">5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1 &nbsp; 5&nbsp; 6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; nil.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 4em;">6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 10&nbsp; 6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; 1&nbsp; 4&nbsp; 6</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 4em;">7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1 &nbsp; 8&nbsp; 6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;  nil.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 10em;">&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;-</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 20em;">Total ...&nbsp;17&nbsp; 19&nbsp;  3</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 13em;">From&nbsp; &nbsp;8th to 15th &nbsp; "&nbsp; &nbsp;...&nbsp;&nbsp;17&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6&nbsp; 6</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 14em;">"&nbsp; &nbsp; 15th&nbsp; "&nbsp;&nbsp;21st&nbsp;&nbsp; "&nbsp;&nbsp; ...&nbsp; 10&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;  0&nbsp; 6</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 14em;">"&nbsp; &nbsp; 21st&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp; 27th&nbsp;&nbsp; "&nbsp;&nbsp; ...&nbsp; &nbsp; 6&nbsp; 17&nbsp; 0</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 14em;">"&nbsp; &nbsp; 28th&nbsp; "&nbsp; 31st&nbsp;&nbsp; "&nbsp;&nbsp; ...&nbsp; &nbsp; 5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 9&nbsp; 6</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 23em;">&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 23em;">£57&nbsp; 12&nbsp;  9</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 23em;">=======</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Or nearly &pound;700 a year&mdash;equal to about &pound;2,500 of our
+Currency. No wonder then, that when he died, March 13, 1750, he left
+a will behind him, which was
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_349" id="Page_349">[Pg 349]</a></span>
+duly proved; and by it he left his children in ward to his brother, and
+different legacies to his family&mdash;to his married daughter Mary, he
+bequeathed five pounds, and his estate at Oxford.</p>
+
+<p>He describes himself, on the cover of one of the Registers, as
+"Mr. Wyatt, c, is removed from the Two Sawyers,
+the Corner of Fleet Lane (with all the Register Books), to the Hand
+and Pen near Holborn Bridge, where Marriages are solemnized without
+imposition." But there seem to have been other establishments which traded on
+Wyatt's sign, probably because he was so prosperous. Joshua Lilley kept
+the Hand and Pen near Fleet Bridge. Matthias Wilson's house of the same
+sign stood on the bank of the Fleet ditch; John Burnford had a similar
+name for his house at the foot of Ludgate Hill, and Mrs. Balls also had
+an establishment with the same title. </p>
+
+<p>He seems to have attempted to invade Parson Keith's <i>peculiar</i> in
+May Fair, or it may only be an Advertising ruse on the part of that
+exceedingly keen practitioner, in order to bring his name prominently
+before the public. At all events there is an Advertisement dated August
+27, 1748. "The Fleet Parson (who very modestly calls himself
+Reverend), married at the Fleet, in Mr. L&mdash;&mdash;yl's
+house, Mrs. C&mdash;&mdash;k's, at the Naked Boy, and for Mr.
+W&mdash;&mdash;yt, the Fleet Parson. And to shew that he is now
+only for Mr. W&mdash;&mdash;yt, the Fleet Parson's deputy, the said
+W&mdash;&mdash;yt told one in May Fair, that he intended to set up
+in opposition to Mr. Keith, and send goods to furnish the house, and
+maintains
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_350" id="Page_350">[Pg 350]</a></span>
+him and the men who ply some days at the Fleet, and at other times at
+May Fair. But not to speak of the men, if he himself was not a Fleet
+Parson, he could never stand in Piccadilly, and run after Coaches and
+foot people in so shameful a manner, and tell them Mr. Keith's house
+is shut up, and there is no Chapel but theirs; and to other people he
+says, their Fleet Chapel is Mr. Keith's Chapel, and this he hath said
+in the hearing of Mr. Keith's clerk, and it is known to most of the
+people about May Fair, and likewise Mr. Keith appeals to the generality
+of people about the Fleet and May Fair, for proof of Mr. Reverend's
+being only W&mdash;&mdash;yts, the Fleet parson's deputy."
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_350-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_350-200.png" width="200" height="115" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_351" id="Page_351">[Pg 351]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_351-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_351-500.png" width="500" height="143" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXVIII.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">OF James Starkey, who married from 1718 to 1730,
+very little is known, except that he had run away to Scotland, and
+could not be produced when wanted at a trial in the Old Bailey. And
+also of Robert Cuthbert, 1723-30&mdash;very little is known except
+through the medium of his pocket books, and they recount his love of
+horse flesh, and the prices he paid for his mounts.</p>
+
+<p>Of Thomas Crawford, 1723-1748, we hear something from a letter in
+that curious <i>mélange</i> of News, the <i>Grub Street Journal</i>, June 10,
+1736:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Gentlemen, Having frequently heard of the many abominable practises
+of the Fleet, I had the Curiosity, May 23, to take a view of the place,
+as I accidently was walking by.</p>
+
+<p>"The first thing observable was one J&mdash;&mdash; L&mdash;&mdash;,
+<a name="FNanchor_156" id="FNanchor_156"></a><a href="#Footnote_156"
+class="fnanchor">[156]</a>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_352" id="Page_352">[Pg 352]</a></span>
+by trade a Carpenter (whose brother, it is said, keeps
+the sign of the B&mdash;&mdash; and G&mdash;&mdash;r), <a
+name="FNanchor_157" id="FNanchor_157"></a><a href="#Footnote_157"
+class="fnanchor">[157]</a> cursing, swearing, <span class="pagenum"><a
+name="Page_353" id="Page_353">[Pg 353]</a></span> and raving
+in the street in the time of divine service, with a mob of
+people about him, calling one of his fraternity (J. E.), <a
+name="FNanchor_158" id="FNanchor_158"></a><a href="#Footnote_158"
+class="fnanchor">[158]</a> a Plyer for Weddings, an informing rogue,
+for informing against one of their Ministers for profane cursing and
+swearing, for which offence he paid three pounds odd money: the hearing
+of which pleased me very well, since I could find one in that notorious
+place which had some spark of grace left; as was manifested by the
+dislike he shewed to the person that was guilty of the profanation of
+God's sacred name.</p>
+
+<p>"When the mob was dispersed, I walked about some small time, and saw
+a person, exceeding well-dress'd in flower'd morning gown, a band, hat
+and wig, who appeared so clean that I took him for some worthy divine,
+who might have, accidentally, be making the same remarks as myself; but
+upon inquiry was surpris'd at being assured he was one T&mdash;&mdash;
+C&mdash;&mdash; <a name="FNanchor_159" id="FNanchor_159"></a><a
+href="#Footnote_159" class="fnanchor">[159]</a> a watchmaker, who goes
+in a Minister's dress, personating a Clergyman, and taking upon him the
+name of Doctor, to the scandal of the Sacred function. He may be seen
+any time at the Bull and Garter, or the Great Hand, and Pen and Star,
+with these words under written. '<i>The old and true Register</i>' near the
+Rainbow Coffee House.&mdash;T. S."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Peter Symson, who married 1731-1754, describes himself in his
+handbill, as "educated at the University of Cambridge, and late
+Chaplain to the Earl of Rothes."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_354" id="Page_354">[Pg 354]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>His "Chapel" was at the Old Red Hand and Mitre, three doors from
+Fleet Lane, and next door to the White Swan. As were most of his
+fellows, he was witness in a bigamy trial in 1751. He was asked,</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Why did you marry them without license?</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Symson.</i> Because somebody would have done it, if I had
+not. I was ordained in Grosvenor Square Chapel by the Bishop of
+Winchester&mdash;the Bishop of Lincoln. Can't say I am a prisoner in
+the Fleet. Am 43 years old. Never had a benefice in my life. I have
+had little petty Curacies about £20 or £30 per year. I don't do it for
+lucre or gain.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Court.</i> You might have exposed your person had you gone on the
+highway, but you'd do less prejudice to your country a great deal. You
+are a nuisance to the public; and the gentlemen of the jury, it is to
+be hoped, will give but little credit to you."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>When Keith of Mayfair was committed to the Fleet, Symson married for
+him from 1750 to 1754.</p>
+
+<p>There was another Fleet Parson named William Dare, 1732-1746, who
+had such a large connection that he employed a Curate to help him; but
+then, his marriages were 150 to 200 a month.</p>
+
+<p>James Lando is somewhat shrouded in mystery, for it is possible that
+he was identical with the gentleman who is described at the end of one
+of the Fleet Registers as "John Lando, a French Minister, in Church Street, Soho, opposite att
+a French pastry or nasty Cook's. His Landlord's name is Jinkstone, a
+dirty chandler's shop: he is to be heard of in the first flower next
+the skye." </p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_355" id="Page_355">[Pg 355]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He really was a "Chaplain of the Fleet," for he was Chaplain on
+board H.B.M.S. <i>Falkland</i> from May 29, 1744, to Jan. 17, 1746. He had
+a house in Half Moon Court, the first house joining to Ludgate, which
+was at the Corner of the Old Bailey. This he called St. John's Chapel,
+and here he not only solemnized marriages, but taught Latin and French
+three times a week.</p>
+
+<p>An advertisement of his states that "Marriages with a Licence, Certificate, and a Crown Stamp, at a
+Guinea, at the New Chapel, next door to the China Shop, near Fleet
+Bridge, London, by a regular bred Clergyman, and not by a Fleet Parson,
+as is insinuated in the public papers; and that the town may be freed
+(from) mistakes, no Clergyman being a prisoner in the Rules of the
+Fleet dare marry; and to obviate all doubts, this Chapel is not in the
+verge of the Fleet, but kept by a Gentleman who was lately on board one
+of his Majesty's men of war, and likewise has gloriously distinguished
+himself in defence of his King and Country, and is above committing
+those little mean actions that some men impose on people, being
+determined to have everything conducted with the utmost decency and
+regularity, such as shall be always supported in law and equity." </p>
+
+<p>Burn gives a list of others who married in the Fleet, but does not
+pretend it to be exhaustive. Still, the list is a long one.</p>
+
+<table summary="fleet parsons" style="width:30%">
+<tr><td class="tdl">Bates&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;...</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Becket, John</td><td class="tdl">1748</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Buckler, Sam.</td><td class="tdl">1732 to 1751</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Brayfield, Sam.</td><td class="tdl">1754</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Bynes, Benj.</td><td class="tdl">1698 to 1711</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Barrett, Mich.</td><td class="tdl">1717 "&nbsp; 1738</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Colton, James</td><td class="tdl">1681 to 1721
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_356" id="Page_356">[Pg 356]</a></span></td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Callow, Jos.</td><td class="tdl">1752</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Clayton</td><td class="tdl">1720</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Colteman</td><td class="tdl">1688</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Draper</td><td class="tdl">1689 to 1716</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Denevan, Francis</td><td class="tdl">1747 "&nbsp; 1754</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Davis, Wm.</td><td class="tdl">1718</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Evans, John</td><td class="tdl">1689 to 1729</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Evans, Ed.</td><td class="tdl">1727</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Farren, John</td><td class="tdl">1688</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Gower, Henry</td><td class="tdl">1689 to 1718</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Hodgkins, Thos.</td><td class="tdl">1674 "&nbsp; 1728</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Hanson, Anthony</td><td class="tdl">1731 "&nbsp; 1732</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Jones, John</td><td class="tdl">1718 "&nbsp; 1725</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Loveday, Wm.</td><td class="tdl">1750</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Morton</td><td class="tdl">1720</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Marston, Edward</td><td class="tdl">1713 to 1714</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Marshall, John</td><td class="tdl">1750</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Murry, D.</td><td class="tdl">1719</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Nodes</td><td class="tdl">1753</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Oswald</td><td class="tdl">1712</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Oglesby</td><td class="tdl">1728 to 1740</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Privavaul</td><td class="tdl"></td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Patterson</td><td class="tdl">1732</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Ryder, Thos.</td><td class="tdl">1722 to 1743</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Roberts, Edward</td><td class="tdl">1698</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Reynolds, E.</td><td class="tdl">1749</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Rogers, Nehemiah</td><td class="tdl">1700 to 1703</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Shadwell, Ralph</td><td class="tdl">1733 "&nbsp; 1734</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Shaw, James</td><td class="tdl">1723</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Sindrey, Richard</td><td class="tdl">1722 to 1740</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Stacy, Edmund</td><td class="tdl">1719</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Shelburn, Anthony</td><td class="tdl">1722 to 1737</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Stainton, John</td><td class="tdl">1730</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Simpson, Anthony</td><td class="tdl">1726 to 1754</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Stanhope, Walter</td><td class="tdl">1711</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Standly</td><td class="tdl">1747 to 1750</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Skinner, Nathaniel</td><td class="tdl">1716</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Town, I.</td><td class="tdl">1754</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Tomkings</td><td class="tdl">1740</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Tarrant, John</td><td class="tdl">1688</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"</td><td class="tdl">1742 to 1750</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Townsend, Jacob</td><td class="tdl">1754</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Vice, Jo.</td><td class="tdl">1689 to 1713</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Wagstaffe, James</td><td class="tdl">1689 "&nbsp; 1729</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Wise, J.</td><td class="tdl">1709</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Wilkinson</td><td class="tdl">1740</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Williams, Wm.</td><td class="tdl"></td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Walker, Clem.</td><td class="tdl">1732 to 1735</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="tdl">Wodmore, Isaac</td><td class="tdl">1752</td></tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Which of these is the one referred to in the <i>Gentleman's
+Magazine</i> for April 1809? "I should be much obliged to you also, Mr. Urban, if you, or any of
+your numerous and intelligent correspondents, could acquaint me with
+the name of a tall black clergyman, who used to solicit the commands of
+the votaries of Hymen at the door of a public-house known by the sign
+of the Cock in Fleet Market, previously to the Marriage Act." </p>
+
+<p>Before dismissing the subject of Fleet parsons, reference must
+be made to the Rev. Alexander Keith of
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_357" id="Page_357">[Pg 357]</a></span>
+Mayfair Chapel, who has a claim to be noticed here, as he was an
+inhabitant of the Fleet. The Chapel in Mayfair was built somewhere
+about 1736, to meet the wants of the increasing neighbourhood, which
+was then becoming fashionable, after the abolition of the fair in
+Brook-field, and the first incumbent was the Rev. Alexander Keith, who
+claimed to have been ordained priest by the Bishop of Norwich, acting
+on Letters Dimissory from the Bishop of London, in June, 1731. He also
+stated that at the time of his appointment as preacher in the Chapel,
+he was Reader at the Roll's Chapel. He did a roaring trade in irregular
+marriages, and it was at Mayfair Chapel that the Duke of Hamilton
+espoused the youngest of the beautiful Miss Gunnings, "with a ring of the bed curtain, at half an hour past twelve at
+night." </p>
+
+<p>He had also a private chapel of his own, as we read in an
+advertisement of his, April, 1750. "Several persons belonging to Churches and Chapels, together with
+many others, supposing the Marriages at May Fair New Chapel to be
+detrimental to their interest, have made it their Business to rave and
+clamour, but in such a Manner, as not to deserve to Answer, because
+every Thing they have said tends to expose their own Ignorance and
+Malice, in the Opinion of People of good Sense and Understanding. We
+are informed, that Mrs. Keith's Corpse was removed from her Husband's
+House in May Fair, the Middle of October last, to an Apothecary's in
+South Audley Street, where she lies in a Room hung with Mourning,
+and is to continue there till Mr. Keith can attend her Funeral! The
+way to
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_358" id="Page_358">[Pg 358]</a></span>
+Mr. Keith's Chapel is thro' Piccadilly, by the End of St. James's
+Street and down Clarges Street, and turn on the Left Hand. The
+Marriages (together with a Licence on a Five Shilling Stamp, and
+Certificate) are carried on as usual, any time till Four in the
+Afternoon, by another regular Clergyman, at Mr. Keith's little Chapel
+in May Fair, near Hyde Park Corner, opposite the great Chapel, and
+within ten Yards of it. There is a Porch at the Door like a Country
+Church Porch." </p>
+
+<p>His wife died in 1749 whilst he was in the Fleet prison, which
+accounts for his inability to attend her funeral. Why he was imprisoned
+is as follows. By advertising, and other means, his Marriages at
+Mayfair were very popular, and interfered greatly with the Vested
+Interests of the neighbouring clergy, one of whom, Dr. Trebeck, rector
+of St. George's, Hanover Square, brought a lawsuit against him, in the
+Ecclesiastical Court. He defended himself, but unsuccessfully, for a
+sentence of excommunication was promulgated against him on Oct. 27,
+1742.</p>
+
+<p>Two could play at that game, so Keith excommunicated, at his
+Chapel in Mayfair, his bishop, the judge who condemned him, and the
+prosecutor, Dr. Trebeck, but none of them seem to have been any the
+worse for the operation. Such, however, was not the case with Keith,
+for, on Jan. 24, 1743, a decree was issued for his apprehension. This
+did not take effect till April, 1743, when he was committed to the
+Fleet; the marriages at Mayfair being continued, as we have seen, by
+Symson and Denevan.</p>
+
+<p>He lay in the Fleet about fifteen years, and in 1753, <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_359" id="Page_359">[Pg 359]</a></span>
+when Lord Hardwicke's Marriage Act was being discussed, he thence
+issued a pamphlet of thirty-two pages, with his portrait attached,
+entitled, "Observations on the Act for preventing Clandestine
+Marriages." In it he gives what seems to be "a plain, unvarnished tale"
+of Fleet Marriages. "As I have married many thousands, and, consequently, have on those
+occasions seen the humour of the lower class of people, I have often
+asked the married pair how long they had been acquainted; they would
+reply, some more, some less, but the generality did not exceed the
+acquaintance of a week, some only of a day, half-a-day, &amp;c....
+Another inconveniency which will arise from this Act will be, that the
+expence of being married will be so great, that few of the lower class
+of people can afford; for I have often heard a Flete parson say, that
+many have come to be married when they have but half-a-crown in their
+pockets, and sixpence to buy a pot of beer, and for which they have
+pawned some of their cloaths.... I remember once on a time, I was at
+a public-house at Radcliffe, which was then full of Sailors and their
+girls, there was fiddling, piping, jigging, and eating; at length one
+of the tars starts up, and says, 'D&mdash;m ye, Jack, I'll be married
+just now; I will have my partner, and'.... The joke took, and in less
+than two hours ten couple set out for the Flete. I staid their return.
+They returned in coaches; five women in each coach; the tars, some
+running before, others riding on the coach box, and others behind. The
+Cavalcade being over, the couples went up into an upper room, where
+they concluded the evening with great jollity. The next time I <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_360" id="Page_360">[Pg 360]</a></span>
+went that way, I called on my landlord and asked him concerning this
+marriage adventure; he first stared at me, but, recollecting, he said
+those things were so frequent, that he hardly took any notice of them;
+for, added he, it is a common thing, when a fleet comes in, to have two
+or three hundred marriages in a week's time, among the sailors." </p>
+
+<p>The Marriage Act was passed, and came into force on March 26, 1754.
+On the 25th Sixty-one Couples were married at Mayfair Chapel.</p>
+
+<p>It was a death blow to the Reverend Alexander, although he tried to
+laugh it off, if Horace Walpole may be believed. In a letter to George
+Montagu, Esqr. (June 11, 1753), he says: "I shall only tell you a <i>bon mot</i> of Keith's, the marriage broker,
+and conclude. 'G&mdash;d d&mdash;n the Bishops,' said he (I beg Miss
+Montagu's pardon), 'so they will hinder my marrying. Well, let 'em,
+but I'll be revenged: I'll buy two or three acres of ground, and by
+G&mdash;d, I'll under bury them all.'" </p>
+
+<p>This may have been true, but it was mere bravado, for he appealed
+from his prison to the benevolent, as we see by the following
+advertisement. "<i>To the Compassionate.</i> By the late Marriage Act, the Rev.
+Mr. Keith, from a great Degree of Affluence, is reduc'd to such a
+deplorable State of Misery in the Fleet Prison, as is much better
+to be conceiv'd than related, having scarce any other thing than
+Bread and Water to subsist on. It is to be hoped he will be deemed
+truly undeserving such a Fate, when the Publick are assured,
+that not foreseeing such an unhappy Stroke of Fortune, as <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_361" id="Page_361">[Pg 361]</a></span>
+the late Act, he yearly expended almost his whole Income (which
+amounted to several Hundred Pounds per Annum) in relieving not only
+single distress'd Persons, but even whole Families of wretched Objects
+of Compassion. This can be attested by several Persons of the strictest
+Character and Reputation, as well as by Numbers who experienced
+his Bounty. Mr. Keith's present calamitous Situation renders him
+perhaps as great an Object of Charity himself, as all Circumstances
+consider'd, as ever in his better Days partook of his own Assistance,
+or that of others equally compassionate; and is indeed sufficient to
+awaken Humanity in the most uncharitable. Any Gentleman or Lady may
+be satisfied of the above by applying to Mr. Brooke, Engraver, facing
+Water Lane, Fleet Street, by whom Donations from the Publick will be
+received for the Use of Mr. Keith." </p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<blockquote>
+<p class="footnote"><span class="smcap"><b>Footnotes</b></span></p>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_156"
+id="Footnote_156"></a><a href="#FNanchor_156"><span
+class="label">[156]</span></a> Joshua Lilly, who kept one of the Hand
+and Pen houses, and said that he had been appointed Registrar of
+Marriages, by the Lord Chancellor, and had paid £1,000 for the post.
+He did not marry people, but kept presumable Clergymen to do so. He is
+mentioned several times in the Registers and Pocket-books. Once, at
+all events, he was in danger of the judgment seat, as Ashwell writes
+in one of his pocket-books: "N.B. On Sunday, November y<sup>e</sup> 6,
+1740, at y<sup>e</sup> hour of 9, in my house declared that, if he had
+not come home out of y<sup>e</sup> country, being fled for punishment,
+having Cut of his hair (to prevent being known), y<sup>t</sup>
+y<sup>e</sup> indictment for marrying James Hussey to Miss Henrietta
+Arnold, he had (been) ruin'd but y<sup>t</sup> he swore it off and
+y<sup>e</sup> attorney promis'd to defend him, and it cost him only
+a treat of 10/; had I staid, says the s<sup>d</sup> Joshua Lilley,
+where I was, viz. &mdash;&mdash;, the indictment would have stood
+good against me, but my taking y<sup>e</sup> side of the prosecutor,
+y<sup>e</sup> young ladies, I have got safe off." In a Register is a
+notice relating to him. "June y<sup>e</sup> 13th, 1744. Whereas one
+Joshua Lilley, being a noted man for having more marriages at his house
+than the generality of y<sup>e</sup> people could have, he the said
+Joshua Lilley keeping several plyars, as they are call'd, to gett these
+weddings, I have put his marriages down in a separate book, but findend
+ill-convenience arise thereby, fro' this 13th instant, do insert it
+w<sup>th</sup> y<sup>e</sup> rest." And one of his handbills describes
+him as 'I. Lilley, at y<sup>e</sup> Hand and Pen, next door to the
+china shop, Fleet Bridge, London, will be perform'd the solemnization
+of marriages by a gentleman regularly bred att one of our Universities,
+and lawfully ordain'd according to the institutions of the Church of
+England, and is ready to wait on any person in town or countrey."</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_157"
+id="Footnote_157"></a><a href="#FNanchor_157"><span
+class="label">[157]</span></a> This was John Lilley, who kept a
+public-house, called the Bull and Garter. In 1717 he was found guilty,
+and fined five pounds, for acting as Clerk at a Fleet Marriage. He
+was a turnkey at the Fleet Prison, and in his house he had a room for
+solemnizing marriages&mdash;which he called a Chapel&mdash;issuing
+certificates bearing the City Arms, and purporting to be the Lord
+Mayor's Certificates.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_158"
+id="Footnote_158"></a><a href="#FNanchor_158"><span
+class="label">[158]</span></a> Probably John Evans, who married from
+1689 to 1729, both at the King's Bench and Fleet.</p> </div>
+
+<div class="footnote"> <p><a name="Footnote_159"
+id="Footnote_159"></a><a href="#FNanchor_159"><span
+class="label">[159]</span></a> I am unable to identify these
+initials.</p> </div>
+
+</blockquote>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_362" id="Page_362">[Pg 362]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_362-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_362-500.png" width="500" height="336" alt="A FLEET WEDDING." /></a>
+<div class="caption">A FLEET WEDDING.
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_363" id="Page_363">[Pg 363]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_363-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_363-500.png" width="500" height="120" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXIX.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">KEITH'S written description of a Fleet Marriage is
+graphic, but a contemporary engraving brings it
+even more vividly before us. This was published
+Oct. 20, 1747, and gives an excellent view of the
+Fleet Market as it then was. It is called "<span class="smcap">A Fleet
+Wedding</span>, Between a brisk young Sailor, and his
+Landlady's Daughter at Rederiff."</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Scarce had the Coach discharg'd it's trusty Fare,</p>
+<p class="i1">But gaping Crouds surround th' amorous Pair;</p>
+<p class="i1">The busy Plyers make a mighty Stir!</p>
+<p class="i1">And whisp'ring cry, d'ye want the Parson, Sir?</p>
+<p class="i1">Pray step this way&mdash;just to the <span class="smcap">Pen in Hand</span></p>
+<p class="i1">The Doctor's ready there at your Command:</p>
+<p class="i1">This way (another cries) Sir, I declare</p>
+<p class="i1">The true and ancient Register is Here.</p>
+<p class="i1">Th' alarmed Parsons quickly hear the Din!</p>
+<p class="i1">And haste with soothing words t'invite them in:</p>
+<p class="i1">In this Confusion jostled to and fro,</p>
+<p class="i1">Th' inamour'd Couple knows not where to go:</p>
+<p class="i1">Till slow advancing from the Coache's Side</p>
+<p class="i1">Th' experienc'd Matron came (an artful Guide)</p>
+<p class="i1">She led the way without regarding either,</p>
+<p class="i1">And the first parson spliced 'em both together."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_364" id="Page_364">[Pg 364]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_364-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_364-500.png" width="500" height="305" alt="THE SAILOR'S FLEET WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT." /></a>
+<div class="caption">THE SAILOR'S FLEET WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT.
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_365" id="Page_365">[Pg 365]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The Context to this is a companion Engraving of
+"<span class="smcap">The Sailor's Fleet Wedding Entertainment</span>,"
+which most aptly illustrates Keith's description, but the
+poetry attached to it will scarcely bear modern reproduction.</p>
+
+<p>But, if a poetical account of a Fleet Wedding is
+needed, it may be found in "<span class="smcap">The Bunter's Wedding</span>."</p>
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poem width20">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Good people attend, I'll discover,</p>
+<p class="i1">A Wedding that happen'd of late,</p>
+<p class="i1">I cannot tell why we should smother,</p>
+<p class="i1">The weddings of poor more than great;</p>
+<p class="i1">'Twixt Ben of the Borough so pretty,</p>
+<p class="i1">Who carries a basket, 'tis said,</p>
+<p class="i1">And dainty plump Kent street fair Kitty,</p>
+<p class="i1">A Coney Wool Cutter by trade.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">The guests were all quickly invited,</p>
+<p class="i1">Ben order'd the dinner by noon,</p>
+<p class="i1">And Kitty was highly delighted,</p>
+<p class="i1">They obey'd the glad summons so soon:</p>
+<p class="i1">An ox cheek was order'd for dinner,</p>
+<p class="i1">With plenty of porter and gin,</p>
+<p class="i1">Ben swore on the oath of a sinner,</p>
+<p class="i1">Nothing should be wanting in him.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Joe the sandman, and Bessy the bunter,</p>
+<p class="i1">We hear from St. Giles's did prance,</p>
+<p class="i1">Dick the fiddler, and Sally the Mumper,</p>
+<p class="i1">Brought Levi the Jew for to dance.</p>
+<p class="i1">Tom the Chanter he quickly was present,</p>
+<p class="i1">And squinting black Molly likewise,</p>
+<p class="i1">With Billy the Dustman quite pleasant,</p>
+<p class="i1">And Nell with no nose and sore eyes.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Ned the drover was also invited,</p>
+<p class="i1">Unto this gay wedding to come,</p>
+<p class="i1">From Smithfield he came quite delighted,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_366" id="Page_366">[Pg 366]</a></span>
+<p class="i1">Before that the market was done.</p>
+<p class="i1">And Fanny the pretty match maker,</p>
+<p class="i1">A sister to young bunting Bess,</p>
+<p class="i1">She wished the devil might take her</p>
+<p class="i1">If she was not one of the guests.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Dolly the rag woman's daughter,</p>
+<p class="i1">From Tyburn road she did stride,</p>
+<p class="i1">And Jenny the quilter came after</p>
+<p class="i1">Whose nose it stood all of one side;</p>
+<p class="i1">There was Roger the chimney sweeper,</p>
+<p class="i1">No soot he would gather that day,</p>
+<p class="i1">But, because he would look the compleater,</p>
+<p class="i1">His soot bag and brush threw away.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">There was bandy leg'd sheep's head Susan</p>
+<p class="i1">We hear from Field Lane she did hie,</p>
+<p class="i1">And draggle tail'd Pat with no shoes on,</p>
+<p class="i1">Who pins and laces doth cry;</p>
+<p class="i1">Ralph the grinder he set by his barrow,</p>
+<p class="i1">As soon as he heard of the news,</p>
+<p class="i1">And swore he would be there to-morrow,</p>
+<p class="i1">Atho' he'd no heels to his shoes.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Sam the grubber, he having had warning,</p>
+<p class="i1">His wallet and broom down did lay,</p>
+<p class="i1">And early attended next morning,</p>
+<p class="i1">The bride for to give away;</p>
+<p class="i1">And Peggy the mop yarn spinner,</p>
+<p class="i1">Her Cards and her wheel set aside,</p>
+<p class="i1">And swore as she was a sinner,</p>
+<p class="i1">She'd go and attire the bride.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Nan the tub woman out of Whitechapel,</p>
+<p class="i1">Was also invited to go,</p>
+<p class="i1">And, as she was 'kin to the couple,</p>
+<p class="i1">She swore she the stocking would throw;</p>
+<p class="i1">So having all gather'd together,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_367" id="Page_367">[Pg 367]</a></span>
+<p class="i1">As they appointed to meet,</p>
+<p class="i1">And being all birds of a feather,</p>
+<p class="i1">They presently flocked to the Fleet.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">But when at Fleet Bridge they arrived,</p>
+<p class="i1">The bridegroom was handing his bride,</p>
+<p class="i1">The sailors [<i>? plyers</i>] they all to them drived,</p>
+<p class="i1">Do you want a Parson? they cry'd;</p>
+<p class="i1">But as they down Fleet Ditch did prance,</p>
+<p class="i1">What house shall we go to? says Ben,</p>
+<p class="i1">Then Kitty, in raptures, made answer</p>
+<p class="i1">Let's go to the Hand and the Pen.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Then into the house they did bundle,</p>
+<p class="i1">The landlady shew'd them a room,</p>
+<p class="i1">The landlord he roar'd out like thunder,</p>
+<p class="i1">The parson shall wait on you soon:</p>
+<p class="i1">Then so eager he came for to fasten,</p>
+<p class="i1">He staid not to fasten his hose,</p>
+<p class="i1">A fat bellied ruddy fac'd parson,</p>
+<p class="i1">That brandy had painted his nose.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">But before (he) the couple did fasten</p>
+<p class="i1">He look'd all around on the men,</p>
+<p class="i1">My fee's half a crown, says the parson,&mdash;</p>
+<p class="i1">I freely will give it, says Ben:</p>
+<p class="i1">Then Hymen he presently follow'd</p>
+<p class="i1">And the happy knot being ty'd</p>
+<p class="i1">The guests they whooped and hollow'd,</p>
+<p class="i1">All joys to the bridegroom and bride.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Like Malt horses home they all pranced,</p>
+<p class="i1">The bride she look'd not like the same,</p>
+<p class="i1">And thus thro' the City they danced;</p>
+<p class="i1">But, when to the Borough they came,</p>
+<p class="i1">The bride to look buxom endeavour'd,</p>
+<p class="i1">The bridegroom as brisk as an eel;</p>
+<p class="i1">With the marrow bones and cleavers,</p>
+<p class="i1">The butchers they rang them a peal.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">And, as they were homewards advancing,</p>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_368" id="Page_368">[Pg 368]</a></span>
+<p class="i1">A-dancing, and singing of songs,</p>
+<p class="i1">The rough music met them all prancing,</p>
+<p class="i1">With frying pans, shovels, and tongs:</p>
+<p class="i1">Tin Canisters, salt boxes plenty,</p>
+<p class="i1">With trotter bones beat by the boys,</p>
+<p class="i1">And they being hollow and empty,</p>
+<p class="i1">They made a most racketting noise.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Bowls, gridirons, platters, and ladles,</p>
+<p class="i1">And pokers, tin kettles did bruise,</p>
+<p class="i1">The noise, none to bear it was able,</p>
+<p class="i1">The warming pans beat with old shoes:</p>
+<p class="i1">Such a rattling racketting uproar,</p>
+<p class="i1">Had you but have heard it, no doubt,</p>
+<p class="i1">All hell was broke loose you'd have swore,</p>
+<p class="i1">And the devils were running about.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">The Mob they all hollow'd and shouted,</p>
+<p class="i1">In the streets as they passed along,</p>
+<p class="i1">The people to see how they scouted,</p>
+<p class="i1">Together in clusters did throng;</p>
+<p class="i1">They made all the noise they was able,</p>
+<p class="i1">And thus they were ushered in,</p>
+<p class="i1">But e'er they all sat down to table,</p>
+<p class="i1">They each had a glass of old gin.</p>
+  </div><div class="stanza">
+<p class="i1">Dinner being decently ended,</p>
+<p class="i1">The table was cleared with speed,</p>
+<p class="i1">And they to be merry intended,</p>
+<p class="i1">So strait did to dancing proceed;</p>
+<p class="i1">But Harry the night man so jolly,</p>
+<p class="i1">With madness he almost cry'd,</p>
+<p class="i1">And all the night sat melancholy,</p>
+<p class="i1">For he had a mind for the bride."</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>There are four more verses, but they are not worth
+transcribing&mdash;besides, there is a very good prose account <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_369" id="Page_369">[Pg 369]</a></span> of
+the doings at the Fleet, which, certainly, bears the impress of truth.
+It is in No. 270 of the <i>Grub Street Journal</i>, Feb. 27, 1735:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"Sir, There is a very great evil in this town, and of dangerous
+consequence to our sex, that has never been suppressed, to the great
+prejudice, and ruin, of many hundreds of young people, every year;
+which I beg some of your learned heads to consider of, and consult
+of proper ways and means to prevent for the future: I mean the
+ruinous marriages that are practised in the liberty of the <i>Fleet</i>,
+and thereabouts, by a sett of drunken, swearing parsons, with their
+Myrmidons that wear black coats, and pretend to be clerks, and
+registers to the Fleet. These ministers of wickedness ply about Ludgate
+Hill, pulling and forcing people to some pedling alehouse, or brandy
+shop, to be married, even on a sunday, stopping them as they go to
+church, and almost tearing their cloaths off their backs. To confirm
+the truth of these facts, I will give you a case or two, which lately
+happened:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Since midsummer last, a young lady of birth and fortune, was
+deluded and forced from her friends, by the assistance of a very
+wicked, swearing parson, married to an atheistical wretch, whose life
+is a continual practice of all manner of vice and debauchery. And,
+since the ruin of my relation, another lady of my acquaintance had like
+to have been trapanned in the following manner:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"This lady had appointed to meet a gentlewoman at the Old Play-house
+in Drury Lane; but extraordinary business prevented her coming. Being
+alone, when
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_370" id="Page_370">[Pg 370]</a></span>
+the play was done, she bade a boy call a coach for
+the City. One drest like a gentleman helps her into it, and jumps in
+after her. 'Madam,' says he, 'this coach was called for me: and since
+the weather is so bad, and there is no other, I beg leave to bear you
+company; I am going into the City, and will set you down wherever you
+please.' The lady begged to be excused; but he bade the coachman drive
+on. Being come to Ludgate hill, he told her his sister, who waited his
+coming, but five doors up the Court, would go with her in two minutes.
+He went, and returned with his pretended sister, who asked her to step
+in one minute, and she would wait upon her in the coach.</p>
+
+<p>"Deluded with the assurance of having his sister's company, the
+poor lady foolishly followed her into the house, when, instantly, the
+sister vanish'd; and a tawny fellow in a black coat and black wig
+appeared. 'Madam, you are come in good time, the doctor was just a
+going.' 'The doctor,' says she, horribly frighted, fearing it was a
+madhouse; 'What has the doctor to do with me?' 'To marry you to that
+gentleman: the doctor has waited for you these three hours, and will be
+payed by you or the gentleman before you go.' 'That gentleman,' says
+she, recovering herself, 'is worthy a better fortune than mine.' And
+begged hard to be gone. But doctor <span class="smcap">Wryneck</span>
+swore she shou'd be married; or, if she wou'd not, he would still have
+his fee, and register the marriage from that night. The lady, finding
+she could not escape without money or a pledge, told them she liked the
+gentleman so well, she would certainly meet him to-morrow night, and
+gave them a ring as a pledge:
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_371" id="Page_371">[Pg 371]</a></span>
+which, says she, 'was my mother's gift on her deathbed, injoining that
+if ever I married, it should be my wedding ring.' By which cunning
+contrivance, she was delivered from the black doctor, and his tawny
+crew.</p>
+
+<p>"Some time after this, I went with this lady, and her brother, in
+a coach to Ludgate Hill, in the day time, to see the manner of their
+picking up people to be married. As soon as our coach stopt near Fleet
+Bridge, up comes on of the Myrmidons. 'Madam,' says he, 'you want a
+parson.' 'Who are you?' says I. 'I am the clerk and register of the
+Fleet.' 'Show me the Chapel.' At which comes a second, desiring me to
+go along with him. Says he, 'That fellow will carry you to a pedling
+alehouse. Says a third, 'Go with me, he will carry you to a brandy
+shop.' In the interim, comes the doctor. 'Madam,' says he, 'I'll do
+your jobb for you presently.' 'Well, gentlemen,' says I, 'since you
+can't agree, and I can't be married quietly, I'll put it off 'till
+another time,' so drove away."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Some of the stories of Fleet Marriages read like romances, yet they
+are all taken from contemporary accounts. Here, for instance, is a
+fact, scarcely to be believed nowadays:&mdash; "Jan. 5, 1742. On Tuesday last two Persons, one of Skinner Street,
+and the other of Webb's Square, Spittle Fields, exchang'd Wives, to
+whom they had been married upwards of twelve Years; and the same Day,
+to the Content of all Parties, the Marriages were consummated at the
+Fleet. Each Husband gave his Wife away to the other, and in the Evening
+had an Entertainment together." </p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_372" id="Page_372">[Pg 372]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Or this from the <i>Whitehall Evening Post</i>, July 24,
+1739:&mdash; "On Tuesday last a Woman indifferently well dress'd came to the sign
+of the Bull and Garter, next Door to the Fleet Prison, and was there
+married to a Soldier; in the afternoon she came again, and would have
+been married to a Butcher, but that Parson who had married her in the
+Morning refused to marry her again, which put her to the Trouble of
+going a few Doors further, to another Parson, who had no Scruple."
+</p>
+
+<p>Here is another story indicative of the Manners and
+Morals of those days:&mdash; Oct. 1739. "Last Week, a merry Widow, near Bethnal Green, having
+a pretty many Admirers, not to be over Cruel, she equally dispensed
+her Favours between two, who were the highest in her Esteem. The one,
+a Butcher, meeting the good Woman, took the Advantage of the others
+Absence, and pleaded his Cause so successfully, that they tuck'd up
+their Tails, trudg'd to the Fleet, and were tack'd together. Home
+they both jogg'd to their several habitations, the Bridegroom to his,
+and the Bride to her's. Soon after came another of her Admirers, an
+honest Weaver, who, upon hearing of the Melancholy News, had no more
+Life in him for some time than one of the Beams of his Loom; but,
+recovering himself a little from the Surprize he was seized with a
+sudden Delirium, swore his Loom should be his Gibbet, and he'd hang
+himself pendant at the End of his Garter, if he also was not tack'd
+to his comfortable Rib: The good Widow, considering that the Butcher
+had not bedded with her, and desirous of preventing Murder, consented,
+and away she jogg'd to be coupled to the Weaver. On their return home,
+to Bed
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_373" id="Page_373">[Pg 373-4]</a></span>
+they went, and the Butcher coming to see his dear Spouse, found her
+in Bed with the Weaver; upon which a Quarrel ensued, and the Butcher
+being the best Man, she left the Weaver and went to the Butcher, being
+willing to please them both, as well as she could." </p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 200px; ">
+<a href="images/i_373-650.png" >
+<img src="images/i_373-200.png" width="200" height="152" alt="Decorative End of Chapter" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_375" id="Page_375">[Pg 375]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_375-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_375-500.png" width="500" height="133" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>CHAPTER XXX.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<p class="drop-cap">THERE are several instances of Committal to the
+Fleet for meddling with Marriages. One or two
+will suffice:&mdash; 1731.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Thursday, the Master of the Rolls
+committed a Clergyman to the Fleet for marrying a young Gentleman about
+17 years of Age at Eaton School, and intitled to an Estate of £1500 per
+Annum, to a Servant Maid: and at the same time committed the person who
+gave her in Marriage. His Honour had some days since sent as Prisoner
+to the Fleet, the Person who pretended to be the Youth's Guardian, and
+who had given a Bond to indemnify the Parson."</p>
+
+<p>1735.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Two Sisters were committed to the
+Fleet prison, by an order of the high Court of Chancery, for drawing a
+young fellow into marriage, he being a ward of the said Court."</p>
+
+<p>Dec. 28, 1734.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Last Saturday Night Mr.
+D&mdash;&mdash; late Valet de Chambre to a certain Noble Lord near
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_376" id="Page_376">[Pg 376]</a></span>
+Soho Square, went away, as was suspected, with his Lordship's Niece, a
+young Lady not yet of Age, and a Coheiress to a very large Estate. It
+seems they took a Hackney Coach soon after they got out of Doors, and
+upon strict Enquiry, the Coachman was found out, who declared that he
+took a Gentleman and a Lady up at such a Place, and set them down at
+the Fleet, and by the Description he gave it appeared to be the two
+Lovers, who may therefore be supposed to have been married and bedded
+that Night. A Warrant was immediately obtained for apprehending the
+Supposed Bridegroom, and he was accordingly taken in Bed with his Lady,
+at a house in Queen Street near Guildhall, on Wednesday Morning last,
+and immediately carried to Poultry Compter, and the Lady was carried
+off by her Friends. In the Afternoon he was examined, and afterwards
+re-committed to the same Prison. So that it seems he is to suffer
+for endeavouring to get himself a <i>Rich Wife</i>, which is a Practice
+followed by all the young <i>Gentlemen</i> of <i>Quality</i> in England; but the
+Difference is, <i>That this young fellow has married, or endeavoured to
+marry an Heiress without the Consent of her Friends, whereas the other
+generally marry or endeavour to marry Heiresses without their own
+Consent.</i> It has since been found out that they were married by a Roman
+Catholic Priest." </p>
+
+<p>There was a faint-hearted protest on the part of the Fleet
+authorities, against the Marriages, but I can find no attempt at
+prosecution, other than for marrying without a stamped licence, in
+spite of the following advertisement:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_377" id="Page_377">[Pg 377]</a></span></p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"September, 1743.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<span
+class="smcap">Whereas</span> the Methods hitherto taken to prevent
+clandestine Marriages at the Fleet have prov'd ineffectual, though
+legal Notice hath been given by the Warden of the Fleet to such of
+his Tenants in whose houses it is reputed such Marriages have been
+suffer'd, to quit the Possession thereof; therefore, and as such
+Warning cannot immediately have the desir'd Effect, this Publick
+Notice is given, that, whoever shall make it appear to the Warden's
+Satisfaction that any of his Prisoners, shall at any time hereafter
+clandestinely marry, or be, in any manner however, concern'd in any
+clandestine Marriage, or suffer such Marriages to be performed in his,
+hers, or their Houses, or Lodgings, such Person or Persons making such
+Discovery, shall receive a Guinea Reward from the Turnkey of the said
+Prison.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+"<span class="smcap">William Manning</span>, Turnkey."
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>There were several people of fortune married by Fleet parsons <i>vide
+Grub Street Journal</i>, September 18, 1735, "Married yesterday Will Adams, Esqr., to
+Miss Eleanor Watkins, a beautiful young lady, with a fortune of
+&pound;15,000." And in the <i>Gentleman's Magazine</i>, May
+6, 1735, "Married the Lord Robert Montagu, to Mrs. Harriet Dunch of Whitehall,
+with a fortune of &pound;15,000."
+</p>
+
+<p>Somewhat of a curiosity is recorded in "Notes and
+Queries," 4 series, vol. xii. p. 295. "I have before me an engraved medal, bearing the following
+inscription, about which I should be glad of information. 'May
+y<sup>e</sup> 3, 1761. Thos. Wisely Maried Sarah Boswell in the Fleet
+Prison.'" This, in all probability, was a half-crown
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_378" id="Page_378">[Pg 378]</a></span>
+with one side made smooth, and the above engraved upon it.</p>
+
+<p>There is no doubt but that, with a duly stamped
+licence and until they were specially done away with by
+Lord Hardwicke's Act of 1753, these marriages were
+legal; still there is an instance recorded in the <i>General
+Evening Post</i>, June 27/29, 1745, in which a Fleet
+marriage was ruled to be illegal. "Yesterday came on a cause at Doctor's Commons, wherein the
+plaintiff brought his action against the defendant for pretending to be
+his wife. She, in her justification, pleaded a marriage at the Fleet
+the 6th of February, 1737, and produced a Fleet Certificate, which was
+not allowed as evidence. She likewise offered to produce the minister
+she pretended married them, but he being excommunicate for clandestine
+marriages, could not be received as a witness. The Court thereupon
+pronounced against the marriage, and condemned her in £28, the costs of
+the suit." </p>
+
+<p>The Registers in which these marriages were entered have mostly had
+an eventful and chequered career. Many have, doubtless, disappeared
+for ever, and it is extremely probable that some are in private hands,
+one being in the Bodleian Library. They were to be bought by any one
+interested in them, and the present collection cannot be considered
+as being at all perfect. We learn the adventures of some of them
+through the evidence of a Mrs. Olive, who produced one at a trial at
+Shrewsbury in 1794. This woman was originally a servant to Joshua
+Lilly, and used to "ply" or tout for him, and at his death married one
+Owens, who succeeded to one
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_379" id="Page_379">[Pg 379]</a></span>
+of Lilly's marriage houses, and who, probably, bought his Registers
+from his representatives. At this Trial she said: "My first husband was Thos. Owens. I had the Register Books of Fleet
+Marriages in my possession from my Marriage in 1761 till I went to
+America eleven years ago. I then sold them to Mr. Panton. My husband
+Owens died about 1773. My husband made a will. I had the possession of
+the books myself, as my husband had other business. I heard my husband
+say he purchased these books. He had a Marriage House in Fleet Lane. I
+used the books to grant certificates upon parish affairs." </p>
+
+<p>After her Marriage with Olive she still made use of these Registers,
+for we read in an Advertisement that "All the original Register Books containing the marriages solemnized
+at the Fleet, May Fair, and the Mint, for upwards of one hundred years
+past, may be searched by applying to George Olive, at the Wheat Sheaf,
+in Nicholls Square, near Cripplegate. The great utility of these
+Collections prevents any encomiums." </p>
+
+<p>About 1783 a Mr. Benjamin Panton bought of Mrs. Olive some five
+or six hundred of these books, weighing more than a ton, and used
+to produce them occasionally on trials at law, and they were always
+accepted as evidence.</p>
+
+<p>At his death in 1805 he left these to his daughter, who still
+utilised them as her father had done, as a handbill shows. "All the original Register Books of the Marriages in the Fleet,
+May Fair, and Mint, are now in the possession of M. Panton (Register
+Keeper), No. 50, Houndsditch, by whom they are examined, and
+Certificates of Marriages granted." </p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_380" id="Page_380">[Pg
+380]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In 1813 she sold them to a Mr. William Cox, who, in 1821, sold them
+to the Government for &pound;260 6s. 6d., and the following letter
+shows us what became of them.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p class="right">
+"<span class="smcap">Whitehall</span>, <i>April</i> 25, 1821.<br />
+</p>
+
+<p>"<span class="smcap">Sir</span>,&mdash;It having been judged
+expedient to purchase a set of books containing the original Entries
+of Marriages solemnized in the Fleet Prison, and Rules thereof, from
+the year 1686 to the year 1754. I have been honoured with his Majesty's
+commands to desire that you will receive the said books from Mr. Maule
+the Solicitor to the Treasury, and give him a receipt for the same, and
+deposit them in the Registry of the Consistory Court of London.</p>
+
+<p><span style="margin-left: 25em;">"I have the honour to be, Sir,</span>
+<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 28em;">"Your most obedient humble Servant,</span>
+<br />
+<span style="margin-left: 30em;">"<span class="smcap">Sidmouth</span>.</span>
+</p>
+<p class="center">"The Registrar of the Consistory Court of London,
+or his Deputy."
+</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>Here they remained until the abolition of the Court in 1840, by
+Act of Parliament, 3 and 4 Vic. cap. 92, when they were declared
+inadmissible as evidence in law. Sec. 6 says, "And be it enacted That all Registers and Records deposited in the
+General Register Office by virtue of this Act, except the Registers
+and Records of Baptisms and Marriages at <i>The Fleet</i>, and <i>King's
+Bench</i> Prisons, at <i>May Fair</i>, at the <i>Mint</i> in <i>Southwark</i>, and
+elsewhere, which were deposited in the Registry of the Bishop of
+<i>London</i> in the Year One Thousand Eight
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_381" id="Page_381">[Pg 381]</a></span>
+Hundred and Twenty One, as hereinafter mentioned, shall be deemed to be
+in legal Custody, and shall be receivable in Evidence in all Courts of
+Justice, subject to the Provisions hereinafter contained." </p>
+
+<p>And Section 20 provides thus, "And be it enacted, That the several Registers and Records of
+Baptisms and Marriages performed at the Fleet" (&amp;c., &amp;c., as in
+Section 6) "shall be transferred from the said Registry to the Custody
+of the Registrar-General, who is hereby directed to receive the same
+for safe custody." And it recapitulates that they shall not be received as evidence at
+law.</p>
+
+<p>They are kept at Somerset House, where they can be examined for a
+small fee. A great number of them are memorandum books, and Burn, when
+he examined them at Doctors Commons, in 1833, did not much like his
+job. "It is to be wished that they were better arranged and indexed.
+There are several very large indexes, which only requires a little
+time and attention to ascertain to what Registers they refer. The
+Pocket books also, might be bound together, and preserved from dust and
+dirt; and if Government would give about £300 these objects might be
+attained. It was a labour of many months to go through so many hundreds
+of dusty, dirty, and sometimes ragged books." </p>
+
+<p>The entries in the pocket-books are quainter than those in the
+registries, as they are the first impressions, and the others are
+polished up. We find from them that it was not infrequent to antedate
+the Registers, and Lilley did so on one occasion, "there being a vacancy in the Book suitable to the time."
+And, again, "These
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_382" id="Page_382">[Pg 382]</a></span>
+wicked people came this day, Peter Oliver, of St. Olave's, carpenter,
+and Elizabeth Overton, would have a certificate dated in 1729, or would
+not be married if it was not to be dated to this time&mdash;went to
+Lilley's and was married." </p>
+
+<p>Perhaps the most extraordinary entries in these books are those
+of two women going through the ceremony of marriage with each
+other&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>"20 May, 1737.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;J<sup>no</sup> Smith, Gent.
+of S<sup>t</sup> James West<sup>r</sup> Batch<sup>r</sup> &amp;
+Eliz. Huthall of S<sup>t</sup> Giles's Sp<sup>r</sup> at Wilsons. By
+y<sup>e</sup> opinion after Matrimony, my Clark judg'd they were both
+women, if y<sup>e</sup> person by name John Smith be a man, he's a
+little short fair thin man, not above 5 foot. After marriage I almost
+c'd prove y<sup>m</sup> both women, the one was dress'd as a man, thin
+pale face, &amp; wrinkled chin."</p>
+
+<p>"1734 Dec. 15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;John Mountford of
+S<sup>t</sup> Ann's Sohoe, Taylor. B., Mary Cooper. Ditto. Sp.
+Suspected 2 Women, no Certif."</p>
+
+<p>"1 Oct. 1747.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;John Ferren, Gent, Ser. of
+S<sup>t</sup> Andrew's Holborn B<sup>r</sup> and Deborah Nolan.
+D<sup>o</sup> Sp<sup>n</sup>. The supposed John Ferren was discovered
+after y<sup>e</sup> Ceremonies were over, to be in person a woman."</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>There is one entry, "The Woman ran across Ludgate
+Hill in her shift." In the <i>Daily Journal</i> of November 8, 1725, a woman went to be
+married in that sole garment, at Ulcomb, in Kent; and in the Parish
+Register of Chiltern All Saints in October 17, 1714, it says: "The aforesaid Anne Sellwood was married in her <span
+class="pagenum"><a name="Page_383" id="Page_383">[Pg 383]</a></span>
+Smock, without any clothes or head gier on." This was a vulgar error, but the idea in so acting was that the
+husband was not liable for any of his wife's pre-nuptial
+debts.</p>
+
+<p>The candidates for matrimony were occasionally not over-honest,
+as&mdash; "Had a noise for foure hours about the Money." "N.B.
+Stole a Silver Spoon."" Stole my Cloathes Brush." "N.B. Married at
+a Barber's Shop next Wilsons viz., one Kerrils for half a Guinea,
+after which it was extorted out of my pocket, and for fear of my life
+delivered." "They behaved very vilely, and attempted to run away with
+M<sup>rs</sup> Crooks Gold Ring."
+
+</p>
+
+<p>But then, again, these Fleet parsons had customers of
+a higher grade, as "Dec. 1, 1716. Dan Paul, S<sup>t</sup> James's, Capt<sup>n</sup> in
+y<sup>e</sup> Horse Guards." <br /> "March y<sup>e</sup> 4<sup>th</sup>
+1740. William&mdash;and Sarah&mdash;he dress'd in a gold waistcoat
+like an Officer, she a Beautifull young Lady with 2 fine diamond
+Rings, and a Black high Crown Hat and very well dressed. "<br />
+"Nov. y<sup>e</sup> 24, 1733 att y<sup>e</sup> Baptized hed Tavern
+to go to M<sup>r</sup> Gibbs for to marry him in y<sup>e</sup>
+countrey&mdash;Wife worth &pound;18,000." <br /> "Septr<sup>5</sup>,
+1744 Andrew Mills, Gent. of the Temple, &amp; Charlotte Gail lairdy
+of S<sup>t</sup> Mildred, Poultry at M<sup>r</sup> Boyce's, King's
+head. N.B. One gentleman came first in a merry manner to make a
+bargain w<sup>th</sup> the Minister for the marriage, and immediately
+came the parties themselves, disguising their dress by contrivances,
+particularly buttning up the coat, because the rich wastecoat should
+not be seen, &amp;c." </p>
+
+<p>The Church of England Marriage Service was generally used, but,
+in one instance, as shown by a pocket-book,
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_384" id="Page_384">[Pg 384]</a></span>
+it was somewhat modified, as when the ring is given the Trinity is
+not mentioned, but the words are altered to "from this time forth
+for evermore. Amen;" and when the couple promise to hold together
+"according to God's holy ordinance," it was rendered "according to
+law." There seems to have been but one example of the officiating
+Clergyman administering the Sacrament at a Marriage, and that was done
+by the Rev. W. Dan, who describes himself as "priest of the Church of
+England." >"October 2<sup>nd</sup> 1743 John Figg, of S<sup>t</sup> John's the
+Evang<sup>s</sup> Gent. a Widower, and Rebecca Woodward, of Ditto,
+Spinster, at y<sup>e</sup> same time gave her y<sup>e</sup> Sacrament."
+</p>
+
+<p>The Scandal of Fleet Marriages remained unchecked until 1753,
+when the Lord Chancellor brought forward and passed "An Act for the
+better preventing of clandestine marriages"&mdash;26 Geo. III. cap.
+33&mdash;which, in its different sections, provides that the Banns of
+Matrimony are to be published according to the rubric, &amp;c., the
+marriage to be solemnized in one of the churches where the banns had
+been published. Marriage by licence could only take place in the church
+or chapel of such parish, &amp;c., where one of the parties should have
+resided for four weeks previously.</p>
+
+<p>This was the death-blow to the Fleet Marriages, as any contravention
+of the law was made punishable by transportation "to some of his
+Majesty's plantations in America for the space of fourteen years,
+according to the laws in force for the transportation of felons."</p>
+
+<p>The Act came into force on March 26, 1754, but
+people took advantage of the Fleet Marriages until the
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_385" id="Page_385">[Pg 385-6]</a></span>
+last moment, and that in great numbers, for in one
+Register alone there is a list of 217 weddings celebrated
+on the 25th of March!</p>
+
+<p>The last Fleet Wedding is recorded in the <i>Times</i> of
+July 10, 1840: "Mr. John Mossington, aged 76, and a Prisoner in the Fleet, more
+than 15 years, was, on Wednesday, married to Miss Anne Weatherhead,
+aged 62, at St. Bride's Church. The Lady had travelled 36 Miles to
+meet her bridegroom, who is, without exception, one of the most
+extraordinary men in this County. He takes his morning walks round
+the Fleet prison yard, which he repeats three or four times a day,
+with as much rapidity as a young man could do of the age of 20. The
+Road from Farringdon Street to the Church, was lined with Spectators
+who knew of the event, and the Church was equally filled to hear the
+Ceremony performed. The Courtship first commenced 41 years ago, and Mr.
+Mossington has now fulfilled his promise."
+</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">The End.</span></p>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenumhidden"><a name="Page_386-1" id="Page_386-1">[Pg 386-1]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 250px;"><a href="images/i_387a-875.png">
+<img src="images/i_387a-250.png" width="250" height="883" alt="MAP OF THE FLEET." /></a>
+<div class="caption">MAP OF THE FLEET.
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_386" id="Page_386">[Pg 386]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 500px; ">
+<a href="images/i_386-1200.png" >
+<img src="images/i_386-500.png" width="500" height="130" alt="Decorative Chapter Heading" /></a>
+</div>
+
+<h3>INDEX.</h3>
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="max-width: 100px;">
+<img src="images/i_divider.png" alt="__________" width="100" height="18" />
+</div>
+
+<p>
+<span class="smcap">Aldgate</span> Pump, <a href="#Page_1">1</a><br />
+<br />
+Alsatia, <a href="#Page_223">223</a>, <a href="#Page_224">224</a><br />
+<br />
+Annis (Dame) the Cleare, <a href="#Page_10">10</a><br />
+<br />
+Antiquarian Discoveries, <a href="#Page_18">18</a>, <a href="#Page_19">19</a><br />
+<br />
+Apothecaries Hall, <a href="#Page_205">205</a><br />
+<br />
+Apprentices and City Authorities, <a href="#Page_216">216</a>, <a href="#Page_217">217</a>, <a href="#Page_218">218</a><br />
+<br />
+Archer, J. W., <a href="#Page_81">81</a><br />
+<br />
+Archery, <a href="#Page_116">116</a>, <a href="#Page_117">117</a><br />
+<br />
+Artillery Ground, <a href="#Page_116">116</a><br />
+<br />
+Ashwell, E., <a href="#Page_344">344</a>, <a href="#Page_345">345</a>, <a href="#Page_346">346</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Bagnigge</span> House, <a href="#Page_81">81</a>, <a href="#Page_82">82</a>, <a href="#Page_83">83</a>, <a href="#Page_84">84</a>, <a href="#Page_85">85</a><br />
+<br />
+Bagnigge Wells, <a href="#Page_4">4</a>, <a href="#Page_73">73</a>, <a href="#Page_77">77</a>, <a href="#Page_78">78</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_79">79</a>, <a href="#Page_80">80</a>, <a href="#Page_81">81</a>, <a href="#Page_85">85</a>, <a href="#Page_86">86</a>, <a href="#Page_87">87</a>, <a href="#Page_88">88</a>, <a href="#Page_89">89</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_90">90</a>, <a href="#Page_91">91</a>, <a href="#Page_92">92</a>, <a href="#Page_93">93</a>, <a href="#Page_94">94</a>, <a href="#Page_95">95</a>, <a href="#Page_96">96</a>, <a href="#Page_97">97</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_120">120</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Bambridge, Thos., <a href="#Page_268">268</a>, <a href="#Page_269">269</a>, <a href="#Page_270">270</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_271">271</a>, <a href="#Page_272">272</a>, <a href="#Page_273">273</a>, <a href="#Page_274">274</a>, <a href="#Page_275">275</a>, <a href="#Page_296">296</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Basset, Bartholomew, <a href="#Page_337">337</a>, <a href="#Page_338">338</a><br />
+<br />
+Battle Bridge, <a href="#Page_38">38</a>, <a href="#Page_39">39</a><br />
+<br />
+Baynard's Castle, <a href="#Page_5">5</a>-15,<br />
+<br />
+Bear baiting, <a href="#Page_139">139</a>, <a href="#Page_140">140</a>, <a href="#Page_141">141</a><br />
+<br />
+Begging Grate, <a href="#Page_275">275</a>, <a href="#Page_276">276</a>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_387" id="Page_387">[Pg 387]</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Billingsgate, fountain at, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+Black Mary's Hole, <a href="#Page_77">77</a>, <a href="#Page_78">78</a>, <a href="#Page_79">79</a>, <a href="#Page_85">85</a><br />
+<br />
+Bleeding Heart Yard, <a href="#Page_164">164</a><br />
+<br />
+Boughton, <a href="#Page_247">247</a>, <a href="#Page_250">250</a>, <a href="#Page_251">251</a>, <a href="#Page_252">252</a>, <a href="#Page_253">253</a><br />
+<br />
+"Boy" (Prince Rupert's Dog), <a href="#Page_154">154</a><br />
+<br />
+Brabazon, Roger le, <a href="#Page_6">6</a>-15<br />
+<br />
+Brent, the, <a href="#Page_21">21</a><br />
+<br />
+Bridewell, <a href="#Page_206">206</a>, <a href="#Page_207">207</a>, <a href="#Page_208">208</a>, <a href="#Page_209">209</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_210">210</a>, <a href="#Page_211">211</a>, <a href="#Page_212">212</a>, <a href="#Page_213">213</a>, <a href="#Page_214">214</a>, <a href="#Page_215">215</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_216">216</a>, <a href="#Page_217">217</a>, <a href="#Page_218">218</a>, <a href="#Page_219">219</a>, <a href="#Page_220">220</a>, <a href="#Page_221">221</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Brill, the, <a href="#Page_37">37</a>, <a href="#Page_38">38</a>, <a href="#Page_39">39</a>, <a href="#Page_40">40</a>, <a href="#Page_41">41</a>, <a href="#Page_43">43</a><br />
+<br />
+Brooke Street, Hanover Square, <a href="#Page_2">2</a><br />
+<br />
+Brothers, <a href="#Page_105">105</a><br />
+<br />
+Brown's Dairy, <a href="#Page_34">34</a><br />
+<br />
+Bull baiting, <a href="#Page_139">139</a>, <a href="#Page_141">141</a>, <a href="#Page_142">142</a>, <a href="#Page_143">143</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_144">144</a>, <a href="#Page_145">145</a>, <a href="#Page_146">146</a>, <a href="#Page_147">147</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Bunter's Wedding, the, <a href="#Page_365">365</a>, <a href="#Page_366">366</a>, <a href="#Page_367">367</a>, <a href="#Page_368">368</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Cantelows,</span><a href="#Page_32">32</a>, <a href="#Page_35">35</a>, <a href="#Page_49">49</a>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_388" id="Page_388">[Pg 388]</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Chad's, St., Well, <a href="#Page_45">45</a>, <a href="#Page_46">46</a>, <a href="#Page_47">47</a>, <a href="#Page_48">48</a>, <a href="#Page_49">49</a>, <a href="#Page_50">50</a>, <a href="#Page_51">51</a>, <a href="#Page_52">52</a><br />
+<br />
+Cheape Conduit, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+City Authorities and Apprentices, <a href="#Page_216">216</a>, <a href="#Page_217">217</a>, <a href="#Page_218">218</a><br />
+<br />
+Clement's Well, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_9">9</a><br />
+<br />
+Clerken Well, <a href="#Page_4">4</a>, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_9">9</a>, <a href="#Page_45">45</a>, <a href="#Page_183">183</a>, <a href="#Page_184">184</a>, <a href="#Page_185">185</a><br />
+<br />
+Cobham's Head, <a href="#Page_115">115</a><br />
+<br />
+Cock, a man eats a live, <a href="#Page_70">70</a><br />
+<br />
+Coldbath, <a href="#Page_4">4</a>, <a href="#Page_111">111</a>, <a href="#Page_112">112</a><br />
+<br />
+Coldbath Fields, <a href="#Page_111">111</a>, <a href="#Page_118">118</a>, <a href="#Page_119">119</a><br />
+<br />
+Coldbath Fields Prison, <a href="#Page_99">99</a>, <a href="#Page_100">100</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_101">101</a>, <a href="#Page_102">102</a>, <a href="#Page_103">103</a>, <a href="#Page_104">104</a>, <a href="#Page_105">105</a>, <a href="#Page_106">106</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_107">107</a>, <a href="#Page_108">108</a>, <a href="#Page_109">109</a>, <a href="#Page_110">110</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Cöln, stinks at, <a href="#Page_16">16</a><br />
+<br />
+Conduits, <a href="#Page_13">13</a>, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+Conduit, White, <a href="#Page_54">54</a>, <a href="#Page_55">55</a>, <a href="#Page_56">56</a>, <a href="#Page_57">57</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_58">58</a>, <a href="#Page_59">59</a>, <a href="#Page_60">60</a>, <a href="#Page_61">61</a>, <a href="#Page_62">62</a>, <a href="#Page_63">63</a>, <a href="#Page_64">64</a>, <a href="#Page_65">65</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_66">66</a>, <a href="#Page_120">120</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Coppin, Edward, <a href="#Page_255">255</a>, <a href="#Page_256">256</a>, <a href="#Page_257">257</a><br />
+<br />
+Cornhill, the Tun in, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+Court Room at Bridewell, <a href="#Page_219">219</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_220">220</a>, <a href="#Page_221">221</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Cresswell, Mother, <a href="#Page_219">219</a><br />
+<br />
+Cripplegate, fountain at, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+Cripplegate Pool, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_11">11</a><br />
+<br />
+Cruikshank, Isaac Robert, <a href="#Page_309">309</a>, <a href="#Page_310">310</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Dustman</span>, the Literary, <a href="#Page_44">44</a>, <a href="#Page_45">45</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Election</span>, a mock, <a href="#Page_308">308</a>, <a href="#Page_309">309</a><br />
+<br />
+"Elephant," skeleton of, found, <a href="#Page_17">17</a><br />
+<br />
+Ely Place, <a href="#Page_163">163</a>, <a href="#Page_164">164</a>, <a href="#Page_165">165</a>, <a href="#Page_166">166</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_167">167</a>, <a href="#Page_168">168</a>, <a href="#Page_169">169</a>, <a href="#Page_170">170</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Everett, John, <a href="#Page_41">41</a>, <a href="#Page_42">42</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Fagin</span>, <a href="#Page_158">158</a>, <a href="#Page_159">159</a>, <a href="#Page_160">160</a>, <a href="#Page_161">161</a><br />
+<br />
+Fag's Well, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_10">10</a><br />
+<br />
+Falstaff, Sir John, <a href="#Page_240">240</a><br />
+<br />
+Field Lane, <a href="#Page_158">158</a>, <a href="#Page_160">160</a>, <a href="#Page_161">161</a><br />
+<br />
+Fighting, <a href="#Page_137">137</a>, <a href="#Page_138">138</a>, <a href="#Page_139">139</a><br />
+<br />
+Fleet Bridge, <a href="#Page_189">189</a>, <a href="#Page_190">190</a>, <a href="#Page_191">191</a>, <a href="#Page_193">193</a><br />
+<br />
+Fleet, derivation of name, <a href="#Page_2">2</a><br />
+<br />
+Fleet Ditch, <a href="#Page_1">1</a>-7, <a href="#Page_14">14</a>, <a href="#Page_16">16</a>, <a href="#Page_17">17</a>, <a href="#Page_18">18</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_19">19</a>, <a href="#Page_20">20</a>, <a href="#Page_176">176</a>, <a href="#Page_226">226</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Fleet Market, <a href="#Page_186">186</a>, <a href="#Page_187">187</a>, <a href="#Page_188">188</a><br />
+<br />
+Fleet Marriages, <a href="#Page_327">327</a>, <a href="#Page_328">328</a>, <a href="#Page_329">329</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_330">330</a>, <a href="#Page_331">331</a>, <a href="#Page_333">333</a>, <a href="#Page_335">335</a>, <a href="#Page_336">336</a>, <a href="#Page_337">337</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_338">338</a>, <a href="#Page_339">339</a>, <a href="#Page_340">340</a>, <a href="#Page_341">341</a>, <a href="#Page_342">342</a>, <a href="#Page_343">343</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_344">344</a>, <a href="#Page_345">345</a>, <a href="#Page_346">346</a>, <a href="#Page_347">347</a>, <a href="#Page_348">348</a>, <a href="#Page_349">349</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_350">350</a>, <a href="#Page_351">351</a>, <a href="#Page_352">352</a>, <a href="#Page_353">353</a>, <a href="#Page_354">354</a>, <a href="#Page_355">355</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_356">356</a>, <a href="#Page_359">359</a>, <a href="#Page_362">362</a>, <a href="#Page_363">363</a>, <a href="#Page_364">364</a>, <a href="#Page_365">365</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_366">366</a>, <a href="#Page_367">367</a>, <a href="#Page_368">368</a>, <a href="#Page_369">369</a>, <a href="#Page_370">370</a>, <a href="#Page_371">371</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_372">372</a>, <a href="#Page_373">373</a>, <a href="#Page_375">375</a>, <a href="#Page_376">376</a>, <a href="#Page_377">377</a>, <a href="#Page_378">378</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_379">379</a>, <a href="#Page_380">380</a>, <a href="#Page_381">381</a>, <a href="#Page_382">382</a>, <a href="#Page_383">383</a>, <a href="#Page_384">384</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_385">385</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Fleet Prison, the, <a href="#Page_229">229</a>, <a href="#Page_230">230</a>, <a href="#Page_231">231</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_232">232</a>, <a href="#Page_233">233</a>, <a href="#Page_234">234</a>, <a href="#Page_235">235</a>, <a href="#Page_236">236</a>, <a href="#Page_237">237</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_238">238</a>, <a href="#Page_239">239</a>, <a href="#Page_240">240</a>, <a href="#Page_241">241</a>, <a href="#Page_242">242</a>, <a href="#Page_243">243</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_244">244</a>, <a href="#Page_245">245</a>, <a href="#Page_246">246</a>, <a href="#Page_247">247</a>, <a href="#Page_248">248</a>, <a href="#Page_249">249</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_250">250</a>, <a href="#Page_251">251</a>, <a href="#Page_252">252</a>, <a href="#Page_253">253</a>, <a href="#Page_254">254</a>, <a href="#Page_255">255</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_256">256</a>, <a href="#Page_257">257</a>, <a href="#Page_258">258</a>, <a href="#Page_259">259</a>, <a href="#Page_260">260</a>, <a href="#Page_261">261</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_262">262</a>, <a href="#Page_263">263</a>, <a href="#Page_264">264</a>, <a href="#Page_265">265</a>, <a href="#Page_266">266</a>, <a href="#Page_267">267</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_268">268</a>, <a href="#Page_269">269</a>, <a href="#Page_270">270</a>, <a href="#Page_271">271</a>, <a href="#Page_272">272</a>, <a href="#Page_273">273</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_274">274</a>, <a href="#Page_275">275</a>, <a href="#Page_276">276</a>, <a href="#Page_279">279</a>, <a href="#Page_280">280</a>, <a href="#Page_281">281</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_282">282</a>, <a href="#Page_283">283</a>, <a href="#Page_284">284</a>, <a href="#Page_285">285</a>, <a href="#Page_286">286</a>, <a href="#Page_287">287</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_288">288</a>, <a href="#Page_289">289</a>, <a href="#Page_290">290</a>, <a href="#Page_291">291</a>, <a href="#Page_291">292</a>, <a href="#Page_294">294</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_295">295</a>, <a href="#Page_296">296</a>, <a href="#Page_297">297</a>, <a href="#Page_298">298</a>, <a href="#Page_299">299</a>, <a href="#Page_300">300</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_301">301</a>, <a href="#Page_302">302</a>, <a href="#Page_303">303</a>, <a href="#Page_304">304</a>, <a href="#Page_305">305</a>, <a href="#Page_306">306</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_307">307</a>, <a href="#Page_308">308</a>, <a href="#Page_309">309</a>, <a href="#Page_310">310</a>, <a href="#Page_312">312</a>, <a href="#Page_313">313</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_314">314</a>, <a href="#Page_315">315</a>, <a href="#Page_316">316</a>, <a href="#Page_317">317</a>, <a href="#Page_318">318</a>, <a href="#Page_319">319</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_320">320</a>, <a href="#Page_321">321</a>, <a href="#Page_322">322</a>, <a href="#Page_323">323</a>, <a href="#Page_324">324</a>, <a href="#Page_325">325</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Fleet Registers, <a href="#Page_378">378</a>, <a href="#Page_379">379</a>, <a href="#Page_380">380</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_381">381</a>, <a href="#Page_382">382</a>, <a href="#Page_383">383</a>, <a href="#Page_384">384</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Fleet River, <a href="#Page_26">26</a>, <a href="#Page_27">27</a>, <a href="#Page_28">28</a>, <a href="#Page_29">29</a>, <a href="#Page_100">100</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_155">155</a>, <a href="#Page_172">172</a>, <a href="#Page_185">185</a>, <a href="#Page_186">186</a>, <a href="#Page_188">188</a>, <a href="#Page_225">225</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_227">227</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Floud, John, <a href="#Page_346">346</a>, <a href="#Page_347">347</a>, <a href="#Page_348">348</a><br />
+<br />
+Forcer, proprietor of Sadler's Wells, <a href="#Page_71">71</a><br />
+<br />
+Foster, Sir Stephen, <a href="#Page_201">201</a>, <a href="#Page_202">202</a><br />
+<br />
+Fountain at Billingsgate, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+Fountain at Paul's Wharf, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+Fountain at St. Giles, Cripplegate, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Garnish</span>, <a href="#Page_293">293</a>, <a href="#Page_294">294</a>, <a href="#Page_295">295</a><br />
+<br />
+Garth, Dr., <a href="#Page_205">205</a><br />
+<br />
+Gaynam, John, <a href="#Page_340">340</a>, <a href="#Page_341">341</a>, <a href="#Page_342">342</a>, <a href="#Page_343">343</a><br />
+<br />
+Gordon, Lord George, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>, <a href="#Page_301">301</a>, <a href="#Page_302">302</a><br />
+<br />
+Gospel Oak, <a href="#Page_29">29</a>, <a href="#Page_30">30</a>, <a href="#Page_31">31</a><br />
+<br />
+Griffith, Chas., <a href="#Page_91">91</a><br />
+<br />
+Gwynne, Nell, <a href="#Page_32">32</a>, <a href="#Page_81">81</a>, <a href="#Page_82">82</a>, <a href="#Page_83">83</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Hampstead</span>, <a href="#Page_7">7</a>-14, <a href="#Page_26">26</a><br />
+<br />
+Hampstead Ponds, <a href="#Page_27">27</a><br />
+<br />
+Harris, Alex., Warden of the<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;">Fleet, <a href="#Page_245">245</a>, <a href="#Page_246">246</a>, <a href="#Page_247">247</a>, <a href="#Page_248">248</a>, <a href="#Page_249">249</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_250">250</a>, <a href="#Page_251">251</a>, <a href="#Page_252">252</a>, <a href="#Page_253">253</a>, <a href="#Page_254">254</a>, <a href="#Page_255">255</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_256">256</a>, <a href="#Page_257">257</a>, <a href="#Page_258">258</a>, <a href="#Page_259">259</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Hatton Garden, <a href="#Page_163">163</a><br />
+<br />
+Hatton, the Chancellor, <a href="#Page_163">163</a>, <a href="#Page_164">164</a><br />
+<br />
+Hemp beetling at Bridewell, <a href="#Page_210">210</a>, <a href="#Page_211">211</a>, <a href="#Page_13">213</a><br />
+<br />
+Hockley-in-the-Hole, <a href="#Page_137">137</a>, <a href="#Page_139">139</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_146">146</a>, <a href="#Page_147">147</a>, <a href="#Page_148">148</a>, <a href="#Page_152">152</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Hogarth, <a href="#Page_274">274</a><br />
+<br />
+Holborn Bridge, <a href="#Page_170">170</a>, <a href="#Page_172">172</a>, <a href="#Page_173">173</a>, <a href="#Page_174">174</a>, <a href="#Page_175">175</a>, <a href="#Page_176">176</a><br />
+<br />
+Holy Well, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_9">9</a>, <a href="#Page_10">10</a><br />
+<br />
+Horse Pool, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_11">11</a>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_389" id="Page_389">[Pg 389]</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Howard, John, <a href="#Page_214">214</a>, <a href="#Page_216">216</a>, <a href="#Page_295">295</a>, <a href="#Page_296">296</a>, <a href="#Page_297">297</a><br />
+<br />
+Huggins, <a href="#Page_265">265</a>, <a href="#Page_266">266</a>, <a href="#Page_267">267</a>, <a href="#Page_268">268</a>, <a href="#Page_269">269</a>, <a href="#Page_272">272</a>, <a href="#Page_275">275</a><br />
+<br />
+"Humours of the Fleet," <a href="#Page_279">279</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_280">280</a>, <a href="#Page_281">281</a>, <a href="#Page_282">282</a>, <a href="#Page_283">283</a>, <a href="#Page_284">284</a>, <a href="#Page_285">285</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"> <a href="#Page_286">286</a>, <a href="#Page_287">287</a>, <a href="#Page_288">288</a>, <a href="#Page_289">289</a>, <a href="#Page_290">290</a>, <a href="#Page_291">291</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Hunt, "Orator," <a href="#Page_129">129</a>, <a href="#Page_130">130</a>, <a href="#Page_131">131</a>, <a href="#Page_132">132</a>, <a href="#Page_133">133</a>, <a href="#Page_134">134</a><br />
+<br />
+Huntingdon, Lady, <a href="#Page_122">122</a>, <a href="#Page_123">123</a>, <a href="#Page_124">124</a>, <a href="#Page_124">125</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Keith</span>, Parson, <a href="#Page_349">349</a>, <a href="#Page_350">350</a>, <a href="#Page_354">354</a>, <a href="#Page_356">356</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_357">357</a>, <a href="#Page_358">358</a>, <a href="#Page_359">359</a>, <a href="#Page_360">360</a>, <a href="#Page_361">361</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Ken Wood, <a href="#Page_25">25</a><br />
+<br />
+Kentish Town, <a href="#Page_27">27</a>, <a href="#Page_28">28</a>, <a href="#Page_32">32</a>, <a href="#Page_33">33</a>, <a href="#Page_34">34</a>, <a href="#Page_35">35</a><br />
+<br />
+King's Cross, <a href="#Page_38">38</a>, <a href="#Page_43">43</a>, <a href="#Page_44">44</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Ladies'</span> ablutions, <a href="#Page_113">113</a><br />
+<br />
+Lamb's Conduit, <a href="#Page_4">4</a>, <a href="#Page_179">179</a>, <a href="#Page_180">180</a>, <a href="#Page_181">181</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_182">182</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Lando, James, <a href="#Page_354">354</a>, <a href="#Page_355">355</a><br />
+<br />
+Langbourne, <a href="#Page_8">8</a><br />
+<br />
+Leveland, Nathaniel de, <a href="#Page_229">229</a><br />
+<br />
+Lilley, John, <a href="#Page_352">352</a><br />
+<br />
+Lilley, Joshua, <a href="#Page_349">349</a>, <a href="#Page_351">351</a>, <a href="#Page_352">352</a>, <a href="#Page_378">378</a><br />
+<br />
+Loders Well, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_10">10</a><br />
+<br />
+Ludgate Prison, <a href="#Page_195">195</a>, <a href="#Page_196">196</a>, <a href="#Page_197">197</a>, <a href="#Page_198">198</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_199">199</a>, <a href="#Page_200">200</a>, <a href="#Page_201">201</a>, <a href="#Page_202">202</a>, <a href="#Page_203">203</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Macklin</span>, <a href="#Page_72">72</a><br />
+<br />
+Man drowned in the Fleet River, <a href="#Page_226">226</a><br />
+<br />
+Man frozen in the Fleet River, <a href="#Page_226">226</a><br />
+<br />
+Mansfield, Earl of, <a href="#Page_25">25</a><br />
+<br />
+Marriages, <a href="#Page_330">330</a>, <a href="#Page_331">331</a>, <a href="#Page_332">332</a>, <a href="#Page_372">372</a>, <a href="#Page_375">375</a>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_390" id="Page_390">[Pg 390]</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Mary le Bourne, St., <a href="#Page_2">2</a><br />
+<br />
+Mayfair Chapel, <a href="#Page_357">357</a>, <a href="#Page_358">358</a>, <a href="#Page_360">360</a><br />
+<br />
+Merlin's Cave, <a href="#Page_129">129</a><br />
+<br />
+Miles' Musick house, <a href="#Page_69">69</a><br />
+<br />
+Mill at Bridewell, <a href="#Page_209">209</a>, <a href="#Page_210">210</a><br />
+<br />
+Moat, the Fleet Prison, <a href="#Page_235">235</a>, <a href="#Page_236">236</a><br />
+<br />
+Montfitchet Castle, <a href="#Page_208">208</a><br />
+<br />
+Mottram, John, <a href="#Page_339">339</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Nelson</span>, Lord, <a href="#Page_35">35</a><br />
+<br />
+Northampton Chapel, <a href="#Page_123">123</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Oastler</span>, Richard, <a href="#Page_325">325</a><br />
+<br />
+Old Bourne, <a href="#Page_5">5</a>, <a href="#Page_8">8</a><br />
+<br />
+Oldcastle, the Sir John, <a href="#Page_17">17</a>, <a href="#Page_112">112</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_114">114</a>, <a href="#Page_115">115</a>, <a href="#Page_116">116</a>, <a href="#Page_117">117</a>, <a href="#Page_118">118</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Pancras</span>, St., <a href="#Page_29">29</a>, <a href="#Page_36">36</a>, <a href="#Page_37">37</a><br />
+<br />
+Pancras Wash, <a href="#Page_38">38</a><br />
+<br />
+Pantheon, the, <a href="#Page_119">119</a>, <a href="#Page_120">120</a>, <a href="#Page_121">121</a>, <a href="#Page_122">122</a><br />
+<br />
+Parliament Hill, <a href="#Page_31">31</a>, <a href="#Page_36">36</a><br />
+<br />
+Parsons, Fleet, <a href="#Page_328">328</a>, <a href="#Page_333">333</a>, <a href="#Page_334">334</a>, <a href="#Page_335">335</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"> <a href="#Page_336">336</a>, <a href="#Page_337">337</a>, <a href="#Page_338">338</a>, <a href="#Page_339">339</a>, <a href="#Page_340">340</a>, <a href="#Page_341">341</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"> <a href="#Page_342">342</a>, <a href="#Page_343">343</a>, <a href="#Page_344">344</a>, <a href="#Page_345">345</a>, <a href="#Page_346">346</a>, <a href="#Page_347">347</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"> <a href="#Page_348">348</a>, <a href="#Page_349">349</a>, <a href="#Page_350">350</a>, <a href="#Page_351">351</a>, <a href="#Page_352">352</a>, <a href="#Page_353">353</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_354">354</a>, <a href="#Page_355">355</a>, <a href="#Page_356">356</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Paul's Wharf, fountain at, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+Peerless Pool, <a href="#Page_11">11</a><br />
+<br />
+Periless Pond, <a href="#Page_11">11</a><br />
+<br />
+Physicians, College of, <a href="#Page_205">205</a><br />
+<br />
+Pickwick and Hampstead Ponds, <a href="#Page_27">27</a><br />
+<br />
+Pindar of Wakefield, <a href="#Page_73">73</a>, <a href="#Page_74">74</a>, <a href="#Page_75">75</a><br />
+<br />
+Pools, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>-11<br />
+<br />
+Prisoners, Poor, <a href="#Page_324">324</a>, <a href="#Page_325">325</a><br />
+<br />
+"Punch" and Bagnigge Wells, <a href="#Page_93">93</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_94">94</a>, <a href="#Page_95">95</a>, <a href="#Page_96">96</a></span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Rackets</span>, <a href="#Page_303">303</a>, <a href="#Page_304">304</a>, <a href="#Page_305">305</a><br />
+<br />
+Rad Well, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_10">10</a>, <a href="#Page_80">80</a><br />
+<br />
+Rhone, <a href="#Page_48">48</a>, <a href="#Page_51">51</a><br />
+<br />
+Riots, no Popery, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>, <a href="#Page_26">26</a>, <a href="#Page_301">301</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_302">302</a>, <a href="#Page_303">303</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Rules of the Fleet, <a href="#Page_263">263</a><br />
+<br />
+Rupert, Prince, <a href="#Page_154">154</a><br />
+<br />
+Rush boats, <a href="#Page_21">21</a><br />
+<br />
+Rye House Plot, <a href="#Page_188">188</a>, <a href="#Page_189">189</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Sadler's Wells</span>, <a href="#Page_53">53</a>, <a href="#Page_67">67</a>, <a href="#Page_68">68</a>, <a href="#Page_69">69</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_70">70</a>, <a href="#Page_71">71</a>, <a href="#Page_73">73</a>, <a href="#Page_120">120</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Saffron Hill, <a href="#Page_155">155</a>, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>, <a href="#Page_157">157</a><br />
+<br />
+Schools, King Edward's, <a href="#Page_218">218</a>, <a href="#Page_219">219</a><br />
+<br />
+Sedley Place, Oxford Street, <a href="#Page_13">13</a><br />
+<br />
+Shepherd's Well, Hampstead, <a href="#Page_22">22</a><br />
+<br />
+Skinner's Well, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>-10<br />
+<br />
+Small Pox Hospital, <a href="#Page_118">118</a>, <a href="#Page_119">119</a><br />
+<br />
+Spa Fields Chapel, <a href="#Page_123">123</a>, <a href="#Page_124">124</a><br />
+<br />
+Spa Field Riots, <a href="#Page_127">127</a>, <a href="#Page_129">129</a>, <a href="#Page_130">130</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_131">131</a>, <a href="#Page_132">132</a>, <a href="#Page_133">133</a>, <a href="#Page_134">134</a>, <a href="#Page_135">135</a></span><br />
+<br />
+"Spence's Plan," <a href="#Page_127">127</a>, <a href="#Page_128">128</a><br />
+<br />
+Springs, <a href="#Page_1">1</a>-7, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_9">9</a>, <a href="#Page_10">10</a><br />
+<br />
+"Steel," The, <a href="#Page_102">102</a><br />
+<br />
+Sword Play, <a href="#Page_147">147</a>, <a href="#Page_148">148</a>, <a href="#Page_149">149</a>, <a href="#Page_150">150</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_151">151</a>, <a href="#Page_152">152</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Symson, Peter, <a href="#Page_353">353</a>, <a href="#Page_354">354</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Tod Well</span>, <a href="#Page_10">10</a><br />
+<br />
+Tonne, or Tunne, the, in Cornhill, <a href="#Page_14">14</a><br />
+<br />
+Toxophilite Society, <a href="#Page_116">116</a><br />
+<br />
+Traitor's Hill, <a href="#Page_31">31</a>, <a href="#Page_36">36</a><br />
+<br />
+Treadmill, Early, <a href="#Page_209">209</a>, <a href="#Page_210">210</a><br />
+<br />
+Turnmill Brook, <a href="#Page_6">6</a><br />
+<br />
+Turnmill Street and Brook, <a href="#Page_170">170</a><br />
+<br />
+Tye-bourne, The, <a href="#Page_2">2</a>, <a href="#Page_13">13</a>, <a href="#Page_22">22</a>, <a href="#Page_23">23</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="smcap">Waithman</span>, Alderman, <a href="#Page_193">193</a>, <a href="#Page_194">194</a><br />
+<br />
+Walbrook, <a href="#Page_2">2</a>-8<br />
+<br />
+Ward, Ned, on Bridewell, <a href="#Page_212">212</a>, <a href="#Page_213">213</a>, <a href="#Page_214">214</a><br />
+<br />
+Wardens of the Fleet, <a href="#Page_229">229</a>, <a href="#Page_230">230</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_231">231</a>, <a href="#Page_232">232</a>, <a href="#Page_233">233</a>, <a href="#Page_234">234</a>, <a href="#Page_237">237</a>, <a href="#Page_245">245</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_247">247</a>, <a href="#Page_248">248</a>, <a href="#Page_249">249</a>, <a href="#Page_250">250</a>, <a href="#Page_251">251</a>, <a href="#Page_252">252</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_253">253</a>, <a href="#Page_254">254</a>, <a href="#Page_255">255</a>, <a href="#Page_256">256</a>, <a href="#Page_257">257</a>, <a href="#Page_258">258</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_259">259</a>, <a href="#Page_260">260</a>, <a href="#Page_261">261</a>, <a href="#Page_262">262</a>, <a href="#Page_265">265</a>, <a href="#Page_266">266</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_267">267</a>, <a href="#Page_268">268</a>, <a href="#Page_269">269</a>, <a href="#Page_270">270</a>, <a href="#Page_271">271</a>, <a href="#Page_272">272</a>,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_304">304</a>, <a href="#Page_313">313</a>, <a href="#Page_314">314</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Wardens of the Fleet&mdash;<i>Ladies</i>, <a href="#Page_231">231</a>, <a href="#Page_232">232</a><br />
+<br />
+Warwick, Earl of, <a href="#Page_205">205</a><br />
+<br />
+Wells, River of, <a href="#Page_4">4</a>, <a href="#Page_7">7</a>, <a href="#Page_8">8</a>, <a href="#Page_53">53</a>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_391" id="Page_391">[Pg 391]</a></span><br />
+<br />
+Westbourne, the, <a href="#Page_23">23</a><br />
+<br />
+West Street, <a href="#Page_155">155</a>, <a href="#Page_156">156</a>, <a href="#Page_157">157</a>, <a href="#Page_158">158</a><br />
+<br />
+Whipping at Bridewell, <a href="#Page_212">212</a>, <a href="#Page_213">213</a>, <a href="#Page_214">214</a><br />
+<br />
+Whistling Shop, a, <a href="#Page_306">306</a>, <a href="#Page_307">307</a>, <a href="#Page_308">308</a><br />
+<br />
+Whitbrooke, Sir John, <a href="#Page_247">247</a>, <a href="#Page_248">248</a>,<br />
+<span style="margin-left:2em;"><a href="#Page_249">249</a>, <a href="#Page_250">250</a>, <a href="#Page_251">251</a>, <a href="#Page_252">252</a>, <a href="#Page_253">253</a></span><br />
+<br />
+White Conduit, <a href="#Page_4">4</a>, <a href="#Page_53">53</a><br />
+<br />
+Whitefriars, <a href="#Page_223">223</a>, <a href="#Page_224">224</a>, <a href="#Page_225">225</a><br />
+<br />
+Whittington, Sir Rd., <a href="#Page_11">11</a><br />
+<br />
+Wilkes, John, <a href="#Page_193">193</a>, <a href="#Page_194">194</a>, <a href="#Page_195">195</a><br />
+<br />
+Wolsey, Cardinal, <a href="#Page_240">240</a>, <a href="#Page_241">241</a>, <a href="#Page_242">242</a><br />
+<br />
+Wyatt, Walter, <a href="#Page_333">333</a>, <a href="#Page_348">348</a>, <a href="#Page_349">349</a>, <a href="#Page_350">350</a><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+"<span class="smcap">Zigzag</span>," <a href="#Page_81">81</a>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<div class="chapter">
+<p class="center">
+UNWIN BROTHERS,<br />
+THE GRESHAM PRESS,<br />
+CHILWORTH AND LONDON.
+</p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="full" />
+
+<div class="transnote">
+<p>Transcriber's Note:<br /><br /></p>
+
+<p>Every effort has been made to replicate this text as faithfully as possible. Minor typographical errors have been corrected.</p>
+<p>Some words are sometimes hyphenated, and sometimes not hyphenated.</p>
+<p>All reasonable variants of spelling, grammar and punctuation have been retained.</p>
+<p>There are a lot of sometimes old foreign words, and some French/English hybrid text from earlier centuries.</p>
+<p>England did not have spelling or punctuation rules until the various Public Instruction Acts (c. 1860-70) in Queen Victoria's reign. In this book, that may have also extended to French and<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Latin spellings!!</p>
+<p>Punctuation is not always regular; some opened quotes are not always closed.</p>
+<p>Mismatched quotes often occur with quotations where the quotation is enclosed within double quotes and each line or paragraph within that quote begins with double quotes but has no<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;end double quote.</p>
+<p>Page 15: 'discretionbus' changed to 'discretionibus'.</p>
+<p>Page 45: Unspaced punctuation, e.g. "Near Battle Bridge,'tis plain, sirs:", is as printed, and denotes elisions (the running together of words to fit the metre).</p>
+<p>Page 104: Mismatched quotes "Yours, etc., "EUGENIO."</p>
+<p>Page 345: "Gave Mr. Ashwell 2 : 6." [2 shillings and sixpence].</p>
+<p>The illustration on page 362 has been replaced by a much higher quality, although slightly cropped, copy.</p>
+<p>The illustration on page 187 and 391 have been replaced by a much higher quality copies.</p>
+<p>There are many occasions when the term 'l.' or 'li.' is used. 'l.' or 'li.' = libra = pound/pounds. or £, so, £140 = 140 l. or 140 li.</p>
+<p>Page 336: "cortége" is an old spelling (in use until the end of the 19th century.</p>
+
+</div>
+
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="pg" />
+<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 50730 ***</div>
+</body>
+</html>
+
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