UC-NRLF 
 


DESCRIBING 
 
 EVERY THING WORTHY OF INTEREST 
 
 CONNECTED WITH THE 
 
 Public Buildings, the Rooms, Crescents, Theatre, 
 Concerts, Baths, its Literature, fyc. 
 
 INCLUDING 
 
 WALCOT AND WIDCOMBE, 
 
 AND THE 
 
 rurvoun&tug <Lltrtmti>; 
 
 With Sketches of 
 
 PRIOR-PARK-HOUSE, THE ROCKS OF WICK, CORSHAM-HOUSE, AND 
 ITS FINE COLLECTION OF PAINTINGS: 
 
 ALSO AN EXCURSION TO 
 
 CLIFTON AND BRISTOL HOT-WELLS, 
 
 IVitk a Visit to Lord de Clifford'* House, and some Remarkt upon its Pictures : 
 The whole forming 
 
 & complete lutire 
 
 TO THE 
 
 VISITORS OF THE ABOVE CITY. 
 
 BY p. EGAN 
 
 PRINTED FOR MEYLER AND SON, 
 
 at the Bath Herald Office; 
 
 BARRY AND SON, BRISTOL; J.VINCENT, OXFORD; AND 
 fcHT.RWOOD, NEET.Y, AND JONES, LONDON. 
 
 1819. 
 

 %m 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 BATH has been so long known, so much fre- 
 quented, and so often written upon by various 
 authors, both in the serious* and comic t style of 
 description, that it might be presumed little mat- 
 ter is now left to furnish any thing like contents 
 for a NRW VOLUME, without monotonously 
 treading over and over again the same hack- 
 neyed, beaten ground : and however industriously 
 the literary sportsman may beat up the field, he 
 is not likely to put up any fresh birds, much 
 more bring them down : 
 
 SCRIBBLKJU are i/wtimcM ; and, a iportimcn arc, 
 Some hit, some ruiai, sumo poach, andionie boat fair} 
 This wound* a itraggling bird ; that often triei 
 But never kill*; ho ibooti and huti both eyci. 
 Some will whole covlei talte, nineteen in twenty j 
 And then yon imack your lipi for game li plenty ; 
 In ihort, by you their mcriti must be tried, 
 And wo to them who nrc not qualified I 
 
 Whatever has been written relative to the 
 ANTIQUITIES of BATH, (whether fabulous or 
 real,) it must be admitted the subject has been 
 fully explored; its fine OLD ABBKY por- 
 trayed ; the beauty and elegance of its CBES- 
 
 * WAHHIR. f AMTIY, 
 
 899152 
 
y PREFACE. 
 
 CENTS not omitted ; its AMUSEMENTS blazoned 
 forth ; its CHARITIES not forgotten ; its COM- 
 FORTS recognized; its extreme CLEANLINESS 
 developed ; the virtues of its BATHS promul- 
 gated ; and the efficacy of its WATERS en- 
 larged upon, in all the various " Old" and " New 
 Guides" still extant : the thing is not meant to be 
 denied; nor is it the intention of the Author 
 to assert, that any of the above fixed pictures 
 are not faithful PORTRAITS. But notwithstand- 
 ing this disparagement and great drawback to 
 surmount- 
 True hope ne'er tires, but mounts with eagle's wings, 
 
 and anew moving PICTURE OF BATH is at length 
 produced. How far the artist has hit oft" an 
 accurate and animated likeness with what fide- 
 lity he has preserved the features whether the 
 light and shade have been properly introduced 
 the tints glowing and the colouring so well 
 diffused as to harmonize the whole, must be left 
 to the decision of his judges. The attempt is 
 nouvelle; and, he trusts, the "WALKS THROUGH 
 BATH" will not only prove interesting and use- 
 ful, but that it will ultimately give pleasure to 
 all his readers. 
 
 Although the visitor may " read as he runs" 
 in his perambulations through the streets of 
 Bath, yet nothing of importance has been omit- 
 ted ; and the numerous engravings, executed 
 
PREFACE. V 
 
 by an eminent artist,* will most accurately 
 point out to him, that every building of note is 
 presented to his view. It will also possess this 
 advantage, that it will save the unpleasant trouble 
 of asking questions. 
 
 To the admirers of the FINE ARTS, a cata- 
 logue of the numerous Pictures; a sketch of the 
 interior of the Mansion ; a review of the Plea- 
 sure-Grounds, and every subject connected with 
 CORSHAM-HOUSE, so highly interesting to all 
 its visitors, is minutely introduced. 
 
 The lovers of LITERATURE will also peruse 
 some short accounts of those persons, natives of 
 Bath, whose genius and talents have tended 
 to increase the importance of this attractive 
 City. 
 
 And to add to the interest, if not the comple- 
 tion, of the " WALKS THROUGH BATH," a de- 
 scriptive Itinerary has been attempted from 
 Hyde-Park Corner, London, to the " EN- 
 TRANCE" of the above elegant City, in which no 
 gentleman's seat, no anecdote illustrative of the 
 various towns, or other prominent features tend- 
 ing to occupy the mind of the traveller, have been 
 omitted. The various objects upon the road 
 from Bath to Bristol have also been described 
 with equal minuteness and attention. A WALK 
 to the Rocks of St. Vincent, Bristol Hot-Wells 
 
 * J. STOEBR. 
 
 
VI PBBFACE. 
 
 and Clifton, and the Park of Lord de Clifford, 
 with some remarks on his fine Collection of Paint- 
 ings has also been introduced, in order to save 
 the time of the traveller, if necessary, who may 
 feel disposed to extend his journey by viewing 
 the above delightful subjects, so intimately con- 
 nected with a visit to BATH. 
 
 The Author has only to regret, that descrip- 
 tion, however highly-coloured, must fall short 
 towards communicating with effect, the unparal- 
 leled and delightful scenery with which this most 
 elegant City abounds. 
 
 APRIL 2, 1819. 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 PREFACE ., . *. .% iii 
 
 List of Plates .. x 
 
 Coaches from London to Bath , .. xi 
 
 Descriptive Itinerary of all the Towns and Gen- 
 tlemen's Seats, from Hyde-Park-Corner to 
 Bath 1 
 
 Entrance to Bath 30 
 
 Epitome of Ancient and Modern Bath, a Prelude 
 
 to the Walks 36 
 
 WALK I. 
 
 From the York Hotel to the Abbey, Great 
 Pump-Room, the King's, Queen's, and 
 New Private Baths, Literary Society, &c. 6T 
 
 WALK II. 
 
 From the South Wing of Sydney-Place to 
 the New Church, Bathwick, South and 
 North Parades, Old Rooms, Freemasons' 
 Hall, Bath Antiquities, &c 98 
 
Vlll CONTENTS. 
 
 WALK III. 
 
 From Portland-Place to the New Rooms, 
 Circus, &c 125 
 
 WALK IV. 
 
 From Milsom-Street to the Theatre, Parson- 
 age-House, Market-House. Guildhall, Bath 
 Penitentiary, Walcot Parade, the Ferry, &c. 140 
 
 WALK V. 
 
 From Upper Camden-Place,Lan<:down-Road, 
 All Saints' Chapel, the Royal Crescent, &tc.' 159 
 
 WALK VI. 
 
 The Promenade to the Village of Weston, 
 House of Protection, Waterfall, &c 164 
 
 WALK VII. 
 
 An Aquatic Stroll. From the Old Bridge, 
 alongside of the Avon, to the Gasometer ; 
 return by the Upper Bristol Road, &c. . . 170 
 
 WALK VIII. 
 
 From High-Street to Sydney Hotel and 
 Gardens ; and the Queen's House 179 
 
 WALK IX. 
 
 From Great Pulteney-Street to the Bride- 
 well, Prior-Park and House, Allen's-Walk, 
 Prospect - Place, and Stone Quarry at 
 Combe-Down. To the Brass Knocker; the 
 Aqueduct, &c 188 
 
 WALK X. 
 
 From the Circus to the Race-Ground and 
 Stand. Lansdown Fair and Monument. 
 Prospect Style. The Rocks at \Yick, &c. 210 
 
CONTENTS. IX 
 
 Page 
 WALK (or Ride) XI. 
 
 From Grosvenor-Place to Bath Easton, Box, 
 and Pickwick. The FINE ARTS. A Visit 
 to Corsham-House ; its fine Collection of 
 Paintings ; Park, &c 219 
 
 WALK (or Excursion) XII. 
 
 From the Old Bridge through Twiverton, Salt- 
 ford, Keynsham, and Brislington. A Visit 
 to Clifton and Bristol Hot Wells. De- 
 scriptive Itinerary of the Road to Bristol. 
 Walk to St. Vincent's Rocks, through 
 Clifton, &c 237 
 
 WALK (or Excursion) XIII. 
 
 A Sail down the Avon to the Harbour of 
 Pill. Walk to Pen Pole, Shirehampton, 
 Sec. A Visit to Lord de Clifford's House, 
 Park, Collection of Paintings, &c 253 
 
 Literary Characters, Natives, or Persons inti- 
 mately connected with Bath 262 
 
 List of Coaches from Bath to London, &c 276 
 
 Caravans on the Roads contiguous to Bath .... 278 
 
 Waggons, &c 280 
 
 Water-Carriage 281 
 
 Itinerary of the various Roads from Bath 282 
 
 Fairs 283 
 
 Index ... . 285 
 
LIST OF PLATES. 
 
 YorkHotel .,, 34 
 
 The General Hospital ... ,,...% Tl 
 
 ThePumpRoom ...,> 83 
 
 The Royal Baths ..,,...,,..,,,,...,.. , , 86 
 
 The Cross Bath Pomp Room 89 
 
 TheHotBath ., , 90 
 
 The Old Bridge 93 
 
 St. James's Church 94 
 
 Bathwick Old Church 100 
 
 Pulteney Bridge 101 
 
 View of the Ahhey Church* from the Banks of the Avon lb, 
 
 The Lower Rooms ................. 1 Of 
 
 Freemasons* Hall 116 
 
 Part of the Royal Circus ....................... 196 
 
 Upper Rooms .,,..,....,..,.....,..,......... 197 
 
 The Theatre, 141 
 
 Blue Coat School 144 
 
 The Rector's House 147 
 
 Sjduej Hotel..,.. ISO 
 
 The Queen's House .,....,.. ,v ....... 286 
 
 Prior Park * , 11 
 
COACHES FROM LONDON TO BATH. 
 
 BATH COACHES which set <mt from the 
 INNS i LONDON. 
 
 ANGEL INN, ST. CLEMENT'S, STRAND.-Po*t Coach, throvgh 
 Reading, Newbury, Hungerford, Marlborough, Calne, and 
 Chippenham, daily, at a quarter before 6 in the morning | ar 
 rivet at Bath, 10 evening. 
 
 o/ FamUiet. /nxitofc, frc. (Sunday excepted.) a two-day Coach, 
 by Berkhampton Inn, Devlics, and Melksham, dally, at ft 
 morning. 
 
 Pot Coach, to Bristol, 
 
 through Calne and Chippenham, daily, a quarter before 9 after- 
 noon (Sunday excepted.) 
 
 BELLE SAUVAGE, LUDGATE-HILL. Bath and Bristol, through 
 Marlborough, Calne, and Chippenham, daily, half.past 8 In 
 the morning. 
 
 BOLT-IN-TUN, FLEET-STREET, Pott Coach, by Devlaes to 
 Beckhampton Inn, daily, (Sunday excepted,) ha\f>paat h In the 
 morning. 
 
 CASTLE AND FALCON, ALDERSGATB-STRRET Bath and 
 
 Bristol, through Marlborough, Calne, and Chippenham, dally, 
 quarter before 9 afternoon. 
 
 CROSS KEYS, WOOD-STREET, CHEAPSIDE.-- Bath and Bristol, 
 (Th Regulator,) dally, half-pt 4 afternoon. 
 
 GEORGE AND BLUE BOAR, HOLUOKN, Bath and Bristol, Post 
 Coach, through Maidenhead, Reading, Newbury, Hungtrtofd, 
 Marlborough, Calne, and Chippenham, dally, 1 afternoon. 
 
 GERARD'S HALL, BASINO-LANE, BROAD-STREET, BLACK 
 BEAR, AND WHITE HUKSI. ( i.i.LARS, PICCADILLY,... 
 Bath, through Hungerfnrd, Marlboroufh, Devliea, and Melk- 
 sham, daily, 1 afternoon. 
 
 Ditto, 
 
 through Calne and Chlppcnham, dally, \ afternoon, (Sunday 
 at i.) 
 
 GOLDEN CROSS, CHARING.CR08....Bath and Bristol, through 
 Devises and Melksham to Beckhampton Inn, daily, 6 in the 
 morning. (Sunday excepted.) 
 
 Bath and Bristol, New Post 
 
 Coach, by Deviies, every afternoon, at 5 o'clock. 
 
xil COACHES FROM LONDON TO BATH. 
 
 KING'S ARMS, SNOW-HILL. Bath and Bristol, (The Independent,} 
 through Marlborough, Devizes, and Melksham, daily, 5 in 
 the morning. 
 
 SARACEN'S HEAD, SNOW-HILL. Bath and Bristol, through 
 Newbury, Hungerford, Marlborough, and Chippenham, daily, 
 1 afternoon. 
 
 SWAN WITH TWO NECKS, LAD-LANE Bath, Royal Mail, 
 through Marlborough and Devizes, daily, half-past 7 in the 
 afternoon. 
 
 Bath and Bristol, 
 
 (Royal Volunteer,} through Marlborough, Calne, and Chippen- 
 ham, daily, quarter before 4 afternoon. 
 
 TEMPLE COFFEE HOUSE, TAVERN, AND FAMILY HOTEL, 
 STRAND, NEAR TEMPLE-BAR. Bath and Bristol, daily, 
 1 and 5 afternoon. 
 
 WHITE BEAR, PICCADILLY. Bath and Bristol, Post Coach, 
 daily, half-past 1 afternoon. 
 
DESCRIPTIVE ril 
 
 ruoM 
 
 LONDON TO BATH. 
 
 FASHION in ev'ry thing bears sov'reign sway, 
 And Bath for " Life !" the gayest of the gay ! 
 
 WHEN the attractions of MARGATE, as a watering- 
 place, have lost their charms, and become little more 
 than a mere desert, its finely ornamented " steam- 
 boats"* laid up, as it were, in ordinary, and its " com- 
 pany " got safely back to the metropolis, once more bu- 
 sily engaged behind their counters, of which, that fa- 
 cetious and satiric bard,f when in the zenith of his 
 powers, thus described : 
 
 Chang'd by their travels mounted high in soul 
 Here Suds forgets whate'er remembrance shocks, 
 
 And Mistress Suds forgetteth too the pole, 
 
 Wigs, bob and pig-tail, basins, razors, blocks ! 
 
 * The rapidity and regularity of this new conveyance has 
 been much admired, and provided the doubtful part of the 
 passage could be got over in the minds of a few sceptics 
 who place some value upon their carcasses, namely, if the 
 cargo is not altogether missing some day from the blowing up 
 of the vessel, " leaving not a wreck behind," the old hoys 
 must soon be exploded. 
 
 t PETER PINDAR. This once facetious disciple of the 
 Muses, it seems, has long since been poetically dead to the 
 world ; and his tille has been usurped by a variety of persons, 
 without possessing even a mediocrity of talent, compared 
 with this great original. Dr. WAICOT is, however, alive 
 at the present moment (Jan. 1819); and/jndependent of 
 
 u 
 
DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 Mistrc&s Pap, from pewter pots withdrawn, 
 Walks forth in all the pride of paunch and geer, 
 Mou/its I'cr swoln heels 'jn Dandelion's lawn, 
 And at the bail-room heaves her heavy rear. 
 
 Here Crispin too forgets his end and awl, 
 Here Mistress Cleaver, with important looks, 
 
 Forgets the beef and mutton on her stall, 
 And lights and liver dangling from the hooks ! 
 
 Here too the most important Dicky Dab, 
 
 With puppy pertness, pretty, pleasant PRIG, 
 
 Forgets the narrow fishy house of Crab, 
 And drives in Jehu-style his whirling gig ! 
 
 When CHELTENHAM, also, has yielded up its fashion- 
 able valetudinarian visitants; and BRIGHTON, from 
 the rudely southern breezes driven the elegant and 
 almost transparent fair ones off its dashing Steynes, 
 and left principally to the care of its natives and 
 rough uncultivated fishermen, notwithstanding roy- 
 alty's palace,* " out-heroding " all the talismanic 
 touches of the genii of the " Arabian Nights," it is 
 
 being deprived of the advantages of vision, may be said to 
 enjoy a fine green old age, full of spirits, still passionately 
 fond of poesy, as eager as ever to enjoy the ban mot and re- 
 partee, strongly attached to literary men and literary com- 
 pany ; not dull in himself when alone, and with the assist- 
 ance of his attendant HEBE, who, from his dictation, pens 
 down his verses, (which, according to report, are equal to 
 any of his former productions, but which are said to be pre- 
 served for his posthumous works,) and, with his glass of rum 
 before him, from which he frequently sips, and well cased in 
 flannel, he seems almost to laugh at the grim king of terrors. 
 * When this palace is completed, (in which the hammer has 
 scarcely had a day's rest for the last twenty years,) it may 
 bid defiance to the whole universe to produce any thing like 
 an equal ! It seems as though Time did not like his work : 
 
 As though he wanted something better still 
 Than e'er was manufactur'd at his mill. 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 3 
 
 then that the season for visiting the splendid and clas- 
 sic BATH hecomes the universal place of resort, and 
 the beau monde all upon the alert to reach its fashion- 
 able destination. Whether the foot-step of the gay 
 " set out" of the barouche offers its ascent to the eager 
 traveller, 
 
 " With spirits gay we mount the box, the tits up to the traces," 
 
 or, the more accommodating ladder to mount the roof 
 of the Regent* to the coaches " all right ya-hip!" 
 and the sounding of the bugle by the guard to quit the 
 bustle of the White Horse Cellar, the journey to most 
 minds commences with pleasure and delight: and, al- 
 though he may not possess the talents of a STERNE to 
 reali/e another " Sentimental Journey," he will, never- 
 theless, find the road far from " barren ;" but, on the 
 contrary, furnish him with abundant interesting objects 
 for his attention and observation, more especially, if 
 the passengers are truly English, (i. e, of that sort of 
 quality which is so humourously depicted by MATHEWS 
 in his " Mail Coach Adventures") the traveller may 
 possess the advantages of thinking; indeed, for in- 
 stance, some hours often elapse before a single word 
 can be thaioed from your close-squeezed cold neigh- 
 bour ; and if you can provoke any conversation beyond 
 the laconic " yes," or " no !" you are likely to be 
 silenced after the mode of the following surly remark, 
 to prevent any future attacks: " Sir, I am remark- 
 ably well ; I was very well when I left town, I am 
 very well now, and if I should happen to be taken ill, 
 sir, I'll let you know." Yet, perhaps, it is much more 
 pleasant to endure even this reserve, than to be an- 
 noyed with the purse-proud importance of one of 
 " Fortune's fools," who can talk of nothing else but 
 the collection of his rents, and flatters himself he has 
 a right to be listened to because he is a man of pro- 
 
 * The name of a coach. 
 
 B 2 
 
4 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 perty ; or, in being bored to death by some uninformed 
 cockney, who never lost sight of Bow-Church before, 
 and whose intellectual sagacity scarcely points out to 
 him the difference between grass and corn, and the 
 sum total of his repeated inquiries amount to, " What 
 house is that there" and " what is growing in this here 
 field." But the journey is began ; the coach is in full 
 speed; and the "good bye" scarcely over, when the 
 traveller is off the stones, gone through KNIGHTS- 
 BRIDGE, and, before he has hardly time for a single 
 reflection, arrived at KENSINGTON-GORE, (one mile.) 
 On the right stands the Palace, but now more 
 famed for its delightful gardens and attractive walks 
 for visitors on Sundays. Just through Kensington, 
 also on the right, appears the antique mansion 
 of the late Lord Holland, and father of that 
 enlightened and illustrious senator, Charles James 
 Fox. This venerable seat also lajs claim to attention 
 from the impressive death of that great, good man, 
 and classic scholar, ADDISON, who departed this 
 life in it. It was here where the above truly pious 
 individual requested a young nobleman to behold 
 " with what resignation a Christian could die." 
 
 The chamber where the good man meets his fate, 
 
 Is privileg'd beyond the common walk 
 
 Of virtuous life, quite in the verge of heav'n. 
 
 A lecture, silent, but of sov'reign pow'r! 
 
 To vice, confusion j and to virtue, peace. 
 
 HAMMERSMITH soon appears in sight, (3 m. 5 
 f.) and on the right of which stands the pleasant seat 
 of R. Ricardo, Esq. On the left is seen, contiguous 
 to the banks of the Thames, the beautiful mansion of 
 the MARGRAVINE of ANSPACH, known by the name of 
 Brandenburgh-IIouse. The approach to it from the 
 water is picturesque in the extreme ; and art has been 
 consulted and employed to render its appearance 
 highly interesting to the spectator: the gardens are 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 5 
 
 laid out with great taste. The Margravine is a lady 
 not only conspicuous for her eminent literary talents, 
 her splendid private theatricals, performed in the 
 theatre at Brandenburgh-House, in which her serene 
 highness frequently delighted her auditory in the two 
 characters of heroine and author; but was of great 
 notoriety in the fashionable world. From her superior 
 knowledge and facility in the French and Italian lan- 
 guages, her great taste for the arts of poetry and music, 
 and considerable personal attraction, the Margravine 
 was viewed as one of the most admired women of her 
 time. Her highness has published several works in 
 poetry, the drama, travels, and novels ; and, as a 
 traveller, since the days of Lady Mary Wortley Mon- 
 tague, no female ever made so enterprising, extensive, 
 and masculine a tour as the Margravine. In short, 
 few, if any, places of note upon the Continent were 
 suffered to escape her notice or her pen, and fre- 
 quently at the hazard of her existence. The following 
 poem was written by this person of rank, when Lady 
 Craven, on dreaming she saw her heart at her feet: 
 
 " When Nature, tir'd with thought, was sunk to rest, 
 And all ray senses were by sleep possest ; 
 Sweet sleep, that soft and balmy comfort brings, 
 Alike to beggars and despotic kings ; 
 I dreamt of peace I never felt before, 
 t dreamt my heart was lying on the floor. 
 I view'd it, strange to tell, with joyful eyes, 
 And stranger still, without the least surprise ! 
 Elated with the sight I smiling sat, 
 Exulting o'er the victim at my feet ; 
 But soon with words of anguish thus address'd, 
 This painful, sweet disturber of my breast : 
 
 ' Say, busy, lively, hoping, trembling thing, 
 What new disaster hast thou now to bring, 
 To torture with thy fears my tender frame, 
 Who must for all her ills thee only blame? 
 
(> DBSCRIPT1V E IT1N KRAR Y 
 
 Speak now, and tell me why, ungrateful guest, 
 
 For ten years past hast them denied me rest ? 
 
 Then in my bosom thou wast nurs'd, 'tis true, 
 
 And with my life and with my stature grew. 
 
 At first so small were all thy wants, that I 
 
 Vainly imagin'd I could ne'er deny 
 
 Whate'er thy fancy ask'd. Alas! but now, 
 
 I find thy wants my ev'ry sense outgrow ; 
 
 And ever having, ever wanting more, 
 
 A power to please, to give, or to adore. 
 
 Say, why, like other hearts, thou dost not bear, 
 
 With callous apathy, each worldly care? 
 
 Why dost thou shrink at Envy's horrid cries ? 
 
 In thee Compassion Hatred's place supplies. 
 
 Why not with malice treat malicious meu ? 
 
 Why ever pity where thou should'st condemn? 
 
 Why, at the hearing of a dismal tale, 
 
 Dost thou with sorrow turn thy beauty pale ? 
 
 Why, when distress in any shape appears, 
 
 Dost thou dissolve my very soul in tears ? 
 
 Why, in thy secret folds is Friendship bred? 
 
 In other hearts its very name is dead. 
 
 Why, if keen Wit and learned Sense draw nigh, 
 
 Dost thou with emulation beat so high? 
 
 And while approving, wish to be approv'd, 
 
 And when you love, wish more to be belov'd ? 
 
 Why not, in cold indifference ever clad, 
 
 Alike unmov'd, regard the good and bad ? 
 
 Why dost thou waste my youthful bloom with care, 
 
 And sacrifice myself, that I might share 
 
 Distress in others ? Why wilt thou adorn 
 
 Their days with roses, and leave me a thorn?' 
 
 But here I saw it heave a heavy sigh, 
 And thus in sweetest sounds it did reply : 
 ' Ah! cease, Eliza, cease thy speech unjust; 
 Thy heart has e'er fulfill'd its sacred trust, 
 And ever will its tender mansion serve, 
 Nor can it from thee this reproach deserve : 
 Against my dictates murm'ring have I found, 
 Which thus has laid me bleeding on the ground.' " 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 7 
 
 In the neighbourhood of Hammersmith stands also 
 the estate of W. Hunter, Esq. 
 
 TURNHAM-GREEN, (5 m. 1 f.) Contiguous to this 
 little place the following seats are to be met with : 
 
 G. E. Griffith, Esq. Mrs. Stephens, Ware, Esq. 
 
 Neale, Esq. and Mrs. Wildman. To the left, 
 
 Sutton-Court, Sidebottom, Esq. and at Little 
 
 Sutton, Mrs. Pratt, also Grove-House, Rev. Mr. 
 
 Lowth ; Fairlawn-House, on the right, Thomson, 
 
 Esq. But, the most prominent mansion stands on 
 the left of Sutton, Chiswick-House, the residence of 
 the late and present DUKE OF DEVONSHIRE. The 
 slightest glance of this house cannot but awaken the 
 feelings of the passenger with some pleasing recollec- 
 tions concerning two of its dearest inmates, long 
 since consigned to that u bourne from whence no 
 traveller returns." And Chiswick- House will long be 
 remembered, not only for its political meetings under 
 the staunch Whig principles and influence of the 
 Duke, his strong and steady attachment to the Con- 
 stitution, and his amiability of character through life ; 
 but equally renowned as the Temple of the Muses, 
 the abode of Wit, and the circle of elegant and polite 
 literature, under the patronage and taste of the 
 Duchess; whom NATURE and ART had united in 
 rendering one of the most beautiful, accomplished, 
 and superior females of her day. It is thus a cele- 
 brated bard invoked " Old Time," to ward off his dire 
 effects upon her lovely person : 
 
 Know, should 'st thou bid the beauteous Duchess fade, 
 Thou, therefore, must thy own delights invade ; 
 And know, 'twill be a long, long while, 
 Before thou giv'st her equal to our isle 
 Then do not with this sweet chef-d'oeuvre part, 
 But keep, to shew the triumph of thy art. 
 
 The traveller is, at length, awakened from this 
 reverie, by the long, stony, jolting town of 
 
 BRENTFORD, (7 m. 1 f.) consisting of upwards of 
 
tf DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 300 houses, irregularly built, and containing nearly 
 2000 inhabitants. It is, however, a place of but little 
 notoriety, excepting at the dissolution^ Parliament; 
 yet the memorable spirited contests of those " men 
 of the people," WILKES and SIR FRANCIS BURDETT, 
 have given it a sort of political importance it other- 
 wise would not have acquired. On the left of BRENT- 
 FORD is seen Kew-Bridge; and at various parts of the 
 town, the new palace, built under the immediate 
 direction of His MAJESTY, (although it never became 
 the residence of the King,) is viewed across the river 
 with a pleasing effect, and generally considered as an 
 ornament to Brentford. The propriety of erecting a 
 palace in such a situation has been much questioned, 
 in consequence of the humidity with which the inte- 
 rior has to contend against; but, the palace at Kew 
 derived most of its importance from being the resi- 
 dence of the QUEEN, during her long-protracted illness 
 and death, which occurred on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 
 1818, at twenty minutes after one o'clock. The re- 
 mains of her Majesty also lay in state at Kew-Palace, 
 previous to their interment in the royal cemetry at 
 Windsor, Dec. 2. His Royal Highness the Prince 
 Regent attended as chief mourner upon this occasion. 
 During one of the longest reigns which ever occurred 
 in this or any other country, (throughout a period of 
 fifty-seven years, in which some political questions of 
 great moment were agitated, and personally connected 
 with her Majesty's situation,) it is almost impossible 
 to suppose, that\the character of the QUEEN could be 
 passed over without some inquiry as to the merits of 
 praise or censure. The charges of parsimony, and 
 even exercising an undue influence in state affairs, 
 have been levelled at her late Majesty, resting, it ap- 
 pears, merely on hearsay and conjecture : it is, how- 
 ever, admitted by all parties, that, in the example of 
 domestic morality and virtue which she constantly 
 held forth to the English people, she merited the 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 9 
 
 highest praise that a nation can bestow. It would 
 require an age of experience and an unbounded know- 
 ledge of mankind, to make a fair calculation of the 
 innumerable benefits which such an influence as this 
 must have had on society ; and, it is not too much to 
 say, that the chastity which distinguishes the females 
 of this country above all others in the world, a virtue 
 without which political liberty is a mere shadow, 
 was, in some degree, caused by the salutary lessons 
 which the uniform practice of the court had inculcated. 
 Fortunately for the nation, the most useful virtues of 
 private life were practised in a quarter where, like the 
 fashions in dress, it was impossible they should not 
 be imitated ; so that the possession of those virtues 
 was an object of ambition. The noble firmness with 
 which the Queen repelled from her presence females 
 of even the highest rank, whose characters appeared 
 in a suspicious light, must command the admiration 
 and gratitude of all persons, who can appreciate the 
 benefits resulting from public and private morality. 
 The middle classes of society also felt an elevation of 
 mind, and a self-applauding conciousness of their own 
 dignity, when they perceived, that without the prac- 
 tice of those moral virtues which belonged to them- 
 selves, neither rank, title, or wealth, could meet with 
 any countenance at court. 
 
 The GrundJunction Canal, after running from North- 
 amptonshire through a variety of places, for the dis- 
 tance of 93$ miles, at length unites itself with the 
 Thames at Brentford-Bridge. On passing through Brent- 
 ford, on the left, stands Sion-House, the capacious and 
 elegant mansion of the Duke of Northumberland, 
 fitted up and finished after the best models of Greece 
 and Rome, which, for taste and beauty, is scarcely to 
 be paralleled in Europe ; the approach to which 
 through the grounds is particularly picturesque; and 
 the lion on the top of the handsome gates of the 
 
10 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 lodge, not only designates this prominent ornament of 
 the Northumberland family, but renders the entrance 
 truly grand and imposing. This neighbourhood has 
 also to boast of more houses belonging to some of the 
 most ancient of our nobility. On the right, Sion-Hill, 
 the Duke of Marlborough ; opposite to Sion-Lodge, is 
 the seat of Miss Batten ; and, at the distance of a 
 mile is Osterley-Park, the beautiful residence of the 
 Earl of Jersey, formerly belonging to Mr. Child, the 
 most opulent banker in the city, but which was left 
 by him to Lady Sarah Fane, (who married the above 
 Earl, and daughter to the Countess of Westmorland,) 
 in consequence of the latter's elopement and marriage 
 with the Earl of that name, in opposition to her father, 
 Mr. Child. This circumstance, which once so much 
 agitated the fashionable world, is now got rid of in 
 the mind of the traveller by his arrival at 
 
 SMALLBERRY-GREEN, (8m. 2 f.) This little 
 village becomes important to the inquisitive mind of the 
 passenger, who learns, that Spring-Grove, on the 
 right, is the seat of that learned antiquary and bota- 
 nist, the Right Hon. Sir Joseph Banks, Bart. The 
 mildness of manners, the amiability of deportment, 
 and the literary converzationes of this gentleman to 
 benefit his country, and improve the general habits of 
 society, have not been able te preserve him from the 
 attacks of ridicule and satire by the humourous Capt. 
 MORRIS and the facetious (though not always correct 
 as to facts) PETER PINDAR. On the discovery of 
 Botany-Bay, by Capt. Cook, the former poet thus 
 mentions Sir Joseph, in one of his political songs, 
 which was received with great eclat at the Sons of 
 Anacreon, Beef-steak Club, &c. &c. 
 
 You have heard of Captain Cook, our worthy great com- 
 mander ! 
 The great Sir Joseph Banks, and Doctor Solander ; 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 11 
 
 They sail'd round the world, were perplex'd and were teas'd 
 
 too, 
 To find out a place where the King might send " his thieves" 
 
 to! 
 
 So Britons fill up bumpers, rejoice now and all sing, 
 What " a glorious set of thieves " we shall have from their 
 
 offspring. Bow, wow. 
 
 Thus also Peter Pindar satirizes the learned Sir 
 Joseph's pursuits: 
 
 Sir Joseph, fav'rite of great queens and kings, 
 Whose wisdom weed and insect hunter sings ; 
 
 And ladies fair applaud, with smile so dimpling ; 
 Went forth one day, amidst the laughing fields, 
 Where nature such exhaustless treasure yields, 
 
 A simpling ! 
 
 It happen'd on the self-same morn so bright, 
 
 The nimble pupils of Sir Sampson Wright,* 
 
 A simpling, too, for plants, called thieves, proceeded; 
 
 Of which the naiion's field should oft be weeded, 
 
 ' Sirs, I'm no highwayman,' exclaim' d the knight, 
 
 ' No there,' rejoin'd the runners, ' you are right, 
 
 A footpad only Yes, we know your trade- 
 Yes, you're a pretty babe of grace ; 
 We want no proofs, old codger, but your face ; 
 
 So come along with us, old blade.' 
 
 Now to the 'squire familiar bow'd the knight, 
 Who knew Sir Joseph at first sight, 
 
 What's strongly mark'd, is quickly known again 
 And with a pause that awe and dread commanded, 
 The thief- takers severely reprimanded, 
 
 For thus mistaking gentlemen. 
 
 Then on their knuckles rais'd their hands and eyes, 
 And crav'd Sir Joseph's pardon for belief, 
 
 That when they jurnp'd upon him by surprise, 
 They took so great a gemman for a thief, 
 
 Hoping to mind th' advice of godly books, 
 Fiz. not to judge of people by their looks. 
 
 * One of the then police-magistrates at Bow-Street-Office. 
 
12 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 But a truce to PETER and his muse, as the coach 
 is arrived at 
 
 HOUNSLOW, (9m. 3 f.) a town of little note; 
 and, although time is afforded the traveller to exercise 
 his mind while the horses are changing, and " coachy " 
 is taking his little whet, yet no objects present them- 
 selves worthy of his immediate attention. But, not- 
 withstanding, there are several good seats contiguous 
 to Hounslow belonging to Mrs. Fullerton; Whitton- 
 Place, George Gostling, Esq. Here is also Whitton- 
 Park, so justly celebrated for its fine cedars of Leba- 
 non; and the residences also of Sir Benjamin Hob- 
 house; Samuel Prime, and James Campbell, Esqrs. 
 On leaving the town, on the left, is the great 
 road to the Land's End, of 290 miles. On crossing 
 the Heath, once of such " dread import," (a few years 
 since either by day or night,) and so very fruitful to 
 the pages of the Newgate Calendar, from its numerous 
 collectors, (otherwise highwaymen,) all the palpitations 
 of the heart, shiverings, and cold sweats, which for- 
 merly operated upon the delicate feelings of the female 
 passengers, under the apprehension of being robbed 
 every instant, and the anxieties and state of suspense 
 experienced by the more courageous male travellers, 
 " whistling aloud, like the school-boy, to keep their 
 courage up," are now completely removed, and 
 Hounslow-Heath has become almost as safe as riding 
 through St. James's Park. This change, perhaps, is 
 not owing to an increase of horse and foot patroles, 
 exertions of the police-officers, or well-armed guards 
 to most of the stage-coaches, but to be attributed to 
 the change which has taken place in committing de- 
 predations upon the public, with less hazard to the 
 robber for his personal safety. The following original 
 anecdote may prove acceptable, concerning one of 
 those " high spirits " of the school of crime, a noted 
 highwayman upon the above Heath, a great collector, 
 and a perfect Macheath in real life, surrounded by 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 13 
 
 doating mistresses, yet ultimately was betrayed or 
 " sold" to the officers of justice by a favourite 
 dulcinea, and, at length, received sentence of death, 
 but whose punishment was commuted for transporta- 
 tion for life. NED HALLORAN, possessing principles 
 that would have reflected credit on a better cause 
 acting up to the strictest scale of honour in every 
 private transaction of his life; yet even his conviction, 
 he asserted, could not convince his mind, that he had 
 been guilty of a crime, in taking from those persons 
 who had plenty of property, in order to relieve him- 
 self who had none. Such was the character of this 
 robber. Upon one of his collecting days on the above 
 Heath, he stopped a goldsmith and refiner, a man of 
 considerable property and importance in the City of 
 London, and took from him, without any resistance, 
 his cash, gold watch, chain, and seals, and also his 
 silver knee and shoe-buckles, and very politely wished 
 the refiner a good morning. NED, thinking it was all 
 right and safe, after a small circuitous route over the 
 Heath, put up his horse at an inn to take refreshment; 
 his repast being ended, and just as he was ready to 
 mount his horse, the refiner rode into the yard, but 
 did not recognize him. HALLORAN left the inn with- 
 out the slightest agitation ; and, in the course of a few 
 days afterwards, strange to say, but strictly true, NED, 
 in his own person, oifered the above stolen articles to 
 the refiner upon his counter; when the latter looked 
 up at HALLORAN, without betraying any appearance of 
 recollection, and immediately saw the man who had 
 robbed him upon Hounslow-Heath; yet the refiner, 
 with the utmost coolness and business-like manner, 
 paid him the worth of them, and HALLORAN retired 
 from the shop in safety. It is thus accounted for. 
 This refiner, it seems, was what the thieves term a 
 fence ;* and NED must have been directed to his shop 
 
 * A receiver of stolen goods. 
 
14 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 by some of his own fraternity ; and, therefore, the 
 refiner pocketed the affront, for fear if any noise had 
 been made upon the subject, his own iniquitous prac- 
 tices might have been discovered. It is a positive 
 fact, that the above refiner, in a few years after this 
 transaction, put a period to his existence, to avoid the 
 disgrace of a public trial for forging the Goldsmiths' 
 Company's mark, to pass the articles he sold as gold. 
 The countenances of both the thief and the receiver, 
 upon recognizing each other, and yet each, with the 
 utmost coolness, keeping the secret, would have been 
 a fine subject for the pencil of a HOGARTH. The 
 above is one among the numerous, singular circum- 
 stances that occur in London, without ever obtaining 
 publicity. But the highwayman, footpad, and house- 
 breaker, are now, in a great degree, lost sight of in 
 the passers of forged bank-notes, as running a less 
 risk of detection ; and the facilities of obtaining 
 these notes are so easy, that they are bought and sold 
 with as much regularity as any articles of trade. One 
 decided proof of the vast extent of this species of 
 crime is, the Solicitor of the Bank of England obtains 
 ,20,000 per annum as the price of his prosecutions. 
 The long heath is now passed, and the traveller finds 
 himself at 
 
 CRANFORD-BRIDGE, (12 m. 2 f.) About half 
 a mile distant from this bridge stands Cranford-Park, 
 the seat of the Countess (relict of the late Earl) 
 Berkeley, rendered so interestingly conspicuous in the 
 fashionable world upon the death of the above noble- 
 man, in consequence of the interference of the House 
 of Lords to protect their privileges of bestowing the 
 title upon the legal heir. The right of succession, it 
 should seem, operated very much upon the paternal 
 feelings of the Earl previous to his demise ; and, not- 
 withstanding the heavy forfeiture of estates and penal- 
 ties laid upon any one of the family by his will, for- 
 mally attested, who should attempt to disturb the 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 15 
 
 right of liis eldest son to enjoy the title, &c. it was, 
 after a most minute, laborious, and voluminous, inves- 
 tigation, by the peers of the realm, (which involved 
 rather an unpleasant expose of the domestic circum- 
 stances of this noble and ancient family,) finally deter- 
 mined, that the youngest son (of five) was the truly 
 legal inheritor to the title and Berkeley estates. It 
 is, however, worthy of remark, that, upon the same 
 evening this decision of the House of Lords was 
 made public, Colonel Berkeley (the hitherto presumed 
 heir) received this change in his fortune with the 
 utmost composure. He lost no time in calling his 
 numerous retinue together, and taking his youngest 
 brother by the hand, addressed them, saying, " This 
 is Earl Berkeley -and my designation, in future, only 
 Colonel." The " law" it is true, has been complied 
 with in removing the title; but, it appears, that the 
 brotherly affection existing between the sons, the 
 anxiety to pay attention to the will of their deceased 
 parent, (whose feelings upon so delicate a question 
 were of the most praiseworthy and laudable descrip- 
 tion, originating from the real impulse of nature,) that 
 the " property " has not been disturbed. 
 
 SIMPSON-GREEN, (13m. 4f.) Here are only 
 a few straggling houses and the sign of the Magpies ; 
 but, the country on both sides of the traveller is 
 pleasant, though nothing of any importance is to be 
 seen, till he arrives at 
 
 LONGFORD, (15 m.) At a small distance on 
 the left of the road are the seats of Sir Edwin 
 Francis Stanhope and Sir John Gibbons, Barts. and 
 about two miles on the right, at West Drayton, is the 
 residence of Fyshe De Burgh, Esq. The old road, 
 that runs on the left, makes to the Thames ; but the 
 new one, on the right, goes to BUSHY-PARK. The 
 recollection of this latter place is not particularly 
 important from its being the splendid retreat of roy- 
 alty, and the abode of the Duke of Clarence; but, it 
 
16 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 is truly conspicuous in being once the residence of the 
 late generous, amiable, but unfortunate, Mrs. JORDAN ; 
 and cannot fail in exciting some of the most feeling 
 sensations in the mind of the traveller, at the vicissi- 
 tudes of h r interesting career, and the melancholy 
 peiiod of existence experienced by this highly-gifted 
 female. 
 
 Praising what is lost, 
 Makes the remembrance more dear. SHAKSPEARE. 
 
 'Tis past and to a foreign grave consign'd 
 
 That form, that face, which gave so much delight, 
 
 No more that voice will charm where sweetness join'd, 
 Nor THESPIAN boast a gem again so bright. 
 
 For she had power to charm the dullest soul, 
 
 On ev'ry action rapt attention hung ; 
 Our smiles, our tears, alike she could controul, 
 
 For eloquence flow'd matchless from her tongue. 
 
 In CORA, sweetly did she play her part! 
 
 No word, no action, was with her at strife, 
 Her feelings flow'd spontaneous from the heart, 
 
 The anxious mother and the tender wife. 
 
 In ANGELA the various trails portray'd 
 How fine the innocence and firmness join, 
 
 The duteous daughter and the love-sick maid, 
 She did in turn, most beautifully, combine. 
 
 Her talents rose in PEGGY'S playful form 
 
 ROSALIND VIOLA and PICKLE too; 
 Each character how well she did adorn, 
 
 And to her mem'ry ev'ry praise is due ! 
 
 She that was once to ROYALTY a friend 
 Now in a foreign earth she rests her head ; 
 
 Her on whose smiles once numbers did depend, 
 Yet no companion cheer'd her dying-bed ! 
 
 She that had known a MOTHER'S tender name, 
 In her last moments no fond child was near, 
 
 From strangers she did those attentions claim, 
 And strangers gave the tribute of a tear ! 
 
PROM LONDON TO BATH. 17 
 
 It seems the tale of fiction to relate, 
 
 This once great Actress liv'd to be unknown, 
 
 But such, alas ! was found her wayward fate, 
 That in the hour of death all friends were flown. 
 
 Her virtues many seek not her faults to view, 
 
 Whate'er they were they're buried in her bier- 
 This humble tribute to her merit's due, 
 
 And MEM'RY still will give her name a tear! 
 
 An impenetrable veil, it seems, has hitherto obscu- 
 red the real cause of the separation of this superior 
 female from the protection of the Duke of Clarence, 
 after being the mother of ten children, and many of 
 whom having been introduced to the Queen and other 
 branches of the Royal Family : but suffice, however 
 afflicting to relate, she that had been the delight of the 
 age in which she lived justly acknowledged the prop 
 of THALIA, and the mirror of the stage; and after 
 participating in the magnificence and splendour attach- 
 ed, as it were, in her being looked upon as the very 
 idolatry of royalty, (although, in truth, principally 
 supported by her own unrivalled talents,) was, at 
 length, suffered to end her life in an obscure lodging in 
 Paris, and privately interred (scarcely without an at- 
 tendant) in the cemetry of St. Cloud, July 3, 1816. 
 Two spirited and feeling Englishmen, it is said, upon 
 hearing of the circumstance, and out of grateful remem- 
 brance from the pleasure they had derived from her 
 merits as an actress, had a stone erected to her 
 memory, with the following inscription : 
 
 DOROTHEA JORDAN, quae multos annos, Londini inque 
 liis Britanniae urbibus, scenam egregie ornavit, lepore 
 Comico, vocis suavitate, puellarura hilarium, alternis-que 
 sexus moribus habitu imitandis, null; secunda : ad exercen- 
 dam eamxjua tarn feliciter versata est, artem, ultres egendium 
 adversas sublivaret, nemo promptior. E vit exiit 3tio nonas 
 Julii 1816, annos nata 50. Mementote lugete. 
 
 c 
 
18 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 The traveller, who seems lost in a complete reverie, 
 that out of the numerous remembrances in Westmin- 
 ster-Abbey, one small niche, could not have been 
 found to recognize the loss of such unbounded talents 
 and real worth, if not to prevent from total oblivion 
 one of the greatest ornaments of the British stage, is, 
 at length, awakened from the thoughts of neglect and 
 ingratitude, by his entering into Buckinghamshire, and 
 arriving at 
 
 COLNBROOK, (16m. 6 f.) On the right is 
 Ilitchings-Park, belonging to the Right Hon. John 
 Sullivan ; and, on the left stands Horton-House. 
 
 LANGLEY-BROOM, (18 m. 2 f.) On the left of 
 which is Ditton-Park, the seat of Lord Montague ; 
 and, on the right, that of Sir R. B. Harvey, known 
 as Langley-Park. 
 
 TETSWORTH-WATER, (19m. 2 f.) is of no in- 
 terest, till the traveller arrives at 
 
 SLOUGH, (20 m. 4 f.) This place is rather attrac- 
 tive in being the residence of the great astronomer, 
 Sir William Herschell. The superior talents exhibited 
 by Sir William, and the discoveries he has made in 
 the grand and sublime science of astronomy, is a de- 
 cided proof what perfection may be attained by any 
 individual, supported by industry and application; 
 and, as an addition to his character, it seems, Sir 
 William Herschell is entirely self-taught. In this 
 neighbourhood are also the seats of H. Daw, . 
 Edwards, and J. Penn, Esqrs. and Capt. Vyse. 
 
 SALT-HILL, (21 m. 2 f.) From this place, on the 
 left, is a fine view of Windsor-Castle, rendered 
 more interesting and attractive in being the resi- 
 dence of our revered and venerable monarch, George 
 III. whose length of reign is without parallel; and, 
 at the period of writing this paragraph, (November 
 the 10th, 1818), it is worthy of remark, he has been 
 King of England upwards of fifty-eight years the 
 queen in existence twelve sons and daughters living, 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 19 
 
 and the youngest child of their majesties more than 
 forty years of age. In his retreat from the public eye, 
 it may be truly observed, 
 
 Yes, we have lost a father ! 
 
 The greatest blessing heaven bestows on mortals, 
 And, seldom found amidst these wilds of time, 
 A good, a worthy King ! 
 
 Here is also a fine prospect of Eton-College. Con- 
 tiguous to Slough and Salt- Hill are numerous resi- 
 dences, among which will be found those of the 
 Marchioness of Thomond; Cranbourn-Lodge, late 
 
 Nash, Esq. Clewer-Spire ; Sophia-Farm, 
 
 Dawson, Esq. and the Earl of Harcourt's, at St. 
 Leonard's Hill. Also Farnham Royal Church; Brit- 
 well-Honse, Hon. George Irby; a view of Burnham 
 church and village; Iluntercombe, J. T. Atkyns, Esq. 
 the Willows, late H. T. Ward, Esq. and Dropmoro- 
 Hill, the seat of that distinguished and profound 
 statesman, Lord Grenville. 
 
 MAIDENHEAD-BRIDGE, (25 in. <2 f.) is a light 
 and elegant erection ; and, the exterior of the inns 
 have an imposing appearance, from the way in which 
 they are decorated with flowers. This part of the 
 country should seem very attractive to the nobility 
 and gentry, from the various seats with which it is 
 surrounded. On the right, at Taplow, is Lord Rivers- 
 dale, P. Grenfell, Esq. and Lady Courtenay. On the 
 hill, the Countess of Orkney; Taplow-Lodge and 
 Monkey-Island, belonging to P.-C. Bruce, Esq. near 
 
 to which are, Water Oakley, Harford, Esq. 
 
 Filbert, C. Fuller, Esq. The Retreat, late Lady 
 Bowyer ; and one mile, on the right, the beautiful 
 woods of the Countess of Orkney are to be seen. 
 Also Hedsor, Lord Boston ; on the left, at some dis- 
 tance, is Dorney-Court, Sir C. H. Palmer, Bart. 
 Braywick-Lodge, Sir J. W. Waller, Bart. ; and Can- 
 non-Hill, C. S. Murray, Esq. In the neighbourhood 
 
 c 2 
 
20 DE:>CtiJPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 of the above, are the residences of B. Witts, Esq. 
 Lady Pocock, and Sir William Herne. 
 
 MAIDENHEAD, (26 m.) a small corporate town, 
 containing 167 houses, and about 800 inhabitants, 
 near to which are the following seats: on the left 
 
 is Ives-House, belonging to Wilson, Esq. and, 
 
 on the right, Hall-Place, Sir W. East, Bart. ; and 
 Bisham-Abbey, George Vansittart, Esq. 
 
 MAIDENHEAD-THICKET, (28m.) The road 
 about this place is interesting, and well sprinkled with 
 delightful residences. On the left is Heywood- Lodge, 
 Sawyer, Esq. and the spire of Shottesbrook- 
 Church is to be seen, which enlivens the prospect. 
 Here are also the seats of A. Vansittart, Esq. Pinke 
 Lee, Esq. Woolley-Hall, late Rev. Mr. Palmer, and 
 Stubbins, belonging to Lady Dorchester. 
 
 KILN-GREEN, (31m.) On the right is the 
 residence of Henry Fonnereau, Esq. and, on the left, 
 Scarlet, Lee Perrott, Esq. 
 
 HARE-HATCH, (32m.) The traveller would 
 scarcely ask the name of these little places, were it 
 not for the seats which are contiguous to them. On 
 the right is Bear-Place, Sir Morris Ximenes, and 
 
 Dalton, Esq. and, on the left, are the 
 
 residences of J. Montagu, Esq. and Ruscombe-House, 
 Blake, Esq. 
 
 TWYFORD, (33 m. 6 f.) About a mile distant on 
 the right you view Shiplake-Hill, the seat of Mrs. 
 Newell ; and on the left, Stanlake, belonging to Sir 
 N. Dukenfield, Bart. The road also, for five miles, is 
 by no means uninteresting, and among the following 
 retreats from the busy world, is found the residence 
 of that learned civilian, the Right Hon. Sir William 
 Scott, brother to the Lord Chancellor. Both of these 
 gentlemen, from their splendid talents and industry, 
 have risen to the very high offices they fill in the 
 government, and may be said to have been the only 
 architects of their great fortunes and well-deserved 
 
PROM LONDON TO BATH. 21 
 
 tame. Here is also Woodley- Lodge, belonging to J. 
 Wheeble, Esq.; Sunning, R. Palmer, Esq.; and 
 Cavesham-House, the property of Major Marsack. 
 
 READING, (38 m. 7 f.) is a corporate town of 
 considerable interest and extent. It contains numerous 
 excellent buildings, some good streets, several churches, 
 and a theatre. The assizes are also held here. The 
 inhabitants are calculated at about 11,000, and the 
 number of the houses between 2 and 3,000. A great 
 deal of business is carried on in Reading. About half 
 a mile on the left stands Coley-Park, thereat of Berke- 
 ley Monck, Esq.; and, further on the right, is Pro- 
 spect-Hill, J. Liebemod, Esq. 
 
 CALCOT-GREEN, (41 m. 4 f.) on the right of 
 which is Calcot-Park, the seat of J. Blagrave, Esq. ; 
 and at a small distance is Tyler's Parsonage, the resi- 
 dence of the Rev. Dr. Routh. 
 
 THEAL, (43 m. 5 f.) On the left hand is Sulhamp- 
 stead, the seat of William Thoytes, Esq. and Engle- 
 field-House, about a mile on the right, belonging to 
 Richard Benyon, Esq. ; and further on is Beenham- 
 house, the property of the Rev. J. Bostock. 
 
 WOOLHAMPTON, (49 m. 1 f.) contiguous to this 
 place are the following seats : on the left is Padworth- 
 house, H. Clark, Esq.; also Aldermaston-house and 
 park, W. Congreve, Esq.; and Wing-house, late W. 
 Morant, Esq. 
 
 THATCHAM, (52 m. 6 f.) Almost a solitary pub- 
 lic house, the King's Head, merely to refresh the 
 waggoner, forms the principal feature of this place. 
 
 SPEENHAMLAND, (55 m. 6f.) On the right of 
 which is Shaw-Place, the seat of Sir Joseph Andrews, 
 Bart. Immediately adjoining Speenhamland is 
 
 NEWBURY, (55 m. 7 f.) a corporate town. 
 The buildings are old and irregular, and it contains no 
 feature of any particular interest. Its inhabitants are 
 estimated at 5000; but the houses do not exceed 
 1100. NEWBURY is considered about the half-way 
 
22 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 to BATH ; and some of the coaches make a short stay 
 here to dine ; indeed the time allowed for this neces- 
 sary refreshment is so short, that the traveller has 
 scarcely swallozccd a few mouthfuls, when he is inter- 
 rupted by the coachman that " all is ready, 1 ' and he 
 must either go without his belly-full, or stand a chance 
 of choking himself by bolting the remainder of his 
 food, if he means to make any thing like a dinner, in 
 order to accommodate the coachman. This may be 
 deemed one of the " miseries of travelling ,-" and it 
 should almost seem that coachy has a secret under- 
 standing with " mine host" to turn these things to 
 good account. This is one of the grievances which 
 travellers in general ought to resist : and the proprie- 
 tors of stage-coaches should be compelled to make a 
 public statement in their bills that they allow a suffi- 
 cient reasonable time for passengers to enjoy a com- 
 fortable meal upon the road. 
 
 SPEEN (56 m. 6 f.) is surrounded both on the 
 right and left with a variety of seats, belonging to the 
 following ladies : Mrs. Wasey ; Mrs. Craven ; Miss 
 Hulberts ; and Mrs. S. Quintins ; Donnington, or 
 Chaucer's Grove, belonging to John Bebb, Esq. and 
 Donnington Castle-House, Col. Stead. Also the resi- 
 dences of F. C. Parry, Esq. and the Rev. G. Wyld: 
 but the most prominent and attractive to the mind of 
 the traveller is Goldwall-IIall, the seat of George 
 Canning, Esq. 
 
 BENHAM-PARK, (57 m. 5 f.) the seat of An- 
 thony Bacon, Esq. and at the end of which is Hem- 
 stead-Lodge, belonging to the Earl of Craven. This 
 nobleman elevated to the rank of his countess, Miss- 
 Brunton, belonging to Covent-Garden-Theatre, a lady 
 of great personal beauty and attractions, and possess- 
 ing considerable theatrical talents. About three miles 
 on the right is Welford-Park, belonging to the Rev. 
 John Robinson. 
 
 HALFWAY-HOUSE, (59 m. 5 f.) within one 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 23 
 
 mile and a half of this place, on the left, is Barton- 
 Court, the seat of C. Dundas, Esq. and at a little 
 
 distance is Wallingtons, Mackaness, Esq. ; 
 
 and Inglewood-House, the residence of Mrs. Shaw. 
 
 HUNGERFORD (64 m. 1 f.) has to boast of one 
 good broad street, a capacious market-house, a neat 
 church, and some excellent inns. It is, however, a 
 small town, containing not more than 400 houses; 
 and whose inhabitants do not exceed 2000 souls. 
 Most of the stage-coaches change horses at Hunger- 
 ford; and, if the traveller should prove thirsty, the 
 " homc-brcin-d" of thi*> place is really excellent; 
 and its character for soundness of quality, pleasant- 
 ness of taste, and as good as was " e'er tipt o'er the 
 tongue," has long been established for many miles 
 round the country. Numerous gentlemen's seats are 
 also contiguous to this town. Within one mile, on 
 the left, is Ilungerford-Park, the residence of John 
 Willis, Esq.; and, on the right, at Deuford, W. Hal- 
 let, Esq. Near the bridge is Chilton-Lodge, John 
 Pearce, Esq.; Littlecott-Park, Gen. Leyborne Pop- 
 ham ; a newly-erected fine mansion, C. Mallett, Esq. 
 and Standon-Park, S. Bevan, Esq. A military depot 
 has been established in this neighbourhood. But the 
 most important circumstance connected with Hunger- 
 ford is Ramsbury- Manor- House, belonging to Sir 
 Francis Burdett, Bart, one of the most distinguished 
 public characters of England, and the avowed friend 
 of liberty, the constitution, and the oppressed subject. 
 His parliamentary life abounds with interest. Three 
 times returned for Westminster in the true purity of 
 election; but yet he has numerous opponents, who 
 hold his principles as too violent. 
 
 He who contends for freedom 
 Can ne'er be justly deem'd his sov 'reign's foe ; 
 No, 'tis the wretch that tempts him to subvert it, 
 The soothing slave, the traitor in the bosom, 
 Who best deserves that name ; he is a worm 
 That cats out all the happiness of kingdoms. 
 
24 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 FROXFIELD, (66 m. 7 f.) a small place, consisting 
 only of a few straggling houses, but nevertheless en- 
 titled to some import, from its range of nice alms- 
 houses, founded by the Duchess of Somerset, for the 
 widows of clergymen ; and, about four miles from the 
 main road, is Tottenham-Park, belonging to the Earl 
 of Aylesbury. 
 
 MARLBOROUGH-FOREST, (71 m. 1 f.) The 
 road here is delightfully picturesque for two or three 
 miles, and the fine clusters of trees in this forest rise 
 proudly to the eye of the traveller. On the left is 
 Severnake-Lodge, Earl of Aylesbury. 
 
 MARLBOROUGH, ( 74 m. 1 f . ) a respectable 
 corporate town, containing nearly 500 houses, and 
 about 3000 inhabitants. On the left, through the 
 town, is seen a large mansion, formerly the residence 
 of the Duke of Somerset, but now metamorphosed 
 into the Castle Inn : and, at no great distance from 
 which, is the figure of a white horse, cut remarkably 
 well out of the grass, which has a good effect, whose 
 symmetry, taking its dimensions into the scale of 
 merit, is far above mediocrity ; but it sustains a con- 
 siderable drawback, when it is found to be a mere 
 copy of the original at Cherrill, more of which will 
 be mentioned hereafter: it has however a handsomer 
 neck. Within a mile and a half from Marlborough, 
 on the right, is Rockley-House, the Hon. Genlt. 
 John. 
 
 M ANTON, (75 in. 4 f.) Of no interest whatever 
 to the inquisitive traveller. 
 
 FIFIELD, (76 in. 6 f.) Of the same description. 
 
 OVERTON, (77 m. 7 f.) On the left of tins 
 place, about three-quarters of a mile, is Lockridge- 
 House, the residence of J. Benton, Esq. and Kennet- 
 Hall, belonging to Matthews, Esq. 
 
 WEST RENNET, (79 m. 2 f.) The White Hart 
 here, which stands almost alone, excepting a straggling 
 farm-house or two, is famed for selling " a cup ol 
 good stingo." 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 25 
 
 Here the poor waggoner, who (broil'd with heat 
 And chok'd with dust) seeking the cool retreat 
 Of tempting pot-house, bord'ring on the road 
 To slake his thirst with nut-brown ale so good. 
 
 It is the crack of the beverage in this part of the 
 country : indeed it is in such high repute, that the 
 farmers and coachmen along the road would think it 
 a positive libel upon their want of taste to pass by the 
 White Hart, at West Rennet, without drinking the 
 health of the " old hostess," who has long had the 
 merit of producing this wholesome liquid. It is also- 
 distinguished for a remarkable barrow, about half a 
 mile distant on the right of Silbury-Hill ; a little fur- 
 ther is to be seen, at Averbury, the antique and archi- 
 tectural ruins of a large Druid's te i:ple. If the tra- 
 veller could alight to view this ruin, it would amply 
 repay him for his curiosity. Averbury-House is the 
 residence of Jones, Esq. 
 
 SILBURY-HILL, (80 m.) This is u fine open 
 part of the country, and nothing of cultivation is 
 neglected. 
 
 BECKHAMPTON-INN, (80 m. C f.) only con- 
 spicuous as a place of refreshment, and its delightful 
 ride across the downs to 
 
 CHERRILL, (83 m. 7 f.) This place is a great 
 object of attraction to the traveller, from the large 
 White Horse cut out of the turf, upon a hill of chalky 
 substance, and viewed as a distinguished land-mark. 
 The above horse is remarkably well executed, and its 
 colossal size may be seen with the greatest ease at the 
 distance of several miles. The tail, it is said, mea- 
 sures fifteen yards; and from its extremity to the 
 head, it must be an expert flinger of a stone to reach 
 it. When close to the figure, it has nothing like the 
 appearance of a horse. It occasions considerable bet- 
 ting amongst the passengers in the different stage-coaches 
 who daily pass by it. The original idea, and merit of 
 cutting it otU t belonged to one CHRISTOPHER ALSOP, 
 
26 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 a surgeon, at Calne; and, added to his well- 
 earned reputation as a medical man, he was a most 
 ingenious mechanic. The memory of this person is 
 much revered in the neighbourhood of Calne, from 
 his benevolent disposition and Christian-like traits, 
 which adorned his character. Mr. ALSOP came to 
 Calne a journeyman apothecary, but, in the course of 
 a few short years, he realized a most ample fortune. 
 He was a man of much literary taste ; complete mas- 
 ter of mechanics; and a superior maker of telescopes. 
 He never refused the call of the unfortunate in the 
 hour of distress and trouble ; and was known, for many 
 years after he had retired from business, to go many 
 miles to attend the poor at his own expense. His 
 death was a great loss to the inhabitants of Calne 
 and neighbourhood. Whether GEORGE COLMAN, in 
 his researches after real characters, had in his eye 
 Mr. ALSOP, when he penned the following lines, we 
 cannot ascertain, but they may be considered to apply 
 to him : 
 
 His fame full six miles round the country ran ; 
 
 In short, in reputation he was solus ; 
 All the old women call'd him a fine man, 
 
 His name was BOLUS. 
 
 Benjamin Bolus, though in trade, 
 Which oftentimes will genius fetter, 
 
 Read works of learning, it is said, 
 And cultivated the Belles Lettres. 
 
 On the completion of the above horse, it was cele- 
 brated on the spot by a sort of fair, which was kept 
 up on a certain day in every year; but latterly it has 
 been given up. About half a mile further, on the 
 right from the road, is Compton-Bassett-House, the 
 seat of Mrs. Heneage ; and, on the left, is Blackland- 
 House, the residence of John Merewether, Esq. 
 QUEMERFORD-BRIDGE(86m. 1 f.) leads on to 
 CALNE, (87 m.) which possesses an excellent 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 27 
 
 market-house, a large inn, and one tolerable street. 
 It contains about 800 houses ; and its inhabitants at 
 near 4000. On the left is the Castle-House, the 
 residence of Mrs. Bendry. It is curious to ob- 
 serve numerous little children, without shoes or stock- 
 ings, about here upon the road, running alongside 
 the coach like race-horses, and keeping it up for a 
 considerable distance, in hopes to get a tew halfpence 
 from the passengers, the girls, keeping tight hold of 
 their petticoats, and tumbling over head and heels, 
 with the greatest ease and agility. These children 
 have so much daily practice in this sort of exercise, 
 that few, if any, of the celebrated pedestrians could 
 beat them for a short distance. Immediately on quit- 
 ting the coach, they generally lay themselves down in 
 the road, till another stage appears in sight, and so 
 on till the end of the day. 
 
 STUDLEY, (89 m. 6 f.) Through this place, on 
 the left, is Bo wood, the magnificent residence 
 of the Marquis of Lansdowne. Considerable taste 
 and elegance are to be discovered in these venerable 
 shades, formed under the immediate direction of the 
 first Marquis. The mansion is also distinguished for 
 its union of grandeur and simplicity. If the paint- 
 ings have not to boast of being a collection of the 
 first ancient masters, the library is composed of the 
 choicest and most valuable articles of literature. The 
 present Marquis is also prominent for his attention to 
 the polite arts. The political career of the above 
 young Chancellor of the Exchequer, although short, 
 will never be forgotten by the lovers of humanity, in 
 being connected with an administration, that cancel- 
 led all its errors, by an abolition of that disgraceful 
 traffic, denominated the SLAVE TRADE; and also, in 
 making this traffic felony by law ? and punished as a 
 crime against the welfare and character of society in 
 general. 
 
 DERRY-HILL, (90 m. 1 f.) The country about 
 
28 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 here is not only pleasant and picturesque, but well 
 .cultivated. 
 
 CHIPPENHAM (92 m. 6 f.) is a corporate town, 
 containing two or three capacious and good inns, 
 about 800 houses, of antique look; and the inhabi- 
 tants are estimated at between 3 and 4000 persons. 
 The passenger passes through it without any particular 
 interest. On the left, at a small distance from 
 the town, is Ivy-House, the residence of Robert 
 Humphreys, Esq. For five miles the road produces 
 very few objects to attract the attention of the tra- 
 veller, excepting the safety of his seat, from the in- 
 cessant jolting, in fact, almost jumping, the stage 
 experiences upon this stony road, till he arrives at the 
 small town of 
 
 PICKWICK, (97 in.) A degree of importance is 
 attached to this small place, from its contiguity to 
 Corsham-House, (J m.) the celebrated seat of Paul 
 Cobb Methuen, Esq. whose superb collection of 
 paintings are the theme and admiration of every 
 visitor; but more of this hereafter, in its proper place. 
 On the right of Pickwick stands Hartham-Park, 
 the seat of Jay, Esq. and Pickwick-Lodge, be- 
 longing to Caleb Dickenson, Esq. The prospects 
 along the road delightfully increase, till the passenger 
 arrives at 
 
 BOX, (99 m. 6 f.) This is altogether a pretty inte- 
 resting village, something after the descriptive style of 
 GOLDSMITH: 
 
 Sweet Auburn, loveliest village of the plain, 
 
 Where health and plenty cheer'd the labouring swain. 
 
 The cleanness of the houses, which are all made of 
 free (or Bath) stone; a neat little church, built of the 
 same materials, adds to the interest of the scene 
 the useful farrier's shed the stocks for the unruly, 
 erected more in terrorem, perhaps, than of any mate- 
 rial service the appearance of two small inns, 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 29 
 
 of an inviting character in short, Box is truly com- 
 pact, and may be viewed as no bad prelude to the 
 " great Bath." About a mile on the right is Shock- 
 erwick, the seat of John Wiltshire, Esq. The mind 
 of the traveller is tolerably well occupied till he arrives 
 at 
 
 BATH-EASTON, (103 m. 2 f.) This is a small 
 town, of one tolerable street in length, and the ap- 
 pearance of the houses is very neat and clean. In 
 this neighbourhood is Bailbrook- Lodge, a recent esta- 
 blishment formed for the reception of decayed ladies 
 of respectability and high rank, under the patronage and 
 sanction of her late Majesty. Also Bath-easton- Villa, 
 once the residence of Sir John Millar. This seat was 
 distinguished for the weekly parties of his lady, famed 
 for their poetic productions. It is now the residence 
 of Dr. Broadbelt. On the left is Hampton-House, 
 the seat of G. Allen, Esq. and Lambridge-House, the 
 residence of Dr. Haygarth. Several other gentlemen's 
 seats are contiguous to Bath-easton, and the pro- 
 spects and variety of subjects along the road inte- 
 rest the traveller, till he descends the hill adjoining 
 to Walcot. 
 
DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 ENTRANCE TO 
 
 BATH 
 
 FROM THE LONDON ROAD. 
 
 From Lambridge, through Grosvenor- Place Beaufort- 
 Buildings Worcester- Terrace Percy -Place 
 Kensington-Place (KENSINGTON-CHAPEL) Pic- 
 cadilly Lower East Hayes Hanover- Place, 
 Brunswick - Street York- Place Iron-Home, 
 Dover, and Bedford-Streets Albemarle-Buildings 
 Myrtle-Place Long- Acre Walcot Buildings, 
 Terrace, andParade (WALCOT-Cn APEL) Nelson 
 and Margaret Places London-Street Somerset- 
 Street Vineyards Paragon-Buildings Bladud - 
 Buildings York- Build ings to the YORK-HOTEL. 
 
 To the most indifferent traveller, who scarcely 
 " reads as he runs>;" or, perhaps, labouring under 
 the mental debility of ennui THE ENTRANCE 
 TO BATH cannot fail in removing this frigid apathy, 
 and awaken his feelings to the numerous interesting 
 objects which, in rapid succession, present themselves 
 to his notice: but, to the admirers of NATURE and 
 ART, and particularly to the lovers of taste and ele- 
 gance, 
 
 This .ancient city, 
 
 How wanton sits she, amidst Nature's smiles ! 
 Nor from her highest turret has to view 
 But golden landscapes and luxuriant scenes : 
 
 it rises with peculiar grandeur ; also, its well distri- 
 buted buildings, and amphitheatric arrangement of 
 crescents, splendid seats, &c. surrounded by the lofty 
 hills of Claverton-Down on the left, ornamented with 
 the look-out of the exterior of an antique castle, 
 erected merely to connect the extensive opening, 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 31 
 
 which stretches out with a view of Prior-Park and its 
 superb mansion ; while, on the right, the prospect is 
 equally imposing, the vast ascent of Lansdowne-Hill, 
 Mount-Beacon, &c. &c. with the addition of some 
 delightful and harmonizing scenery, produce a com- 
 bination and an effect, that makes the tout ensemble 
 operate upon the mind of the stranger, like a well- 
 written preface to an important and superior work, 
 stimulating him eagerly to peruse every page of it, till 
 he becomes completely master of the subject. The 
 appearance of BATH is altogether nouvelle, possess- 
 ing a rank exclusively its own, and from its uniformity 
 and classic architecture, has to boast of a decided 
 Roman character. NATURE, it should seem, has been 
 truly liberal to this fertile valley ; and industry and 
 talents, for nearly the last century, have scarcely suf- 
 fered a moment to elapse, without studying to grace 
 it with the advantages of ART, to make the above gift 
 still more attractive. It is thus described by a modern 
 artist: " Viewed under the influence of a meridian 
 sun, and through the medium of an unclouded atmo- 
 sphere, BATH presents to the sight and imagination 
 every thing that is united with the idea of perfect 
 beauty ; and so strong is the impression it makes upon 
 the mind of almost all people at first sight, that the 
 prepossession is converted into opinion; and when 
 enveloped in those exhalations which arise from its 
 salubrious springs, it is still called to mind in all its 
 loveliness and attractions."* 
 
 On descending the hill to Walcot, the traveller is 
 actively engaged with the pleasing appearance which 
 the suburbs of this fashionable city offer to his 
 attention. Immediately upon his right is the new 
 road, that turns off to Oxford and Cheltenham. In 
 proceeding onwards, a neat row of houses, called 
 Lambridge, is to be seen, with long gardens, tastefully 
 
 * Ibbetson. 
 
32 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 laid out in front of them. A few trees and hedges, 
 also, intersect in various places the different 
 houses, giving this part of it the air of an elegant 
 village. Grosvenor-Place, on the left of the road, 
 has a very magnificent appearance. It is a long 
 range of high mansions, built upon a lofty terrace, 
 enclosed with iron rails, with trees planted in the 
 gravel-walk. In the centre of the place is a most ca- 
 pacious building, with seven Ionic pillars in front, 
 richly ornamented, intended for an inn; but which 
 operates as a sort of drawback, from this hotel and 
 part of the place being left in an unfinished state. 
 Beaufort-Buildings, on the opposite road, is of an 
 equally fashionable nature, with a broad pavement, 
 carriage-way, and a large green promenade, also en- 
 closed with iron rails. This prelude is prepossessing, 
 and every progressive stop strengthens the impression 
 of the respectability and importance of Bath ; the 
 eye not being familiar with the smoothness and cream- 
 coloured appearance of the free-stone, which gives the 
 houses such an air of cleanliness, altogether, that the 
 effect is unusually cheerful. In passing through the 
 turnpike, the appearances of houses on the hill, upon 
 the right of the spectator, burst upon him very corv- 
 spicuously. To the left of the gate is a very superior 
 newly-erected row of houses, with very handsome 
 long -paved fore-courts, enclosed with iron rails. Next, 
 in succession, on the right, is Worcester- Terrace, and 
 opposite to which is Percy-Place, both attractive 
 situations, with walks and trees planted before the 
 doors. Kensington-Place is also a terrace of some 
 quality, with a carriage-way to it, the front enclosed 
 with iron rails, and gates at each end of it. Opposite 
 to this handsome range of dwellings are gardens; and, 
 the houses upon the hill, rising above each other to a 
 great height, cannot fail of interesting the attention 
 of the passing stranger. On the left, is Kensington- 
 Chapel, erected under the direction of Mr. PALMER, 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 33 
 
 which is a neat building, in the modern style of archi- 
 tecture. Within its walls, it is 62 feet in length, and 
 42 feet 6 inches wide. It has also a recess, 21 feet 
 by 12 feet 6 inches. To render it comfortable to in- 
 valids, it has three fire-places. It was opened for 
 Divine Service in 1795. On the right is Picca- 
 dilhj ; but, in comparison with this place in the Metro- 
 polis, it is merely the same name. Lower East Hayes, 
 Hanover-Place, Brmuwick-9trect t York-Place, Iron- 
 House, Dover and Bedford Streets, are extremely 
 short, and not above mediocrity. Here elegance 
 gradually gives way to the minor habitations of little 
 tradesmen and shopkeepers; and business now attracts 
 the attention of the traveller. Albemarle-Buildinx 
 and Myrtle-Place are soon passed by ; and Long-Acre 
 only possesses three small houses, but out of which, to 
 have something like similarity to its namesake in Lon- 
 don, two of them are coach-makers. Walcot Build- 
 ings and Terrace are tolerably neat residences ; 
 but in no competition to Walcot- Parade, which 
 stands very high on the right of the road, with 
 a paved promenade before it, commanding a good 
 prospect, and enclosed with iron railing. Nelson 1 : 
 Place and Margaret-Place are of no import. On 
 turning into London-Street, Walcot New Chapel pre- 
 sents itself. Of the religious kind, it is one of the 
 most elegant chapels in Bath. The foundation-stone 
 was laid on the 31st of March, 1815, and opened in 
 May, 1816. In the front, it has an elegant portico of 
 the Grecian Doric, and on the tablet is inscribed 
 " WALCOT-CHAPEL, 1815." It has also on the frieze 
 " DFO SACRUM." Divine service is performed 
 three times every Sunday. It is 71 feet in length, and 
 in width 52 ; and has a commodious school under- 
 neath it, capable for instructing 800 children, with an 
 excellent enclosed burying-ground. It is considered 
 a great ornament to this part of the town. Walcot- 
 Church is soon passed on the left, and Somerset-Street 
 
 D 
 
34 DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY 
 
 gone through with little interest, till the Vineyards, 
 Paragon, and Bladud-Btiildings, claim the notice of 
 the spectator. There is more solidity than elegance 
 in the appearance of these houses, although well built. 
 The Vineyards has, however, to boast of a capacious 
 place of worship, built by the late Countess of Hunting- 
 don ; the interior of which is interesting. It has a hand- 
 some gallery, and a good organ ; the singing at this 
 chapel is mentioned with much respect. The prayers 
 are read by a minister of the Church of England. 
 York- Buildings now puts an end to the journey; and 
 the traveller alights at the York- Hotel, to refresh him- 
 self from the fatigue he has undergone, amuse himself 
 with the attractions and comforts which this unrival- 
 led tavern affords to all its visitors during their stay, 
 and to prepare himself for future observations in his 
 " WALKS THKOUGH BATH." 
 
 The above HOTEL is a fine building, and considered 
 one of the largest and best inns in the kingdom, out of 
 London. Its accommodations are in the first style of 
 excellence, under the superintendence of Messrs. Lucas 
 and Reilly. In the season it overflows with company 
 of the highest rank in life. The dining-roorn is equal, if 
 not superior, to the large room at the Crown and 
 Anchor, in London. The suite of rooms correspond, 
 and are furnished in the most superb manner. It has 
 a subscription-club of the first respectability, deno- 
 minated the " Friendly Brothers," consisting of three 
 knots. The members are elected by ballot, and are 
 free in London, Dublin, and Bath. The subscription 
 is three guineas per annum ; but an additional charge 
 is made for newspapers, publications, &c. Stages 
 also set out from the York-House every day for Lon- 
 don. This hotel is stored with a profusion of silver 
 plate for the service of its visitors. A catch-club is 
 likewise held here. 
 
FROM LONDON TO BATH. 35 
 
 Some to the York-Hotel resort, 
 
 And drown their cares in sparkling port, 
 
 For recreation seeking ; 
 There talk of politics and dress 
 At length, grown weary of excess, 
 
 Break up when day is breaking. 
 
 The Subscription-House also, at York-Buildings, is 
 considered equal to any establishment of the kind in 
 England. It is founded upon the plan of similar in- 
 stitutions in London ; and the members are elected by 
 ballot. The terms are six guineas and a half yearly. 
 Newspapers, &c. are furnished in abundance for the 
 use of the subscribers. Mr. Knubly is the pro- 
 prietor. 
 
 D 2 
 
EPITOME 
 
 OF 
 
 ANCIENT AND MODERN BATH : 
 A PRELUDE 
 
 TO THE 
 
 WALKS THROUGH THE CITY. 
 
 BATH, to the most fastidious admirer of taste 
 and elegance, can scarcely be refused the claim 
 of being one of the most fashionable and supe- 
 rior places of resort out of the Metropolis of 
 England. Its first glance upon the mind of the 
 visitor is truly enchanting; and upon a more 
 minute investigation of its classic buildings, and 
 picturesque scenery, it still fastens with rapture 
 and delight upon the attentive spectator ; but 
 even, when quite au fait with all its attrac- 
 tions comforts cleanliness its variety of 
 amusements its well-managed police the re- 
 storative quality of its baths and the efficacy 
 of its waters, which this Epitome of the Beau 
 Monde affords, not only to the rich declining 
 valetudinarian, but to the highest votary of 
 fashion, BATH, taken for " all in all," almost 
 bids defiance to meet with "its like again !" 
 
EPITOME OF BATH. 37 
 
 Sweet BATH ! the liveliest city of the land, 
 Where health and pleasure ramble hand in hand, 
 Where smiling belles their earliest visit pay, 
 And faded maids their lingering blooms delay ; 
 Delightful scenes of elegance and ease, 
 Realms of the gay, where every sport can please ! 
 
 In describing the above splendid city as it 
 now is, it may be naturally expected, that in 
 descanting upon the virtues of its springs, and 
 the efficacy of its baths, it must be impossible 
 to pass over its ANCIENT HISTORY without 
 retaining some small portion of its traditionary 
 account, however romantic and delusive it seems, 
 if not altogether viewed, at the present period, as 
 totally fabulous. This might prove a most ex- 
 cellent subject for the investigation of modern 
 students, who have a taste * for exploring the 
 hidden stores of antiquity, and who are in want 
 of employment to kill time; but our " WALKS 
 THROUGH BATH" are of so extensive and diver- 
 sified a nature, embracing such numerous, more 
 profitable, and entertaining objects, that our 
 limits prevent us from observing little more, in 
 this place, than whether the City of Bath is of 
 Roman or British origin the most learned his- 
 torians are at a loss to decide, however anxious 
 the true BATHONIAN is to insist upon the latter 
 as being the fact : but poetic invention, it should 
 seem, has given to Bladud, the Sage, the first 
 
 # " Who on a purblind antiquarian's back, 
 A founder'd, broken-winded hack, 
 
 Rides out to find old farthings, nails, and bones 
 On darkest coins the brightest legends reads, 
 On tracdess copper sees imperial heads, 
 And makes inscriptions older than the stones." 
 
38 EPITOME 
 
 discoverer of the hot water, and made him the 
 founder of the city. It has occupied the atten- 
 tion of LELAND and SELDEN : and the healing 
 and restorative qualities of the Bath waters is 
 thus asserted to have been first ascertained, from 
 the following fragment of ancient records : 
 
 " Bladud, eldest son of Lud Hudibras (then 
 King of Britain, and the eighth from Brute), 
 having spent eleven years at Athens in the study 
 of the liberal arts and sciences, came home a 
 loathsome leper, and for that reason was shut 
 up, that he might not infect others. Impatient 
 of his confinement, he chose rather a mean 
 liberty than a royal restraint, and contriving his 
 escape in disguise, went very remote from his 
 father's court into an untravelled part of the 
 country, and offered his service in any common 
 employment, probably thinking he was less 
 likely to be discovered under such reduced cir- 
 cumstances than greater; he therefore entered 
 into service at Swainswick, a small village three 
 miles from that city, where his business (among 
 other things) was to take care of pigs, which he 
 was to drive from place to place, for their ad- 
 vantage in feeding upon beech-masts, acorns, 
 haws, &c. the hills thereabout then abounding 
 with such trees, though now few of the two 
 former remain : yet there is a hill close upon the 
 south part of this city that still retains the name 
 of Beechen-cliff, though there is scarcely a beech- 
 tree left upon it. 
 
 " Here the rising sun/ breaking through the 
 clouds, first saluted the Royal herdsman with its 
 comfortable beams; and while he was addressing 
 himself to the glorious luminary, and praying 
 
OF BATH. 39 
 
 that the wrath of heaven against him might be 
 averted, part of the drove of pigs, as if seized 
 with a frenzy, ran down the side of the hill into 
 an alder-moor, till they reached the spot of 
 ground where the hot springs of Bath now boil 
 up, and from thence returned covered with 
 black mud. The Prince being of a thoughtful 
 turn, and very solicitous to find out the reason 
 why the pigs that wallowed in the mire in the 
 summer to cool themselves, should do the same 
 in winter, observed them further, and following 
 them down, at length perceived a steam to arise 
 from the place where the swine wallowed. 
 Making his way to it, he found it to be warm ; 
 and this satisfied him, that for the benefit of this 
 heat the pigs resorted thither, and after a while 
 became whole and smooth from their foul scurfs 
 and eruptions, by their rolling about in the 
 warm mud. Upon this he considers within him- 
 self why he should not receive the same benefit, 
 by the same means ; he tries it, and succeeds ; 
 and when he found himself cured of his leprosy, 
 declared who he was. His master was not apt 
 to believe him at first, but at length did, and 
 went with him to court, where he was owned to 
 be the king's son, and, after his father's death, 
 succeeded him in the government; and then, in 
 gratitude, made these baths."* 
 
 * But what is surprising, no mortal e'er view'd 
 
 Any one of the physical gentlemen stew'd. 
 
 From the day that king Bladud first found out these bogs, 
 
 And thought them so good for himself and his hogs, 
 
 NOT ONE OF THE FACULTY EVER HAS TRIED 
 
 These excellent waters to cure his own hide ; 
 Though many a skilful and learned physician, 
 With candour, good sense, and profound erudition, 
 
40 EPITOME 
 
 This singular and curious fragment thus 
 concludes, " that when these works were com- 
 pleted, Bladud gave himself up to ingenious 
 studies, which he pursued with so much assi- 
 duity, that he at last invented wings to fly with ; 
 but these not being quite so safe as the modern 
 balloons, in one of his flights he unfortunately 
 fell upon a pinnacle of a temple which he had 
 founded to Minerva, in Bath, tumbled instantly 
 to the ground, and, to the great grief of his 
 subjects, broke his neck, after a reign of twenty 
 years." 
 
 However romantic and fabulous the above 
 account appears, till within these last eighty 
 years, it seems, it was the positive belief and 
 creed of every staunch native of Bath.f 
 
 It appears probable then, that BATH owed its 
 foundation to the Romans, and that it was erect- 
 ed under the reign of Claudius, in the middle of 
 
 Obliges the world with the fruits of his brain, 
 Their nature and hidden effects to explain! 
 
 t In the Rev. Mr. Warner's History of Bath, in allusion 
 to the above circumstance, he has the following note : 
 " In a manuscript of Mr. Wood, the architect, communica- 
 ted to me ten years ago, by the Ilev. Dr. Ayscough, of the 
 British Museum, the following certificate occurs, written at 
 the foot of the above traditional account, seemingly drawn 
 up to be signed by the principal inhabitants of Bath. ' We, 
 whose names are hereunder written, natives of the city of 
 Bath, having perused the above tradition, do think it very 
 truly and faithfully related, and that there is but one material 
 circumstance omitted in the whole story, which is, the grate- 
 ful acknowledgment Bladud made to his master ; for, it is 
 said, the king richly arrayed him, made him a knight, and 
 gave him an estate to support him in all his dignity. As 
 witness our hands, this 1st day of November, 1741.' " 
 
OF BATH. 41 
 
 the first century, who made a complete conquest 
 of this part of Somersetshire. If the honour of 
 discovering these springs did not belong to the 
 Romans, a people so addicted to the use of the 
 bath as an article of health and luxury, it is na- 
 tural they would eagerly embrace the opportunity 
 of indulging their favourite passion, which the 
 thermal waters afforded with so much facility. 
 It is certain they were well known to these war- 
 riors during their residence in Britain, and so 
 much indeed did they value the use of these hot 
 springs, that they selected the low and narrow 
 valley in which they rose, to build a town for 
 their better security. This military station, for 
 in those times it could scarcely be viewed in 
 any other character, is thus described by Mr. 
 Warner, in his voluminous History of Bath: 
 " According to a form usually affected by the 
 Romans on such occasions, it approached to a 
 parallelogram ; swelling out on one side so as to 
 describe an outline somewhat pentagonal, and 
 stretching in length, from east to west, about 
 400 yards, and 380 yards in the broadest part, 
 from north to south. From subsequent disco- 
 veries, these walls appear to have been twenty 
 feet above ground in height; and, in thickness, 
 sixteen feet at the base, and eight at the summit; 
 strengthened with five towers, rising at the 
 angles, and having four portce, or entrances, 
 facing the cardinal points, which were connected 
 with each other by two grand streets, dividing 
 the city into four parts, and intersecting each 
 other at the centre." Some of the above walls 
 alluded to are still standing, and denominated 
 
42 EPITOME 
 
 as the " Borough Wall:"* and, the Old City, 
 it is said, was ten or twelve feet lower than the 
 present one. It also received from the Romans 
 the appropriate name of v$r 0e^a, or Warm 
 Waters ; Thermae Sudatae, Aquae Culidae, Aquae 
 Solis, or simply Balnea; while it was called 
 Akemanrus Ceaster, i. e. the city of valetudina- 
 rians, by the Saxons. The Britons designated 
 it as Caer Baden; or, the City of Bath: and 
 Caer yn ennaint twymyn; or, the City of the 
 Hot-Bath. 
 
 There is little doubt but Bath was much dis- 
 tinguished by its elegance in the time of the 
 Romans ; which may be collected from the ves- 
 tiges of Roman magnificence, discovered in dig- 
 ging at various times for the foundations of new 
 buildings, as well as deciding that it has experi- 
 enced various revolutions, and been the resi- 
 dence of several kings. But our limits prevent us 
 from following up their successions. Suffice to 
 observe, that copper and brass coins of Nero, 
 Adrian, Trajan, Antoninus, &c. have been found ; 
 also several portions of sculpture, particularly 
 the head of a bronze statue, in fine preservation, 
 in 1727, successively assigned to a statue of 
 Apollo or Minerva. Several rough-hewn stone 
 coffins, and pieces of coin of the Saxon kings, 
 Roman baths, sudatories, &c. In 1790, in 
 laying the foundation of the new Pump-Room, 
 in Stall-Street, a great variety of Roman antiqui- 
 ties were also discovered. Indeed, it is urged, 
 
 * A.t the back of the Grove-Tavern, contiguous to the 
 market, part of the old wall and the eastern gate are to be 
 traced. 
 
OF BATH. 43 
 
 that Apollo and Minerva were regarded as the 
 patrons of these springs, and a magnificent tem- 
 ple had once been erected on this spot. In 
 1793, near Sidney-Place, a sepulchral altar was 
 found, almost perfect. The whole of these 
 antiquities, found at various periods, have been 
 very properly deposited, by the Corporation, for 
 the inspection of the curious, in a small build- 
 ing* at the end of Bath-Street. 
 
 To render this account of the ancient history 
 of Bath as concise as possible, we shall con- 
 clude by observing, that, after the Romans quit- 
 ted Bath, it sunk in point of grandeur; but, in 
 the time of the Saxons, it was a place of some 
 note. Richard I. gave it a charter, and the im- 
 munities of a free borough. 
 
 As early as 26 EDWARD I. Bath returned two 
 members to parliament; but, in the first and 
 second years of EDWARD II. the inhabitants de- 
 clined the honour of representation, as being 
 too expensive. Queen ELIZABETH, in 1590, 
 granted a charter to Bath as a body corporate 
 and politic, and declared it a city of itself; and, 
 in 1794, his present Majesty also granted them 
 a new charter, with an extension of privileges. 
 
 In quitting the above slight sketch of the an- 
 tiquity of this splendid City, the reader's more 
 immediate attention is now claimed to that pe- 
 riod, from whence MODERN BATH may date 
 
 * Minute and learned accounts have been published 
 upon these fragments by the Rev. Mr. Warner, the late 
 Governor Pownall, S. Lysons, Esq. F.R.S. Keeper of the 
 Records in the Tower ; and a small manuscript quarto is also 
 to be seen in this repository, written by John Cranch, and 
 presented to the Corporation, upon these doubtful subjects. 
 
44 EPITOME 
 
 its FASHIONABLE ORIGIN, RlSE, and PROGRESS, 
 
 up to its present acme of elegance and greatness. 
 It appears, that, about the year 1670, Bath was 
 of no importance whatever, and merely the resi- 
 dence of a small number of shopkeepers and 
 mechanics; increasing occasionally by a few 
 families of rank, and valetudinarians who came 
 for the benefit of the waters. The houses were 
 far from respectable; and, in fact, there were 
 but two capable of receiving persons above the 
 middling stations of life. Indeed, in the year 
 1700, it is asserted, that the admirers of the 
 " light fantastic toe" did not exceed ten couple; 
 and that only one house could boast of having 
 sashed windows; nor was cleanliness then one of 
 its most prominent features; and its salubrity, 
 which i= now the theme of almost every visitor, 
 was also much injured from the want of a com- 
 mon sewer. BATH, at this time, could not boast 
 of a ball-room, or any other place of amusement ; 
 and the bow ling-green, open and exposed as it was, 
 the most convenient spot for parties to dance 
 upon. Perhaps it might be only fair to presume, 
 that FASHION, at this period, was not to be seen 
 with 50 bold a front, nor exactly so transparent 
 as the improvement of more modern times have 
 introduced and sanctioned : 
 
 Whilst many a close sedan convey'd its freight 
 
 Of naked charmt to Ramrod's room of state, 
 
 Now, now-white botomt fascinate the eye, 
 
 Swelling in all the pride of nudity : 
 
 The firm round arm, soft cheek, and pouting lip, 
 
 And backt ezpos'd below the jutting hip : 
 
 To these succeed dim eyes, and wither' d faces, 
 
 And pucker' d necks, as rough as shag-green cases ; 
 
OF BATH. 4'j 
 
 Bat whose kind owners, bon'riof Ban*d's hafl, 
 Bcnevolrfldjtbowtbekfia^aa.' 
 
 REBKLLIOX iv BAT*. 
 
 Very little alteration occurred for some years, 
 until the Duke of Beaufort became the patron 
 of it amusements, and who was looked upon as 
 the first master of the ceremonies, in collecting 
 the company together at the Town Halt His 
 Grace introduced a Captain- Webster to 
 over the assemblies; but g*miug was so 
 the rage among all ranks at Bath, that it took 
 the lead over every other species of 
 
 What thanks to the Gtj of Bath then at 
 Froai aD who thb patriot amiai pane: 
 For in no place 
 Is pnctb'd to wdl, awl so wdL 
 
 Her *j and her means fat praaMting of c AXIVC ! 
 And CAio, no donbt, b of 
 
 What trae pdbfic spirited people are here, 
 Who far that very parpoar coax e*Yy year! 
 ABeaiirila* 
 
 the only trade to ] 
 
 e tafcject to fid. 
 
 Bat GAMIVC'S a basinest will ever prerafl; 
 Bead es, *tb the only good way to ninairnri 
 
 We aaijgnhon withoat it thrash fife, I- 
 Bat then IDS with people THAT VOEOBT 
 
 At this jmsctare Mr. NASH first visited the 
 above City. He was well received by the gentry ; 
 lived upon very intimate terms with Captain 
 ; and, at his death, as if by one general 
 be took upon himself the reins of go- 
 it, and began to superintend every thing 
 connected with the amusement* of the City. 
 
46 EPITOME 
 
 The band of music, consisting only of five in- 
 different performers, played in the Grove, under 
 some large trees ; but the physicians, at length, 
 prevailed on Mr. NASH to remove the music to 
 the Pump-Room, as a means of restoring the 
 spirits of the valetudinarian. 
 
 This, it appears, was the origin of the band 
 performing in the latter place; and which has 
 been continued to. the present period, without 
 any material alteration. This band was paid by 
 the contribution of strangers: but, upon the 
 company increasing, Mr. NASH procured seven 
 performers from London, and they were permit- 
 ed to play in the Old Cross Bath Pump-Room, 
 in order to put them upon a more respectable 
 footing. 
 
 The first ball-room in Bath, it seems, was 
 erected, as a matter of speculation, by a Mr. 
 Harrison, a young tradesman from London, at 
 the north end of the Lower Assembly-Room, 
 who, finding his visitors daily increase, was in- 
 duced to build a card-room. Upon some exac- 
 tions being made by Mr. Harrison displeasing to 
 his visitors, they applied to Mr. NASH to procure 
 another place of resort. This request was soon 
 put into execution; and, at the expense of Mr. 
 Theyr&, on the walks, (where York-Street now 
 stands ;) and Mrs. Lindsey, a singer of conside- 
 rable repute, was selected to conduct it. These 
 amusements were well managed at both of the 
 rooms ; and the balls were held alternately on 
 Tuesdays and Fridays, beginning at six o'clock 
 and ending at eleven. 
 
 Upon the death of Harrison, Mrs. Hayes, the 
 sister of Mrs. Lindsey, became tenant of those 
 
OF BATH. 47 
 
 rooms ; and, in consequence of which, all oppo- 
 sition was at an end, and impositions were again 
 practised upon the company. This complaint 
 was, at length, removed upon the death of Mrs. 
 Lindsey ; and NASH, with much discernment 
 and good policy, prevented any intimacy, in 
 future, between the proprietors of the rival 
 ball-rooms, to the injury of the visitors. Mrs. 
 Hayes becoming very rich, a nobleman, to mend 
 his fortune, it appears, felt no sort of degrada- 
 tion in becoming her husband. At this period, 
 in BATH, it was a subject of much conversation, 
 that a lodging-house was kept by a duke;* a 
 gaming-table by a lord ;f and wine was sold by 
 an archdeacon. f The above instances were well- 
 known facts. 
 
 Till within the last eighty years, BATH was 
 confined principally within its ancient walls, in- 
 cluding only the parishes of St. Peter and Paul, 
 St. James, and St. Michael, covering about the 
 space of fifty acres of ground : but owing to its 
 vast overflow of company, which continued 
 yearly to increase, and the want of residences to 
 contain the visitors becoming so apparent, a few 
 spirited architects, masons, and carpenters, as- 
 sisted by some persons of rank and property, 
 anxious to remedy so generally felt an evil, en- 
 tered into a variety of speculations to produce 
 such an effect. Improvement was, therefore, 
 the order of the day; and, to render BATH 
 still more attractive in the eyes of the upper 
 circles of society, as well as to majte its 
 
 Duke of Chandos. t Lord Hawley. 
 
 Archdeacon Hunt. 
 
48 EPITOME 
 
 accommodations superior .to every other place of 
 fashionable resort in the kingdom, new streets 
 were scarcely planned but erected almost with 
 the rapidity of magic; squares, parades, places, 
 and circuses, followed in equal quick succession; 
 encouragement went hand in hand to support so 
 enlarged an undertaking, where convenience 
 was not only a principal study, but where grand- 
 ness of design also marked most prominently 
 the features of the attempt; and, lastly, where 
 elegance and architectural beauty crowned the 
 efforts of those laudable and praiseworthy indi- 
 viduals. Scarcely a situation in Bath, however 
 elevated, has been neglected, where any building 
 might be erected that would add importance to 
 the City, or increase the grandeur of the scale, 
 which is clearly evinced in those houses hang- 
 ing, as it were, over the broad acclivity of Lans- 
 down, which rises to the north. 
 
 The houses are all built of the beautiful Oolite, 
 or free-stone, and, from their pale yellow clean 
 appearance, produce an uncommonly interesting 
 effect; but, to the eye not accustomed to such 
 uniformity, it feels impressed with their magni- 
 ficence and splendour. With the addition of the 
 parishes of Walcot and Bathwick, to which no 
 distinction can now be scarcely witnessed, the 
 connexion being so complete, and the buildings 
 having multiplied so astonishingly, that it may 
 be said of BATH, it has not only thickened in 
 breadth, but it has also stretched so far, that at 
 the present period (1819) it measures nearly one 
 mile and three quarters in length, containing a 
 population of 50,000 souls. It undoubtedly 
 must prove a great source of gratification, if not 
 
OF BATH. 49 
 
 laudable pride to the natives of Bath, that within 
 the remembrance of a few fleeting years, upon 
 those very green fields the pastime and pleasure 
 of their boyish days, and also in climbing those 
 hills, whether in pursuit of exercise, or to enjoy 
 the delightful prospects which so often present 
 themselves to their enraptured sight, are now all 
 vanished in the metamorphose of beholding 
 splendid mansions, &c. risen in their stead ; and 
 the once straggling suburbs now closely filled 
 up, and enveloped as it were in the very heart 
 of the city. Admiration, in contemplating and 
 appreciating this increasing scene of magnifi- 
 cence, feels at a loss whether to give the palm 
 to the spirit of the builders the liberality in 
 employing such immense capitals or to the 
 great patronage and support of the nobility and 
 gentry. But while this spirit of enterprise and 
 speculation existed towards the northern side of 
 the city, it would be unjust to omit, that the 
 valuable tracts of land which were situated on 
 the other side of the town were not suffered to 
 remain in a dreary and barren state. The 
 late Sir William Pulteney, anxious to keep pace 
 with the general design, namely THE IM- 
 PROVEMENT OF BATH, and possessing the 
 true spirit of emulation and rivalry even to 
 exceed the other part of the city, erected 
 a bridge of communication, (called after his 
 name,) and held out such encouragement to 
 builders, that a NEW TOWN might almost be 
 said to have been produced from his exertions. 
 Possessing also the advantages of rough stone 
 being dug from his own contiguous hills, and 
 being in the immediate neighbourhood of excel- 
 
50 KF1TOME 
 
 lent quarries of free-stone, his plans were pro- 
 secuted with redoubled vigour and rapidity, 
 and he lived to see the most elegant and capa- 
 cious street, finished in Bath, as well as several 
 elegant ones adjoining it. His daughter, the 
 late Countess of Bath, also, with becoming zeal, 
 furthered the speculating design of her parent ; 
 and the Earl of Darlington (to whom those 
 estates devolved) seems to hold out the same 
 spirit of enterprise and improvement that cha- 
 racterized the laudable efforts of his two noble 
 predecessors. Not a month, it should seem, 
 passes over without the commencement of new 
 buildings in some part of BATH ; and, in addi- 
 tion to the erection of a new church at Bath- 
 wick, which is a most interesting piece of archi- 
 tecture, and a very great ornament to this part 
 of the suburbs, the ground for another church, 
 it is said, is also marked out near James- Street, 
 besides the plans of new squares, streets, &c. 
 
 It has however been urged, for a number of 
 years past, that BATH, like most other fashion- 
 able places of resort, was likely to experience 
 an excess of buildings, and that, ultimately, ruin 
 would fall upon the various speculators in thus 
 employing their capital; but this prophecy, up 
 to the present time, has proved nothing more than 
 visionary conjecture ; and, on the contrary, houses 
 have been scarcely finished, when purchasers 
 have appeared, and tenants not been found 
 wanting. The following anecdote, in illustration 
 of the above fact, is worthy of remark : In the 
 year 1790, a gentleman, conspicuous for the 
 great botanical taste he had displayed in his 
 garden in the suburbs, was suddenly ordered to 
 
OF BATH. 51 
 
 quit this scene of his amusement and delight to 
 make room for a building lease ; in the heat of 
 his mortification and anger, and giving vent to 
 his wounded feelings, he wrote the following 
 epigram: 
 
 Ye men of BATH, who stately mansion? rear, 
 To wait for tenants from the devil knows where ; 
 Would you pursue a plan that cannot fail, 
 Erect a mad-house, and enlarge your gaol. 
 
 This epigram called forth the following appo- 
 site reply : 
 
 Whilst crowds arrive, fast as our streets increase, 
 And our GAOL only proves an empty space ; 
 Whilst health and ease here court the grave and gay 
 Madmen find fools alone will keep away. 
 
 It is asserted as a fact, that, at the period 
 the above reply was made public, not a single 
 prisoner was to be found within the walls 
 of the gaol, and the sheriff (C. Philpot, Esq.) 
 had, in consequence, ordered the doors of the 
 prison to be thrown open. 
 
 Bath is not alone indebted to the erection of 
 new buildings for improvement, which is evident, 
 from an act of parliament having been procured 
 in 1789, to enable the commissioners to widen and 
 render more convenient many parts of the Old 
 City, which has not only been acted upon with 
 great skill and propriety, but reflects much credit 
 upon the Corporation for their anxious endeavours 
 to let no improvement be neglected, that could 
 add comfort or give increased splendour to the 
 City of Bath. 
 
 A grand and spacious square, opposite the 
 South Parade, has also been planned by Earl 
 Manvers, and in some degree begun, and which 
 
 E2 
 
52 EPITOME 
 
 cannot fail, when completed, of being a great 
 ornament to this part of Old Bath, and rival 
 some of its most magnificent structures. 
 
 The following poetic description of BATH, 
 written by the eloquent and feeling Mr. PRATT, 
 nearly 20 years ago, is another convincing proof 
 of the rapid increase of the buildings, squares, 
 &c. at that period; and the comparison still 
 holds good in 1819: 
 
 BATH, how fair wert them to view, 
 When last I said, dear Bath, adieu ! 
 When, in the language of the beau, 
 
 1 tendered thee my D. I. O. ! 
 
 Fair were the hills that topt thy scene, 
 And fair the groves that smil'd between. 
 A CRESCENT grac'd thy hairy brow ; 
 A CIRCUS bound thy zone below j 
 And blithe as Eden in its May, 
 Nature, with all her train, at play, 
 Were seen distinct ; the frolic gales 
 Sporting with beauty ill the vales ; 
 While temp'rance, to Hygeia giv'n 
 Crown'd with roses fresh from heav'n ; 
 Their odours dropping from her wings, 
 Shed balm into thy healing springs ; 
 While all that rais'd life's drooping powers, 
 Were guided by the sober hours ; 
 There regulated dame and play, 
 And scatter'd blessings o'er the way. 
 Such wert thou when I saw thee last, 
 Some twenty fleeting summers past, 
 But now, so mighty art thou grown, 
 Thy head so large, thy trunk so swoln, 
 Thy legs and arms so long and wide, 
 And such an air of city pride ; 
 Thy sides so blackened by the smoke, 
 Thy streets so crammed, thy views so broke ; 
 By upstart buildings, perch'd on high, 
 Like pigmies aiming at the sky j 
 
OF BATH. 53 
 
 Vapour that respiration clogs, 
 
 And all the family of fogs ; 
 
 And modern ruins all a-row, 
 
 And winds above, and dust below, 
 
 And London fashions rattling down 
 
 To make thee yet more overgrown, 
 
 And well-bred dinnerings at seven, 
 
 And sipping coffee at eleven ; 
 
 And sandwiches at noon or night, 
 
 And dames, at noon of day, in white, 
 
 Shewing their shapes to all the men 
 
 Up Milsom-street, and down again; 
 
 Pacing the smooth parades in crowds, 
 
 Like shadows folded in their shrouds j 
 
 Yet shades that prove the substance true, 
 
 For each fair limb's betray'd to view, 
 
 And though the earth the drapery reaches, 
 
 'Tis but a kind of muslin breeches, 
 
 Tight e'en as buck-skin on the beau, 
 
 With here and there an airy flow, 
 
 As waves the linen to the breeze, 
 
 O times of freedom and of ease ! 
 
 And after thus they blow about, 
 
 They leave the even of a rout ; 
 
 Then, hissing hot, retire to bed ! 
 
 And rise at noon of day, half dead ! 
 
 In short, thou art so LONDONIZ'D, 
 
 So over-built, and over-siz'd, 
 
 That, my old friend, I scarcely knew, 
 
 Since last I said, dear BATH adieu! 
 
 Yet, if with this increase of height, 
 
 And bulk, thou art so good as great ; 
 
 If thou more largely can dispense 
 
 Thy streams to genius, virtue, sense ; 
 
 If from those streams more copious flow 
 
 The balms that soften human woe : 
 
 Or if they offer prompt relief 
 
 To pallid sickness, paler grief; 
 
 Or give to pity's gentle eye 
 
 The melting beam of charity ; 
 
 Or to the trembling nerves impart 
 
 The tone that gives the cheerful heart ; 
 
54 EPITOME 
 
 And if from thy augmented wealth 
 
 The poor find bread, the affluent health ; 
 
 And faded sorrow at thy springs 
 
 Removes the malady it brings : 
 
 Then, though thy charms were all destroy'd, 
 
 Though hosts of artists were employ'd, 
 
 To seize the remnant of thy bowers, 
 
 Usurp the fragrant realms of flowers ; 
 
 Though the white mason should displace 
 
 The varied grounds of ev'ry grace, 
 
 Where now thy tender blossoms blow, 
 
 And daisies shoot, and hawthorns grow, 
 
 Rob e'en thy gardens of their pride, 
 
 And spread the vernal ruin wide, 
 
 Till e'en the firs that edge the scene 
 
 Should yield their everlasting green, 
 
 And disembowell'd quarries dark 
 
 CHANGE TO A TOAVN thy ALLEN's park ; 
 
 Another CRESCENT crowd thy hill, 
 
 And hid in clouds another still, 
 
 Another CIRCUS on another, 
 
 Staring and wond'ring at each other ! 
 
 Till when I next my visit pay 
 
 Brick, stone, or mortar, block my way, 
 
 I'd bicl thee build from street to street, 
 
 Till LUD'S and BLADUD'S cities meet. 
 
 The situation of BATH is low ; but, notwith- 
 standing, the air is considered very salubrious ; 
 and the inhabitants, generally, possessing good 
 health and longevity. It stands in a fruitful 
 valley, in the hundred of Bathforum, in the 
 north-east part of Somersetshire, and is sur- 
 rounded by an amphitheatre of hills of con- 
 siderable height, which prove a fine shelter from 
 the north-easterly winds, and is only open to 
 the west. It also abounds with most excellent 
 springs, the water of which is conveyed by 
 leaden pipes into the houses of the city. Bath 
 
OF BATH. 55 
 
 is south-west 67 miles distant from Oxford ; 39 
 from the city of Gloucester ; 36 north-west from 
 Salisbury ; 19 from Wells; 80 from Exeter; 13 
 from Bristol; and 107 miles from London. The 
 Avon, which passes close to the city, is navigable 
 for barges to and from Bristol ; and by the 
 Kennet and Avon canal, in conjunction with the 
 Thames navigation, there is a direct communi- 
 cation by water to the metropolis. 
 
 BATH is under the jurisdiction of a mayor, 
 recorder, 10 aldermen, and 20 common council- 
 men, a chamberlain, and a town-clerk ; two 
 sheriffs and two chief constables are annually 
 chosen from the common council ; and the 
 mayor and two justices are also selected from 
 the aldermen: but, upon the renewal of the 
 charter, in 17. ( )4, the justices were increased to 
 the number of nine. The sum of 1000 per 
 annum is allowed the mayor to support the dig- 
 nity of his office. The body of chairmen, con- 
 sisting of upwards of 300 in number, are all 
 sworn in as constables, the better to aid the 
 \\ell-directed police, which Bath has to boast of 
 over every other place in the kingdom. It re- 
 turns two members to parliament, which are 
 chosen by the corporation ; and, beingjoined with 
 Wells, forms a bishopric, and is called the dio- 
 cese of Bath and Wells. The corporation, it 
 appears, has the gift or patronage of the rectory 
 of Bath, with Lyncomb and Widcombe appen- 
 dant : also the mastership of St. John's Hospital 
 and the rectory of Charlcombe, and the master- 
 ship of the Grammar-School; but which are of 
 inferior importance. 
 
56 EPITOME 
 
 In a poem, written by an elegant female/ 
 called, " A DESCRIPTION OF BATH," the fol- 
 lowing lines, on its healthy situation and the re- 
 storative qualities of its waters, occur: 
 
 " If but one leper cured made Jordan's stream, 
 In sacred writ, a venerable theme ; 
 What honour to thy sov'reign water's due, 
 Where sick by thousands do their health renew ! 
 
 "The min'ral steams which from the baths arise, 
 From noxious vapours clear the neighb'ring skies; 
 When fevers bore an epidemic sway, 
 Unpeopled towns, swept villages away ; 
 While death abroad dealt terror and despair, 
 The plague but gently touch'd within their sphere. 
 
 " Bless'd source of health ! seated on rising ground, 
 With friendly hills by nature guarded round ; 
 From eastern blasts and sultry south secure, 
 The Ain's balsamic, and the SOIL is pure!" 
 
 BATH, in the reign of Richard I. was a place 
 of considerable trade; and much intercourse, it 
 appears, took place at that time with Bristol, in 
 the articles of silk, cloth, &c. and numerous 
 barges, laden with various commodities, were 
 employed upon the Avon. In the fourteenth 
 century, the woollen trade made its appearance 
 at Bath with some vigour; but, in the reign of 
 Henry VIII. it was viewed as one of the first 
 woollen towns in the west of England, and had 
 three companies established in the city of the 
 weavers, tailors, and shoemakers. The woollen 
 trade continued to flourish in Bath during the 
 seventeenth century; and, at the restoration of 
 Charles II. in the parish of St. Michael, no less 
 
 * The late Mrs. CHANDLER. 
 
OF BATH. 57 
 
 than sixty broad looms were employed. But, 
 owing to the introduction of machinery and 
 other causes, it completely dwindled away; 
 and, as if manufactures or trade, carried on upon 
 a large scale, were considered inimical or injuri- 
 ous to a fashionable place of resort, like BATH, 
 it appears that even the mere resemblance of it 
 has been completely done away, within the last 
 fifty years, by the prohibition of the following 
 trades from walking in procession, decorated 
 with their regalia, which had been an annual 
 custom ever since the fifteenth century. The 
 trading importance, therefore, of the tailors, 
 cordwainers, plasterers, masons, joiners, mercers, 
 upholsterers, butchers, and bakers, was com- 
 pletely annihilated; and, by a legal decree, de- 
 clared the privileges they had hitherto assumed 
 were usurped and unfounded. It has, however, 
 been thought that commerce may, in some de- 
 gree, revive, owing to the canal which has been 
 made from BATH to Bristol; and that various 
 heavy articles, such as iron, copper, &c. might 
 pass through the City from Wales, instead of 
 going a circuitous and hazardous voyage to the 
 metropolis ; and, in return, BATH might supply 
 Wales with those commodities which are sent 
 from London. The trade of BATH is, therefore, 
 now confined exclusively to retail custom; and 
 dependent entirely upon the caprice of fashion, 
 or the mere home consumption of the City and 
 its neighbourhood. 
 
 Tradesmen ! a set of vulgar swine, 
 
 Crutches for a fortune in a deep decline ; 
 
 Lo ! what a tradesman's good for, and lo all, 
 
 A wooden buttress for a tott'ring wall ! PINDAR. 
 
EPITOME 
 
 But, however tlie importance of traffic may 
 be viewed as a secondary consideration, and 
 placed, as it is, in the back-ground, it is evident 
 that the learned and other professions are not 
 only prominent but numerous in the extreme. 
 In the healing art alone, the various " GUIDES" 
 distinctly name thirty-one physicians, thirty-two 
 surgeons, sixteen apothecaries, eight dentists, 
 and eight chemists. 
 
 As we all came for health, (as a body may say,) 
 
 I sent for the doctor the very next day, 
 
 And so, as I grew every day worse and worse, 
 
 The doctor advised me to send for a nurse, 
 
 And the nurse was so willing my health to restore, 
 
 She begg'd me to send for 'A few doctors more; 
 
 For when any difficult work's to be done, 
 
 Many heads can despatch it much sooner than one ; 
 
 And I find there are doctors ENOUGH in this place, 
 
 If you want to consult in a dangerous case ! 
 
 Here are also six architects; teachers of vari- 
 ous languages, thirteen; dancing-masters and 
 academies, ten ; and professors of music, upon 
 various instruments, forty : 
 
 For in every science, in ev'ry profession, 
 
 We make the best progress at years of discretion ! 
 
 Of that useful class of society (and no de- 
 scription of men can possibly be of more im- 
 portance in a place of fashion) there are five 
 bankers; and, as a convincing proof that "great 
 folks" have neither time nor industry to manage 
 their own affairs, employment, it should seem, 
 is found in BATH for five barristers, five con- 
 veyancers, and for twenty-nine ATTORNIES ! 
 but, among the numerous comforts and couveni- 
 
OF BATH. 59 
 
 ences specified and promulgated in the above 
 Guides, there are no mention made either of 
 patent coffins or undertakers! The healthful 
 state of the climate, it is presumed, renders it 
 impossible to get a living at the above trade, as 
 a distinct business. 
 
 PRINCIPAL INNS. Bath has to boast of most 
 excellent inns for the reception of company; the 
 following may be reckoned as the most conspi- 
 cuous, from which the mail and several other 
 stage-coaches start. 
 
 YORK-HOUSE, York -Buildings. Messrs. 
 Lucas and Reilly. 
 
 WHITE-HART, Stall-Street. Messrs. Wood- 
 house and Co. 
 
 WHITE-LION, Market-Place. Mr. Arnold. 
 
 CASTLE, Northgate-Street. Mr. Temple. 
 
 LAMB, Stall-Street. Mr. Banks. 
 
 GREYHOUND, Market-Place.Mr. May. 
 
 ANGEL, West gate- Street. Mr. Rose. 
 
 FROMONT and Co.'s Coach-Office. Market- 
 place. 
 
 CHRISTOPHER, Market-Place.Mr. Cook. 
 
 GOLDEN-LION, Horse-Street. Mr. Prince. 
 
 LODGING-HOUSES. In this respect, Bath 
 rises superior to almost every other place of 
 public resort in the kingdom. Lodgings are not 
 only very numerous, but are distinguished for 
 the elegance, convenience, and comfort, which 
 they afford the visitors. In the course of a walk 
 of five or ten minutes about the City, after the 
 arrival of a family, suitable apartments may be 
 procured, with the utmost ease, the prices vary- 
 ing according to the situations of the house, the 
 number of rooms, &c. 
 
60 EPITOME 
 
 BOARDING-HOUSES. -There are also several 
 excellent places of this description within the 
 City of Bath, for the accommodation of those 
 visitors who are anxious to confine their expen- 
 diture within certain limits. 
 
 EATING-HOUSES, or Cooks' Shops, which 
 are so numerous in London, are not to be found 
 in Bath ; throughout the whole City, there are 
 not above three in number, and those with infe- 
 rior accommodation. The visitors, in general, 
 are of too high a cast to encourage such sort of 
 pauvre restaurateurs. Several of the public- 
 houses have good ordinaries. 
 
 NEWSPAPERS. Four of these vehicles of 
 public information are published weekly in Bath, 
 under the following titles : The Bath Journal, 
 Bath and Cheltenham Gazette, Bath Chronicle, 
 and the Bath Herald; but whose columns par- 
 take niore of a fashionable and miscellaneous 
 nature than of any original political angry tone. 
 
 BATH has also its " PENNY POST," which 
 proves of great convenience to the visitors. 
 
 THE PUBLIC LIBRARIES are under the direc- 
 tion of the following persons : 
 
 Messrs. Meyler and Son, close to the Great 
 Pump- Room. 
 
 Mr. Godwin, Milsom-Street. 
 
 Mr. Duffield's, ditto. 
 
 Mr. Upham's, on the Walks. 
 
 Messrs. Barrett and Sons, Bond-Street. 
 
 Mr. Gibbons, Ar gyle- Street. 
 
 Mr. Sims, North Parade. 
 
 These places of rational entertainment are 
 well supplied with the London and provincial 
 newspapers, &c. and great varieties of valuable 
 
OF BATH. 
 
 61 
 
 books in the different parts of literature will be 
 found among their collections. The terms are 
 as follow : 
 
 . 
 1 10 the year. 
 1 six months. 
 15 the quarter. 
 
 i. 
 
 10 
 7 
 2 
 
 d. 
 
 6 two months. 
 6 the month. 
 G by the week. 
 
 RIDING-SCHOOLS. When the weather will 
 not permit the ladies and gentlemen to take their 
 rides upon the downs, &c. the above schools, 
 situate in Montpelier-Row and Monmouth- 
 Street, kept by Messrs. Stevenson and Stokes, 
 are very extensive and commodious for taking 
 equestrian exercise. To learn to ride the mana- 
 ged horse, the terms are three guineas for sixteen 
 lessons ; and 5s. 6d. for a single lesson. 
 
 SEDAN-CHAIRS AND TWO-WHEELED CAB- 
 RTAGES. The former of these vehicles greatly 
 add to the comforts of Bath, in not only securing 
 from annoyance and exposure visitors to the 
 public places of amusement; but, also, in 
 proving a most desirable conveyance for the 
 valetudinarian and invalid, in all sorts of weather, 
 to any part of the City. The chairs, in general, 
 are neat and clean, and free from damp; and 
 are under the perfect controul of the corporation, 
 from whom they receive an annual license. Th 
 following rates are also affixed by the mayor 
 and two justices: 
 
 5. d. 
 
 For carrying one person any distance not exceeding 
 
 500 yards 6 
 
 Above 500, and not exceeding 1173 yards 1 
 
 Beyond 1173 yards, and not exceeding one mile . . 16 
 Beyond one measured mile, and not exceeding in the 
 
 whole one mile and 586 yards 2 
 
62 EPITOME 
 
 Not exceeding one mile 1173 yards 2 6 
 
 Not exceeding two measured miles 3 
 
 And for every 586 yards beyond 6 
 
 Any person may detain the chairmen in every fare, without 
 paying any thing for it, as follows, viz. 
 
 Minutes. Minutes. 
 
 In a sixpenny fare .... 10 
 In a twelvepenny fare. . 15 
 In an eighteenpenny fare 20 
 
 In a two shilling fare . . 25 
 In half-a-crown fare . . 30 
 In a three shilling fare 35 
 
 And in every other fare or quantity of ground constituting 
 an additional fare, any farther time not exceeding in each 
 additional sixpenny fare, as ahove, five minutes. 
 
 All fares to be charged double after twelve o'clock at 
 night. And, instead of 500 yards, 300 are only a sixpennv 
 fare on hilly or ascending ground, whether upwards or 
 downwards; but where the fare begins on plain ground, and 
 ends on ascent, or begins on a descent, and ends on plain 
 ground, the chairmen must carry the full space of 500 yards. 
 
 Chairmen to be paid 6d. for each extra quarter of an hour's 
 waiting. Chairmen demanding more for their fare than they 
 are entitled to, or refusing or declining to carry any fare when 
 called on, or using any abusive or insulting language, shall 
 forfeit ^Os. or be suspended from using their chair for any 
 time not exceeding forty days. 
 
 The mayor and two justices to direct the measurement of 
 any distances in dispute, the expense of which to be paid by 
 the chairmen, if the distance be less than they charge, and, 
 if more, by the persons they carry. 
 
 THE POST-OFFICE.^ It cannot be doubted, 
 but this institution is most admirably conducted, 
 when it is recollected that the late Mr. Palmer, 
 the grand projector of the mail-coaches, was a 
 native and resident of Bath. It is situate oppo- 
 site the Abbey Church, in Kingston-Buildings; 
 and where the post arrives at, and leaves Bath 
 for the under-mentioned places, at the following 
 specified times : 
 
OF BATH. 
 
 To AND FROM LONDON, AND PARTS BEYOND. 
 
 Goes out Every evening (except Saturday) at five o'clock. 
 Comes in Every morning (except Monday) from ten to 
 twelve. 
 
 To and from Hounslow, Colnbrook, Maidenhead, Reading, 
 Newbury, Hungerford, Marlborough, Calne,Chippenham, 
 &c. 
 
 Goes out Every evening at five. 
 Comes in Every morning from ten to twelve. 
 To and from all parts of Oxfordshire, Stratford, Warwick, 
 Abingdon, Faringdon, Malmsbury, Swindon, Wootton- 
 Basset, Cricklade, Highworth, Lechlade, Fairibrd, Ciren- 
 cester, Tetbury, Sodbury, &c. 
 
 Goes out Every morning at nine. 
 Comes in Every evening from four to five. 
 To and from Cornwall, Devon, Wellington,Taunton, Bridge- 
 water, Wells, Somerton, Langport, Tlminster, Chard, Crew- 
 kerne, &c. 
 
 Goes out Every morning at nine. 
 Comes in Every evening from four to five. 
 To and from Eastbourne, Uckfield, Brighton, Chichester, 
 Petworth, Shoreham, Dorsetshire, Hampshire, Salisbury, 
 Heytesbury, Warminster, Frome, &c. 
 Goes out Every evening at five. 
 Comes in Every morning from nine to ten. 
 To and from the north of Ireland, Wales, Cumberland, Dur- 
 ham, Northumberland, Scotland, Cove and Cork, Michin- 
 hampton, Usk, Abergavenny, Monmouth, Westmoreland, 
 Lancashire, Cheshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Worces- 
 tershire, Herefordshire, Birmingham, Gloucester, Chel- 
 tenham, Stroud, Northleach, Newnham, Berkeley, 
 Newent, Michel-Dean, Colford, Dursley, Wootton, De- 
 vizes, Melksham, Trowbridge, Bradford, &c. 
 Goes out Every afternoon at three. 
 Comes in Every morning from nine to eleven. 
 To and from Bristol, South of Irekiid, Pembrokeshire, Car- 
 marthenshire, Monmouthshire, Glamorganshire, Newport, 
 Caerleon, Chepstow, &c. 
 
 Goes out Every morning at nine, and every evening at 
 three. 
 
 Comes in Every morning about ten, and every evening 
 at six. 
 
64 EPITOME 
 
 The letter-box is closed every evening from five to a quarter 
 before six ; but letters will be forwarded by that evening's 
 mail, on paying Id. if brought before a quarter past five; 
 from that time till the arrival of the Bristol mail 6d. is charged, 
 after which no letter can be received to be forwarded by 
 that post. 
 
 BATH HARMONIC SOCIETY. This musical 
 institution, which is held every Friday evening, 
 from December to March, at the White Hart Inn, 
 in Stall-Street, is of the most respectable de- 
 scription, and was founded in 1795, by the Rev. 
 M. BOWEN, a gentleman of acknowledged great 
 musical taste. The singing consists principally 
 of glees, catches, &c. Nothing that can offend 
 the most refined ear is suffered to be sung. The 
 members are admitted by ballot. Three guineas 
 for the first season. Their Royal Highnesses 
 the Prince Regent, the Dukes of York and 
 Gloucester, are members ; and his Royal High- 
 ness has conferred the dignity upon the Society 
 of wearing garter-blue ribands. In the season 
 a superb concert and ball is given to the ladies, 
 at Kingston-Rooms. Strangers are admitted 
 twice in the year; but noblemen, gentlemen, and 
 professional men only, are elected as members. 
 Of the kind, it is the first society in England. 
 
 BATH has the honour to boast of not only 
 being the temporary residence of numerous 
 princes and crowned heads at distant periods, 
 but also of the visits of royalty in more modern 
 times, more frequently than any other city of its 
 size in England. Osric, Offa, Edgar, and most 
 of the princes of the Saxon line; Rufus, the 
 Norman; Henry I. and II. Edward I. II. 
 and III. Henry IV. and VII. Edward VI. and 
 Elizabeth; James I. and Charles I. Richard 
 
OF BATH. 65 
 
 Cromwell and Charles II. James II. and his 
 queen; Frederick, Prince of Wales, and his con- 
 sort ; the Princess Amelia; his Royal Highness 
 the Prince Regent visited Bath in 1796, and 
 accepted the freedom of the City; and, in 1705, 
 his Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester, and 
 their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess 
 of York, made a temporary residence of Bath; 
 and also in November, 1817, her late Majesty 
 the Queen honoured Bath with her presence; 
 but was suddenly called away by the lamented 
 death of the Princess Charlotte of Wales; but, 
 in the course of three weeks her Majesty return- 
 ed to this elegant City for a short period, and 
 received an address of condolence from the 
 Mayor and Corporation, upon the great loss the 
 nation had sustained in the death of her Royal 
 Highness. 
 
 In the season, which may be said to be at its 
 height from Christmas to April, it is the opinion 
 of every person who has visited this elegant 
 City, that Bath rises superior to every other 
 place in England, in affording so extensive a 
 circle of polite and well-bred company. The 
 entertainments are also regulated with great pro- 
 priety ; and the variety of them, added to the 
 numerous delightful interesting walks with which 
 it abounds, prevents that degree of sameness 
 which pervades most oilier public places of re- 
 sort. In the morning from the Pump-Room to 
 the Parades the Crescents a stroll alongside 
 the Avon; or, a walk in Sydney-Gardens 
 the inviting level path to the village of Weston 
 visiting the shops libraries exhibitions, &c. 
 A peep at Pryor-Park, Claverton-Down, and 
 
 F 
 
66 EPITOME, &C. 
 
 Lansdowu-Hill, &c. &c. After dinner, the 
 Theatre becomes attractive ; or to dash off to 
 the Rooms, where dancing and the card-table 
 tend to finish and fully occupy (almost as nume- 
 rously as Caleb Quotem's variety of callings) tiie 
 time of a fashionable visitor at Bath. 
 
 'Tis amazing they find such a number of ways 
 
 Of employing his thoughts all the time that he stays ! 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 67 
 
 WALK I. 
 
 From the YORK HOTEL to Edgnj--Buildings, through 
 Milsom-Strtet, (OCTAGON-CHAPEL,) Bond-Street 
 and Bond -Street -Build ings, Bur km- Street, and 
 Union-Street (the GENERAL HOSPITAL) to Stall- 
 Street into Abbey-Place (the ABBEY and GREAT 
 PUMP-ROOM). Return to Stall-Street (the KING'S, 
 QUEEN'S, and NEW PRIVATE BATHS) through 
 Bath-Street. (CROSS and HOT-BATHS and the 
 EYE INFIRMARY,) Het ling-Court, (ST. JOHN'S 
 CHAPEL and HOSPITAL,) Westgate- Buildings, 
 (BATH AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY,) St. James's 
 
 (BATH and BATH FORUM FREE-SCHOOL,) Horse- 
 Street, (the OLD BRIDGE). Back to Weymouth- 
 Street, (ST. JAMES'S CHURCH,) Abbey -Gate-Street, 
 (LANCASTLRIAN SCHOOL,) Abbey-Green, Abbey- 
 Street, (KINGSTON BATHS and BATH LITERARY 
 SOCIETY). Kingston-Buildings, (the POST-OFFICE). 
 Returning through Milsom-Street to the YORK- 
 HOTEL. 
 
 Of all the gay places the world can afford, 
 
 By gentle and simple for pastime ador*d, 
 
 Fine balls and^me concerts, fine buildings and springs, 
 
 Fine walks and fine views, and a thousand fine things, 
 
 In manners, in dress, in politeness to shine, 
 
 O BATH ! let the art, let the glory be thine. 
 
 THE dejeune is scarcely finished, when the first 
 place of attraction that claims the immediate 
 attention of the visitor is the GREAT PUMP- 
 
 F 2 
 
08 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 ROOM; not only, as it were, to announce himself 
 to the good people of BATH, but in order to 
 recognize some intimate friend or acquaintance 
 from the Metropolis, or other parts of the king- 
 dom, in this general place of resort or showing 
 promenade. The GREAT PUMP-ROOM is com- 
 pletely open for the reception of the public, no 
 etiquette of rank being required to obtain an 
 admission; and the only qualification necessary 
 to join the gay throng, without ceremony, is 
 that of a clean decent appearance. On quitting 
 the hotel, on the left, Edgar- Buildings, an 
 elevated respectable terrace, is perceived oppo- 
 site to Milsom- Street ; and what the west end of 
 the metropolis presents to the inhabitants of 
 London, the same elegant appearance of this 
 part of the city operates upon the minds of the 
 visitors of Bath. The similarity of feature is 
 obvious. In the height of the season, Milsom- 
 Street is the promenade of the gentlemen, and 
 the shopping of the ladies : this latter circum- 
 stance gives it a splendid variety : 
 
 The streets begin to fill, the motley throng 
 To see and to be seen now trip along ; 
 Some lounge in the bazars, while others meet 
 To take a turn or two in Milsom-Street ; 
 Some eight or ten round Mirvan's shop remain, 
 To stare at those who gladly stare again ! 
 
 It is the very centre of attraction, and till the 
 hour of dinner-time it is the peculiar resort of 
 the beau monde ; and the familiar nod, and the 
 " how do you do?" are repeated fifty times in 
 the course of a morning. The street itself, 
 from its ascent, is elegant and imposing; and, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 09 
 
 the houses, particularly on the left from York- 
 Buildings, exhibit considerable architectural 
 grandeur, in consequence of several dwellings 
 being erected under one design. All is bustle 
 and gaiety: numerous dashing equipages passing 
 and repassing, others gracing the doors of the 
 tradesmen; sprinkled here and there with the 
 invalids in the comfortable sedans and easy two- 
 wheeled carriages, all anxious to participate in 
 this active part of Bath, giving a sort of finish to 
 the scene. The shops are tastefully laid out; ca- 
 pacious and elegant; and the addition of "from 
 London," of course, is a complete passport to 
 their excellence and superior articles. In short, 
 Milsom and Bond Streets afford to the utmost 
 extent every thing towards supplying the real 
 or imaginary wants of the visitors: containing 
 libraries to improve the mind musical reposi- 
 tories to enrich their taste and science confec- 
 tioners to invite the most fastidious appetite 
 tailors, milliners, &c. of the highest eminence 
 in the fashionable world, to adorn the male, and 
 decorate and beautify the female, to render the 
 form almost of statuary excelleuce; and posi- 
 tively, as the grand climax of the rapidity of im- 
 provement towards perfection, in making out of 
 an old & complete new face. The denouement is 
 also in point, in having two good banking-houses 
 near at hand to support characters of the above 
 description, who must need so many and frequent 
 supplies to support the arbitrary dictates of 
 fashion. The Octagon Chapel, in this street, is 
 a neat elegant building, It was opened in 1767. 
 The organ is good ; and the altar-piece, painted 
 by Mr.Hoare, representing the Pool of Bethesda, 
 
70 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 is not only a fine subject, but reflects great 
 credit upon the talents of the artist. Divine 
 service is performed here at eleven and five every 
 Sunday. The news of the day is also to be 
 acquired at the libraries of Messrs. Godwin and 
 Duffield, whose reading-rooms render a lounge 
 most agreeable and pleasant. On leaving Mil- 
 som-Street, you pass the bank of Messrs. Sir B. 
 Hobhouse, Clutterbuck, Phillott, Lowder, and 
 Phillott, (who draw on Jones, Lloyd, and Co. 
 Lothbury, London,) and get into 
 
 Bond-Street. It has no thoroughfare for car- 
 riages; is much narrower than Milsom- Street ; 
 and pavement extends all over it. It is similar 
 to Cranbourne-Alley, in London. The shops are 
 extremely elegant, and well furnished: the library 
 and reading-rooms of Mr. Barrett is situated 
 here ; and also the Society for promoting Chris- 
 tian Knowledge. This society, which is a branch 
 of the ancient institution of the one held in Bart- 
 lett's Buildings, Holborn, London, has not only 
 furnished all the public charities and prisons in 
 Bath with Prayer-books, religious tracts, &c. 
 gratuitously; but the poor inhabitants of nume- 
 rous parishes have been also supplied with 
 books to explain the Scriptures, agreeably to 
 the doctrines of the established church. Sub- 
 scriptions are opened at the banks and libraries 
 to extend the views of this Society. C. Lowder, 
 Esq. is the treasurer, one of the firm of the 
 Milsom-Street-Bank. At the end of this street, 
 is Bladud-bank, under the firm of Messrs. Tuff- 
 nell, Collett, Payne, Hope, and Watts, who draw 
 upon Jones and Co. Lothbury, in London. 
 Through a small passage is Bond- Street- Build- 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 71 
 
 ings, which contains some good houses and 
 shops. On the left is Burton-Street leading to 
 Union-Street. This latter is wide and capacious, 
 and has a good appearance. The progress of 
 the visitor is here animatedly arrested in viewing 
 the GENERAL HOSPITAL, situated at the north- 
 west end of this street, stretching to the corner 
 of Parsonage-Lane ; an institution that reflects 
 the highest credit upon the inhabitants of this 
 City, more especially, from the very liberal and 
 real charitable principles upon which it is found- 
 ed. The residents of Bath only are excluded 
 from partaking of its benefits ; but it is open for 
 the reception of the sick-poor from all parts of 
 England and Ireland, to whom the waters of 
 Bath may be applied with service. The old 
 adage observes, that " charity covereth a multi- 
 tude of sins ;" and upon this construction the 
 celebrated Beau NASH, who had the honour of 
 suggesting the idea of its foundation in 1715, is 
 considered to have wiped off" a number of his 
 failings. In consequence of some difference of 
 opinion, the plan lay dormant till 1738, when it 
 was resumed with vigour by the Right Hon. 
 William Pulteney, afterwards Earl of Bath, un- 
 der whose patronage Mr. Wood, the architect, 
 completed its erection. The first stone was 
 laid by the above nobleman, bearing the follow- 
 ing inscription: 
 
 " This stone 
 
 Is the first which was laid in the foundation of 
 THE GENERAL HOSPITAL, 
 
 July the 6th, A.D. 1738. 
 God prosper the charitable undertaking." 
 
 The GENERAL HOSPITAL has the appearance 
 
72 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 of a substantial mansion, of the Ionic order, and 
 built on the site of the old theatre. It is 100 
 feet in length, and 90 in depth ; and well calcu- 
 lated to answer all the purposes for which it was 
 designed. It was opened for the reception of 
 patients in 1742 ; but an act of parliament was 
 previously obtained in 1739, declaring the trus- 
 tees a corporate body, under the title of the 
 " President and Governors of the General Hos- 
 pital or Infirmary of Bath." It is worthy of 
 remark, that no partiality is suffered to exist in 
 this charitable institution ; and that the objects 
 of its care are admitted in rotation, as their 
 names appear in the book. It is capable of 
 containing 133 patients. It is supported by 
 voluntary contributions ; and twice a year col- 
 lections are made at the various religious places 
 in Bath. All the free-stone and other materials 
 necessary for its erection were generously sup- 
 plied by the late Ralph Allen, Esq. The Hon. 
 and Right Rev. the Bishop of Gloucester is the 
 president. In order to give publicity to a cha- 
 rity founded upon such very liberal principles, 
 offering assistance to the sick-poor from all 
 parts of the kingdom, the following conditions 
 of admission into the General Hospital are here 
 inserted : 
 
 I. The case of the patient must be described by some 
 physician or person of skill, in the neighbourhood of the 
 place where the patient has resided for some time ; and this 
 description must be sent, franked or post paid, directed to 
 the Register of the General Hospital at Bath. 
 
 The age and name of the patient ought to be mentioned 
 in the description of the case ; and the persons who describe 
 it are desired to be particular in the enumeration of the 
 symptoms : so that neither improper cases may be admitted, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 73 
 
 nor proper ones rejected, by the physicians and surgeons, 
 who always examine and sign the cases as proper or impro- 
 per, previous to their being laid before the weekly committee. 
 If the patient has any fever upon him, as long as the fever 
 continues he will be deemed improper. Patients with 
 coughs, attended with pain in the chest or spitting of blood, 
 arc improper ; as also those with abscesses or with any ex- 
 ternal ulcers, until such ulcers are healed. 
 
 From want of attention to the foregoing particulars, and 
 notwithstanding the cautious frequently given by 
 printing the coitditions of admission in the public 
 papers, very imperfect descriptions of cases have 
 been and are still sent, and many patients have been 
 discharged as improper soon after their admission, to 
 the disappointment of the patient thus sent. 
 II. After the patient's case has been thus described and 
 sent, he must remain in his usual place of residence till he 
 has notice of a vacancy, signified by a letter from the Re- 
 gister, accompanied with a blank certificate. 
 
 III. Upon the receipt of this letter the patient must set 
 forward for Bath, bringing with him this letter ; the parish 
 certificate, duly executed by the minister and parish officers 
 where such patient is legally settled, and attested before two 
 justices for the county or city to which the patient belongs ; 
 and ,,5 caution-money, if from any part of England or 
 Wales ; but, if the patient come from Scotland or Ireland, 
 then the caution-money to be deposited before admission is 
 the sum of 5. 
 
 IV. Soldiers may, instead of parish certificates, bring a 
 certificate from their commanding- officer, signifying to what 
 corps they belong, and that they shall be received into the 
 same corps when discharged from the Hospital, in whatever 
 condition they are ; and the same is expected from the Go- 
 vernors of the Chelsea and Greenwich Hospitals, respecting 
 their pensioners. But it is necessary that their cases be de- 
 scribed, and sent previously j and that they bring 3 cau- 
 tion-money. 
 
 The intention of the caution-money is to defray the ex- 
 penses of returning the patients after they are discharged 
 from the Hospital, or of their burial in case they should die 
 there. The remainder of the caution-money, after these 
 
74 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 expenses are defrayed, will be returned to the person who 
 deposited it. 
 
 All poor persons coming to Bath under pretence of getting 
 into the Hospital, without having their cases thus described 
 and sent previously, and leave given them to comc> will be 
 treated as vagrants, as the act of parliament for the regula- 
 tion of the Hospital requires. 
 
 N.B. If any patient should have the small-pox here, such 
 persons must be removed out of the house, and the caution- 
 money defray the expenses thereof. Likewise, all persons 
 who shall come into the hospital without decent and necessary 
 apparel, must have such necessaries provided out of the cau- 
 tion-money. 
 
 In this street the Bath and Cheltenham Ga- 
 zette is published every Tuesday evening. On 
 quitting Union-street, in a straight line is 
 
 Stall-Street, which is but a narrow thorough- 
 fare, although leading to and surrounded with 
 numerous interesting objects. Opposite the 
 White-Hart-Inn is a very handsome stone por- 
 tico, at a small distance from the GREAT PUMP 
 ROOM, for the reception and plying-place of 
 chairs, in order to accommodate the company 
 who frequent this fashionable promenade, as 
 well as to remove the noise of the chairmen. 
 From Stall-Street this portico has an attractive 
 effect; and, in passing under it into Abbey- 
 Place, which has a very extensive broad pave- 
 ment, and surrounded by some elegant shops, 
 the PuMP-RooM appears upon the right, and 
 also the front door (or west end, which is richly 
 ornamented) of the fine venerable ABBEY bursts 
 upon the eye of the visitor. This is the grand 
 entrance to the Cathedral Church of St. Peter 
 and Paul; and in rich canopied niches are the 
 statues of the above patron saints. The window 
 over the above door possesses great richness and 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 75 
 
 beauty. This ancient pile of architecture is 
 one of the last specimens of the ecclesiastical 
 Gothic. It was founded by king Osric, in 676; 
 but, after falling into a state of great decay, it 
 was begun, in its present form, in the year 1495, 
 in the reign of Henry VII. by Oliver King, 
 bishop of the diocese, in consequence of a pious 
 vision, and completed by Bishop Montague, 
 in the reign of James I. From east to west it is 
 210 feet in length; and from north to south 
 126. The breadth of the body and side ailes is 
 72 feet; and the height of the tower 120, 
 which contains an excellent peal of ten bells! 
 It is a most elegant interesting structure; and 
 viewed as a parochial church, it is without an 
 equal in England. Divine service is read every 
 day at eleven in the forenoon, which is support- 
 ed by voluntary contributions of the company 
 visiting Bath. It has fifty-two windows, and 
 this church was formerly called the " lantern of 
 England." The " Society of Antiquaries" have 
 been elaborate in their description of this abbey; 
 and it has also claimed the peculiar research 
 and investigation of the Rev. Mr. WARNER, 
 who thus interestingly describes its interior: 
 " The eye on entering the church is immediately 
 directed to the roof, singular in its design and 
 beautiful in its execution. This consists of two 
 parts, the nave and the choir. Of these, the 
 former is evidently of later construction than 
 the latter. It is separated from the side aisles 
 by twelve clustered pillars supporting elliptic 
 arches; is of great opening and very flat, the 
 span being only 30 feet 3 inches, and the eleva- 
 tion only 3 feet. The singularity of this piece 
 
76 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 of masonry, which sets modern art at defiance, 
 consists in this circumstance that the ribs, 
 which compose the tracery of the ceiling, are 
 the only solid work; the intermediate spaces 
 have been originally cut through and left open, 
 and filled up slightly in after times with common 
 lath and plaster. The roof of the choir rises 
 considerably higher than that of the nave, al- 
 though the groins of the former are greatly the 
 lower of the two. It of course makes a much 
 sharper arch, and exhibits in its spreading ribs 
 a pattern of most beautiful ramification. The 
 choir, which is now fitted up like a common 
 parish church, (with the addition of a throne for 
 the bishop when he visits Bath,) is separated 
 from the nave by a wooden screen, supported by 
 stone pillars, and surmounted by an organ of 
 most exquisite tone. Near the altar-piece is an 
 admirable specimen of architecture in the little 
 monumental chapel of Prior Bird, who died in 
 1525. This oratory consists of two arched divi- 
 sions, impost, entablature, and octangular but- 
 tresses, all elaborately ornamented with fanciful 
 traceries and other decorations. At the left or 
 south-west angle of the chapel are two ranges 
 of beautiful niches stringing from the impost and 
 terminating with pen-nailes and spires, evidently 
 intended for figures ; at present, however, they 
 have no tenants." 
 
 'Tis dreadful ! 
 
 How reverend is the face of this tall pile, 
 Whose ancient pillars rear their marble heads, 
 To bear aloft its arch'd and pondrous roof! 
 By its own weight made stedfast and immoveable. 
 Looking tranquilly, it strikes an awe 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 77 
 
 And terror to my aching sight ! The tombs 
 And monumental cases of death look cold, 
 And shoot a chillness to my trembling heart. 
 
 If the eye is charmed with the superior archi- 
 tecture of the exterior, and the grand appear- 
 ance it displays, how much more is the mind 
 gratified on entering this sacred repository of 
 the dead, in wandering amidst the tombs of so 
 many departed great characters? A pleasing 
 melancholy pervades the frame, and the senses 
 seem lost in a reverie with the surrounding ob- 
 jects. The monuments are numerous, and, in 
 general, admirably executed ; and many of them, 
 for beauty of design and elegance of sculpture, 
 reflect great credit upon the different artists under 
 whose particular care they have been executed. 
 The solemnity of the scene altogether conveys 
 a sublime and wholesome truth, that the observer 
 cannot shrink from, if properly applied, in ope- 
 rating as a useful lesson towards the improve- 
 ment of life from the serious examples before 
 him. The reflection is impressive and awful, 
 that however great in power splendid in for- 
 tune the blessings of health and strength and 
 all the pride and vain-glory of man, in remem- 
 bering that the HERO, who had dispersed armies, 
 reduced cities, and made nations tremble at his 
 nod the TYRANT who had been the terror of 
 his reign the HISTORIAN who had claimed at- 
 tention from his extensive knowledge in handing 
 down to posterity the events of his own and 
 past times, the POET who had inspired with 
 his lays, and breathed out in amorous poesies, 
 the softer ecstasies of love the PLAYER who 
 had strutted and fretted his hour to overwhelm- 
 
78 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 ing applause and the STATESMAN, whose ani- 
 mated oratory in defence of his country, had 
 rivetted the attention of an admiring senate 
 that all our consequence and pretensions are 
 in an instant lost sight of by that awful monitor 
 DEATH! 
 
 General Wade, one of the representatives of 
 the City, in the year 1725, gave a very elegant 
 altar-piece, representing the Wise Men's Offer- 
 ing. It has also a fine-toned organ; and, in 
 addition to the above attractions, its monuments 
 are not only numerous, but of the most interest- 
 ing description; and the chissels of NOLLEKENS 
 and BACON, in several instances, display some 
 exquisite touches of sculptural excellence, as 
 well as the pen of the poet exerted with consi- 
 derable feeling and ability. 
 
 The admirers of theatrical talent are stopped 
 in their progress through this venerable mansion 
 of the dead by the monument of JAMES QUIN, 
 Esq. which has a striking likeness of this once 
 great actor. It has also under it a mask and 
 dagger, representing Tragedy and Comedy. 
 
 OB. M,DCC,LXVI. ^Etatis LXXIII. 
 " That tongue which set the table on a roar, 
 And charra'd the public ear, is heard no more : 
 Closed are those eyes, the harbingers of wit, 
 Which spake before the tongue, what Shakspeare writ : 
 Cold is that hand, which living, was stretch'd forth, 
 At friendship's call, to succour modest worth : 
 Here lies JAMES QUIN : deign, reader, to be taught, 
 Whate'er thy strength of body, force of thought, 
 In nature's happiest mould, however cast, 
 To this compkxion thou must come at last. 
 
 D. GARRICK. 
 
 Near the entrance from the west door, on a 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 79 
 
 plain tablet of black marble, encircled with 
 white drapery, with a few musical notes at the 
 top of it, the following lines, by two eminent 
 vocal performers, are placed in remembrance of 
 a great teacher of music, whose talents had so 
 often delighted the refined circles of Bath, and 
 under whose superior tuition the first singers of 
 the age had been completed : 
 
 O RO 8UPPLEX ET ACCLINIS, &C. 
 
 Near this place the remains of 
 
 VENANZIO RAUZZINI, a native of Rome, 
 
 Distinguished as a vocal performer 
 
 On the Continent and in England, 
 
 Whose judicious abilities for 30 years, 
 
 In conducting the musical department 
 
 Of this city, 
 
 Amply gratified the applauding public. 
 
 And whose ever gracious deportment 
 
 Conciliated their zealous affections. 
 
 This tributary memorial 
 
 Was erected by his affectionate pupils, 
 
 ANNA SELINA STORAGE AND JOHN BRAHAM, 
 
 Promoted by their friendship and 
 
 Grateful respect for professional merit 
 
 And liberality of sentiment. 
 
 Aged 62 years. 
 
 To THE LADIES, the following monument 
 is of the most interesting nature ; and although 
 it may fall to the lot of but few of the fair sex to 
 realize such perfections as are described on this 
 inscription, it nevertheless offers a most laud- 
 able stimulus to them, to " go and do likewise" 
 in order to obtain a similar superior character: 
 
 " In memory of REBECCA LEYBORNE, 
 Interred at the foot of this pillar, 
 
 Born June the 4th, 1698. 
 Deceased February 18, 1756. 
 
84 \\ALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 A wiJ'c more than twenty -three years to Rubett Leyboi ue, 
 
 D.D. 
 
 (Rector of the Churches of St. Dunstan, Stepney, 
 And of St. Ann's, Middlesex, near London, 
 
 And Principal of Alban-Hall, in Oxford) 
 Who never saw her once ruffled -with anger, 
 
 Or heard her utter even a peevish word ; 
 
 Whether pained, or injured, the same good woman, 
 
 In whose mouth, as in whose character, 
 
 Was no contradiction : 
 
 Resigned, gentle, courteous, affable ; 
 
 Without passion, though not without sense : 
 
 She took offence as little as she gave it, 
 
 She never was or made an enemy ; 
 
 To servants, mild; to relations, kind; 
 
 To the poor, a friend ; to the stranger, hospitable ; 
 
 Always caring how to please her husband, 
 Yet not less attentive to the one thing needful. 
 
 How few will be able to equal 
 What all should endeavour to imitate !" 
 
 The name of FIELDING is so attractive to tin- 
 lovers of literature, that any circumstance 
 attached to it cannot fail of claiming great re 
 spect and attention. The following monument is 
 dedicated to the authoress of David Simple:-* 
 
 " In this city lived arid died SARAH, second daughter oi 
 General Henry Fielding ; by his first wife, 
 
 daughter of Judge Gould ; 
 
 Whose writings will be known, 
 
 As incentives to virtue, and an honour to her sex, 
 
 When this marble shall be dust. 
 She was born MDCCXIV. and died April MDCCLXVIII. 
 
 Her unaffected manners, candid mind, 
 
 Her heart benevolent, and soul resign'd, 
 
 Were more her praise, than all she knew or thought, 
 
 Though Athens' wisdom to her sex she taught. 
 
 The Rev. .Dr. John Hoadly, her friend, for the honour of the 
 dead, and emulation of the living, inscribes this deficient 
 memorial of her virtues and accomplishments. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 81 
 
 The remains of the celebrated BEAU NASH 
 lay many years without any monument to record 
 his exertions in favour of the city of Bath, and 
 perhaps he might have been entirely forgotten 
 iiad it not have been for the ingenious and learned 
 Dr. HARRINGTON, who promoted a subscrip- 
 tion for such a purpose, and thus rescued the 
 above HERO OF FASHION from total oblivion. 
 A plain neat monument, with the following in- 
 scription, has been erected to his memory: 
 
 , 
 
 " ADESTE O GIVES, ADESTE LUGENTES! 
 HIC SILENT LEGES 
 
 RICARDI NASH, ARM1G. 
 
 NIIIIL AMTLIUS IMPERANTIS; 
 
 QUI DIU ET UTILISSIME 
 
 ASSUMPTUS BATHONIJE 
 
 ELEGANTI^E ARBITER 
 
 EHEU! 
 
 MORTI (ULTIMO DESIGXATORI) 
 
 HAUD INDECORE SUCCUBUIT 
 ANN. DOM. MDCCLXI. *TAT. SVJE LXXXVII. 
 
 BEATUS II.LE QUI SIBI IMPERIOSUs! 
 If social virtue make remembrance dear, 
 
 Or manners pure on decent rule depend, 
 To his remains one grateful tear, 
 
 Of youth the guardian, and of all the friend. 
 Now sleeps dominion ; here no bounty flows ; 
 Nor more avails the festive scene to grace, 
 Beneath that hand which no discernment shows, 
 
 Untaught to honor, or distinguish place." 
 Under this inscription is cut, in marble, the arm of Death 
 striking his dart at a falling crown and .sceptre, with 
 
 the motto 
 " JEqun put sat munu" 
 
 A marble monument, finished in Bacon's best 
 style, with the inscription written by Anna 
 Seward, on the north side of the altar, is not 
 only very attractive from these qualities, but 
 
 G 
 
8*2 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 from the recollection of the lady to whom it is 
 dedicated, in being a highly respected public 
 character in Bath. 
 
 " Near this monument are deposited the remains of LADY 
 MILLER, wife to Sir John Miller, bart. of Batheaston 
 Villa ; she departed this life at the Hotwells of Bristol, 
 the 24th of June, 1781, in the 41st year of her age. 
 
 " Devoted stone ! amidst the wreck of time, 
 
 Uninjur'd bear thy MILLER'S spotless name : 
 The virtues of her youth and ripened prime, 
 The tender thought th' enduring record claim. 
 
 " When clos'd the num'rous eyes that round this bier 
 
 Have wept the loss of wide-extended worth, 
 O gentle stranger, may one gen'rous tear 
 
 Drop, as thou bendest o'er this hallow'd earth ! 
 
 " Are truth and genius, love and pity thine, 
 
 With lib'ral charity and faith sincere ? 
 Then rest thy wand'ring step beneath this shrine, 
 And greet a kindred spirit hov'ring near." 
 
 A volume would scarcely suffice to detail the 
 monuments in this venerable abbey, among 
 which will be found, well worthy of notice, those 
 of Mr. Walsh Porter; Dr. Sibthorpe; H. Katen- 
 camp, and Governor Pownal ; the classic Mel- 
 moth ; Sir William Draper, &c. The ABBEY, 
 whenever leisure offers, may be again visited with 
 increased attention and profit. 
 
 On quitting this receptacle for the dead, but 
 a few yards, of which the lady in ANSTEY'S New 
 Bath Guide, thus expresses herself: 
 
 Declar'd she was shock'd that so many should come, 
 To be doctor'd to death, such a distance from homt, 
 At a place where they tell you that water alone 
 Can cure all distempers that ever were known! 
 
 The scene from " grave to GAY " is now 
 

WALKS THROUGH BATH. 83 
 
 changed with almost the general celerity of har- 
 lequin's bat, and epitaphs and monumental inscrip- 
 tions no longer operate upon the feelings, but are 
 banished for the lively gaiety which the fashion- 
 able throng and music affords to the mind of 
 the spectator upon setting his foot into the 
 Great Pump-Room : 
 
 Ods-bobs! how delighted I was unawares, 
 
 With the fiddler T heard in the room above stairs ; 
 
 For music is whoU'somo, tli<> doctors all think, 
 
 For ladies that bathe, and tor ladies that drink ; 
 
 And that's the opinion of Robin, our driver, 
 
 Who whistles his nags while they stand at the river ; 
 
 They say it is right that for every glass 
 
 A tune you should take that the water may pass; 
 
 So while little Tubby was washing her rump, 
 
 The ladies kept drinking it out of a pump* 
 
 The GREAT PUMP- ROOM was originally 
 built under the auspices of Mr. Nash, in 1704; 
 in 1751 it was enlarged; and, in 1780, its hand- 
 some portico, stretching in a northerly direction, 
 was added to it. The elegant western frontis- 
 piece, which is a considerable ornament to the 
 structure, appeared in 1791. The Old Pump- 
 Room was taken down in 170(>, and the present 
 handsome building was erected upon its site, at 
 the expense of the corporation. In 1813 it also 
 received fresh painting, and tasteful improve- 
 ment. It is in length (jO feet; but, including 
 the recesses at the ends of the room, it is 85. 
 In width 46 feet, and 34 high. The interior is 
 set round with three-quarter columns of the Co- 
 
 * With all due deference to this playful and lively satir- 
 ist, upon inquiry it turns ont that he has exercised his wit 
 somewhat at the expense of truth. 
 
 G 2 
 
84 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 rinthian order, crowned with an entablature, 
 over which is a covering of five feet. The light 
 is conveyed into it by two ranges of windows. 
 A time-piece, given by the late Mr. TOMPTON, is 
 placed in the recess at the east end. A marble 
 statue of NASH, by Hoare, is also seen in the 
 niche contiguous to the above. A gallery for 
 the musicians is erected at the western end; and 
 in the centre of the southern side of the room 
 is the pump, from which the waters issue out of 
 a marble vase ; and on each side is a fire-place. 
 The outside of the building is finished to corres- 
 pond, and upon the architrave the following 
 Greek inscription in letters of gold appear : 
 
 " APIZTON MEN TAttP," 
 
 which is an extract from the opening of the first 
 ode of Pindar, and bears the following literal 
 translation: 
 
 " Water! of elements the best !" 
 
 By order of the Governors of the General 
 Hospital, the following pathetic inscription is 
 painted in letters of gold upon the pump in the 
 room, from the pen of the late CHRISTOPHER 
 ANSTEY, Esq. 
 
 THE HOSPITAL 
 
 IN THIS CITY, 
 
 Open to the Sick Poor of every Part of the World, 
 To whose Cases these Waters are applicable, 
 
 (The Pom- of Bath only cxcepted,) 
 
 Was first established, and is slill supported, by the Charitable 
 Contributions of the Liberal and Humane. 
 
 " Oh ! pause awhile^ who'er thou art, 
 That drink'st this healing stream ; 
 If e'er compassion o'er thy heart 
 Diffus'd its heavenly beam ; 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 85 
 
 " Think on the wretch' whose distant lot 
 
 This friendly aid denies ; 
 Think how in some poor lonely cot 
 He unregarded lies ! 
 
 " Hither the helpless stranger bring, 
 
 Relieve his heartfelt woe, 
 And let thy bounty, like this spring, 
 In genial currents flow : 
 
 " So may thy years from grief, and pain, 
 
 And pining want, be free : 
 And thou from hcav'n that mercy gain 
 The poor receive from thee." 
 
 The following lines, written by the ingenious 
 Dr. Harrington, in imitation of Spenser, are 
 framed and glazed, and also hung up near the 
 pump: 
 
 " ALWHYLE ye drynke, 'midst age and ache ybent, 
 Ah creepe not comfortless besyde our streame, 
 (Sweete nurse of hope ;) affliction's downwarde sente, 
 Wythe styll smalle voyce, to rouze from thryftless dreame ; 
 Each wyng to prune, that shyftythe everie spraie 
 In wytlesse flyghte, and chyrpythe lyfe awaie. 
 
 " Alwhyle ye lave suche solace may be founde ; 
 
 " Whenkynde the hand, why 'neath its healynge faynte ? 
 " Payne shall recure the hearte's corruptede wounde ; 
 " Farre gonne is that which feelethe not its playnte. 
 " By kyndrede angel smothe, BETHESDA gave 
 " Newe vyrtues forthe, and felte her troubledde wave." 
 " Thus drynke, thus lave nor ever more lamente, 
 Oure sprynges but flowe pale anguishe to befriende; 
 How fayre the meede that followeth contente ! 
 How bleste to lyve, aud fynde such anguishe mende. 
 How bleste to dye when sufferynge faithe makes sure, 
 At lyfe's high founte, an everlastyne cure!" 
 
 EDGAR 
 
 An excellent band of music, during the sea- 
 son, plays from one to half-past three o'clock 
 
86 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 every day, in this elegant and spacious room, 
 which is open from an early hour in the morning 
 till four in the afternoon; and, during the time 
 of the performance of the band, the room is 
 well filled with company. The remuneration 
 for drinking the water here is left entirely to the 
 liberality of the visitor; no specific demand 
 being made. To those persons who are fond of 
 bustle and gaiety, this promenade in the Pump- 
 Room will be found highly attractive. In no 
 place in Bath does an hour pass away more 
 agreeably. On quitting this lively scene for 
 Stall- Street, on the left, is the King's Bath. It 
 is a respectable building, and the dimensions of 
 which are 65 feet 10 inches, by 40 feet 10 
 inches ; and when at its usual height, it contains 
 346 tuns, 2 hogsheads, and 36 gallons of water. 
 It is extremely convenient for bathing; and on 
 one side is a covering, supported by a handsome 
 colonnade, to shade the bathers from the incle- 
 mency of the weather. It has also two rooms, 
 for ladies and gentlemen, in which are pumps 
 for pouring the hot water on the part affected, 
 instead of immersing the whole body, considered 
 by the physicians as far more salutary in certain 
 disorders. An apartment is also attached, where 
 the water may be used by the patient as an in- 
 jection, which is denominated the " steaming- 
 room:" this mode of application has been found 
 of great service in violent complaints of the in- 
 testines. This bath is about eleven hours in 
 filling : and its heat, by Farenheit's thermometer, 
 116 degrees; and is kept full, for the accommo- 
 dation of the public, from the earliest time in 
 the morning till noon. 
 

WALKS THROUGH BATH. 87 
 
 In 1699, a statue of king Bladud was erected 
 in this bath, under which is the following in- 
 scription : 
 
 Bl,ADUD, 
 
 Son of LUD HUDIBRAS, 
 Eighth King of the Britons from BRUTE, 
 A great Philosopher and Mathematician, 
 
 Bred at Athens, 
 
 And recorded tlie first Discoverer and Founder of these Baths, 
 Eight Hundred and Sixty-three years before CHRIST ; 
 
 That is, 
 Two Thousand Five Hundred and Sixty-two Years, 
 
 To the present Year, 
 One Thousand Six Hundred and Ninety-nine. 
 
 The Queen's Bath, so called after Queen 
 Anne, consort to James I. and is attached to the 
 King's Bath, which is a square of 25 feet, but 
 of a lower temperature, although supplied with 
 water from it through an arch. In the centre 
 of the above bathing places stand the 
 
 New Private Baths, erected in 1788, belong- 
 ing to the corporation, which possess every com- 
 fort and accommodation that can be desired. 
 The following are the regulations established by 
 the corporation for bathing and pumping in the 
 public and private baths. 
 
 " A serjeant shall not demand more than threepence for 
 each time of bathing: A guide shall not demand more 
 than one shilling for each time of bathing : A cloth-woman 
 shall not demand more than threepence for each time of 
 bathing. 
 
 " Pumping in the King's, Queen's, and Cross Baths, 2d. 
 each hundred strokes ; in the private baths, 3d. each hun- 
 dred strokes. 
 
 " Tht above fees are to be understood so as not to affect people 
 in low circumstances, or servants ; such being allowed to bathe 
 fir sixpence only to the guide, for linen and attendance. 
 
 <f That no serjeant, bath-gaide, cloth-woman, or chairman, 
 
88 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 shall demand any thing of a bather for his or their entrance 
 on bathing or pumping, which has usually been demanded 
 as footing-money. 
 
 " That sufficient fires (at the expense of the chamber of 
 the City) be made in the slips ; to be lighted at six o'clock 
 in the morning in the winter, and five in the summer season, 
 and be continued the usual hours of bathing. 
 
 " Bathing to be allowed on all holidays, except Christmas- 
 day and Good-Friday ; but not on Sunday mornings except 
 in cases of great emergency, when a private bath is neces- 
 sary." 
 
 The charges in the New Private Baths and 
 hot-bath are as follow : 
 
 " Each person bathing in the open bath to pay Is. 6d. 
 for each time of bathing. In the private bath, vapour-bath, 
 or sweating-rooms, 3s. Bathing in the private bath, and 
 afterwards using the sweating room or vapour-bath, 4s. 
 Pumping, in the bath, 3d for one hundred strokes ; and at 
 the dry pump 6d. 
 
 " The bath and pump to be paid for each time of using ; 
 and every person bespeaking a bath must pay for the same, 
 though not used, unless due notice be given, that the bath 
 may be let again. Dresses, towels, &c. included in the 
 terms. 
 
 " N.B. Any Lady or gentleman having cau.se of complaint 
 against the attendants belonging to any of the baths, is desired 
 to make such complaint known to the magistrates, at tJte Town- 
 hall, any Monday morning, at twelve o'clock." 
 
 The time people generally bathe in Jhe King's 
 Bath and Cross Bath is between the hours of six 
 and nine in the morning, when there is a fresh 
 supply of water; that which rises one day being 
 discharged the next, by drains, into the river 
 Avon; by which means the baths are always 
 kept sweet and wholesome. 
 
 You cannot conceive what a number of ladies 
 Were wash'd in the water the same as our maid is : 
 How the ladies did giggle, and set up their clacks 
 All the while an old woman was rubbing their backs. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. Hi) 
 
 Oh ! 'twas pretty to see them all put cm their flannels, 
 And then take the water like so many spaniels. 
 And though all the while it grew hotter and hotter, 
 They swam just as if they were hunting an otter. 
 'Twas a glorious sight to behold the fair sex, 
 All wading with* gentlemen, up to their necks, 
 And view them so prettily tumble and sprawl, 
 In a great smoking kettle, as big as our hall j 
 And to-day, many persons of rank and condition, 
 Were boifd by command of an able physician. 
 
 Bath- Street is directly opposite to the above 
 baths, and gives a sort of finish to this part of 
 the town. It is full of excellent shops, with a 
 colonnade on each side of the way for passengers 
 to walk under. At the bottom of this street, in 
 the centre of the road, stands the Cross Bath, 
 an elegant edifice, of a triangular shape; it has 
 no private bath attached to it, but it possesses a 
 
 * It appears, that, about the middle of the fifteenth century, 
 it was the custom of males and females to bathe together in 
 puris naturulibus, which was, at length, prohibited by Bishop 
 Beckyngton, who ordered, by way of distinction, the 
 wearing of breechts and petticoats. This indecency was 
 suppressed, after considerable difficulty, at the end of the 
 sixteenth century. It also seems, that, about 1700, it was 
 the fashion for both sexes to bathe together indiscriminately; 
 and the ladies used to decorate their heads with all the ad- 
 vantages of dress, as a mode of attracting attention, and 
 heightening their charms. The husband of a lady in one 
 of the baths, in company with Bean Nash, was so much 
 enraptured with the appearance of his wife, that he very 
 imprudently observed. " she looked like an angel, and he 
 wished to be with her." Nash immediately seized him by 
 the collar, and threw him into the bath ; this circumstance 
 produced a duel, and Nash was wounded in his right arm : 
 it, however, had the good effect of establishing the reputation 
 of Nash, who, shortly afterwards, became master of the 
 ceremonies. 
 
90 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 neat pump-room. The Hot Bath, so called 
 from the superior heat of its waters, stands 
 about 120 feet south-west of the former, and is 
 56 feet square. It was built by the late John 
 Wood, and its accommodations are excellent. 
 The pump-room is particularly convenient for 
 the invalid to be carried or wheeled into, there 
 being no steps to ascend. Over the pump is 
 placed the following poetry, from one of the 
 poet laureates : 
 
 " HYGEIA broods with watchful wing 
 " O'er ancient Badon's mystic spring ; 
 " And speeds from its sulphureous source 
 " The steamy torrent's secret course j 
 C{ And fans the eternal sparks of hidden fire 
 " In deep unfathom'd beds below, 
 " By Bladud's magic taught to glow ; 
 " BLADUD ! high theme of Fancy's Gothic lyre." 
 
 At all periods of the year, it seems, the most 
 proper time for bathing is in the morning fast- 
 ing; but, before the patient goes into either of 
 the baths, a due preparation is necessary. The 
 time of remaining in the bath must also be regu- 
 lated by medical advice. So many treatises 
 have also been written upon the propriety of 
 drinking these waters, that it would swell out 
 these pages too much to make any extracts from 
 them: it will, therefore, suffice, that it is gene- 
 rally understood, in the gout they strengthen 
 the habit; in rheumatisms of long standing, the 
 Bath waters afford most effectual relief; and in 
 indigestion, they powerfully alleviate the dis- 
 tressing sinkings of a disordered stomach. In 
 some cases of the palsy, they also tend to give 
 new power of motion to the affected limbs ; and, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 91 
 
 in the obstructions and irregularities of the fe- 
 male habit, the internal use of these waters sel- 
 dom fail in removing that pallid and sickly ap- 
 pearance which these disorders generally occa- 
 sion. In biliary obstructions and in cutaneous 
 eruptions they are known to effect great cures. 
 
 To the right of the Cross Bath is the Eye- 
 Infirmary, supported by voluntary contributions. 
 It is of recent date, but a most excellent esta- 
 blishment, and has already proved of essential 
 benefit to those persons afflicted with bad eyes. 
 Hetling-Court, which is contiguous to the 
 above bath, contains St. John's Chapel, which is 
 a neat building, and was rebuilt, in 1723, by 
 Mr. Killegrew. Divine service is performed 
 twice a day, between the hours of eleven and 
 three. Annexed to this chapel is St. John's 
 Hospital, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, 
 founded in the reign of Henry II. by Reginald 
 Fitz-Jocelain, bishop of this see, for the support 
 of six aged poor men and six women, belonging 
 to the City of Bath, who have each an apart- 
 ment, coals, and 4*. 8d. per week. The master 
 must be a clergyman of the established church. 
 In quitting this court, Westgate-Buildings, a 
 plain neat row of houses, appear opposite. On 
 turning to the left is the Yeomanry -Office, and 
 next door to which is Hetling- House, where 
 the Bath and West of England Society for 
 the Encouragement of Agriculture, Arts, Manu- 
 factures, and Commerce meet. It was establish- 
 ed by Mr. Edmund Rack, in 1777, a native of 
 Norfolk. The late highly respected Duke of 
 Bedford was one of its presidents ; and, to per- 
 petuate his memory, a fine bust of the duke, 
 
92 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 done by Nollekins, is placed in the rooms be- 
 longing to the society. It is considered one of 
 the first institutions of the kind in England. A 
 subscription of one guinea per annum enables 
 a person to become a member, with the right of 
 voting. .The Marquis of Lansdown is the present 
 president. In crossing the road, the visitor ar- 
 rives in St. James's Parade, a wide paved situa- 
 tion, but no thoroughfare for carriages. It has 
 a very respectable appearance ; the houses on 
 both sides of it are uniform, and it contains the 
 Quakers' Meeting-House; this latter building is 
 plain and neat, with a capacious gallery, and 
 completely characteristic with the ideas of this 
 friendly sect of people. In Corn-Street is the 
 Bath and Bath Forum Free School, capable of 
 containing 400 children, nearly which number, 
 of all religions, have been taught in it at one 
 time. It is under the patronage of the mayor 
 and corporation of Bath: annual subscribers of 
 one guinea may recommend two boys ; those of 
 two, five boys. Those children who do not be- 
 long to any regular Sunday schools are obliged 
 to attend here on the sabbath-day, and attend 
 divine service, under the care of a master, at the 
 Abbey Church. This Free School reflects the 
 highest credit on ihe City of Bath. The above 
 Parade leads to Horse- Street, which is rather a 
 bustling thoroughfare, full of shops, and business 
 forms its peculiar feature. It is the direct road 
 to Bristol, and the numerous stage-coaches and 
 other vehicles, continually passing and repassing 
 through it, render Horse-Street more noisy and 
 less attractive than most of the other parts of 
 the City. On turning to the right is Bradley's 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 93 
 
 Buildings, but nothing of importance attracts the 
 eye of the visitor till he shortly arrives at the Old 
 or Bat h Bridge, consisting of five small arches, 
 which connects Bath with Holloway. It is built 
 of stone, but nothing imposing about it, as to 
 appearance. Originally it was erected in the 
 reign of Edward III. previous to which period, 
 the citizens, at great inconvenience, were com- 
 pelled to cross the river with their merchandizes 
 and wares, at a ford a little above it, and grant- 
 ed to the monks of Bath in 1304. In 1754, the 
 old bridge was pulled down, and the present 
 one, which still retains the name of " Old," was 
 erected by the corporation. In returning, on 
 the other side of the way are the Exeter and 
 Golden Lion Inns, at each of which stages to 
 London and Bristol are continually calling for 
 passengers, and where good ordinaries are also 
 held daily. Turning to the right is Weymouth- 
 Street, at the corner of which is St. James's 
 Church. This place of worship is built in the 
 modern Gothic style with free-stone. Within its 
 walls it is 61 feet long, by 58 wide; and was de- 
 signed by Mr. Palmer, architect, of Bath. Its 
 interior is prepossessing; and no monuments are 
 permitted to be erected to spoil the simplicity 
 and elegance of its general appearance. The 
 roof is supported by four Ionic columns, in the 
 middle of which is an elegant lantern, capable 
 of illuminating the whole church. The paint- 
 ing over the communion-table, at the east end, 
 of Christ breaking the bread and delivering it to 
 the disciples who journeyed with him to Emmaus, 
 scarcely meets the approbation of any spectator. 
 It, however, possesses the best organ in the 
 
94 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 City ; and has also eight bells in the tower, at 
 the west end, of a fine musical tone. It is ex- 
 tremely well attended. Turning into Abbey- 
 Gate-Street is Crutwell's " Bath Chronicle 
 Office/' This newspaper, which was always 
 considered one of the most elegant printed pro- 
 vincial journals in the kingdom, Mr. Crutwell, 
 in commemoration of her late Majesty's visit to 
 Bath, had a new type cast expressly on purpose, 
 and every thing to correspond, so as to produce 
 a chef-d'ceuvre in newspaper printing, and who 
 had the honour of presenting it to her Majesty, 
 who most graciously received the same, and ex- 
 pressed her approbation, not only upon this com- 
 pliment offered to her on her visit to Bath, but 
 of the great improvement made in this depart- 
 ment of literature. In this street is also situated 
 the Lancasterian School. It is a large circular 
 building, and well adapted for this most excel- 
 lent and quick mode of instructing youth. Up- 
 wards of 500 children are taught here gratui- 
 tously. Too much praise cannot be bestowed 
 upon an institution like the above, which has for 
 its object to instruct poor children in reading, 
 writing, and arithmetic; and which is supported 
 by charitable donations. Proceed through a 
 small square, called Abbey-Green, into Abbey- 
 Street. In this latter place are situated the well- 
 constructed and convenient baths, called the 
 Duke of Kingston's, or the Abbey Baths, now 
 belonging to Earl Manvers. The renter of these 
 baths (which are supplied from the same source 
 as the King's Bath and Great Pump-Room, to 
 which they are contiguous) is Dr. Wilkinson, 
 who has paid peculiar attention towards render- 
 

 AJ&-W ly S!u,- 
 
1 
 t- 
 
 , 
 
 * ** * 
 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 95 
 
 ing them convenient and extensive in their ap- 
 plication, in every point of view; and also add- 
 ing a very comfortable pump-room. As a che- 
 mist, Dr. Wilkinson is considered very eminent 
 in his profession ; and by artificial means he has 
 produced waters with a similar effect to those 
 of Harrowgate, Cheltenham, and the warm 
 springs of Germany. Opposite to the Kingston 
 Pump-Room is a small neat building, in which 
 the Bath Literary and Philosophical Society 
 hold their meetings. 
 
 Owing to the following advertisement, which 
 appeared in the Bath newspapers, at the end of 
 the year 1815, the above useful and intellectual 
 Society met with the most rapid patronage and 
 success. 
 
 The great advantages which have been derived from 
 various scientific institutions in London, Manchester, Liver- 
 pool, Newcastle, &c. have induced Dr. WILKINSON to 
 propose the appropriation of the Kingston Lecture Room to 
 the purposes of a similar institution in this city. This room 
 U already supplied with an extensive assortment of philoso- 
 phical and chemical apparatus, furnaces, &c. calculated for 
 the illustration of most subjects connected with the arts and 
 manufactures. 
 
 It is presumed that all ladies and gentlemen interested in 
 any of the various objects relative to the different branches 
 of experimental philosophy, chemistry, geology, mineralogy, 
 and their application to the arts, manufactures, agriculture, 
 &c. would derive considerable advantages from being mem- 
 bers of a society, formed of some who may be acquainted 
 with the principles of the different sciences, and of others, 
 who, from being engaged in commercial and manufacturing 
 establishments, are capable of imparting valuable practica 
 information. 
 
 Hence it will be desirable to have among its members such 
 as, from their occupations, are engaged in iron founderies, 
 breweries, glass-houses, &c. and that all respectable commer- 
 
96 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 cial and agricultural persons be deemed admissible to the 
 institution. 
 
 To parents, it will afford a desirable opportunity of a 
 weekly rational recreation for their sons; by thus early ex- 
 panding their minds, it may contribute considerably to their 
 future respectability in society. 
 
 In consequence of the above public invitation, 
 a first meeting took place on January 8th, 1816, 
 which was numerously attended, and the utility 
 of the plan met with such general approbation, 
 that near one hundred persons became members, 
 and agreed to the following resolutions: 
 
 1st, That the meetings of the society be on every Mon- 
 day evening during the year, excepting the months of June, 
 July, August, and September, at half-past seven, and to 
 close at half-past nine. 
 
 2d, The first part of the evening, not exceeding one 
 hour, to be appropriated to the communication, from any of 
 its members, of different interesting subjects connected with 
 the objects of the society, and of proposals relative to expe- 
 riments desired to be tried. The remaining part of the 
 evening to be devoted to the reading and discussion of any 
 paper presented to the society, or of any communication re- 
 lative to literature, experimental philosophy, chemistry, geo- 
 logy, mineralogy, mechanics, &c. from any of its members. 
 
 3d, That each member shall be entitled to introduce 
 each evening a lady, or a young gentleman, under sixteen 
 years of age ; or may be permitted to introduce a friend, if 
 not under the above condition, so that the said friend shall 
 not be introduced more than twice in the same session. \o 
 person, not a member, can be admitted without a card signed 
 by the member by whom he is introduced. 
 
 4th, That all members of this society are free to ail the 
 lectures delivered by Dr. Wilkinson, in the Kingston Lec- 
 ture-Room. 
 
 5th, After the first meeting of the society, each person 
 subsequently admitted a member must be recommended by 
 two subscribers to the institution. 
 
 6th, That there be three presidents, a secretary, and 
 experimentalist. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 97 
 
 7th, Each subscriber to pay, on his admission, two gui- 
 neas and five shillings, and the same sum annually. 
 
 8th, Visitors to Bath may be admitted as members for 
 three months, upon being properly introduced, and paying 
 one guinea and five shillings. 
 
 fcS- Ladies and gentlemen disposed to become members, 
 are requested to have their names entered in the society's 
 subscription-book, at the Kingston Pump-Room. 
 
 The session is from the first Monday in October to the 
 last Monday in May. The subscription of each member to 
 be dated from the period of the name being entered on the 
 book. 
 
 Since the short commencement of this literary 
 institution, not only has much amusement been 
 derived from the talents of its members, but 
 also much practical good has been obtained 
 from the various improvements pointed out in 
 chemistry, mechanics, &c. from their exertions. 
 
 To the right is Kingston-Buildings, in which 
 stands the Post-Office, where, perhaps, the anxi- 
 ety to receive letters, the pleasure of perusing 
 them, and the necessity of taking refreshment, 
 will hasten the return of the visitor through Mil- 
 som-Street to the YORK-HOTEL, when he will 
 doubtless be perfectly satisfied with this day's 
 walk, and the interesting objects which have laid 
 claim to his attention. 
 
98 WALKS THROUGH BATH, 
 
 WALK II. 
 
 From the South-Wing of Sydney- Place through Dar- 
 lington- Street, pass Church- Street, (Nsw CHURCH 
 OF ST. MARY BATHWICK). After a short dis- 
 tance on the New Road to Widcombe, turn down on 
 the right and pass Waterloo-Gardens. A Walk 
 alongside of the Avon to the FERRY. Cross the 
 River to tlie SOUTH PARADE, through Duke- 
 Street, to the NORTH PARADE. Pass Pierrepoint- 
 Street, to the OLD ROOMS ; from thence through 
 Orange-Grove, Church-Street, into York-Street 
 (NEW FREEMASONS' HALL). Cross Stall-Street, 
 through Bath-Street, to the BATH ANTIQUITIES. 
 Return home by the FERRY, through Darlington- 
 Street, to Sydney-Place. 
 
 PRESUMING the visitor to have taken up his 
 residence at the south wing of Sydney-Place, it 
 is not improper to remark, that none of the ad- 
 mired buildings in Bath reflect greater credit 
 upon the talents of the various architects than 
 this part of the city and its adjoining streets, 
 which have to boast of great beauty of elevation, 
 and conveiiiency of erection. Sydney-Place, 
 produced under the design and superintendence 
 of Mr. PINCH, is a most admirable specimen of 
 modern architecture, and the uniformity which 
 may be formed of Bath-stone. The above 
 houses are all the production from one quarry, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 in which not the least flaw or variety of colour 
 can be discovered: they also form, as it were, 
 one compact building, and the spectator feels 
 impressed with its pleasing appearance. The 
 pavement before the houses is unusually broad ; 
 a carriage- road also divides it from Sydney- Gar- 
 dens, and upon the whole it is a desirable resi- 
 dence. On turning to the left, through Darling- 
 ton-Street, the new church of St. Mary, at Bath- 
 wick, bursts upon the spectator with a most 
 interesting effect, more especially from the 
 cream-coloured freshness of the free stone. It 
 is built after the modern Gothic style. The ex- 
 tent of the building is 126 feet by 60 ; and, the 
 tower is 100 feet high, containing eight bells. 
 The windows on each side illumine the lower 
 aisle and the gallery; but a range of windows 
 are made still higher, on a new principle, on the 
 side, to throw in the light, instead of windows 
 upon the top in the form of a skylight. The 
 battlements are five feet from the church ; and, 
 the four pinnacles, at the corner of the tower, are 
 fifteen feet higher. The moulds for the church 
 were cut by John Turby, a native of Bath. The 
 ceiling is of the most beautiful description. The 
 ground was given by the Earl of Darlington. 
 The first stone of this church was laid on 
 Thursday, September 1, 1814, bearing the fol- 
 lowing curious inscription: 
 
 Glory to God in the highest on earth Peace. 
 The most sanguinary conflict ever recorded in the annals 
 of History had ceased, and the downfall of Napoleon, the 
 Despot of France, had taken place, when the Nations of 
 Europe became united in the bond of Peace. At such a 
 joyful period, and on the 1st day of September, in the year 
 
 H 2 
 
100 \VALKSTHROUGHBATH. 
 
 of our Lord 1814, the foundation-stone of Bathwick New 
 Church, dedicated to Saint Paul, was laid. 
 The Right Hon. Harry Earl of Darlington, Lord of the Manor. 
 The Right Rev. Richard, Lord Bishop of the Diocese. 
 
 The Rev. Peter Gunning, Rector. 
 Mr. Jeremy Wilsher, Mr. Edward Tucker, Churchwardens. 
 
 Edward Atkinson, Esq. 
 Edward Barlow, M.D. 
 Mr. James Christie. 
 Mr. Thomas Cotteli. 
 Mr. George EviJl. 
 Wyridham Goodden, Esq. 
 
 COMMITTEE. 
 
 Mr. Thomas Gibbons. 
 J. Leaper Newton, Esq. 
 Mr. Robert Offer. 
 Mr. William Price. 
 John Rye, Esq. 
 Mr. William Wilsher. 
 
 Mr. James Goodridge. 
 
 Mr. James Goodridge Mr. W. Price, Building-Surveyors. 
 Mr. Walter Harris, Builder. Mr. J. Pinch, Architect. 
 Mr. Samuel Evill, Conscripsit. W. Gingell, Sculpsit. 
 
 The removal of the OLD CHURCH of Bath- 
 wick, which was in a most ruinous state, and 
 also from the vast and increasing population of 
 this extensive parish was found to be much too 
 small, the erection of the above new elegant 
 structure upon its ruins, not only tends to give 
 an additional air of importance to the situation 
 of Great Pulteney -Street, but to render satisfac- 
 tion and comfort to all its piously-disposed in- 
 habitants. From the very liberal subscrip- 
 tions which have been received towards its 
 erection, it is supposed, scarcely any additional 
 rates will be levied upon the parishioners. 
 
 On quitting Bathwick Church the visitor pro- 
 ceeds along the New Road to Widcombe, in the 
 middle of which, a path on the right, through 
 the fields, leads to the FERRY. The venerable 
 abbey is here seen to much advantage, and the 
 elevated buildings on the other side of the City 
 also add to the prospect. Pass Waterloo-Gardens, 
 to view which, threepence is charged for an ad- 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 101 
 
 mission ; it, however, may be engaged for select 
 parties. The gardens are small, but contain 
 some pleasing walks, and the use of a swing. In 
 turning round from this place, the South Parade 
 and the OLD ROOMS now appear to the eye 
 of the spectator. On approaching to the river- 
 side, on the right is a walk alongside the 
 Avon to Pulttncy- Bridge. The surrounding 
 view from this precise spot is extremely pic- 
 turesque. This bridge, which consists of three 
 arches, was erected by the late Sir William Pul- 
 teney, as a communication with the City ; and 
 shops and houses are erected upon each side 
 of it. In passing over it, in Bridge-Street) the 
 passenger perceives no traces of a bridge ; and 
 it is only along the Avon that it is to be dis- 
 covered. On the left, proceeding towards the 
 Ferry, a view of Pryor-Park, and the houses in 
 Widcombe, are in front of the visitor, who now 
 descends a flight of stone steps to cross the 
 Avon in the boat, for which one penny is de- 
 manded. Drags and other apparatus are left 
 at the Ferry-house, by the Humane Society, in 
 case of any persons being drowned. On land- 
 ing, the South Parade is gained, which has 
 a good look-out ; the houses are large, and have 
 a most respectable appearance. In the middle 
 of this Parade is Duke-Street, which leads to 
 the North Parade, once so much the fashion- 
 able resort and grand promenade of the visitors 
 of Bath. It has a very broad elegant terrace, 
 and possesses an air of much grandeur, with 
 stone ballustrades and iron- railing. The view 
 here, though not so extensive as from many of 
 the other lodging houses, is nevertheless good. 
 
10-2 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 Pierrepoint-Street, a respectable place of resi- 
 dence, is at the end of the Parade. These 
 houses are extremely convenient for the frequen- 
 ters of the OLD or KINGSTON ROOMS, which are 
 situated but a few yards from the North Parade. 
 The above original elegant suite of public 
 rooms, which form one of the most lively and 
 interesting features of Bath, so conspicuous to- 
 wards supporting the prosperity of the old city, 
 were formerly part of the estate of the late Duke 
 of Kingston, but now belonging to Earl Man- 
 vers. Since their first erection they have under- 
 gone a variety of alterations and improvements, 
 and in 1750 they were almost rebuilt. The 
 assembly-room is 90 feet long, 36 broad, and 34 
 high. The card-room adjoining to it is 60 feet 
 in length, and 30 in breadth. Here are also two 
 tea-rooms, 40 feet by 24 each. It has a reading- 
 room, well furnished with maps, books, reviews, 
 newspapers, &c. An apartment is also devoted 
 to the games of chess and backgammon; and 
 another for billiards. The rooms are totally 
 distinct from each other. The terms are 1 : 6s. 
 for the year, always ending- on the 30th of Sep- 
 tember; and for six months, 1. It is now two 
 separate establishments, one of which is elegantly 
 fitted up for the accommodation of the Bath 
 and West of England Club. The latter invite 
 the company to the amusement of a fancy or 
 undress ball on Tuesday, and a dress ball on 
 Friday nights, during the winter season. There 
 is some little variation in these rooms from the 
 upper. Those balls held on Tuesday nights are 
 continued to the hour of twelve; and, the day 
 promenade is heightened by a most delightful 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 103 
 
 view of the country contiguous to Bath. Till 
 the year 1771, the KINGSTON ROOMS continued 
 to be the only place of public resort ; but, upon 
 the opening of the Upper or New Rooms, the in- 
 fluence and attraction of the latter, though gra- 
 dually operating as a great drawback to its com- 
 pany, in fact so seriously, that in 1810, it was 
 deemed necessary to lay out a large sum of 
 money in splendid decorations, in order to revive 
 and create attention. A grand portico was also 
 added to its entrance, the architecture of which 
 is particularly admired : and Earl Manvers has 
 also made cairiage-roads to this new entrance, 
 over part of the North and South Parade., and 
 also from Stall-Street, at a considerable sacrifice 
 of his land and houses, in order that " this old 
 spot" might not suffer neglect, and over which the 
 English Roscius observed, with much animation, 
 " the genius of Bath would always hover and 
 preside." The visitor is much delighted in view- 
 ing these elegant rooms, at which the balls and 
 amusements are regulated by the following rules, 
 adopted at a general meeting of the subscribers, 
 who also possess the exclusive right of voting at 
 an election of Master of the Ceremonies. 
 < KINGSTON ASSEMBLY ROOMS, 
 " November 19th, 1816. 
 
 " In order to preserve decorum, and maintain respectability, 
 at the balls, at these rooms, resolved, 
 
 " That every ticket transferred to a lady shall bear the 
 name both of the lady and the subscriber transferring the 
 same, otherwise it can on no account be received. 
 
 " That non-subscribers may be admitted to the balls on 
 being introduced by a subscriber, or by leaving their names 
 at the rooms for the master of the ceremonies. 
 " The renter having agreed to furnish the music, viz. 1 harp, 4 
 
 violins, 1 violoncello, 2 clarionets, and 1 tambourine, for thirty 
 
104 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 balls, including the master of the ceremonies' winter and 
 
 spring bulls, resolved, 
 
 " That these rooms shall be opened for the reception of 
 the company at eight o'clock in the evening, a quarter of an 
 hour before which time they shall be regularly and properly 
 lighted up ; and, the master of the ceremonies shall attend 
 to receive the company, and an overture be played by the 
 band at half-past eight o'clock ; after which the dancing 
 shall commence, and cease at twelve o'clock precisely, al- 
 though in the middle of a dance. 
 
 " That the upper benches shall be reserved for ladies of 
 the rank of peeresses. 
 
 " That ladies, according to their precedence, shall be en- 
 titled at all times to their appropriate places at the top in the 
 set; but other ladies standing up after the dance is com- 
 menced, shall take their places at the bottom of the set ; and 
 every lady who shall have danced down the set, is expected 
 not to sit down till that dance shall be finished. 
 
 " That ladies may change partners every two dances. 
 
 " That it be left at the option of the ladies to dance with 
 whom they please} and their declining any particular part- 
 ner shall not prevent their dancing with another. 
 
 " That no gentleman be admitted in boots, half-boots, co- 
 loured pantaloons, or trowsers, unless an officer in uniform 
 and on duty, and then without their swords. 
 
 " That every person pay sixpence for their tea on ball- 
 nights. 
 
 " Ladies proposing to dance minuets, shall announce their 
 intentions to the master of the ceremonies on the day prece- 
 ding the ball, and shall be in the rooms appropriately dressed 
 punctually at half-past eight o'clock. 
 
 " That no person shall be allowed to insert their names as 
 subscribers, or be admitted as visitors to these balls, who 
 carry on any occupation in the retail line of business, the 
 master of the ceremonies' ball-nights excepted. 
 
 " The master of the ceremonies shall use his utmost en- 
 deavours to enforce the several foregoing resolutions, and he 
 will be supported by the subscribers in the performance of 
 his duty. 
 
 " TERMS. A subscription of 14s. will entitle the sub- 
 scriber to admission on each ball-night. A subscription of 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 105 
 
 L 26s. will entitle the subscriber to admission on each ball-night, 
 and also to two tickets transferable by endorsement to ladies 
 only. 
 
 The present master of the ceremonies is Cap- 
 tain MARSHALL, who was elected to this situa- 
 tion in November, 1817. 
 
 To the man, with whom the merit originated 
 of rescuing one of the poorest cities in England 
 from its poverty and obscurity, and leaving it, 
 (entirely from his great exertions,) not only capa- 
 ble of vying with the most elegant built city in 
 Europe, but equally conspicuous for the polite- 
 ness of its amusements, and elegance of its ac- 
 commodations, some small tribute of acknow- 
 ledgement is certainly due to his memory. 
 
 The history of BEAU NASH, however, has 
 been so often written by various hands his bon 
 mots repeated over and over again in most fa- 
 shionable companies and his general character 
 so very familiar, more especially with every 
 person the least acquainted with polished society, 
 that at the present period, (1819,) fifty-two years 
 after his death, it can scarcely be expected that 
 little, if any, new matter can be added to his 
 biography, arid that the same beaten track re- 
 specting this once celebrated HERO OF FASHION 
 must, of necessity, again be trodden, in his con- 
 nection with our " WALKS THROUGH BATH." 
 
 Long reign'd the great Nash, this omnipotent lord, 
 
 Respected by youth, and by parents ador'd. 
 
 For him not enough at a ball to preside, 
 
 The unwary and beautiful nymph would he guide; 
 
 Oft tell her a tale, how the credulous maid, 
 
 By man, perfidious man, is betray 'd; 
 
 Taught Charity's hand to relieve the distress'd, 
 
 While tears have his tender compassion express'd. 
 
106 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 But, alas ! he is gone, and the city can tell, 
 
 How in years and in glory lamented he fell. 
 
 How mourned all the dryads on Claverton's mount, 
 
 Him Avon deplored, him the nymph of the fount, 
 
 The chrystalline streams. 
 
 Then perish his picture, his statue decay ! 
 
 A tribute more lasting the muses shall pay, 
 
 If true what philosophers all will assure us, 
 
 Who dissent from the doctrine of great Epicurus, 
 
 That the spirit's immortal, as poets allow, 
 
 If life's occupations are followed below ; 
 
 In reward of his labours, his virtues, and pains, 
 
 He is footing it now in th' Elysian plains, 
 
 Indulg'd as a token of Proserpine's favour, 
 
 To preside at her balls in a cream-colour'd beaver. 
 
 It appears, from all his biographers, (one of 
 which was no less than the celebrated Goldsmith,) 
 that the above distinguished character was born 
 at Swansea, in the county of Glamorgan, the 
 18th of October, 1674 ; his father possessing a 
 handsome income, chiefly derived from a glass- 
 manufactory there. On his mother's side his 
 descent was more respectable, she being the 
 niece of Colonel Poyer, who was executed by 
 Oliver Cromwell, for defending valiantly the 
 castle of Pembroke on behalf of the unfortunate 
 Charles the First. At Carmarthen, Mr. Nash 
 received the elements of education, and a com- 
 petent share of classical knowledge, which he 
 was sent to the University of Oxford to improve 
 at the early age of sixteen. Here he entered at 
 Jesus College, with an intention to pursue the 
 study of the law. But he had mistaken his 
 turn; the dry code of civil jurisprudence was 
 ill calculated to fix the attention of one whose 
 disposition was naturally gay and volatile. Nash 
 devoted himself to pleasure, instead of acts of 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 107 
 
 parliament ; involved himself in an intrigue with 
 a knowing female in the neighbourhood of the 
 University, and was on the eve of sacrificing all 
 his prospects to a very disproportioned marriage 
 in point of age and fortune, when his friends 
 discovered the amour, and instantly removed 
 the young enamorato from the sphere of his mis- 
 tress's attractions. He then purchased a pair of 
 colours, and became a soldier. But he soon 
 found that he had pleased himself with ideal 
 delights; and his rank did not lift him above 
 subordination. He, therefore, quitted the army 
 in disgust, returned to the discarded law, and 
 entered himself a student of the Middle-Temple. 
 He now became a town fine gentleman of the 
 second rate; dressing tawdrily; affecting public 
 places; and dividing his time between play and 
 the ladies. Nash shortly after became a public 
 character, by the following circumstance : At 
 the time of William's accession to the throne, 
 our hero was a member of the Temple, where he 
 had acquired the credit of wit, gallantry, and 
 elegance. And upon the Society's entertaining 
 the new Monarch with a revel and a pageant, 
 Nash's fame for taste and gaiety rendered him 
 the fittest person for the office of high-priest on 
 this occasion ; and William, indeed, offered to 
 knight Nash; but our hero, who seems to have 
 had sense enough to despise the unsubstantial 
 mockery of a title without the palpable comfort 
 of a good income attached to it, declined the 
 intended honour. In the year 1704, Nash went 
 down to Bath, which was then just beginning to 
 be a place of fashionable resort; and a vacancy 
 happening about the same time in the office of 
 
108 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 Master of the Ceremonies, by the loss of Captain 
 Webster, the well-known talent of Nash for the 
 invention of amusement, and the promotion of 
 dissipation, became a powerful recommendation 
 to his succeeding to the important situation of 
 Arbiter Elegantiarum. He was accordingly 
 elected; and invested with the fullest power to 
 order, arrange, correct, and improve, the man- 
 ners of the company, the routine of amusements, 
 and the points of etiquette. Uncontrouled as 
 was the authority thus delegated to him, it must 
 be confessed he deserves great credit in having 
 exercised it entirely for the public good. Under 
 his auspices, Bath quickly emerged from that 
 obscurity in which it had been hidden for ages, 
 to splendour, elegance, and taste. The old 
 roads to it were repaired and improved, and new 
 approaches made: public charities were institu- 
 ted, (one of which, the General Hospital, will 
 prove an imperishable monument of the feeling 
 traits of his benevolent disposition;) places of 
 amusement constructed; the pumps and baths 
 furnished with new accommodations; and the 
 motley crew of visitors, which met together at 
 the place of general resort, was reduced to order 
 and propriety of conduct. Nash was the first 
 person that prohibited the wearing of swords in 
 the Public Rooms, which, at that period, no well- 
 dressed man of fashion was ever seen without, 
 alleging as one reason, that they discomposed the 
 dresses of the ladies ; but the real fact was, 
 these instruments of death were too often re- 
 sorted to in the heat of play, producing serious 
 and calamitous events. Yet, it appears, that 
 swords were worn a long time after at the 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 109 
 
 public places of resort; but were, at length, 
 finally " prohibited being worn at Bath," 
 through the decided interference of Nash, in 
 consequence of a duel having been fought by 
 torch-light, between two noted black legs, of 
 the names of Clarke and Taylor. And after a 
 most desperate opposition, the efforts of Nash 
 finally triumphed over the wearing boots in the 
 Assembly Rooms, to the great discomfiture of 
 the 'Squire Western part of the creation. In 
 order, it should seem, generally to ridicule 
 human nature out of its numerous weaknesses, 
 the following lively, yet interesting and harmless, 
 piece of satire, written by Nash, was, till very 
 lately, hung up in the rooms, and afforded much 
 amusement to its various perusers: 
 
 " Rules by general Consent determined. 
 
 " I. That a visit of ceremony at coming to Bath, and 
 another at going away, is all that is expected or desired by 
 ladies of quality and fashion except impertinents. 
 
 " II. That ladies coming to the ball appoint a time for 
 their footmen's coming to wait on them home, to prevent 
 disturbances and inconveniences to themselves and others. 
 
 " III. That gentlemen of fashion never appearing in a 
 morning before the ladies in gowns and caps, shew breeding 
 and respect. 
 
 " IV. That no person take it ill that any one goes to ano- 
 ther's play or breakfast, and not to their's except captious 
 by nature. 
 
 " V. That no gentleman give his tickets for the balls to 
 any but gentlewomen. N.B. Unless he has none of his 
 acquaintance. 
 
 " VI. That gentlemen crowding before the ladies at the 
 ball shew ill manners ; and that none do so for the future 
 except such as respect nobody but themselves. 
 
 " VII. That no gentleman or lady take it ill that another 
 dances before them except such as have no pretence to 
 dance at all. 
 
110 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 " V11I. That the elder ladies and children be contented 
 with a second bench at the ball, as being past, or not come 
 to, perfection. 
 
 " IX. That the younger ladies take notice how many eyes 
 observe them. N. B. This does not extend to the Have-at- 
 Alls. 
 
 " X. That all whisperers of lies and scandal be taken for 
 their authors. 
 
 " XI. That all repeaters of such lies and scandal be 
 shunned by all company except such as have been guilty 
 of the same crime. 
 
 " N.B. Several men of no character, old women, and 
 young ones of questioned reputation, are great authors of 
 lies in this place, being of the sect of levellers." 
 
 Under his equal administration no rank could 
 shield the criminal from punishment, if the code 
 of laws established by Nash had been infringed ; 
 and no dignity of situation influence him to 
 allow a breach or temporary suspension of them. 
 When the Duchess of Queensberry appeared at 
 the dress-ball in an apron, he deliberately de- 
 sired her to take it off, which she instantly 
 complied with, and begged his acceptance of 
 it; and when the Princess Amelia applied to 
 him for one more dance after eleven o'clock, 
 he refused, assuring her that the laws of Bath 
 were, like those of Lycurgus, unalterable. 
 The influence which this firmness in his govern- 
 ment gave him in the little world of Bath 
 was unbounded, and Nash took care to preserve 
 and increase it by a considerable affectation of 
 splendour in his dress and equipage ; aware that 
 external appearance has a powerful and visible 
 effect on the largest part of mankind, the weak 
 and the vain, and that the wise and the good 
 are not entirely insensible to it, though in an 
 inferior degree. Consistently with this just view 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. Ill 
 
 of human nature, his house was richly furnished ; 
 his chariot was drawn by six gray horses, several 
 persons on horseback and on foot attending the 
 carriage, bearing French-horns and other instru- 
 ments of music; his clothes were profusely de- 
 corated with lace, and his head crowned with a 
 large white hat, cocked up in a fierce and sin- 
 gular manner. He kept one coachman, a postil- 
 lion, two footmen in livery, a gentleman out of 
 livery, and a running footman. It is said of 
 this latter person, who was an Irishman, that he 
 frequently run from Bath to London in a day ; 
 and was equally as swift on his return* the next, 
 but having " died one day" when engaged in 
 this active pursuit, his numerous good-natured 
 blunders often served to enrich the jokes of 
 NASH. This was the meridian of NASH'S glory. 
 The Prince of Wales, and the Prince of Orange, 
 gave him marks of their esteem ; the nobility of 
 Bath flattered him with their familiarity ; the 
 gentry treated him with respect; and the Corpo- 
 ration always consulted him in every public step 
 in which they engaged; a sum of money was 
 voted by the chamber for the purpose of erect- 
 ing a marble statue of the King of Bath, which, 
 when finished, found an honourable station in 
 
 * The strength of man seems much to have degenerated 
 of late years, if the above statement is viewed as a fact ; 
 and, at the present day, it is very doubtful that a man could 
 be. found who would even attempt running to Bath, (the dis- 
 tance of which is 105 miles,) with all the advantages of the 
 improved state of the roads, in twenty-four successive hours, 
 without great preparation of training ; but, to think of re- 
 turning again on the next day, is entirely out of the question. 
 If such a running footman could be found now-a-days, he 
 would make a speedy fortune in the sporting world. 
 
112 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 the Pump-Room, between the busts of Newton 
 and Pope; but the keen wit of Lord Chester- 
 field could not pass over this happy opportunity 
 of ridiculing so absurd an association. He 
 wrote an epigram on the subject, concluding 
 with the following lines: 
 
 " The Statue plac'd the Busts between, 
 
 " Adds to the satire strength ; 
 " Wisdom and Wit are little seen, 
 
 11 But Folly at full length." 
 
 The charity of Nash was extensive, and often 
 well applied ; in 1739, when a very hard winter 
 pressed heavily on the poor inhabitants of Bath, 
 he entered many of their houses, and, to spare 
 their feelings, he relieved them unasked. He 
 also relieved the colliers and weavers, who came 
 in a starving state to the City in a body, by 
 commencing a subscription for them, putting 
 down ten guineas himself at the onset, and sent 
 them home to their families with tears of grati- 
 tude for his future welfare. His character 
 abounds with numerous traits of benevolence ; 
 and, it is said of him, that when unable to re- 
 lieve those who sued to him for assistance, the 
 tears have been seen to trickle down his cheeks. 
 In fact, it was often carried to excess. A ruined 
 gamester, who had witnessed Nash put a large 
 sum of money into his pocket, with carelessness, 
 observed, " such a sum would make him happy!" 
 when Nash, without the slightest hesitation, upon 
 overhearing his exclamation, put the money in his 
 hands, saying, " go then and be happy !" From 
 such a line of conduct Nash became extremely 
 popular ; he was respected by the opulent, and 
 the admiration of the poor, and his prosperity 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 113 
 
 continued for a longer period than is usually 
 allotted to public characters ; his popularity 
 undiminished, and his honours untarnished: an 
 admirable skill in play provided amply for his 
 enormous expenses, and his hilarity, gaiety, and 
 easy address, as they contributed to the plea- 
 sure of society, gained him in return affection, 
 if not esteem. But regard acquired by qualities 
 which are not intrinsically excellent, can only 
 be temporary. Those sprightly traits of cha- 
 racter which may add a grace to youth, become 
 ridiculous and disgusting in old age. The jest 
 that pleases at twenty-five, will shock at seventy; 
 nor can the most thoughtless contemplate with 
 pleasure the man who, in the course of nature, 
 must shortly change this being for another, idly 
 busied about the frivolities of gay life, et totus 
 in illis. The public now began to treat Nash 
 with neglect, and shortly with contempt. The 
 great, whom he had served with such devotion, 
 rewarded him as they are accustomed to remu- 
 nerate the instruments of their pleasures by 
 deserting him in the hour of need. Sickness 
 attacked him, and poverty stared him in the 
 face. These were evils against which he had 
 provided no defence, and which therefore fell 
 upon him with double weight. Sorrow and dis- 
 tress clouded the closing evening of his days ; 
 and reflection came too late for any other pur- 
 pose than to display to him the disconsolate 
 situation of that man, when he approaches his 
 end, who has spent his whole life in playing the 
 fool. 
 
 The tree of deepest root is found, 
 Least willing still to quit the ground ; 
 
 I 
 
114 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 'Twas therefore said by ancient sages, 
 
 That love of life increas'd with years, 
 So much that in our latter stages, 
 When pains grow sharp, and sickness rages, 
 
 The greatest love of life appears. 
 
 This great affection to believe, 
 
 Which all confess, but few perceive, 
 
 OLD TIME, whose haste no mortal spares, 
 
 Uncall'd, unheeded, unawares 
 Brought on his eightieth year. 
 
 At the advanced age of eighty-seven years, 
 Mr. Nash died, at his house, in St. John's Court, 
 Bath, on the 3d of February, 1761, sincerely 
 regretted by every inhabitant of this City, and 
 buried at the expense of the Corporation, with 
 great respect and solemnity, in the Abbey 
 Church. The masters of the Assembly-Rooms, 
 following as chief mourners. His pall was sup- 
 ported by six of the senior aldermen; and three 
 clergymen preceded the coffin. The boys and 
 girls of the charity-schools in couples, singing 
 a hymn, and a band of music, playing a dirge. 
 The tops of the houses, and the streets were 
 crowded with spectators, to take a last farewell 
 of this venerable founder and promoter of the 
 interests connected with the City of Bath. 
 
 Mr. Collett succeeded Mr. Nash ; a gentleman 
 of real private worth ; but, in his capacity of 
 Master of the Ceremonies, he stood in no com- 
 petition with his great predecessor, and soon 
 resigned his throne to Mr. Derrick. This latter 
 gentleman also bore no resemblance to Mr. 
 Nash, except his wearing a white hat : he, how- 
 ever, made it a lucrative situation, in taking a 
 benefit during the season at each room. But, 
 upon his death, in 1769, the vacant sceptre was 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 115 
 
 contested with the most determined hostility, 
 between Mr. Brereton and Mr. Plonier. Heaps 
 of hand-bills, squibs, and scurrility, daily issued 
 from the press, in which David Garrick, Esq. 
 took an active part; and as the ladies had 
 an equal right of voting, their conduct, upon 
 this occasion, partook more of the purlieus of 
 Wapping than the refined circles of Bath. It, 
 at length, became so disgraceful, and such a 
 scene of riot and confusion ensued at the rooms, 
 that the mayor appeared with his officers, and 
 the tumult was not appeased till after the town- 
 clerk had read the Riot-Act three times. 
 
 Arms, and the feuds I sing, of ladies fair : 
 
 Of female wigs dethron'd ; dishevell'd hair ; 
 
 Rent muslins ; laces torn ; eyes flashing fire ; 
 
 Roug'd cheeks, more red with rage, and such chimeras dire. 
 
 Then, let the tumult thicken : rouse each fair 
 To calling odious names, and pulling hair ; 
 Let curses thunder, and let blows resound ; 
 Torn lace and broken fans bestrew the ground ; 
 And gray-hair'd scalps and wrinkl'd sculls deplore, 
 The loss of wigs, wide scatter'd o'er the floor. 
 
 Mr. Plonier and Mr. Brereton were, at length, 
 induced to resign their pretensions in favour of 
 Captain Wade, upon their receiving a benefit- 
 ball at each of the rooms. Mr. Wade was the 
 first Master of the Ceremonies who was pre- 
 sented with a gold medallion of enamelled blue, 
 set round with brilliants, to be worn as the 
 ensignia of his office. On the one side is a raised 
 figure of Venus, with a golden apple in one hand, 
 and a rudder in the other ; the motto, Venus 
 decens. The reverse is a wreath of laurel ; the 
 motto, Arbiter elegantiarum commune consen- 
 
 I 2 
 
116 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 su ; and now worn by Mr. Heaviside at the Up- 
 per Rooms. 
 
 On quitting the OLD ROOMS, a few yards to 
 the right brings the visitor into Orange-Grove, 
 which is a charming open area, planted with rows 
 of elm-trees, and from its contiguity to the vene- 
 rable Abbey, gives it rather an interesting ap- 
 pearance. It is 190 feet long, and 170 broad, 
 and was formerly the principal seat of the amuse- 
 ments of Bath. The houses are irregularly 
 built ; but notwithstanding this defect, it is a 
 pleasant, although not an elegant residence. A 
 small obelisk stands in the centre, erected by 
 BEAU NASH, with the following inscription, said 
 to be written by POPE: 
 
 In memoriam * 
 
 Sanitatis 
 
 PRINCIPI AURIACO 
 Aquarum Thermalium puto 
 
 Favente DEO 
 
 Ovante Britannia 
 
 Feliciter Restitutae. 
 
 MDCCXXXIV. 
 
 The left corner of Orange-Grove leads to the 
 Post-Office, on passing which, turn down to the 
 left into Church- Street, and the FREEMASONS' 
 HALL immediately meets the eye of the spectator 
 in York-Street. The above new and elegant 
 structure built of free-stone is considered as a 
 great ornament to Bath, and also adds to the im- 
 portance of this part of the City ; the exterior 
 of which is viewed as a fine piece of Grecian 
 
 * In memory of the happy restoration of the health 
 of the Prince of Orange, by the drinking of the Bath 
 waters, through the favour of God, and to the joy of 
 Britain, 1734. 
 
*y #j w y 
 
 . 
 
 . 
 
 . 
 .5 "I 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 117 
 
 architecture. It has a small portico in front, 
 with pillars of the Ionic Order. On the top of 
 the building are three figures extremely well ex- 
 ecuted, symbols of masonry. On the left corner 
 is FAITH in the centre, CHARITY with an in- 
 fantand on the right, is HOPE. On the archi- 
 trave is the following inscription: " FREE- 
 MASONS' HALL, A. L. 5817." The idea 
 first originated with Mr. Witncy, a distin- 
 guished Chemist, the corner of Union-Passage, 
 Cheap-Street ; mid by his perseverance it was 
 erected and finished. The plan of the above 
 Hall also entirely belongs to Mr. Witney. The 
 Architect, Mr. Wilkins, is the author of Magna 
 Grecite. In the front of the building is a long 
 range of Grecian iron-railing, quite nouvel/e in 
 Bath. The whole of the structure is strictly 
 masonic, even to the triangular knockers out- 
 side of the doors. 
 
 The interior of the building is very complete 
 and convenient in all its various parts; and well 
 worthy of being visited. The great room, or 
 hall, is 50 by 30 feet. It has two fire-places, 
 with fluted pillars against the wall. Opposite 
 the entrance from the hall- door, at the bottom 
 of the room, stands the Master's chair, upon an 
 elevation, with an ascent of three steps of black 
 and white chequered marble, supported by two 
 lions, the left and right foot of each are on balls, 
 to correspond. Over the chair is a neat gallery, 
 supported by light elegant pillars, in the centre 
 of which is an exquisitely fine-toned organ. In 
 the front of the gallery is the " all-seeing eye/' 
 handsomely painted ; and opposite to which, over 
 the hall-door, is a compass and bevil to cor- 
 
118 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 respond. In the centre of the hall are two beau- 
 tiful well-skylights, with handsome composition 
 ornaments, and two elegant glass-chandeliers 
 suspended by a chain from the top. It is about 
 25 feet high ; and upon the whole it has a pleas- 
 ing and interesting appearance : but is only used 
 on particular occasions. Behind the Master's 
 chair are two doors, one of which leads to the 
 west staircase, with handsome iron rails and a 
 mahogany top, down to the LODGE-ROOM, close 
 to which is a small apartment for the Tyler. In 
 this room, the lodges belonging to Bath, four in 
 number, meet upon alternate nights. It is large, 
 with two fire-places in it, and an elevation at the 
 bottom of the room for the chair ; it receives its 
 light from two handsome Gothic windows. A 
 double Gothic cornice goes all round the room, 
 which has a very pretty effect. As a decided 
 proof that the secrets of masonry are not all of 
 a purely intellectual nature, contiguous to the 
 Lodge-Room is a kitchen, which is rather narrow 
 in dimensions, but furnished with cooking uten- 
 sils, amply sufficient to furnish food for a large 
 company at the London Tavern. The range is 
 six feet eight inches long, two feet in depth, and 
 its round bars, two inches thick. Its weight al- 
 together is 900lbs. To the right of the range is 
 a large stove, on the left an oven, and in the area, 
 two very large coppers. The whole of the 
 building cost 3000. Upon laying the first 
 stone, the following inscription, engraved on a 
 copper-plate, was placed under it: 
 
 " The foundation-stone of this Masonic Hall was laid with 
 the usual ceremonies, July 28th, A.D. 1817, in the 57th 
 year of the reign of his present Majesty, George III. and the 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 119 
 
 year of Masonry 5817, in the presence of the Masters and 
 Wardens of the Bath Lodges, viz. The Royal Cumberland 
 Lodge, No. 55. The Royal Sussex Lodge, 69.* The Royal 
 York Lodge of perfect Friendship, 245; and the Royal 
 Lodge of Virtue, 311. His Royal Highness Frederick 
 Duke of Sussex, being most worshipful Grand Master 
 of the United Lodge of England, and Arthur Chiches- 
 ter, Esq. R. W. Provincial Grand Master for the 
 County of Somerset. Royal Cumberland Lodge, Charles 
 Geary, W. M. Samuel J. Browne, S. W. Mark Watt, J. W. 
 Royal Sussex Lodge, John Browne, W.M. John Morris, S. W. 
 Josh. Pinker, J. W Royal York Lodge of perfect Friend- 
 ship, Thomas Witney, W. M. John Ashley, S. W. William 
 Redman, J. W. Lodge of Virtue, Wm. Underwood Whit- 
 ney, W. M. Jas. Webber, S. W. Jas. Hiscocks, J. W.- 
 
 Brother Wilkins, Architect Walter Harris, Builder. 
 
 Engraved by W. Lanter, 48, Corn-Street, Bristol." 
 
 In consequence of the long indisposition of 
 the Queen, the grand meeting for the opening 
 and dedication of the above Hall, which was to 
 have been honoured with the presence of His 
 Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, was un- 
 avoidably postponed to a more convenient pe- 
 riod ; but on Monday, the 28th of September, 
 1818, the W. MM. the P. MM. the S. and J.WW. 
 the S. and J.DD. and the various officers and 
 brethren of the Royal Cumberland Lodge, the 
 Royal York Lodge of perfect Friendship, and 
 the Lodge of Virtue, assembled at the New Free- 
 masons' Hall, for the purpose of opening the 
 Lower Lodge-Room, previous to the intended 
 visit of His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, 
 and for holding their future masonic meetings. 
 The Rev. the Chaplain of the Royal York Lodge 
 invoked the blessing of the Almighty upon the 
 undertaking, in most impressive terms ; after 
 
 * Were not present*. 
 
V20 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 which, and previous to the consecration, the Di- 
 rector of the Ceremonies (Dr. Geo. Gavin Browne 
 Mill, of Marlborough-Buildings, the J. W. of the 
 Royal York Lodge) delivered a most elegant ora- 
 tion, replete with classic lore, and enriched with 
 genuine effusions of piety, and eloquent recom- 
 mendations of the moral and social virtues. Bro- 
 ther R. M. Payne (the W. M. of the Royal Cum- 
 berland Lodge) presided. On this occasion the 
 new organ was opened, and its soft and beautiful 
 tones added considerably to the effect of the so- 
 lemnity. 
 
 Upon leaving the Freemasons' Hall, cross Stall- 
 Street and proceed through the Colonnade in 
 Bath-Street, on the left of which, at the bottom, 
 and near to the Cross Bath, is a neat little build- 
 ing, containing the " BATH ANTIQUITIES." 
 To the lovers of research, an hour or two may be 
 fully employed in examining the various relics of 
 ancient times, which have been preserved and 
 collected together, and deposited in this build- 
 ing, erected at the expense of the Corporation ; 
 and which might be said not only to have filled 
 up a vacant niche, but has given a sort of finish 
 to the Colonnade and Cross Bath. It is open at all 
 times of the day to public inspection; the remu- 
 neration depending entirely on the liberality of 
 the visitor. A quarto volume (which answers as 
 a catalogue) printed in 1793, written with much 
 industry and talent upon the subject, by the Rev. 
 Mr. WARNER, Curate of St. James's, Bath, (to 
 whom the inhabitants of this elegant City, for 
 his able and acute researches to render the most 
 explicit information upon so dry a subject in a 
 perspicuous point of view, are much indebted), 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 121 
 
 and dedicated to the Mayor and Corporation, 
 will sufficiently assist the visitor in his examina- 
 tion of the above fragments of masonry and 
 sculpture. The remains of the Temple of 
 Minerva form the most remarkable objects in the 
 collection ; and testify that the building to which 
 they belonged, was equal in magnificence to any 
 specimen of classical architecture in the king- 
 dom. Besides the above fragments are several 
 inscriptions and specimens of Roman masonry. 
 Here is also a thin quarto manuscript, written 
 by JOHN CRANCH, a native of Bath, respecting 
 the Walcot Collection ; which collection, it ap- 
 pears, has been presented by the above person to 
 the Corporation of Bath, consisting of Imperial 
 Coins, relating to the most obscure time of Great 
 Britain under the subjugation of the Romans. 
 On pulling down a house in Westgate-Street, in 
 1784, thirty-two various pieces of money were 
 found belonging to Trajan, Antonies, &c. half- 
 pence of King James, silver coins of Queen Eliza- 
 beth, &c. Also several coins were found in the 
 copse of Cheynes-Court Farm, in 1813. It is 
 however admitted by all the writers respecting 
 the Antiquities of Bath, that the information is 
 very scanty and imperfect ; but the conclusion 
 of Mr. CRANCH is so very forcible and decisive 
 upon the darkness of the subject, that nothing 
 but a real antiquarian would (if the expression 
 can be pardoned by this most patient of all other 
 societies) waste his time in farther research, upon 
 reading the following passage : " Not one na- 
 tive writer from Jeffery of Monmouth, down to 
 Wood the Architect, inclusive, has left any ac- 
 
122 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 count that can at all gratify rational curiosity, 
 or satisfy even moderate expectation !" 
 
 It however appears, that the spirit of research 
 is not extinct in the neighbourhood of Bath, 
 and the interesting remains of ancient times are 
 daily presented to the admiring and scruti- 
 nizing eyes of the antiquary. Exclusive of the 
 spirited enterprises so successfully pursued 
 by the Rev. Mr. Skinner, at Rouridhill-tining 
 and at Camerton, and the accessions still con- 
 tinuing to be made by attentive individuals in 
 and near Bath, of which no correct opinion has 
 yet been laid before the public, the following 
 articles were developed in September, 1818 : 
 1. A sepulchral urn, with human bones and ashes, 
 and a small brass coin of the usurper Carausius, 
 at Walcot. 2. A fine medal of Faustina Augusta, 
 reverse Lucina, in brass, at the same place. 
 3. A tesselated mosaic pavement, in Kingsmead, 
 behind Norfolk-Crescent. 4. An oblong square 
 stone sarcophagus, containing a complete human 
 skeleton, (other contents not yet ascertained), dug 
 near Mr. Harris's, statuary, above Bathwick New 
 Church. 5. A celt, (or more probably) an axe 
 for hewing timber, found at Bathwick. This 
 instrument is formed of a hard gray stone, of 
 that species called the Hanham pennant: it is 
 nearly 13 inches in length, of massive dimen- 
 sions, well contrived for effect, and evidently de- 
 signed to be fastened to its handle by thongs, in 
 the manner found to be usual in all barbarous 
 nations, where the use of the metals has been 
 unknown: it is probably the largest instrument 
 of its kind at present extant ; and, presuming it 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 123 
 
 to have been antecedent to the introduction of 
 the arts into Britain by the Romans, must be at 
 least 1800 years old, though it is probably much 
 older : it is in the possession of Mr. O'Niel. It 
 is to be hoped, that those persons who may have 
 to superintend any of the numerous excavations 
 now making in and about Bath, will not suffer 
 any thing they may find to be mutilated or de- 
 stroyed, merely because they may not themselves 
 perceive any value in it ; remembering that, as 
 the thoughtless destruction of the TIN TABLET 
 dug up at Stone-henge, in the time of King 
 Henry VIII. probably buried the origin of that 
 extraordinary fabric in eternal oblivion, so it is 
 not impossible that the future discovery of some 
 similar memorial may either ascertain the origin 
 of Bath, or throw additional light on the obscu- 
 rity of its ancient history. 
 
 On the visitor's retracing his steps past the 
 Walks, the prospects from the North and South 
 Parades may be viewed again and again with 
 increased interest and pleasure ; particularly 
 from the latter Parade, so attractive during the 
 colder months. The eye ascending towards Pryor 
 Park ; the picturesque appearance of the hang- 
 ing woods of Beechen-ClirF, added to the luxu- 
 rient beauties of Claverton-Down: 
 
 Sweet are yon hills that crown this fertile vale ! 
 Ye genial springs ! Pierean waters hail ! 
 
 Hail, woods and lawns ! Yes oft I'll tread 
 
 Yon pine-clad mountain's side, 
 Oft trace the gay enamell'd mead, 
 
 Where Avon rolls his pride. 
 
 Hail next to fair Castalia's streams, 
 
 And Pindus' flow'ry path, 
 Apollo most the spring esteems, 
 
 And verdant meads of BATH. 
 
124 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 Contiguous to the South Parade, ground has 
 been marked out, and a plan begun, towards an 
 elegant new square, (to be called Kingston- 
 Square) and also several new streets ; near to 
 which are Henry, Phillip's, Evelyn, Manvers, 
 Harris, and Orchard Streets. The OLD THEA- 
 TRE, in the latter thoroughfare, was, in 1809, con- 
 verted into a convenient and spacious Catholic 
 Chapel, which has to boast of a most excellent 
 choir, a very fine-toned organ, and a numerous 
 congregation. In 1780, during the riots, the 
 Romish Chapel, near St. James's Parade, was 
 burnt down ; and a gentleman's servant of the 
 name of Butler, who was particularly active 
 in this disgraceful affair, was executed upon 
 a gallows near the above Parade. 
 
 On re-crossing the Ferry, towards the right of 
 the road are several pieces of ground set apart 
 for the erection of places, streets, &c. The 
 view of Pulteney-Bridge, &c. alongside the 
 Avon, is interesting till the visitor's arrival at 
 the New Church, where, if he feels inclined to 
 prolong his walk, there is a road that leads to 
 Claver ton- Down, leaving Sidney -Wharf on his 
 left. If home is the word, pass Great George- 
 Street, through Darlington-Street, and Sydney- 
 Place immediately appears in sight. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 125 
 
 WALK III. 
 
 From PORTLAND-PLACE through Burlington-Street and 
 Place, Har ley-Street, Gloucester Place and Street. 
 Contiguous to which are Bat lance-Street, Lampard- 
 Buildings, and Mur ford- Street. Cattle's Lane, 
 Rivers-Street, and Catharine - Place. Through 
 Margaret-Buildings, (MARGARET-CHAPEL) Brock- 
 Street, and the CIRCUS. Bennet - Street (NEW 
 ROOMS), Saville-Row, and Alfred-Street. Return 
 to the CIRCUS through Guy-Street and Queen- 
 Square, the Gravel- Walk, Church-Street, to Port- 
 land-Place. 
 
 PORTLAND-PLACE is an elevated pleasant situa- 
 tion, commanding a good prospect; the houses 
 are capacious and elegant ; but, in point of ap- 
 pearance, it cannot compare with that distin- 
 guished place of residence in the Metropolis. 
 Pass through Burlington-Street, at the bottom 
 of which is Burlington- Place ; and on the 
 right is Harley-Strcet, in which is Portland- 
 Chapel, a neat building of free-stone, erected 
 in 1816. On the left is Gloucester-Place, lead- 
 ing directly to Gloucester -Street. In any of the 
 above thoroughfares there is nothing of any par- 
 ticular importance to arrest the progress of the 
 visitor, nor in the following streets contiguous 
 to them, Ballance- Street, Lampard- Buildings, 
 and Murf or d- Street. Cross Cottles Lane to 
 Rivers-Street, which leads to Catharine-Place, 
 
126 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 where the houses are enclosed in the form of a 
 square, but it has no iron-rails. Here chairs 
 ply for fairs, for the accommodation of this part 
 of the City. Pass through Margaret- Buildings, 
 in which is situated Margaret-Chapel, built by 
 Mr. Wood, after the Gothic order. Its appear- 
 ance is light and elegant, from the roof having 
 no supporters : in length it is 73 feet, 60 wide, 
 and 37 high, with galleries. Over the altar is a 
 fine picture of the Wise Men's Offerings, painted 
 by Mr. Williams. It has a fine-toned organ, and 
 is kept warm by two of Buzaglo's stoves. Divine 
 service is performed here every Sunday, at eleven 
 and five; and on Wednesdays, prayers at eleven. 
 This chapel was opened, in 1770, by that unfor- 
 tunate but eloquent preacher, Dr. W. Dodd. 
 The above buildings are adapted to trade, being 
 full of shops ; and on the left is Brock-Street, 
 a respectable place of residence, leading into the 
 CIRCUS. Upon entering this noble circular 
 building, the eye of the visitor is delighted with 
 the uniformity and grandeur of the scene. It 
 bursts upon him by surprise, and its Roman 
 appearance is very impressive. The houses are 
 peculiarly attractive and interesting, having be- 
 tween each of the various stories, two pillars of 
 the Ionic, Doric, and Corinthian orders of ar- 
 chitecture; and are also decorated with nume- 
 rous sculptured medallions. In the middle of 
 the CIRCUS is a shrubbery, and a gravel-walk 
 surrounding a reservoir, from which the houses 
 are supplied with water. This little promenade 
 is enclosed with a circular iron-railing, allowing 
 a most spacious carriage-road all round it. It 
 was built after the design of the elder Mr. 
 

WALKS THROUGH BATH. 127 
 
 Wood : and most of the streets connected with 
 the CIRCUS were likewise erected from the plans 
 of the above deservedly distinguished architect. 
 The visitor can scarcely quit this classic pile of 
 buildings, without turning round to take another 
 look. On crossing the CIRCUS, to the right is 
 Bennet-Street t contiguous to Saville-Row and 
 Alfred-Street^ in which are the various entrances 
 to the UPPER (or NEW) ROOMS. The first 
 stone of these beautiful, if not unequalled, 
 Assembly Rooms in the kingdom, was laid on 
 the 24th of May, 1769, by that ingenious archi- 
 tect, inheriting all his father's talents, the junior 
 John Wood, Esq. and built under his direction 
 from the subscription of seventy individuals, at 
 the cost of 20,000, and were opened for the 
 reception of company in 1771. The elegance 
 of the ball-room astonishes every spectator, it is 
 100 feet 8 inches long, 42 feet 8 inches wide, 
 and 42 feet 6 inches high. The ceiling is beau- 
 tiful, ornamented with pannels with open com- 
 partments, and from which are suspended five 
 superb glass chandeliers : and the windows from 
 which the rooms receive daylight, are on a ball- 
 night covered with boards painted with orna- 
 ments on them to correspond with the uniformity 
 of the other side of the room. The walls are 
 also painted and decorated in the most tasteful 
 style; and the Corinthian columns and entabla- 
 ture resemble statuary marble. At each end of 
 the room are placed, in magnificent gilt-frames, 
 the most splendid looking-glasses that could be 
 procured to give effect to the general brilliant 
 appearance. The whole suite of rooms are fur- 
 
128 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 nishcd iu the same elegant style to correspond. 
 In the Octagon Card-Room, 48 feet in diameter, 
 is a fine likeness of Captain Wade, painted by 
 Gainsborough ; and likewise a portrait of 
 Richard Tyson, Esq. done by James. The other 
 Card-Room is 70 feet long and 27 wide. In 
 1813, a capacious and elegant Heading-Room 
 was added to it by the present Renter, Mr. 
 Stroud, which is fitted up with the best maps, 
 newspapers, books of reference, &c. The ad- 
 mission to this room is so convenient, that it 
 does not interfere with the company on ball or 
 concert nights. The terms of subscription to 
 the Card and Reading Rooms for the year are 
 26s. and for two months 15s. The above 
 fashionable amusements are placed upon a far 
 more moderate scale of terms than any other 
 place of similar resort in the kingdom. In 
 short, the whole establishment is truly com- 
 plete, and cannot fail in proving the admiraiton 
 of every visitor at Bath. 
 
 Captain Wade was the first master of the cere- 
 monies here, but who alternately presided at 
 both rooms, till July 1777, when an affair of 
 gallantry compelled him to relinquish his lucra- 
 tive office. Seven candidates immediately offered 
 themselves on the abdication of Mr. Wade. It was 
 however at length compromised, that Mr. Daw- 
 son should preside in the room of Capt. Wade ; 
 and Major Brereton to officiate as M. C. at the 
 Lower Rooms. At the expiration of three years 
 the latter retired from his office, and was suc- 
 ceeded by Richard Tyson, Esq. from Tunbridge- 
 Wells. In 1785, the latter gentleman was 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 129 
 
 translated to the New Rooms on the resignation 
 of Mr. Dawson : and James King, Esq. who had 
 highly distinguished himself in the British army 
 in America, was elected without opposition to 
 the Lower Rooms. In 1805, Mr. Tyson, to the 
 regret of the visitors at Bath, resigned his situa- 
 tion, and was succeeded by Mr. King ; and the 
 Lower Rooms received Mr. Le Bas y as Master 
 of the Ceremonies, from Margate ; but this gen- 
 tleman, after an ineffectual struggle of three 
 years, was compelled to retire, owing to the de- 
 serted state of the rooms. In 1810, some warm 
 friends to the original establishment, roused 
 from their apathy, placed the above Assembly 
 on an improved footing, and on the 1st of No- 
 vember, Francis John Guynette was unanimously 
 elected Master of the Ceremonies. After a 
 short reign, Mr. Heaviside succeeded the above 
 gentleman. On the death of Mr. King, at Chel- 
 tenham, October 16, 1816, five candidates 
 offered themselves, and an election took place 
 for this lucrative and respectable situation, on 
 the 21st of November; but on the previous day 
 Captains Marshall and Thornhill resigned. The 
 election fell on Captain Wyke, whose numbers 
 were 258 ; Mr. Heaviside 195; and Mr. Mad- 
 den 110. Mr. Heaviside continued to preside 
 as M. C. at the Lower Rooms, till Captain 
 Wyke retired from his office to fill an important 
 situation abroad ; when he was translated to fill 
 the above Captain's place, where the polite 
 and gentlemanly conduct of Mr. H. is highly 
 appreciated, by the elegant visitors of these un- 
 rivalled assemblies. 
 
130 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 The following Rules and Regulations, published by the Master 
 of' the Ceremonies, are hung up in the 
 
 NEW ASSEMBLY ROOMS. 
 The public amusements during the season are as follow : 
 
 Monday Night Dress Ball. 
 
 Wednesday Night Concert. 
 
 Thursday Night Fancy Ball. 
 
 Friday Night Card Assembly. 
 
 N. B. The Rooms are open every day (Sunday excepted) 
 for Cards. 
 
 Bath, New Assembly Rooms, 
 
 Nov. 13, 1816. 
 
 At a Committee authorized by a General Meeting of the 
 Subscribers to the Dress and Cotillon Balls (which was held 
 yesterday pursuant to public advertisement) to form such 
 rules and regulations, relative to the amusements at these 
 Rooms, as might appear to them most beneficial to the public 
 at large. 
 
 Col. S. COURTENAY, in the Chair. 
 
 RULES : 1. " That the power of direction and controul,as 
 to the amusements at these Rooms, is vested in such ladies 
 and gentlemen as shall subscribe both to the Dress and Cotil- 
 lon Balls. 
 
 2. " That not less than nine subscribers to the balls be com- 
 petent to call a general meeting upon any business relative 
 thereto ; the said subscribers to leave a summons, signed 
 with their names, upon the table in the lobby, for the space 
 of one full week previous to such meeting ; which summons 
 shall also express the particular purpose for which such meet- 
 ing shall be called, and be advertised in the Bath News- 
 papers. 
 
 3. Resolved, That these and all future regulations agreed 
 to in general meetings, be inserted in the book containing 
 the subscribers' names, signed by the chairman of the meet- 
 ing for the time being ; such rules and regulations not to 
 be altered by any authority, on any pretence whatever, but 
 at a General Meeting of the Subscribers ; and that one copy 
 of these rules and regulations be deposited with the Master 
 of the Ceremonies for the time being ; and another with the 
 Renter of the Rooms, to be produced at any time when i\ 
 meeting of the committee, or of the subscribers to both Balls, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 131 
 
 s hall be assembled ; or, when three or more subscribers shall 
 desire to see the same. 
 
 4. " That the Renter of these Rooms having agreed to fur- 
 nish lights, music, &c. for twenty-two Dress Balls, (including 
 the two Balls for the Master of the Ceremonies, and the Ball 
 on the night of the King's Birth-day,) and twenty five Co- 
 tillon Balls, no annual account of expenditure will be re- 
 quired of him. 
 
 " SUBSCRIPTIONS and ADMISSION. 
 " (Dress Balls.) 
 
 5. " That a subscription of 11. 10s. to the Dress Balls shall 
 entitle the subscriber to three tickets every ball- night; one 
 for the subscriber, not transferable, and two for ladies. These 
 two latter tickets will be transferable, on being endorsed by 
 the subscriber, without which form the bearer will not be 
 admitted. A subscription of 15s. shall entitle the subscriber 
 to one ticket, not- transfer able. 
 
 " (Cotillon Bail*.} 
 
 6. " That a subscription of ll. to the Cotillon Balls shall 
 entitle the subscriber to one ticket every ball-night : this 
 ticket not transferable. 
 
 7. " That no person whatever be admitted into the Ball- 
 Rooms without a ticket ; nor any visitor or stranger, unless 
 he shall previously have inserted his name and place of 
 abode m a book to be kept for that purpose, under the con- 
 troul of the Master of the Ceremonies. 
 
 8. " The subscribers are respectfully requested to observe, 
 that their subscriptions cease when they leave Bath ; and it 
 would be of much public utility, if they would be pleased to 
 give notice at the Rooms of their departure, which would 
 prevent their tickets being improperly used. 
 
 " RULES RELATING TO THE BALLS. 
 
 9. " That the Balls at these Rooms do commence at eight 
 o'clock in the evening; a quarter of an hour beibre which 
 lime the Rooms shall regularly and properly be lighted up; 
 and that the dancing shall cease at half-past eleven o'clock 
 precisely, except on the night of the King's Birth-day, and 
 on the nights of the two balls given for the benefit of the 
 Master of the Ceremonies, when the time of dancing shall 
 he unlimited. 
 
 K 2 
 
132 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 10. " That every person, on admission to these Rooms on 
 ball-nights, shall pay sixpence for their tea. 
 
 11. ' That the three front benches at the upper end of 
 the room be reserved for ladies of precedence, of the rank 
 of Peeresses of Great Britain or Ireland. 
 
 12. "That a reasonable time shall be allowed between the 
 Minuets and Country-Dances for ladies of precedence to 
 take their places in the dance ; and that those ladies who 
 shall stand up after the dance shall have commenced, must 
 take their places successively at the bottom. 
 
 13. " That no lady, after she shall have taken her place 
 in the set, do permit another to come above her in the dance. 
 
 14. " That ladies are to be considered perfectly free in 
 regard to accepting or declining partners. 
 
 15. " That it is the positive order of the Committee, that 
 no servant whatever shall be admitted into the vestibule or 
 gallery, on any occasion, or on any pretence whatever, on 
 ball-nights. 
 
 16. " That no gentleman in boots or half-boots be ad- 
 mitted into the Ball-Rooms on ball-nights, except Officers of 
 the Navy, or of the Army on duty, in uniform; and then 
 without their swords. Trowsers or coloured pantaloons not 
 to be permitted on any account. 
 
 " MASTER OF THE CEREMONIES. 
 
 17. " That the Master of the Ceremonies do attend at a 
 quarter of an hour before eight o'clock on ball-nights to re- 
 ceive the company. 
 
 18. " That the Master of the Ceremonies, on observing, or 
 receiving information of any person's acting in opposition to 
 these resolutions, do signify to such person, that, as Master of 
 the Ceremonies, it is his duty to see that proper decorum be 
 preserved, and these orders obeyed ; in the proper and im- 
 partial execution of which duty he will be supported by the 
 subscribers at large, 
 
 " Resolved, That these regulations be printed, frahied 
 and glazed, and fixed in a conspicuous part of the Rooms, for 
 public information ; not to be taken down on any pretence 
 whatever, in order that they may remain as a public docu- 
 ment." 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 133 
 
 COMMITTEE. 
 
 Lt.-Col. Anstey, Gen. Johnson, 
 
 Lt.-Col. Brown, Lt.-Col. Mackenzie, 
 
 VV. L. Caldecot, Esq. Capt. Mainwaring, R.N. 
 
 J. Choppin, Esq. Gen. Morrison. 
 
 Col. Courtnay, Rev. Dr. Walsh, 
 
 Gen. Sir T. Dallas, K.C.B. Tho. Wilkinson, Esq. 
 H. Deacon, Esq. 
 
 C. S. COURTENAY, Chairman. 
 
 NEW ARTICLES, AT THE NEW ROOMS. 
 Bath Upper Assembly -Rooms, December 14, 
 1816. At a meeting of the Committee to these 
 Balls this day, it was unanimously resolved: 
 
 A person inadmissible to these rooms having been admitted 
 to the Dress Ball, on the night of the 12th instant, and hav- 
 ing in consequence been desired by the M. C. to withdraw, 
 the Committee feel themselves bound to express their ap- 
 probation of the conduct of the M. C. on that occasion. 
 
 And it having been represented to the Committee, that 
 many improper persons have at various times obtruded 
 themselves into these assemblies, it is unanimously re- 
 solved, that no Clerk, hired or otherwise, in this city and 
 neighbourhood no person concerned in retail trade no 
 theatrical nor public performer by profession, shall be ad- 
 mitted. 
 
 And as a further instruction to the M. C. and with a due 
 regard to the selection of company, which the Committee 
 feel should be scrupulously attended to, he is hereby di- 
 rected to desire any person, whom from circumstances he 
 may deem inadmissible, to withdraw immediately ; and in 
 case of non-compliance with his request, it is ordered that 
 hf report the same to the Committee. 
 
 C. S. COURTENAY, Chairman. 
 
 Bath Upper Assembly-Rooms, December 23, 
 1816, at a Committee to these Balls, held this 
 day, it was unanimously resolved : 
 
 1. " That from the earliest institution of these Rooms, 
 
134 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 the regulations relating to dancing, and all points of etiquette 
 at the Balls, having been left to the M. C. for the time 
 being, and that (he rules and orders suggested by him as to 
 these having been invariably acquiesced in, and acted upon 
 by the company frequenting the balls. 
 
 2. " That the same authority, so exercised by all preceding 
 Masters of the Ceremonies, belongs of right to every suc- 
 cessor to this office ; and that it is incumbent upon the sub- 
 scribers (inasmuch as they must be desirous of promoting 
 good order and decorum in these assemblies) to conform to 
 the regulations of the M. C. and to support him in their 
 execution. 
 
 3. " That the Master of the Ceremonies is not account- 
 able to any individual whatever, who may dispute or object 
 to the established regulations ; but in case of any misunder- 
 standing arising from these, or other matters connected with 
 the balls, a reference must be made to the Committee of 
 General Management, appointed annually by the subscribers 
 at large, and all differences amicably submitted to them for 
 their consideration and decision. 
 
 4. " That any alteration or differences respecting the re- 
 gulations of the balls, either at the balls, or any subsequent 
 period, (as they tend to disturb the harmony so requisite 
 amongst the subscribers,) will be considered as a breach of 
 the orders of the Committee and noticed accordingly." 
 
 C. S. COURTENAY, Chairman. 
 
 What joy at the ball, what delight have I found, 
 By all the bright circles encompass'd around ! 
 I've read how the goddesses meet all above, 
 And throng the immortal assemblies of Jove j 
 When join'd with the Graces, fair Venus appears, 
 Ambrosial sweet odours perfume all the spheres : 
 But the goddess of Love, and the Graces, and all, 
 Must yield to the beauties I've seen at the ball; ' 
 For Jove never felt such a joy at his heart, 
 Such a heat as these charming sweet creatures impart. 
 In short there is something in very fine women, 
 When they meet altogether that's quite overcoming. 
 
 But, lo ! on a sudden what multitudes pour 
 From Cambrian mountains, from India's shore ; 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 135 
 
 Bright maidens, bright widows, and fortunate swains, 
 
 Who cultivate LifFey's sweet borders and plains ; 
 
 And they who their flocks in lair Albion feed, 
 
 Rich flocks, and rich herds, (so the gods have decreed), 
 
 Since they quitted the pleasanter banks of the Tweed. 
 
 Yet here no confusion, no tumult is known, 
 
 Fair order and beauty establish their throne. 
 
 But hark ! now they strike the melodious string, 
 The vaulted roof echoes, the mansions all ring ; 
 At the sound of the hautboy, the bass, and the fiddle, 
 SIR BOREAS BLUBBER steps forth in the middle; 
 Like a holyhock, noble, majestic, and tall, 
 SIR BoREAsBntBBER first opens the ball : 
 How nimbly he paces, how active and light ! 
 One never can judge of a man at first sight : 
 But as near as I guess from the size of his calf, 
 He may weigh about twenty-three stone and a half. 
 Now why should I mention a hundred or more, 
 Who went the same circle as others before, 
 To a tune that they play'd us a hundred times o'er ? 
 
 But who is that bombazine lady so gay, 
 So profuse of her beauties, in sable array ? 
 How she rests on her heel, how she turns out her toe, 
 How she pulls down her stays, with her head up, to show 
 Her lily-white bosom that rivals the snow! 
 Tis the undoujQuiCKLACKiT, whose husband last week, 
 Poor STEPHEN, went suddenly forth in a pique, 
 And push'd off his boat for the Stygian creek. 
 Poor STEPHEN ! he never return'd from the bourn, 
 But left the disconsolate widow to mourn. 
 Three times did she faint when she heard of the news ! 
 Six days did she weep, and all comfort refuse ; 
 But STEPHEN, no sorrow, no tears, can recall; 
 So she hallows the seventh, and comes to the BALL. 
 For music, sweet music, has charms to control, 
 And tune up each passion that ruffles the soul : 
 'Twas music that brought a man's wife from Old Nick, 
 And at BATH has the power to recover the sick ! 
 
 The SUBSCRIPTION CONCERTS are also held at 
 the Upper and Lower Rooms, under the direc- 
 
136 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 tion of the celebrated flule - player, Mr. Ashe, 
 since the death of the all-admired RAUZZINI. 
 Mrs. Ashe is also well known to the musical 
 world, from her eminent vocal abilities. Bath, 
 for the last sixty years, has been highly distin- 
 guished for the superiority of its concerts, and 
 its sound musical character. These concerts 
 were in great reputation under the superintend- 
 ence of the scientific LINLEY, and his rarely- 
 gifted musical family, consisting of T. Linley, 
 jun. Miss E. Linley, (afterwards Mrs. Sheridan,) 
 Mrs. Tickell, and Miss M. Linley; and the 
 names of Guest, Crotch, &c. may be added to 
 the above performers without any decrease of 
 fame: but it seems they did not arrive at that 
 finished perfection (for which they have been so 
 highly praised) till after RAUZZINI, accompa- 
 nied by La Motte, the celebrated violin -player, 
 had made Bath their residence. Under the di- 
 rection of the former they flourished beyond all 
 precedent, and the great musical capacity ex- 
 hibited in them extorted admiration from the 
 first judges of musical compositions in the king- 
 dom. As a composer, RAUZZINI possessed 
 talents of a high order ; but, as a teacher, the 
 names of Braham, Signora Storace, Incledon, 
 Mrs. Mountain, &c. &c. as his pupils, suffici- 
 ently evince his talents in this respect without 
 any farther eulogium on his merits as a musi- 
 cian. 
 
 The concerts consist of nine performances, 
 the terms of which are as follow : 
 
 A subscriber of <5 : 15 : 6 is entitled to three tickets 
 for each concert, all of which are transferable to ladies 
 only. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 137 
 
 A subscriber of ,4 : 10 :0 is entitled to two tickets for 
 each concert, both transferable to ladies only. 
 
 A subscriber of ^2 : 12 : 6 is entitled to a ticket for each 
 concert, transferable to a lady only. 
 
 For the accommodation of strangers, subscriptions are 
 also received for part of the concerts, on the following 
 terms : 
 
 A subscriber of ^3 : 3 : will receive three, tickets for 
 each of the four concerts following such subscription, trans- 
 ferable to ladies only. 
 
 A subscriber of ,% .6:0, two tickets, transferable to 
 ladies only, for each of the four concerts following such sub- 
 scription. 
 
 A subscriber of \ : 6 : 0, one ticket, transferable to a 
 rady only, for each of the four concerts following such sub- 
 scription. 
 
 Non-subscribers pay 8s. to each concert. 
 
 On returning through the CIRCUS, upon the left 
 is Gay-Street, full of respectable residences, 
 leading into Queen-Square. It is an open and 
 desirable situation, and the north side of which is 
 much admired for the great taste and architectural 
 talent displayed in its erection. Queen-Square is 
 not only magnificent but chaste ; and the body 
 of the Corinthian order upon a rustic basement, 
 is encircled in the highest style of ornament, that 
 this elegant order is capable of extending. In 
 the centre of this capacious square, enclosed in 
 an iron -railing, is an obelisk of seventy feet 
 high, bearing the following inscription : 
 
 In Memory of Honors conferred, 
 And in Gratitude for Benefits bestowed on this City, 
 
 Bj his Royal Highness 
 
 FREDERICK PRINCE o* WALES 
 
 And his ROYAL CONSORT, 
 
 In the Year M,DCC,XXXVII. 
 
 This obelisk is erected 
 By RICHARD NASH, Esq. 
 
138 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 The above obelisk, from its thin appearance, 
 is not very imposing; but, when first erected, it 
 seems, its base was surrounded by a piece of 
 water, which, in consequence of its becoming 
 stagnate and made use of as a receptacle for 
 filth, it was filled up, and the ground raised, by 
 which the pyramid lost its base. It was in the 
 construction of this square, that the superior 
 talents of the senior Mr. WOOD, as an architect, 
 first discovered themselves to the admiration of 
 the inhabitants and visitors of the City of Bath ; 
 and whatever praise might have been due to the 
 celebrated NASH for the exertions he made to- 
 wards rendering Bath the scene of gaiety, ele- 
 gance, urbanity, and health, and also in placing 
 its amusements upon an eminence unrivalled an 
 eulogium of as high an import is equally due to 
 the spirited zeal, industry, and abilities of the 
 architect WOOD, in giving, as it were, 
 
 To airy nothing, 
 A local habitation and a name, 
 
 from his numerous erections of splendid squares, 
 parades, streets, &c. before he died in 1754, and 
 of whom it has been asserted, that he " had either 
 actually built, or entered into engagements for 
 building over a tract of ground THREE TIMES 
 the extent of the original City/' It is due, 
 therefore from every native of Bath, to couple 
 the names of NASH and WOOD together, as the 
 fathers of this truly elegant City ; and also as a 
 means of handing down to posterity their highly 
 cultivated talents, with the most unfeigned rap- 
 ture, admiration, and gratitude. At the south- 
 west corner of this square, dedicated to the 
 Virgin Mary,, is Queen-Square-Chapel, built by 
 
 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 139 
 
 the above architect in 1735, and is another spe- 
 cimen of his skill in building. It is a chapel of 
 ease to Walcot. Its exterior is of the Doric order ; 
 and its appearance is rather handsome : the inte- 
 rior of which is Ionic, and is also elegant and in- 
 teresting. In length 57 feet, 48 in breadth, and 
 in height 36. It was built by subscription by a 
 company of gentlemen, and the shares are trans- 
 ferable. Divine Service is performed here every 
 alternate day at a quarter after eleven ; and 
 twice every Sunday at a quarter after eleven and 
 at three. In order to give a little variety to the 
 walk in returning home from Queen- Square, the 
 Gravel-Walk affords a pleasing relief and pro- 
 spect, at the end of which is Church-Street, when 
 Portland Chapel soon offers us a direction to 
 the Place from whence the traveller set out. 
 
140 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 WALK IV. 
 
 From Milsom- Street through Quiet- Street, Wood- 
 Street, Bart on- Street, into Beaufort- Square, to the 
 THEATRE. Trim-Street, (UNITARIAN CHAPEL;) 
 Gascoyn-Place, (the BLUE SCHOOL;) the COAL- 
 MARKET; Saw's - Close, Westgate - Street, Bath- 
 Lane, Parsonge Lane, (the PARSONAGE - HOUSE,) 
 Cheap-Street, High-Street, (MARKET-HOUSE AND 
 THE GUILDHALL,) Northumberland - Buildings, 
 Northgate - Street. Upper Borough - Walls, New 
 Bond, Green, and Broad Streets. (ST. MICHAEL'S 
 CHURCH,) Walcot and Cornwall Streets. (CATTLE 
 and CORN-MARKT,) Lady-Mead, (BATH PENI- 
 TENTIARY and LOCK HOSPITAL,) Chatham-How, 
 (WALCOT CHURCH,) London - Terrace, Camden- 
 Street, Nelson and Margaret Places, Walcot- 
 Parade. To the FERRY and Henrietta-Street. 
 
 To those visitors who give the preference to ac- 
 tive life and fashionable bustle, Milsom- Street 
 affords a most pleasant and lively residence ; and 
 whether in, or out of the Season, it is highly at- 
 tractive ; in short, it is the very magnet of Bath, 
 and if there is any company or movement in the 
 City, Milsom- Street is the pulse of it. 
 
 The beaux in Milsom-Street, who sought renown, 
 By walking up, in order to walk down I- 
 On turning to the right, it should seem as if 
 the next thoroughfare had been called after its 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 141 
 
 present designation, Quiet-Street, by way of 
 a contrast or set-off to the above fashionable 
 promenade. Wood-Street continues in the same 
 line (passing by Queen-Street on the left, and St. 
 John-Street on the right,) till Queen-Square ap- 
 pears*; this elegant monumental remembrance of 
 the talents of its architect, the senior Mr. 
 WOOD. Turn down into Barton-Street, in the 
 middle of which is Harrington-Place, exciting 
 no particular interest. At the bottom of Bar~ 
 ton- Street, on the right, is Beaufort- Square. As 
 a place of residence it has no pretensions what- 
 ever, the houses being small and irregularly 
 built, and the inhabitants, chiefly tradespeople. 
 This square, as it is termed, is only important 
 from its containing the grand entrance to the 
 NEW THEATRE ROYAL, which has an elegant 
 and attractive appearance, and is enclosed with 
 iron rails, with a large open space gravelled be- 
 fore it. 
 
 What though our stage some few recruits may own, 
 
 As senseless as the boards they tread upon ; 
 
 Though here, at times, some heroes may be found, 
 
 Who bid defiance both to sense and sound ! 
 
 Confounding every passage they rehearse, 
 
 Bad by degrees and miserably worse ; 
 
 Yet in this soil, by favour's sunshine reared, 
 
 Some buds of real talent have appeared ; 
 
 Aud splendid STABS* now grace the London sphere, 
 
 Whose earliest rays were nursed and kindled here. 
 
 * It was upon the Bath stage that Mrs. Crawford, Mrs. 
 Abingdon, Miss Brunton, Miss Wallis, Mrs. Siddons, and 
 Miss Smith, first developed their great talents ; as did also 
 Mesrss. Henderson, Incledon, Edwin, Lovegrove, Murray, 
 C. Taylor, and Elliston : and of a more recent date, the 
 above theatre has been distinguished with some performers 
 of rising merit, among whom maybe noticed, Mrs. W. Chat- 
 
142 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 The first regular erected Theatre in Bath was 
 in the year 1730, and which, it appears, did not, 
 when well filled, hold more than 30; but it 
 was a most miserable concern, and so badly at- 
 tended, that many of the principal performers 
 were compelled to retire to rest with appetites 
 not of the most enviable description. Such has 
 been the vicissitudes of many of the great heroes 
 of the Sock am] Buskin, if their present eminence 
 does not refuse the recollection of such days of 
 poverty and nights of sorrow. However, when 
 theatricals became rather more attractive, a New 
 Play-House was erected, in Orchard-Street, by 
 subscription; but this speculation soon met with 
 an unexpected opposition from a Mr. Simpson, 
 who patched up a sort of Theatre under the 
 Great Bail-Room. This rivalry, as might be 
 anticipated, did not last any great length of 
 time, as ruin stared both the Managers in the 
 face ; when Mr. Simpson, with much propriety, 
 ceased all opposition upon a substantial pension 
 of 200 per annum. In 1767, it became a 
 THEATRE ROYAL, under the direction of the 
 late JOHN PALMER, Esq. From this period, 
 theatrical amusements rose rapidly into estima- 
 tion, and obtained considerable patronage at 
 Bath ; and under the various managements of 
 Messrs. ARTHUR, LEE, KEASBERY, and the 
 late W. DIMOND, Esq. the performances not 
 only arrived at such a degree of excellence, but 
 ultimately proved a nursery for several of the 
 greatest actors, both male and female, that have 
 for the last fifty years adorned the stages of the 
 
 terly, and Messrs. Ward, Woulds, Mallinson, Blisset, W . 
 Chatterley, &c. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 143 
 
 metropolis with the highest specimens of his- 
 trionic talents. The late W. DTMOND, Esq. 
 added to his abilities as a manager, was also an 
 actor, both in tragedy and comedy, of the first 
 rank. His son William, the author of the Hero 
 of the North, the Foundling of the Forest, 
 Adrian and Orrilla, and several other popular 
 dramatic pieces, independent of various poetical 
 productions, has succeeded him in a share of the 
 property and management of the Theatre ; but 
 which at present is placed under the able con- 
 duct of Mr. Charlton. 
 
 The Theatre, in Orchard-Street, was at length 
 found too small for the accommodation of the 
 great increase of fashionable company ; and the 
 present NEW THEATRE-ROYAL in Beaufort- 
 Square and in Saw-Close, was opened in Oc- 
 tober 12, 1805. Its classical front, in the above 
 square, was designed by Nath. Dance, Esq. 
 and built under the direction of Mr. Palmer, a 
 most ingenious and able architect, who has hap- 
 pily united convenience with elegance. The situa- 
 tion is central, and its approach extremely safe 
 from its three distinct entrances. The exterior 
 is handsome; but its interior is finished in such 
 a high state of excellence, as to vie with any 
 building of a similar description. Its cieling, 
 which is divided into four compartments, has to 
 boast of some rich paintings by Cassalie, purchased 
 at the memorable sale of Foiithill, by Mr. ME- 
 THUEN, and who made them a present to the 
 proprietors of the Theatre. The decorations 
 are very splendid ; and the colouring and gilt 
 mouldings executed with much taste and effect. 
 There are three tier of boxes. The private ones, 
 
144 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 which are twenty-six in number, are enclosed 
 with gilt lattices. The tout ensemble of the 
 Theatre has a light, elegant, and classical ap- 
 pearance, in consequence of the pillars (which 
 are of cast iron) being placed at the distance of 
 two feet from the front, by which the first row 
 of each circle of the boxes appear as a balcony, 
 and not connected with the building. The pri- 
 vate boxes have also an elegant suite of retiring 
 rooms ; and the entrance to which is by a pri- 
 vate house. The length of the grand front in 
 Beaufort-Square is about 125 feet; 60 wide, 
 and 70 high : there are also various other build- 
 ings connected with the exterior, such as dress- 
 ing and scene rooms, wardrobes, &c. The 
 scenery is also excellent ; and the machinery is 
 equally good ; in short, the above Theatre, from 
 its size not being so extensive as those of Covent- 
 Garden and Drury-Lane, both the eye and the 
 ear derive the necessary gratification of seeing, 
 hearing, and comprehending the performances 
 before them. It will hold nearly 350, at 5s. 
 to the Boxes; 3s. to the Pit; and Is. 6d. to the 
 Gallery. The days of performance are on 
 Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. 
 
 On quitting Beaufort-Square the visitor finds 
 himself in Trim-Street, conspicuous in no other 
 respect, but merely containing the Unitarian 
 Chapel, which is rather a handsome erec- 
 tion. It is distinguished for its excellent sing- 
 ing, and also for the neatness of its pews and gal- 
 leries. Divine service is performed twice every 
 Sunday. To the left of the above street is Gas- 
 coyn-Place, and the BLUE SCHOOL soon appears 
 in sight. This most excellent charity, it seems, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 145 
 
 was projected in the year 1711, and the present 
 school-house, erected by Mr. Killegrew, the 
 architect, at the expense of 1000, in 1722, 
 by the active benevolence of the pious Robert 
 Nelson, Esq. It is an establishment for the 
 education of 50 poor boys, and the same number 
 of girls ; the former are instructed in reading, 
 writing;, and arithmetic; and the latter in sewing, 
 knitting, and housewifery business. On the 12th 
 of October, 17*22, Mr. Hoare laid the founda- 
 tion-stone, bearing this inscription: 
 
 " God's Providence is our Inheritance." 
 
 The age of admission is from six to twelve 
 years of age; and at fourteen, a premium, not 
 exceeding o^6, is given with each boy on his 
 bfin- apprenticed out to a trade with every 
 girl 2. It has ten trustees, including the 
 Mayor and two magistrates of the City, with 
 the Rectors of Bath and Walcot. It is sup- 
 ported by collections at the churches and cha- 
 pels ; by donations ; and from annual subscrip- 
 tions. Contiguous to the above school-house, in 
 the open space, the Coal - Market is situated, 
 where carts filled with coals always stand ready 
 for sale, and where the passenger is as much 
 assailed, in fact, more bothered and annoyed 
 by these carmen to purchase their articles, and 
 compelled to stop a:ul hear the various merits 
 of their coals,* than by a Monmouth-Street 
 
 * The neighbourhood of Bath presents a large quantity 
 of this fossile production ; which runs to the southward as 
 far as Mendip, continues on the Wiltshire side till it ap- 
 proaches the chalk, and stretches away into Gloucestershire, 
 beyond the city of Bristol. The coal-works, with which 
 
 L 
 
146 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 barker in London. It is no uncommon thing 
 for ten or a dozen of the above rude and uncul- 
 tivated beings to surround a person with their 
 teasings to become a purchaser. On the right 
 in this space, called Saw's Close, is the Garrick's 
 Head Tavern, and the carriage entrance to the 
 
 Bath is chiefly connected, lie on the north ami south side 
 of the Somerset Coal-Canal ; in a direction from the south- 
 west to the north-east, dipping about nine inches in a yard, 
 though the vein is frequently interrupted by what the work- 
 men call a fault, a separation occasioned by an early dis- 
 ruption or sinking of the earth, sometimes to the depth of 
 100 fathoms. Most of the works are from 90 to 130 fa- 
 thoms deep, and extend in some instances nearly a mile 
 from the bottom of the shaft ; but those which repay the 
 proprietor are of four sorts, and termed the great, the tittle, 
 the middle, and the sliving veins. The principal coal-works 
 are those of Radstock, Caraerton, Dunkerton, High Little- 
 ton, Timsbury, Paulton, Welton, and Writhlington. The 
 first of them sink to the depth of 42 fathoms, affording 
 veins of various thickness ; the most valuable of which mea- 
 sure nearly two feet. Their produce is 1600 bushels per 
 week upon an average. The Earl of WaldegraVe is the 
 lord, and has for his portion one-eighth of the produce. 
 
 In the Camerton mines, red-clay and red-stone continue 
 to the depth of 20 fathoms, or more, contiguous to the coal. 
 About Midsomer- Norton, Stratton-on-the-Fosse, and Kil- 
 mersdon, the pits are supposed to yield weekly from 800 
 to 1000 tons, requiring the labour of at least 500 men. 
 
 There are about ten coal-works in the northern, or Tims- 
 bury, line of the Coal-Canal j which, it is calculated, pro- 
 duce each (one day with another) 25 tons per day, reckon- 
 ing 300 working days in the year j and this, exclusive of 
 home consumption, coal for fire-engines, labourers, &c. The 
 southern line affords about half the quantity. The price at 
 the pit's mouth is invariably the same ; sevenpence per 
 bushel, or three-quarters of the hundred; but the hard, 
 compact, and solid coal is preferred to every other sort. 
 The coal of Newton is inferior to all the above, and chiefly 
 used for obtaining coke. WARNER. 
 

WALKS THROUGH BATH. 147 
 
 Theatre. Near to which, on the opposite side 
 of the road, are the warehouses of Symes and 
 Michell, the London carriers. On turning to the 
 left, when leaving the Close, is West gate-Street. 
 Trade is the leading feature of this part of the 
 town, and several well-furnished shops are to be 
 met with. Pass Bath and Parsonage Lanes ; at 
 the corner of the latter stands the PARSONAGE- 
 HOUSE, which is a very neat building of free- 
 stone. In the front of it is a large space, gra- 
 velled to admit carriages, which is enclosed with 
 iron rails ; and it has also a good entrance 
 through iron gates, and carries witli it such an air 
 of importance, that few visitors could pass this 
 handsome residence without the interrogation 
 being applied, of Who does it belong to ? The 
 living attached to it is 800 per annum, it 
 seems ; and the Rector had also the honour of 
 being appointed one of the Chaplains to the 
 Queen, during her late Majesty's visit to Bath. 
 Thanks to modern improvement, there is some 
 little difference between the village Preacher of 
 GOLDSMITH and his modest mansion, con- 
 trasted with the dwellings of the clergy of the 
 present period : GOLDSMITH'S Parson may do 
 very well, and gain admiration as a pleasing 
 poetic description, but for congregations now- 
 a-days to expect their teachers to sequester 
 themselves from the Beau Monde, would not 
 only prove too much of the Gothic, but ro- 
 mantic in the extreme : 
 
 Near yonder copse, where once the garden srail'd, 
 And still where many a garden flower grows wild, 
 There, where a few torn shrubs the place disclose, 
 The village preacher's modest mansion rose. 
 
 L'2 
 
148 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 A man he was to all the country dear, 
 
 And passing rich, with forty pounds a year ; 
 
 Remote from towns he ran his godly race, 
 
 Nor. e'er had chang'd, nor wish'd to change his place ; 
 
 Unskilful he to fawn, or seek for pow'r, 
 
 By doctrines fashion'd to the varying hour. 
 
 Far other aims his heart had learn'd to prize, 
 
 More bent to raise the wretched than to rise ; 
 
 His house was known to all the vagrant train, 
 
 He chid their wand'rings, but reliev'd their pain. 
 
 But a facetious poet (ANSTEY) seems to have 
 been more apposite in his view of the reality of 
 the subject, in thus describing modern Clergy- 
 men partaking of all the gaieties of fashionable 
 life, dancing at the balls, &c. 
 
 See little Bob Jerom, Old Chrysostora's son, 
 With a chitierling shirt, and a buckle of stone, 
 What a cropt head of hair the young parson has on ! 
 Emerg'd from his grizzle, th' unfortunate prig, 
 Seems as if he was hunting all night for his wig ; 
 Not perfectly pleas'd with the coat on his back, 
 Though the coat's a good coat, but alas, it is black ! 
 With curious eyes he is doom'd to behold 
 The captain's red suit that's embroider'd with gold ! 
 How seldom mankind are content with their lot, 
 Bob Jerora two very good livings has got. 
 Yet still he accuses his parents, deceas'd, 
 For making a man of such spirit a priest. 
 
 O trust me, blest spirit, I ne'er would offend 
 One innocent virgin, one virtuous friend ; 
 From Nature alone are my characters drawn, 
 From LITTLE Bob Jerom to bishops in lawn. 
 
 At the bottom of Parsonage- Lane is Cheap - 
 Street, where the houses are good, and the 
 shops of the most respectable description. Pro- 
 ceeding onwards, the Market - House and the 
 Guildhall, in High-Street, attractively arrests 
 the progress of the visitor. On the right, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 149 
 
 the venerable ABBEY may be said to be nearly 
 obscured, except just peeping, as it were, over 
 the tops of some irregularly built houses : 
 
 The citizens of Bath, with vast delight, 
 To hide their noble church from vulgar sight, 
 Surround its venerable sides with shops, 
 And decorate its walls with chimney tops ! 
 
 The Public Market is a structure well de- 
 serving the attention of every visitor of Bath, 
 not only from its very judicious construction, 
 but for its convenience, cleanliness, and good 
 order. The market-days are on Wednesdays and 
 Saturdays. It is also of great extent, and the 
 shambles are secured from rain, which are prin- 
 cipally occupied by the country butchers : the 
 meat is excellent, and is remarkable for the 
 neatness with which it is slaughtered. The 
 Green-Market is also well laid out, and pro- 
 perly supplied with vegetables in the greatest 
 perfection. 
 
 The Butter and Pork Market is a large 
 building connected with the butchers' shambles. 
 The butter is peculiarly tine, and may be deemed 
 one of the luxuries of Bath. The fish and 
 poultry stalls are also convenient and well 
 supplied, which are in rows in the front of the 
 market. In short, an hour or two may be well 
 exercised in minutely observing the various 
 parts of this market, which has ever been the 
 boast of its inhabitants, and also claiming the 
 admiration and praise of every person who has 
 witnessed the excellent mode with which it is 
 supplied and conducted. The Corporation, in 
 order to do justice to the buyer and seller, em- 
 
150 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 ploy men in the weighing houses erected close 
 to the shambles. 
 
 The GUILDHALL, which is close to the Mar- 
 ket-House, is one of the most elegant buildings 
 in Bath, and must be viewed as a great orna- 
 ment to this part of the City. Its noble ap- 
 pearance at once bespeaks its importance, and 
 reflects great credit on the abilities of the ar- 
 chitect, Mr. BALDWIN. The first stone of 
 which was laid in 1766; but the undertaking 
 was discontinued till 1775, when it was com- 
 pleted. The front in High- Street is of the 
 Composite order, and pronounced to be a fine 
 piece of architecture ; the other front towards 
 the market is equally handsome; but it is too 
 much enveloped by buildings to discover its 
 beauties. The edifice is terminated on each 
 side by two wings which extend 50 feet in 
 length. The Banqueting or Ball Room, which 
 is on the principal story, is 80 feet long, 40 feet 
 wide, and 31 feet high. It is finished with 
 great taste, and the harmony of its proportions 
 are the admiration of every spectator. A Draw- 
 iiig-room and Council-room are also attached to 
 it. Over one of the chimney-pieces in the 
 Banqueting-room is a most curious and beauti- 
 ful bronze head of Minerva, originally brass 
 gilt, dug up in Stall-Street, at 16 feet from the 
 surface of the earth, in 17*27. It is viewed as a 
 most interesting piece of antiquity. This room 
 is also enriched with whole length portraits of 
 the King and her late Majesty, the Prince and 
 Princess of Orange, and the first Earls of Cha- 
 tham and Camden, in compliment to the former 
 as one of the Representatives of the City, and 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 151 
 
 the latter as the Recorder. It has likewise a 
 large finely executed marble bust of his present 
 Majesty, by Turnerdli, done when the King 
 had attained his fiftieth year, and presented to 
 the Coporation by a gentleman: and out of re- 
 spect shown to him when at Bath, his late Royal 
 Highness Frederick Prince of Wales also pre- 
 sented a magnificent silver-gilt cup and salver to 
 the Corporation, which passes round upon all 
 public occasions, upon any toast being given. 
 The basement story contains a capacious kitchen, 
 with convenient offices ; and on which stands 
 the ground-floor, consisting of a vestibule, a 
 justiciary-room, a drawing-room for the Mayor, 
 the town -clerk'* otlice, a withdrawing-room for 
 the Jury, a deputy town's clerk office, a com- 
 mon clerk's ditto, and a lobby near the grand 
 staircase for the Mayor's officers. In every 
 point of view, the GUILDHALL is well worthy 
 the inspection of the visitor. 
 
 CITY BALLS. In consequence of the prohi- 
 bition which the trading part of Bath experience 
 in not being esteemed eligible to visit the Dress 
 Boxes of the THEATRE, or the UPPER and 
 LOWER ASSEMBLY ROOMS: such exclusion is 
 thus ridiculed in a recent poetic production : 
 
 Here, salutary rules exclude all those 
 
 Whom no one hears of, and whom no one knows ; 
 
 That no plebeian breathings may infect 
 
 An atmosphere at all tiroes so select ; 
 
 No bankers' clerks these splendid realms invade; 
 
 .Yo FOLKS who carry on a retail trade ; 
 
 Jso aclors by profession must appear 
 
 To act their parts, or speak their speeches here ; 
 Yft even here, amid the crowds you view, 
 'Tis sometimes difficult to tell WHO'S WHO. 
 
152 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 The MAYOR, it seems, to afford the wives 
 and daughters of the Citizens of Bath an agree- 
 able and desirable place of resort, in order that 
 they may participate in the pleasing recreation 
 of the " light fantastic toe," upon an equality 
 of station in life, and without encountering the 
 sneers of the lofty part of the creation, has, with 
 much gallantry, permitted the free use of the 
 magnificent room at the Guildhall for a Ball, 
 and the room adjoining for a Card Assembly 
 throughout the season. These Balls are regu- 
 lated by a Master of the Ceremonies, and are 
 held every alternate Monday throughout the 
 season. The M. C. is remunerated by a Benefit 
 Ball. 
 
 In the above GUILDHALL are held the Ses- 
 sions, which occur four times every year; and 
 extend to the cognizance of the misdemeanours 
 committed within the precincts of the Corpora- 
 tion Liberties. A Court of Record also sits 
 every Monday, which determines all personal 
 actions within the same jurisdiction, provided 
 the debt or damages amount to or exceed 
 forty shillings. A Court of Requests is holden 
 every Wednesday Morning, for the recovery of 
 debts under forty shillings ; and not exceeding 
 10, within the City, and the hundred of Bath- 
 forum, Claverton, and VVellow. The Chairman 
 must be a barrister of six years standing, and 
 specially appointed by the Lord Chancellor. 
 Some curious appeals, it should seem, have been 
 made to this court, not exactly in unison with 
 the gravity and demeanour of its proceedings, 
 by some of the tender-hearted sex, who have 
 been compelled to summons before this tribunal 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 153 
 
 certain gallant gay Lotharios, who have not had 
 honour enough to pay for favours conferred upon 
 them ; and although these sort of circumstances 
 could not be subject matter of serious argument, 
 or come exactly under the cognizance of a court 
 founded only for the recovery of bonafide debts, 
 yet some of these frailties of nature, it is said, 
 have found relief under the disguised items of a. 
 washing-bill. 
 
 The County Magistrates regularly meet every 
 Friday in the Guildhall, to transact all the jus- 
 ticiary business connected with the Bath dis- 
 trict. As Bath has no manufactory, and but 
 little trade, the generality of the natives are well 
 known to each other, which tends to operate as 
 a powerful check upon all attempts at open 
 fraud, violence, or breaches of the peace. Rows 
 at night are not very common ; and charges of 
 house-breaking are seldom heard of within the 
 City : the exertions of the Magistrates, aided by 
 their well-regulated police, render Bath almost 
 as vigilantly looked after as a military garrison. 
 The City of Bath most certainly, for the excel- 
 lence of its watch, and being well lighted, has to 
 boast of these qualifications in a very high point 
 of view. 
 
 Nearly opposite to the Guildhall is Fremont's 
 Coach-Office, and also the banking-house of 
 Messrs. Clement, Tugwell, and Mackenzie. 
 This street also contains the following good inns : 
 the White Lion Inn, Greyhound, and Chris- 
 topher ; and in consequence of the situation of 
 the Market, it is all trade, bustle, and activity. 
 Northumberland-Place is contiguous, and not 
 unlike Cranbourne-Alley in London, containing 
 
154 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 many excellent shops for the ladies. Adjoining 
 High-Street is Northgate- Street, at the corner 
 of which is the Bank of Messrs. Brown, Cava- 
 naugh, Bailey, and Brown ; to the left leads to 
 the Upper Borough Walls. Here are also 
 avenues leading to New Bond-Street, Green- 
 Street, and Broad-Street. In the latter is si- 
 tuated the PUBLIC GRAMMAR SCHOOL ; it is an 
 elegant building, and was originally founded and 
 endowed by King Edward VI. for the instruction 
 of the sons of the Freemen of Bath. The first 
 stone of the present building was laid by the 
 Mayor and Corporation, and the existing Com- 
 panies, in 1752, bearing the following inscrip- 
 tion : 
 
 " Auspicate surgat hocce Domicilium, ad humaniores 
 Literas bonasque Artes disseminendas bene ac sapienter 
 designatum. Hoc jecit Fundamentum FRAXCISCUS HALES, 
 hujus Urbis Praetor, Mensis Mali diei 9. A. D. MDCCLII. 
 AnnoqueregnantisGEORGII SECUNDI 25." 
 
 It has also several apartments for the accom- 
 modation of boarders. The Master of the 
 School is a very handsome appointment, having 
 80 per annum, and the living of Charlcombe, 
 near Bath, attached to it. St. Michael's Church 
 is now passed by the visitor, which stands 
 in an awkward situation, and has a very heavy 
 and gloomy appearance. In the erection of 
 this church, which was begun in 1732, and 
 finished 1742, it seems economy was preferred 
 to taste and beauty of design; and a mere 
 plodding stone-mason, of the name of Harvey, 
 was selected as the builder, instead of that in- 
 genious architect, Mr. Wood, whose plans \\ere 
 rejected. It is 63 feet in length, and 37 in 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 156 
 
 breadth ; and the roof is completely out of all 
 proportion. St. Michael's Church, viewed as a 
 structure, is an annoyance to the admirers of 
 architecture in Bath. Walcot-Street adjoins to 
 it, and is entirely devoted to shops and trade ; 
 and contains a large Pin- Manufactory, which 
 employs nearly 100 poor boys and girls. 
 Near to this place is a spacious and commodious 
 Mart for cattle, sheep, and pigs ; and also an ex- 
 tensive building used as a CORN-MARKET. 
 Being contiguous to the river it is extremely 
 convenient and well calculated for the despatch 
 of trade. Through Cornwall - Street to Lady 
 Mead: 
 
 Ah, turn thine eyes 
 
 Where the poor houseless shiv'ring female lies ; 
 She once, perhaps, in village plenty blest 
 Has wept at tales of innocence distrest ; 
 Her modest looks the cottage might adorn, 
 Sweet as the primrose peeps beneath the thorn ; 
 Now lost to all ; her friends, her virtue fled, 
 Near her betrayer's door she lays her head ; 
 And pinch'd with cold, and shrinking from the show'r, 
 With heavy heart deplores that luckless hour, 
 When idly first, ambitious of the town, 
 She left her wheel and robes of country brown. 
 
 Here is situated a most excellent institution, 
 and highly honourable to the citizens of Bath, 
 denominated the Bath Penitentiary and Lock 
 Hospital, under the patronage of His Serene 
 Highness Prince Leopold of Cobourg. The 
 President is Lord Gwydir ; and the internal di- 
 rection and management is superintended by a 
 Committee of ladies. The above laudable cha- 
 rity has not only saved several unfortunate 
 diseased victims from a wretched death, but 
 
156 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 ultimately convinced them of their errors, and 
 restored them again to the arms of society, re- 
 formed in manners, and possessing a knowledge 
 of the advantages of religion. It is supported 
 by annual subscriptions ; and it was established 
 in 1805, under the auspices of the then Mayor 
 of Bath, Charles Philpott, Esq. It is a neat in- 
 teresting building, and enclosed with gates. To 
 the left of Chatham-Row is Walcot Burying 
 Ground, which appears to have been the burial 
 place of the Romans 1700 years since. Upon 
 the other side of the road, upon an ascent, stands 
 Walcot Church, dedicated to St. Swithin, which 
 is a handsome stone building, and enlarged in 
 1780 ; which additions are considered to have 
 materially injured its original beauty and pro- 
 portion of design. (This parish alone is con- 
 sidered to contain 20,000 souls ; and its returns 
 to Government are greater than any parish in 
 England, excepting that of Mary-le-bone.) The 
 interior of the above church is extremely in- 
 teresting, it might be said grand ; the sides 
 of which are filled with numerous monuments ; 
 and among a number of excellent ones, the 
 following epitaph, written in memory of James 
 Hare, Esq. M.P. for Knaresborough, the friend 
 and companion of the principal great wits of 
 the age in which he lived, by the late Georgiana, 
 the eloquent, beautiful, and accomplished 
 Duchess of Devonshire: 
 
 " Hark ! 'twas the knell of death ! what spirit fled, 
 And burst the shackles man is doom'd to bear ? 
 
 Can it be true ? and, 'midst the senseless dead, 
 
 Must sorrowing thousands count the loss of HARE ? 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 157 
 
 " Shall not his genius life's short date prolong ? 
 
 (Pure as the ether of its kindred sky ;) 
 Shall wit enchant no longer from his tongue, 
 
 And beam in vivid flashes from his eye ? 
 
 " Oh, no : that mind, for every purpose fit, 
 
 Has met, alas ! the universal doom ; 
 UnrivalPd fancy, judgment, sense, and wit, 
 
 Were his, and only left him at the tomb. 
 
 " Rest, spirit, rest ! for gentle was thy course ; 
 
 Thy rays, like beams divine, no venom knew, 
 For still benevolence allay'd the force 
 
 Of the keen darts thy matchless satire threw. 
 
 " Yet not alone thy genius we deplore, 
 Nor o'er thy various talents drop the tear ; 
 
 But weep to think we shall behold no more 
 A lost companion, and a friend sincere." 
 
 Pass by London-Terrace, near to which is 
 Camden- Street, Nelson and Margaret Places, 
 and Walcot-Parade; at the end of which descend 
 a flight of steps, cross the road, return oil the 
 right a short distance, and a passage to " the 
 FERRY" offers itself on the left. The relief 
 then from the busy hum of trade is enjoyed 
 in the prospect of trees, water, &c. On crossing 
 the Avon, the view is quite romantic all along 
 the sides of the river, and the trees are seen drop- 
 ping into the water. The ferry-boat, called "THE 
 INDUSTRY," has a flat broad bottom, commodious 
 and very safe ; and for which accommodation 
 one penny is paid. The Avon is narrow, and a 
 rope is fixed to the trees from one side to the 
 other, by which the ferryman pulls himself and 
 his company over. Upon landing and turning to 
 the right, a small walk presents itself with se- 
 veral pleasing gardens, and the eye is not one 
 instant at a loss for subjects, the variety being 
 
158 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 so great. The town of Bath, the Abbey, 
 churches, lofty edifices, &c. occupying the 
 mind of the contemplative pedestrian till he ar- 
 rives at Henrietta-Street, where the door of 
 some friend may, perhaps, invite him to rest 
 himself from this pleasant and highly diversified 
 walk. 
 
 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 159 
 
 WALK V. 
 
 From Upper Camden- Place to Lansdown-Road, Mount- 
 Pleasant, pass Spencer's Bell Vue and Lansdoztm- 
 Grove. Lansdown- Place, Efist and West, and the 
 CRESCENT. (ALL SAINTS' CHAPEL.) From Somer- 
 set-Place, pass by Somerset- House to Cavendish 
 Crescent and Place. Park- Place, Upper Park- 
 Street and St. James's Square. Marlborough- 
 Street and Marlborough-Buildings to the ROYAL 
 CRESCENT. Return by Crescent- Fields through 
 Brock-Street, the CIRCUS, Bennet-Street, pass 
 Belmont-Row, the Belvidere, to Upper Camden- 
 Pfacc. 
 
 UPPER CAMDEN-PLACE commands for miles a 
 most interesting, extensive, and picturesque 
 prospect. This tine high terrace, which is a 
 delightful place of residence, possesses a broad 
 pavement, a carriage-road in front of it, and en- 
 closed with iron-rails to render it perfectly safe. 
 To the left of which is seen the handsome build- 
 ings on the London-Road, that give such an 
 elegant appearance to the entrance of Bath. 
 The high hills in front of Camden-Place ; Pryor- 
 Park at a distance on the right ; a pleasing view 
 of Sydney-Gardens and the New Church at 
 Bathwick; the houses beneath, with Walcot 
 Church and Chapel; added to other numerous 
 objects which crowd upon the eye, form a pano- 
 ramic view so rich and extensive, as only to be 
 
J60 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 seen to gain admiration from the beholder. The 
 winding of the Avon, and the venerable Abbey in 
 perspective, tend to increase the beautyof the scene. 
 The sloping of the houses also add to the effect. 
 Turning to the right is the Lansdown-Road, 
 opposite to which is the Belvidere-Hotel, leaving 
 Mount-Pleasant on the left. Pass Spencer's 
 Bell Vue, and on the right is Lansdown-Grove ; 
 contiguous to which is Lansdown- Place, East 
 and West, and the Crescent, which is considered 
 the highest situation in Bath. It has a fine 
 pavement, carriage-road, iron-rails, lamps, &c. 
 and a green plot for walking upon in the front of it. 
 The Crescent is a noble pile of building; and its 
 extraordinary elevation is the admiration of every 
 spectator, and which completely overlooks the 
 City. By comparison, it is like looking down 
 from the top of St. Paul's Cathedral into the 
 streets of London. All Saints' Chapel is seen 
 rising in the declivity, or grove, beneath the 
 Crescent, and which is no trifling addition to this 
 handsome range of houses. This chapel is a most 
 elegant structure, and was built by a subscription 
 of gentlemen, in the Gothic style, from a plan of 
 Mr. Palmer, the architect, and was opened in 
 1794. The interior of which is very pleasing 
 and attractive. In length it is 64 feet, and in 
 breadth 46; exclusive of four recesses, with a 
 fire-place in each. It has a light oval gallery, 
 which is supported by eight slender pillars, that 
 also ascend to the roof. The central part of the 
 ceiling, which is likewise oval, rises six feet 
 higher than that over the gallery, and is deco- 
 rated with rich stucco ornaments. Above the 
 gallery are twelve large windows, upon which 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 161 
 
 are the heads of the Apostles painted, and en- 
 riched with variegated glass. A transparent 
 painting of the Lord's Supper also decorates 
 the window over the altar. Mr. Baker was the 
 designer of all these ornaments. Contiguous 
 to the Crescent is Somerset-Place, also a very 
 elegant circular range of buildings, with a grass 
 plot, &c. in the front of it. Descending from 
 this lofty situation by Somerset -House the new 
 row of very fine residences, called Cavendish- 
 Crescent appears, which has also its small grass 
 promenade attached to it. Pass by St. Winifred's 
 Cottage to Cavendish-Place, which has to boast 
 of virandas and balconies to most of the houses. 
 Turning on the left is Park-Place, and on the 
 right Upper Park-Street, which leads into Sf. 
 James's Square. At every step the visitor takes, 
 nothing but elegance meets his eye ; and pro- 
 ceeding in a straight line the Square is left, Marl- 
 borough-Street is passed, and at the bottom of 
 Marlborough- Buildings, (a long range of re- 
 spectable habitations,) the very acme and gran- 
 deur of all Bath is now obtained, namely, the 
 ROYAL CRESCENT. 
 
 How many varied joys delight 
 
 Thy subjects, morning, noon, and night, 
 
 And make their moments pleasant : 
 With boots and military heels, 
 Some love to guide their tandem-wheels, 
 
 And dash along the CRESCENT. 
 
 The above CRESCENT, consisting of thirty 
 houses, is of an elliptical form, with a single 
 order of Ionic pillars, supporting the superior 
 cornice. The fronts of the houses, which ter- 
 minate each end of the CRESCENT, have an 
 
 M 
 
162 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 imposing effect. Independent of a wide pave- 
 ment, a broad carriage-road, and a fine lawn in 
 front, enclosed with iron rails, it has also a 
 capacious gravel-walk for foot passengers. The 
 Crescent-Fields, declining towards the Avon, 
 with the addition of some charming subscription 
 grounds, tastefully laid out, and in high cultiva- 
 tion, with its delightful surrounding scenery, 
 view of the City, and commanding prospect of 
 the opposite hills, render the tout ensemble emi- 
 nently fascinating. The above superb assem- 
 blage of private residences may be pronounced 
 without an equal in the kingdom ; but notwith- 
 standing the spectator is almost momentarily 
 lost in admiration with the beauty of their form, 
 it appears, they have not escaped the rigid test 
 of architectural criticism, and some degrees 
 of fault have been found with the upper parts 
 of the buildings. The ROYAL CRESCENT was 
 built after the design of Mr. WOOD, jun. to 
 whom Bath is much indebted for his indefatiga- 
 ble exertions and classic taste. No lodgings, it 
 appears, are to be obtained in the CRESCENT; 
 and it is often difficult to procure houses. At 
 all times it is an attractive promenade for the 
 visitors of Bath; but in the season, of a Sunday, 
 it is also crowded with fashionables of every 
 rank; and with the addition of the splendid 
 barouche, dashing curricle, elegant tandem, 
 gentlemen on horseback, &c. the ROYAL CRE- 
 SCENT strongly reminds the spectator of Hyde- 
 Park, Rotten-Row, and Kensington-Gardens, 
 when adorned with all their brilliancy of com- 
 pany. The smart trading inhabitants of the City, 
 and numerously neatly-apparelled pretty females, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 163 
 
 (notwithstanding they have not had the good 
 luck to have been born gentlewomen, here enjoy 
 their leisure hour, participating in the pleasures 
 which this delightful promenade affords them, 
 and from which walk, unfashionable RULES can 
 exclude their presence,) add not a little to the 
 interest of the lively scene: 
 
 What is BON TON ? 
 
 Old dowagers dress'd, painted, patch'd, and curl'd 
 This is BON TON, and this we call the World! 
 " True," says my lord, " and thou, my only son, 
 Whate'er your faults, ne'er sin against BON TON !" 
 Each have their purlieus too, are modish each, 
 In stated districts, wigs as well as speech : 
 ' Ah ! I loves life, and all the joys it yields," 
 Says Madam Fussock, warm from Spitalfields. 
 " BON TON'S the space 'twixt Saturday and Monday, 
 " And riding in a one-horse chair o' Sunday !" 
 Such is BON TON ! and walk this city through, 
 In building, scribbling, fighting, and virtd, 
 And various other shapes, 'twill rise to view. 
 
 On quitting the ROYAL CRESCENT, the visitor 
 will soon pass through Brock-Street to the 
 CIRCUS. Bennet-Street leads to Belmont-Row ; 
 and, upon passing the Behidere, Upper Camden- 
 Place is, at length, obtained : where, perhaps, 
 some little refreshment and rest will not only 
 prove extremely acceptable to the traveller, but 
 enable him to recapitulate the various objects 
 he has been delighted with throughout the whole 
 
 Of this ELEVATED WALK. 
 
 M 2 
 
164 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 WALK VI. 
 
 THEPROMENADE TO WESTON;THE HYDE-PARK, OR 
 KENSINGTON-GARDENS, OF BATH. 
 
 From the LIBRARIES, in Milsom-Street, pass by Edgar- 
 Buildings, through George-Street, into Guy-Street, 
 and the CIRCUS. From Brock-Street, pass by the 
 ROYAL CRESCENT, Marlborough - Buildings, to 
 Weston-Gate. Pass Sion-Hill, (HousE OF PRO- 
 TECTION,) on the Road, and Moravian Burying- 
 Ground. The Village of Wcston, (NATIONAL 
 SCHOOL, the CHURCH, and BURYING-GROUND). 
 The WATERFALL. Return through Bartons 
 Fields to Nile-Street and Norfolk- Crescent. 
 
 Whether thou art wont to rove 
 
 By PARADE, or ORANGE GROVE, 
 
 Or to breathe a purer air 
 
 In the Cincus or the SQUARE : 
 
 Wheresoever be thy path, 
 
 Tell, O tell, the joys of BATH. 
 
 WHEN the weather invites, a walk to the neat 
 and pretty village of Weston cannot fail in af- 
 fording gratification and delight to every visitor 
 of Bath ; and, in the spring part of the season, it 
 may be viewed as a grand promenade, and is well 
 frequented by most of the fashionable company 
 in the City. It is not only attractive from the 
 shortness of its distance, which does not ex- 
 ceed a mile and a half, but it should also seem, 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 16o 
 
 that the road to this interesting village being on 
 level ground, accounts for its proving such an 
 agreeable and pleasant walk to the quality, as 
 scarcely any other situation in or about Bath, 
 but the visitor has to experience the labour and 
 fatigue of an ascent. After participating in the 
 fashionable bustle in Milsom-Street, the perusal 
 of the newspapers, conversation, &c. at the Li- 
 braries, time enough is left, previous to dinner, 
 to enjoy this little elegant tour. On quitting 
 Milsom-Street, pass Edgar- Buildings, and 
 turning to the left, George-Street leads to Gay- 
 Street, and the CIRCUS soon appears. It is 
 true, that some fastidious judges of architecture 
 have found fault with the dull uniformity (as 
 they term it) of this place ; but to those persons 
 who are not blessed with scientific vision, or 
 having to boast of a microscopic eye to search 
 for nothing else but blemishes and defects, which 
 might almost be said to be completely out of 
 sight, the CIRCUS will be found well worthy 
 the observation of every man of taste, and ad- 
 mirer of elegant mansions. Indeed, let the 
 visitor go through the CIRCUS as often as he 
 will, it is almost impossible to pass such a fine 
 range of buildings with indifference; nay more, 
 without being impressed with their beauty and 
 grandeur. Brock-Street is soon hurried through, 
 till the ROYAL CRESCENT again demands the 
 attention and admiration of the spectator. Of 
 this, too, it might be observed, that even in Italy 
 its excellence could not be forgotten. On the 
 right, Marlborough- Buildings leads up to Wes- 
 ton-Gate, when the visitor turns on his left into 
 the road. The prospect is now enchanting on 
 
166 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 all sides, to the right of which are numerous ele- 
 vations, the high Common, Sion-House, Winifred- 
 House, &c. the ascent to which is gained by a 
 pleasing field. At the bottom of Sion-Hill is 
 the HOUSE OF PROTECTION, established in 1805, 
 for the benefit of young females when dismissed 
 from school or destitute of friends; the number 
 being limited to twelve, and none admitted un- 
 der thirteen. Lady Isabella King is the Patro- 
 ness, assisted by eight Lady Governesses ; three 
 gentlemen also as Guardians ; and a Treasurer. 
 The governesses take it in turn to visit the house 
 daily, from 12 till 2, to hear the girls read, &c. 
 they are likewise taught sewing, washing, and 
 every thing necessary to qualify them as good 
 servants. One of the governesses also attends 
 on a Sunday to teach them their religious duties. 
 No girl can be admitted without bringing with 
 her a proper change of clothes ; also a good 
 character, and the certainty of her distressed 
 situation. It is supported by subscriptions ; 
 and its benefits are confined to the inhabitants 
 of Bath. On continuing along the road the 
 prospect on the left of which is extensive and 
 pleasing; and the Burying-Ground, with a small 
 house attached to it, belonging to the sect of 
 Moravians is here situated. On passing through 
 two fields on the right of the road, the visitor 
 arrives at the Village of Weston. The houses 
 are all built of freestone ; and this little retreat, 
 which is occupied by numerous laundresses, has 
 altogether a superior appearance. The " Vil- 
 lage," in unison with " the National School" 
 is a plain neat building ; the boys are educated 
 011 the one side, and the girls on the other. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 167 
 
 At the extremity of the Village is a WATERFALL, 
 well worthy the observation of the spectator. 
 The Church is a small erection ; but the nu- 
 merous monuments in its Burying-Ground are 
 highly attractive and interesting, the principal 
 part of which are enclosed in iron rails ; most 
 of the inscriptions are cut upon a black ground, 
 with the letters jjilt, and the ornaments are of 
 gold. At the upper end of the Ground is a 
 new monument, made of freestone, by Harris, 
 sen. of Bath, the execution of which displays 
 much talent as a piece of sculpture. The de- 
 sign consists of four slight Ionic pillars, which 
 support the top of the monument; under which 
 is a marble urn, with some elegant folds of dra- 
 pery attached to it. The whole is encircled 
 with iron rails, and a chevaux-de-frieze of iron 
 is also at the top. The urn bears the following 
 inscription : 
 
 Beneath this tomb 
 are deposited the remains of the late 
 
 Right Honourable 
 
 Charlotte Viscountess Newcomen, 
 
 of Carricikglass, in the County of Longford, 
 
 In the Kingdom of Ireland, 
 Who died May 16, 1817, aged 69. 
 
 Upon the side of it are the following lines: 
 
 This monument was erected bv her ladyship's only son, the 
 Right Hon. Lord Viscount Newcomen, as a tribute of 
 duty and affection. 
 
 In the front of the above tomb, the coat of arms 
 and the supporters are well executed. 
 
 At no great distance there is also another 
 peculiarly neat monument of freestone, by 
 W. Lancashire, of Bath, dedicated to Marianna 
 
168 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 Juliane Watson, grand-daughter of the late 
 Bishop of Landaff, aged 6 years and 9 months. 
 
 Of such is the kingdom of God. 
 
 Both these monuments reflect great credit on 
 the above natives of Bath, for neatness of design 
 and elegance of execution. 
 
 In this Churchyard, the remains of poor 
 Lovegrove, the comedian, are also deposited. 
 He was highly respected both on the Bath and 
 London boards ; not only admired as a perfor- 
 mer of considerable talents, but, what is far more 
 lasting, valued as an honest worthy member of 
 society. His personification of Lord Ogelby 
 was a masterpiece of the art. But alas ! 
 
 Where are the jesters now ? the men of health 
 Complexionately pleasant ? Where the droll, 
 Whose every look and gesture was a joke 
 To clapping theatres and shouting crowds, 
 And make ev'n thick-lip'd musing MELANCHOLY 
 To gather up her face into a smile 
 Before she was aware ? Ah, sullen now, 
 And dumb as the green turf that covers them ! 
 
 On quitting this " complexion? (to which, 
 sooner or later, we must all arrive at.) once 
 more to gain the public road to get back to 
 Bath, the following emphatic words are painted 
 upon a board, by order of the Overseers of 
 the parish: " TAKE NOTICE, the idle and dis- 
 orderly of every sort and kind, found wandering 
 in and about Weston, will be dealt with ac- 
 cording to law." The above is rather a sort of 
 sweeping clause; and although it includes IDLERS 
 of every sort and kind, yet it can hardly be 
 presumed, that the Overseers had temerity 
 enough to include in their meaning the numerous 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 169 
 
 gentlemen idlers with which Bath always 
 abounds. On the right is a very handsome re- 
 sidence, with park-gates, lawn, &c. belonging to 
 Miss Whitehead. On passing this estate a short 
 distance, an opening leads to the Upper Bristol- 
 Road. Although the visitor, in returning to 
 Bath, may be considered as retracing his steps, 
 yet the prospect assumes a different aspect ; 
 but if he wishes not to return exactly to the 
 place from whence he set out, he can diversify 
 the scene by turning off into Barton's Fields 
 on the right, get into the road, go down Nile- 
 Street, and pay a morning visit to some friend, 
 in that elegant situation called Norfolk-Crescent, 
 or, if an invitation offers, stop and partake of a 
 dinner. 
 
170 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 WALK VII. 
 
 AN AQUATIC STROLL. 
 
 From the OLD BRIDGE, Broad-Quay, contiguous to 
 Clarke's Lane, Duck-Street, Wine-Street, and the 
 Lower Borough Walls, (BATH CITY INFIRMARY; 
 CATHARINE'S and BELLOT'S HOSPITAL); pass by 
 Little Corn, Avon, and Milk Streets. New-Quay, 
 Kingsmead-Terrace, Green-Park-Buildings, West, 
 Green-Park-Place, East, near to which are Sey- 
 mour, Charles, and James Streets. Proceed to 
 Norfolk-Crescent, the GASOMETER, and Brooke's 
 Lock. RETURN by the Upper Bristol- Road, 
 Mancroft-Place, Nelson-Street, into Nile-Street, 
 and pass the entrance to Norfolk- Crescent, into 
 Stanhope and New King-Streets, (METHODIST 
 CHAPEL,) and Kingsmead - Street, (CASUALTY 
 HOSPITAL,) Monmouth-Street, (UNITED BRE- 
 THREN'S CHAPEL; BATH ASSOCIATION FOR 
 AIDING THE MISSIONS OF THE UNITED BRE- 
 THREN, AND THE UNION BLUE SCHOOL.) Stable- 
 Lane to the Queen's Parade. 
 
 INDEPENDENT of its connecting Holloway 
 with Bath, and leading to the Upper Bristol- 
 Road, the OLD BRIDGE, viewed as a structure, 
 creates but little attraction to the eye of the 
 visitor. On the right of which, from Horse- 
 Street, is Broad-Quay ; but, notwithstanding 
 the important name of Quay is attached to it, 
 no bustle is experienced at this place, and it 
 might be termed a river without any business ; as 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 171 
 
 merely a few stones lying on the ground from 
 the different quarries, with not above a strag- 
 gling solitary barge or two, are to be seen, 
 seems the principal feature of traffic, which 
 occupies the inhabitants of a few little houses 
 situated alongside of the water. Still, however, 
 this aquatic stroll is pleasing, and not without 
 its advantages by comparison. On the opposite 
 side of the river are a few dull, worn-out build- 
 ings, or warehouses. Contiguous to the Broad- 
 Quay are the following places, Clarices Lane, 
 Back-Street, Gerrard- Street, Wine-Street, and 
 the Lower Borough Walls. In the latter situation 
 stands the Bath City Infirmary and Dispensary 
 for the Sick Poor. It is a most excellent institu- 
 tion, and the only general place for the sick 
 poor of the City of Bath ; and which is sup- 
 ported by annual subscriptions ; but persons 
 receiving parish pay are inadmissible. Vaccina- 
 tion is also performed here gratis. The house 
 is large, it appears, but, owing to the contracted 
 state of the funds, numbers cannot be relieved. 
 Near to which is St. Catharine's Hospital, the 
 Bimberries, or Black Alms, a very mean struc- 
 ture of fourteen habitations, for paupers of both 
 sexes. The inhabitants of which receive 3s. 6d. 
 per week, and a black coat every two years. Here 
 is also Bellot's Hospital, in Belltree-Lane, only 
 open in the warmer months, from Ladyday to 
 Michaelmas, where twelve men and women, 
 strangers to Bath, are lodged, and have a pri- 
 vilege of using the baths. It was founded in 
 the reign of James I. by Tho. Bellot, Esq. 
 
 Little Corn-Street is passed without claiming 
 any sort of observation ; but Avon-Street, the 
 
172 .WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 receptacle for unfortunate women, calls forth 
 very different sensations : and although it may be 
 termed the Wapping of Bath, it is but common 
 justice to observe, that it is far removed from 
 the disgusting scenes which are so publicly wit- 
 nessed at this memorable place at the east end 
 of the Metropolis. With all the vigilance of 
 the police of this elegant City, and its active 
 Corporation towards removing public nuisances, 
 BATH, in the height of its season, has its share 
 of the frail sisterhood ; but their language, man- 
 ners, and demeanour, are not of that very ob- 
 trusive nature which characterize these unhappy 
 females in London, Liverpool, andDublin. Houses 
 of ill-fame (or if a more genteel phrase is accept- 
 able, in the terms BAGNIOS, for such houses) 
 are to be discovered in BATH. Upon the search- 
 nights, which generally commence with much 
 activity upon the accession of a new Mayor into 
 office, some females of rather a higher cast, 
 with their amorous gallants, have been obliged 
 to acknowledge or show a sort of passport, to 
 account for their awkward situations, before 
 they could obtain a discharge the next morning. 
 
 Unknown by thee, how often did I meet 
 The loveliest forms of nature in the street, 
 
 The fair, the black, the lasting brown ! 
 And, whilst their charms enraptur'd I survey'd, 
 This pretty legend on their lips I read 
 
 ' Kisses, O gentle shepherd, for a crown." 
 
 Blest is the man who marks the cherry lip, 
 And sigheth not its nectar'd sweets to sip, 
 
 Nor press the heaving hills of purest snow ; 
 Who marks the love-alluring waist so taper, 
 Without one wish, or pulse's single caper, 
 
 And to his hurrying passions cries out, " NO !" 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 1 73 
 
 Stop, it' you please, young imps, your hot career, 
 And shun the precipice of Fate so near ; 
 Draw in, or, with the horses of the sun, 
 You drive like Phaeton, to be undone. 
 
 On quitting Avon-Street, pass by Milk-Street, 
 and the visitor arrives at the New Quay; this 
 latter designation, which generally indicates 
 trade, is equally unimportant in point of bustle 
 with the former Quay, and is merely a name ; 
 but where the prospect becomes more interest- 
 ing and picturesque. The situation of the river 
 is here rural and romantic, and the spectator 
 has no reason to regret the walk he has under- 
 taken. Kingsmead-Terrace, a pretty, really an 
 elegant residence, with handsome gardens before 
 it, claims an attractive attention from the pas- 
 senger. Proceeding forwards, is Green-Park- 
 Buildings, West, which is an elevated situation, 
 railed in, and also a delightful residence, con- 
 sisting of two sides, that of Green-Park- Place, 
 East, being joined to it, and brought to an 
 angle, with a field between them ; the point 
 of the angle leading to Seymour, Charles, and 
 James Streets. The effect is pleasing ; and the 
 look-out from the above buildings across the ri- 
 ver, added to the distant hills intersected with 
 trees, &c. is very fine. On proceeding farther, 
 at a short distance Norfolk-Crescent developes 
 itself, containing twenty-nine houses, not only of 
 a lofty character, but modelled after the most 
 elegant style of architecture. It has a fine broad 
 pavement, well lighted, and a long and enclosed 
 piece of garden before the Crescent, which is 
 laid out in a very picturesque style. The veran- 
 
174 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 das and balconies attached to the houses tend 
 to increase their elegant appearance. Various 
 new erections are also taking place in this part, 
 which strongly evince the disposition of the na- 
 tives of Bath to extend their City ; and likewise 
 a great proof of their increase in population. 
 Few boats are seen gliding along the " Avon ;" 
 not that Avon which has been so beautifully 
 and poetically described by the inimitable GAR- 
 RICK, in honour of our immortal bard : 
 
 Thou soft-flowing Avon, by thy silver stream, 
 
 Of things more than mortal sweet SHAKSPEARE would 
 
 dream ; 
 
 The fairies by moonlight dance round his green bed, 
 For hallow'd the turf is which pillow'd his head. 
 
 The love-stricken maiden, the soft sighing swain, 
 Here rove without danger, and sigh without pain. 
 
 It is however not altogether improbable, that 
 the romantic and interesting situation of the 
 Somerset Avon may yet inspire some poet to 
 breathe out his effusions in its praise ; * but 
 that it has often been the sacred spot where the 
 " love-stricken maiden " and " the soft-sighing 
 swain" have sworn eternal constancy, admits 
 not of the least shadow of doubt. The nume- 
 rous tender assignations in BATH admit the fact : 
 
 O ye guardian spirits fair, 
 All who make true love your care, 
 May I oft my Romeo meet, 
 Oft enjoy his converse sweet ; 
 I alone his thoughts employ, 
 Through each various scene of joy. 
 
 * It should however be recollected, it has not entirely 
 escaped the Muse of ANSTEV. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 177 
 
 the discipline and rules of this sect. Preaching 
 twice every Sunday, and on Monday and Friday 
 evenings. It is highly worthy of remark that 
 The Strangers' Friend Society was established at 
 Bath, in 1790, by I he above description of per- 
 sons, and formed upon the broadest principles 
 of liberality. It is totally unbiassed by party- 
 distinctions, and the only thing necessary to be 
 known is a sufficient proof of distress; when 
 this circumstance is ascertained to be the fqct, 
 the person is relieved, without regard to the 
 causes of that distress, and which is also accom- 
 panied by administering such religious advice 
 and consolation as may be deemed necessary. 
 It is supported by voluntary contributions, and 
 well worthy the imitation of every religious sect 
 in the kingdom. Proceeding onwards is Kings- 
 mead-Street, where that most excellent charita- 
 ble institution is situated the CASUALTY HOS- 
 PITAL. It was established, about thirty years 
 since, by Mr. Norman, surgeon, and supported 
 by donations and annual subscriptions. When- 
 ever an accident takes place, the unfortunate 
 object is instantly admitted into the house, 
 where he is provided with an apartment, a bed, 
 good provisions, a careful nurse, and the best 
 medical and surgical assistance. Some very fine 
 cures have been made in the CASUALTY HOS- 
 PITAL, lu the same street the Bath Journal is 
 also published. In Monmouth-Street, which is 
 contiguous to Kingsmead- Street, is situated the 
 Moravian, or the United Brethrens' Chapel ; it is a 
 small neat building, and has a good organ. Service 
 is performed twice every Sunday, and on Wednes- 
 day evenings. The Bath Association for aiding 
 
178 WALKS THROUQH BATH. 
 
 the Missions of the United Brethren in spread- 
 ing the blessings of Christianity among the Hot- 
 tentots, and in North and South America, &c. 
 is likewise held here. The treasurer of this 
 Institution is the Minister of the above sect. 
 The Union Blue-Coat School, which professes 
 to be open to all parties and professions, is also 
 in Monmouth-Street. The children are clothed 
 annually ; taught the principles of religion and 
 morality ; and, also, the means of acquiring a 
 decent living. Stable-Lane, from the above 
 street, leads into Queen's Parade, when the 
 visitor, in all probability, may feel himself 
 rather fatigued -with the variety of interesting 
 objects which have claimed his attention through- 
 out this aquatic walk, and feel no objection to 
 participate in some refreshment and rest. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 179 
 
 WALK VITI. 
 
 From High-Street, through Bridge-Street, across Pulte- 
 ney-Bridge, through Argyle Buildings, (INDEPEND- 
 ENT MEETING-HOUSE,) and Laura-Place. Pass 
 Grove, Johnston, and Henrietta Streets. Through 
 Great Pultency-Street, passing William and Sun- 
 derland Streets to SYDNEY HOTEL and Gardens. 
 At the top of Sydney-Place, on the right, stands 
 the QUEEN'S HOUSE. 
 
 The Triumph of Winter is o'er, 
 And Spring re-ill uraines the plain ; 
 
 The breezes are balmy once more ; 
 Adieu to the wind and the rain. 
 
 The PUMP-ROOM attraction now ceases, 
 For Fashion no more lingers there ; 
 
 The Fair-ones throw off their pelisses, 
 And cooler apparel prepare. 
 
 la Sydney Vauxhall, with your Venus, 
 The bustle of Bond-Street we'll shun, 
 
 Whilst pendant labarnums shall skreen us 
 Awhile from the heat of the sun. 
 
 FROM the bustle of High-Street, occasioned by 
 the business done at the TowN-IiALL, the buz 
 of the numerous persons in going to and from 
 the Market-House to procure the necessary ar- 
 ticles of life, which this latter place so finely 
 and abundantly affords, added to the noise from 
 the continual arrival and departure of the vari- 
 
 N2 
 
180 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 ous stage coaches, an immediate contrast is ob- 
 tained from a most elegant and quiet walk, which 
 presents itself in turning down by the White 
 Lion Inn, at the corner of Bridge-Street. 
 Pulteney- Bridge is soon crossed over, which, 
 from its communication with the other side of 
 the town, has produced incalculable advantages 
 to Bath. From this place, the view of SYDNEY 
 HOTEL and entrance to the Gardens, which ap- 
 pear at the bottom of Great Pulteney -Street, 
 not only operates as a complete finish to the 
 admirable piles of architecture by \\hich it is 
 surrounded, but it has a very pleasing and ele- 
 gant effect. Adjoining to the above bridge is 
 Ar gyle- Buildings, in which is situated Gibbon's 
 Public Library, and also the Independent Meet- 
 ing-House, (Mr. JAY'S,) which is a lofty hand- 
 some building; and its interior is very neat and 
 pleasing. It has also an excellent choir of 
 singers, who are accompanied by a fine-toned 
 organ ; a capacious gallery, and very commo- 
 dious pews. Divine service is performed twice 
 every Sunday, and on Thursday evenings. 
 Grove-Street is on the left, and at the bottom of 
 which is a pleasing view of Walcot Parade and 
 Terrace. Proceeding forwards Laura-Place, 
 which is very capacious, is seen to much ad- 
 vantage: and the houses all round it have a 
 very imposing appearance; in the middle of 
 Laura-Place is a small enclosure, with iron 
 rails, which gives it rather the look of a square. 
 To the right is Johnstone-Street, also composed 
 of elegant mansions, and at the bottom of 
 which the prospect is delightful, embracing an 
 extensive view of Prior-Park, and its superb 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 181 
 
 mansion ; the sprinkling of trees, houses, and 
 hills; the Sham Castle on the left. In the road 
 at no great distance is to be observed a new 
 range of houses; and farther improvements are 
 still aimed at in this quarter, by the formation 
 of a circular road, for which purpose, it is said, 
 ground has already been marked out. Upon the 
 other side of Laura-Place is Henrietta-Street, 
 in which is Laura-Chapel, which is a very ele- 
 gant and commodious building, and opened for 
 divine service in 1700. It was built on a ton- 
 tine subscription ; and is rendered very comfort- 
 able in the winter season by several fires. It 
 may not be improper to observe, that strangers, 
 admitted once into a seat in this place of wor- 
 ship, are expected upon any future attendance 
 to rent a sitting. A good view of Bacon-Hill is 
 obtained at the bottom of this street. From 
 Laura-Place. Great Pultency-Street now ap- 
 pears in all its architectural grandeur : the uni- 
 formity of the houses ; the extent of the car- 
 riage-road ; the width of the pavements, and 
 its great cleanliness, all combine to give Great 
 Pulteney- Street that sort of importance and air 
 of quality, which every visitor must feel in pass- 
 ing through it. William-Street, on the right, 
 possesses a pretty view towards Widcome, from 
 the middle of Great Pulteney-Street. The look- 
 out from Sunder land- Street, on the left, is ex- 
 tremely grand ; the high hills, the ranges of 
 various buildings at Walcot, rising proudly 
 higher and higher, give it a sort of amphitheatric 
 appearance, like ancient Rome, and relieved by 
 the garden-grounds beneath, form a very inte- 
 resting picture. The entrance to Sydney Ta- 
 
182 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 vern and Gardens has to boast of much respec- 
 tability ; and the tavern is a capacious and 
 elegant erection. 
 
 SYDNEY-GARDENS is one of the most pro- 
 minent, pleasing, and elegant features attached 
 to the City of Bath. The hand of taste is 
 visible in every direction of it ; and the plants 
 and trees exhibit the most beautiful luxuriance. 
 Upon gala-nights, the music, singing, cascades, 
 transparencies, fire-works, and superb illumina- 
 tions, render these gardens very similar to Vaux- 
 hall. The Orchestra is close to the back of the 
 Tavern, neatly arranged and elevated, with a 
 large open space before it, well gravelled. The 
 gradual ascent of the principal walk, that leads 
 to the top of the gardens up to a half-circular 
 stone pavillion, which is paved and covered in, 
 with a seat round it, and supported by several 
 stone pillars, upon a gala-night has a most bril- 
 liant effect, from the numerous variegated lamps 
 with which it is ornamented. The walks are all 
 well rolled and gravelled ; and seats and places 
 for refreshment are to be met with in various 
 parts of the gardens. The view, when seated in 
 the above pavillion down to the orchestra, 
 across arches covered with lamps, gives it a 
 very captivating appearance. Upon those nights 
 set apart for promenading only, a military band 
 attends; and music also enlivens the scene, 
 when public breakfasts are given. There are 
 also several swings, adapted for the ladies; and 
 others for gentlemen. Numerous covered-in 
 boxes ; and several alcoves formed with much 
 botanical taste, grottos, &c. render this pro- 
 menade highly attractive during the summer 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 183 
 
 evenings. In the most retired parts of the gar- 
 dens one of these grottos, it appears, was once 
 the happy meeting-place, and dedicated to the 
 tender passion, with a sincerity and animation 
 unrivalled, by one of the greatest geniuses that 
 ever adorned this or any other country, but who 
 is gone to that " bourne from whence no tra- 
 veller returns," following the superior, amiable, 
 and affectionate object of his heart, who had 
 also long been previously consigned to the icy 
 tomb of death. The remembrance of the late 
 RICHARD BRINSLKY SIIKIUDAN, Esq. and his 
 wife, Miss Linley, (termed the syren and angel of 
 the concerts at Bath,) must render this grotto 
 a most interesting feature to every lover of ta- 
 lent, elegance, and virtue, and in which the 
 following copy of verses were written by the 
 above patriotic senator, and left for that lady's 
 perusal : 
 
 Uncouth is this moss-cover'd grotto of stone, 
 
 And damp is the shade of this dew-dripping tree ; 
 
 Yet I this rude grotto with rapture will own ; 
 And willow, thy damps are refreshing to me. 
 
 In this is the grotto where DELIA reclin'd, 
 As late I in secret her confidence sought ; 
 
 And this is the tree kept her safe from the wind 
 As blushing she heard the grave lesson I taught. 
 
 Then tell me, thou grotto of moss-cover'd stone, 
 And tell me, thou willow with leaves diipping dew, 
 
 Did DELIA seem vex'd when HORATIO was gone ? 
 And did she confess her resentment to you ? 
 
 Mothinks now each bouuh, as you're waving it, tries 
 To whisper a cause for the sorrow I feel ; 
 
 To hint how she frown'd when I dar'd to advise, 
 And sigh'd when she saw that I did it with zeal. 
 
184 WALKS THROUGH BATH, 
 
 True, true, silly leaves, so she did, I allow ; 
 
 She frown'd ; but no rage in her looks did I sec : 
 She frown'd ; but reflection had clouded her brow : 
 
 She sigh'd ; but, perhaps, 'twas in pity for me. 
 
 Then wave thy leaves brisker, thou willow of woe; 
 
 I tell thee, no rage in her looks could I see ; 
 I cannot, I will not, believe it was so, 
 
 She was not, she could not, be angry with me. 
 
 For well did she know that ray heart meant no wrong j 
 It sunk at the thought but of giving her pain ; 
 
 But trusted its task to a faultering tongue, 
 
 Which err'd from the feelings it could not explain. 
 
 Yet, oh ! if, indeed, I've offended the maid ; 
 
 If DELIA my humble monitions refuse; 
 Sweet willow, the next time she visits thy shade, 
 
 Fan gently her bosom, and plead my excuse. 
 
 And thou, stone grot, in thy arch might preserve 
 Two lingering drops of the night-fallen dew ; 
 
 And just let them fall at her feet, and they '11 serve 
 As tears of my sorrow intrusted to you. 
 
 Or, lest they unheeded should fall at her feet, 
 
 Let them fall on her bosom of snow ; and to swear, 
 
 The next time I visit thy moss-cover'd seat, 
 I'll pay thee each drop with a genuine tear. 
 
 So may 'st thou, green willow, for ages thus toss 
 
 Thy branches so lank o'er the slow winding stream; 
 
 And thou, stone grotto, retain all thy moss, 
 
 While yet there's a poet to make thee his theme. 
 
 Naj, more may my DELIA still give you her charms 
 Each ev'ning, and sometimes the whole ev'ning long; 
 
 Then, grotto, be proud, to support her white arm, 
 Then, willow, wave all thy green tops to her song. 
 
 Upon the whole, SYDNEY-GARDENS must be 
 viewed not only as a great ornament to Bath, 
 but is another, among the numerous proofs of 
 the great anxiety of the inhabitants to render 
 the amusements of this elegant City, without a 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 185 
 
 parallel in the kingdom ! The Rennet and Avon 
 Canal runs through the gardens, with two ele- 
 gant cast-iron bridges thrown over it, after the 
 manner of the Chinese ; and the romantic and 
 picturesque scenery, by which they are sur- 
 rounded, is fascinating beyond measure. Great 
 opposition, it seems, was originally made to the 
 canal running through these gardens by the 
 proprietor ; but it gives such a variety to the 
 walks, that its introduction is now viewed as a 
 great addition. It would be a matter of some 
 difficulty to point out a spot of ground so taste- 
 fully laid out as SYDNEY-GARDENS. Vaux- 
 hall, it is true, may boast of its superiority for 
 brilliancy, and number of lamps, and vocal per- 
 formers ; but, in other respects, viewed as a 
 garden, the competition would be perfectly ri- 
 diculous. The Labyrinth, shown here at three- 
 pence each person, is an object of curiosity. 
 The inducement to enter it is one of Merlin's 
 swings, which appears not only very prominent, 
 but easy of access. However, it might puzzle 
 any cunning person, if left to himself and with- 
 out a clue, for six hours, to acquire the much 
 wished for spot ; and it is rather a difficult task 
 when the explorer of the Labyrinth has the di- 
 rection pointed out to him from a man stationed 
 in the swing. The inns and outs necessary to 
 be made, it is said, measure half a mile. When 
 the swing is made, and the secret unravelled, 
 the guardian of this sort of Fair Rosamond's 
 bower conveys the visitor once more into the 
 public walks ; the variety of which, that con- 
 tinually meet the eye of the promenader are 
 truly attractive. A most delightful piece of 
 
186 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 ground, like a bowling-green, enveloped with 
 trees, and a small natural cascade from a spring, 
 cannot be passed with indifference. The com- 
 pany, generally, are of the most respectable de- 
 scription; and upon some of the gala-nights, 
 upwards of 4000 persons have paid for admis- 
 sion, which is 2*. 6d. each. In fact, the most 
 fastidious observer cannot find fault with SYD- 
 NEY-GARDENS, which have also another advan- 
 tage to recommend them to the visitors of Bath, 
 namely, in having a surrounding ride, for the 
 accommodation of ladies and gentlemen on 
 horseback, that commands beautiful and ro- 
 mantic views, and of being free from dust in 
 the summer, and dirt in thq winter. The terms 
 of subscription for walking are for one month, 
 each person, 4*. ; for three months, 7*. 6d. ; and 
 the season, 10*. If two in one family, each 
 7. Gd. ; ditto, if three or more, each 6s. Non- 
 subscribers, for walking, 6rf. each time. Nursery- 
 maids with children in arms, one subscription. 
 Gentlemen and families may be accommodated 
 with elegant apartments at Sydney-House. The 
 terms of subscription to the ride, one month, 
 '2s. Gd. each person. Three months, 6*. Six 
 months, 10s. The year, 15s. Non-subscribers, 
 6d. each time. 
 
 On leaving the Gardens and turning round to 
 the left, at the bottom of Sydney-Place stands, 
 what is now called the QUEEN'S HOUSE, from 
 her late MAJESTY having occupied it during her 
 visit to Bath. Its principal recommendation, it 
 seems, was its capaciousness, as her MAJESTY 
 had given the preference to the ROYAL CRES- 
 CENT; but, in consequence of not being able 
 to procure four houses at this most delightful 
 
. 
 
 ! ty Ster*90d. Jb C* 
 

WALKS THROUGH BATH. 187 
 
 spot, which were required to contain the suite 
 of persons in attendance upon the QUEEN, the 
 above mansion was considered as the most eligi- 
 ble for the reception of royalty. Over the por- 
 tico of the hall -door is a look-out entirely 
 covered with glass, like a lantern. Every ex- 
 ertion was used to render it comfortable and 
 convenient to her Majesty ; and a barren gravel- 
 pit, which appeared in front of the house, was 
 soon metamorphosed into a pleasant shrubbery ; 
 a mast was also erected in the middle of it, and 
 upon which the royal flag was hoisted. The 
 bed-chamber commands a fine prospect of the 
 adjacent country, Prior - Park, fyc. fyc. An 
 interesting view of Sydney - Gardens also en- 
 riches the drawing-room. This apartment was 
 furnished by her Majesty's upholsterer, assisted 
 by several tradesmen of the City of Bath. It 
 had a magnificent appearance, and completely 
 in unison with the taste of royalty. The furni- 
 ture and carpet were grey ; and the chairs and 
 tables made of delicately looking rose-wood. 
 Of an evening it was brilliantly illuminated from 
 a twelve-light chandelier, suspended in the centre 
 of the room. The pavement is full six yards wide 
 in front of the house; and which is contiguous to 
 a new street forming, to be called Upper Great 
 Pulteney - Street, and will be, when finished, 
 fourteen feet wider than any other street in Bath. 
 The whole of this neighbourhood is truly at- 
 tractive ; and the visitor may retrace his steps 
 without the fear of encountering monotony ; but, 
 on the contrary, the superiority of the archi- 
 tecture will bear the most minute inspection with 
 increased satisfaction and interest till he returns 
 to High-Street. 
 
188 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 WALK IX. 
 
 From Great Pulteney-Street, turn down into Grove- 
 Street, (BRIDEWELL; and the GIRLS' FREE- 
 SCHOOL,) alongside of the Avon ; pass Waterloo- 
 Place into Widcombe. To PRIOR-PARK, through 
 ALLEN'S Walk to the Mansion- House ; pass Isabella 
 and Prospect Places, and Byfield-Buildings toCombe- 
 Down, into the Stone-Quarry. Return by Cla- 
 verton Dozen to the " BRASS KNOCKER," from 
 thence to the AQUEDUCT. Walk between the 
 Avon and the Canal. Claverton- Church, <' c - to 
 Bath-Hampton. Bailbrook- Lodge ; through Syd- 
 ney-Place to Great Pulteney-Street. 
 
 IN starting from Great Pulteney-Street, the 
 visitor will, for a moment, turn aside from the 
 mansions of fashion and elegance, to take a 
 cursory view of the abode of depravity and 
 misconduct, in order to render the view of this 
 highly-famed city complete and impartial. At 
 the bottom of Grove-Street, on the right, stands 
 the BRIDEWELL of Bath, on a piece of ground 
 160 feet each way, the exterior of which is 
 more like the residence of a gentleman, from 
 its architectural taste, than the gloomy walls of 
 a prison. It is from the iron bars across the 
 windows that principally designates its charac- 
 ter; but, " disguise thyself as thou wilt, "observes 
 STERNE, " still thou art a bitter draught !" The 
 
^VALKS THROUGH BATH. 189 
 
 interior is clean, though small; and the yards for 
 the different degrees of crime too much confined 
 for room. The small house in the middle of the 
 whole area is kept solely for the confinement of 
 the felons, but which appears scarcely big enough 
 to contain a dozen persons. It is also a prison for 
 debtors. Plans, it is said, are under the con- 
 sideration of the Corporation to erect a New 
 Gaol, or to enlarge the present prison; but its 
 inhabitants, however, are seldom numerous, 
 owing to its well-regulated police. In returning 
 up Grove-Street, (which also contains the Girls 
 Free-School, a most excellent institution, and 
 under the immediate protection of the Rev. Mr. 
 Warner,) an archway presents itself, which leads 
 immediately to the side of the Avon ; and, pro- 
 ceeding along the banks of the river, enjoying 
 the view of the various fine elevations, the vene- 
 rable Abbey, &c. Waterloo-Place is soon passed, 
 and, on turning to the left, the main street of 
 IFidcombe, this suburb of Bath is gained. This 
 outlet has also to boast of the high-sounding 
 names of Widcombe- Parade and Claverton- 
 Place. Turning on the right, at the bottom of 
 the Parade, the Poor-House, on a small hill, 
 is pleasantly and healthfully situated. At a 
 little distance from this spot is a large pair of 
 gates, which protect the private road to PRIOR- 
 PARK, the once celebrated seat of the benevo- 
 lent RALPH ALLEN, Esq. On the left of 
 which, upon a very high eminence, stands the 
 back part of Widcombe- Crescent, a range of 
 very handsome buildings. The prospect now 
 becomes pleasing, from the sprinkling of ele- 
 gant houses, particularly a small thatched 
 
190 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 Gothic cottage, upon a hill, on the right, which 
 serves to show the excellent taste adopted by 
 the builders of Bath. Pursuing a steady course, 
 another gate is passed, which originally was 
 called " ALLEN'S WALK." The considerate 
 disposition of this humane character had indu- 
 ced him, for the accommodation of the public, 
 to erect, in several parts of this walk, stone 
 seats ; but all of which are now removed. A 
 road to the left leads to Widcombe Church. 
 On a very lofty eminence stands the fine seat of 
 Mr. Tugwell, the banker. The spectator here 
 becomes so enraptured with the surrounding 
 scene, that for a moment he is lost in ecstacy in 
 beholding the beauties of nature and art com- 
 bined. To the right, on one side of the road, 
 are fine lofty elm-trees, which, during the 
 time of ALLEN, were growing on both sides, 
 and their boughs so closely entwined with each 
 other, as to form in the winter-time a most sin- 
 gular but complete picture of a long Gothic 
 arch. At an opening, a few yards further along 
 the road, on turning round to take a look at 
 the City, the Royal Crescent appears with pe- 
 culiar grandeur ; in fact, the whole circle, for 
 richness and luxuriance of prospect, defies re- 
 cital. In peeping over a stone-wall, about four 
 feet high, on the left side of the road, the 
 pleasure-grounds beneath, belonging to PRIOR- 
 HOUSE, appear in fine cultivation ; and the water, 
 and the foliage of the chesnut, fir, and elm trees 
 increase the effect. On proceeding up the road, 
 a slight view of the mansion - house appears, 
 also the residence for the keeper, and upon an 
 ascent on the left, an antique look-out. By the 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 191 
 
 side of the road stands a piece of freestone, as 
 a sort of sample, to show how very large some 
 of them are brought from the quarries. It 
 measures in height twelve feet, and three in 
 breadth. A few steps farther, and the traveller 
 experiences the pleasing sensation of treading 
 upon classical British ground : A SPOT, that 
 must ever prove dear to the lovers of literature, 
 when it is remembered, that it was here the 
 inimitable FIELDING produced his TOM JONES, 
 (that standard of novels in the English language ;) 
 and to which may be added, several literary 
 works were also written by that most powerful 
 enlightened scholar and wit Bishop WARBUR- 
 TON. With these recollections, PRIOR-PARK- 
 HOUSE becomes of the most interesting nature ; 
 and it cannot be viewed merely for its delightful 
 situation, beautiful grounds, and distinguished 
 architecture ; nor passed over with the common 
 routine of a gentleman's estate. From the vir- 
 tues of its once liberal-minded proprietor, and 
 the extraordinary talents of its inmates, such as 
 POPE, FIELDING, and WARBURTON, it pos- 
 sesses far more sterling claims to respect and 
 admiration. 
 
 PRIOR-PARK-HOUSE is so called from the 
 circumstance of its having been built on land 
 which formerly belonged to the prior of Bath, 
 who had a grange, or farm, at a short distance 
 from it, and a park that supplied the monastery 
 with venison. It was erected by the celebrated 
 Ralph Allen, Esq. in 1743, on a slope of land 
 100 feet below the summit of Coomb-Down, and 
 400 above the City of Bath; and is certainly 
 one of the most magnificent freestone mansions, 
 
192 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 with respect to its outside, in the kingdom. A 
 noble house forms the centre; from the extre- 
 mities of which stretch two sweeping arcades, 
 connecting with the main body, as many wings 
 of offices, terminated by elegant pavilions, and 
 forming a continued line of building of nearly 
 1800 feet in front. The style is Corinthian, 
 raised on a rustic basement, and surmounted by 
 a balustrade. From the plane of the centre 
 part an extremely-grand portico projects, sup- 
 ported by six large and elegant columns. But 
 all the majesty of the building is without. 
 Within, every thing (if we except the Chapel, 
 which is neat and elegant, and adorned with an 
 altar-piece, by Van Deest) is little, dark, and 
 inconvenient ; and seldom has so much money 
 been so injudiciously applied, as the enormous 
 sum expended in the comfortless Palace of 
 Prior-Park. Fielding laid the scene of the early 
 years of Tom Jones at this place, and has, also, 
 in his work, given a picture of the beautiful 
 situation of Mr. Allen's house, the Alhvorthy 
 of his novel. Making allowances for the fancy 
 of an author, in an imaginary river, sea, distant 
 island, and ruined abbey, the description is 
 tolerably correct ; at least, many of its most 
 agreeable features are real. From the novel, it 
 appears, " the house stood on the south-east 
 side of a hill, but nearer the bottom than the 
 top of it, so as to be sheltered from the north- 
 east by a grove of old oaks, which rose above 
 it, in a gradual ascent of nearly half a mile, and 
 yet high enough to enjoy a most charming pro- 
 spect of the valley beneath. In the midst of 
 the grove was a vine -lawn, sloping towards 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 193 
 
 the house, near the summit of which rose a 
 plentiful spring, gushing out of a rock, covered 
 with firs, and forming a constant cascade of 
 about thirty feet, not carried down a regular 
 flight of steps, but tumbling in a natural fall 
 over the broken and mossy stones, till it came 
 to the bottom of the rock ; then running off in 
 a pebbly channel, that with many lesser falls 
 winding along, till it fell into a lake at the foot 
 of a hill, about a quarter of a mile below the 
 house, on the south side, and which was seen 
 from every room in the front. Out of this lake, 
 which filled the centre of a beautiful plain, em- 
 bellished with groupes of beeches and elms, and 
 fed with sheep, issued a river, that for several 
 miles was seen to meander through an amazing 
 variety of meadows and woods, till it emptied 
 itself into the sea, with a large arm of which, 
 and an island beyond it, the prospect closed. 
 On the right of this valley opened another of 
 less extent, adorned with several villages, and 
 terminated by one of the towers of an old ruined 
 abbey, grown over with ivy, and part of the 
 front which still remained entire. The left 
 scene presented the view of a fine park, com- 
 posed of very unequal ground, and agreeably 
 varied with all the diversity that hills, lawn, 
 wood, and water, laid out with admirable taste, 
 but owing less to art than to nature, could 
 give. Beyond this the country gradually rose 
 into a ridge of wild mountains, the tops of 
 which were above the clouds." He has omitted, 
 however, the splendid Palladian bridge at the 
 bottom of the pleasure-grounds : and the stri- 
 king view of Bath caught beyond this structure, 
 
 o 
 
194 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 which before the additions to the city, made 
 within these last forty years, must have formed 
 a very interesting feature in the prospect. The 
 character which Fielding has given us of his 
 patron is of so exalted a nature, that we should 
 be tempted to believe the anticipation of the 
 rich remuneration he received for his eulogium, 
 500, had made him paint " beyond the reach of 
 nature," did not general report, and local tra- 
 dition, confirm the account of the novelist to 
 its fullest extent;* and united in assuring us, that 
 
 * It may, perhaps, be not unworthy of observation, that it 
 is rather singular no designation of person has been pointed out 
 amongst the biographers of FIELDING and ALLEN; or, in 
 the numerous " Guides" published in Bath, whereby any clue 
 might be obtained towards satisfactorily ascertaining the real 
 character of 'Squire Western. The Allworthy, of JOM JONES, 
 is admitted, on all hands, to have been the late benevolent 
 RALPH ALLEN, Esq. It is true, that in respect of ami- 
 ability of disposition, no comparison exists between those 
 two personages ; but, nevertheless, 'Squire Western is drawn 
 with so much strength it abounds with so many real 
 touches of nature the huntsman (or prevailing passion) 
 preponderates throughout every movement of his life, and 
 yet the fine traits of the parent are preserved with so much 
 fidelity, that it is scarcely possible to suppose an entire 
 imaginary portrait could have proved so complete in all its 
 bearings neither distorted upon the one side, so as to out- 
 rage probability, or proving tamely deficient on the other, 
 as to evince a false conception, without some ORIGINAL 
 being near at hand, of whom a perfect likeness might at 
 length be procured from the advantages of various sittings. 
 It is, however, urged, that 'Squire Western (that is to say, 
 a gentleman huntsman, and much addicted to the sports of 
 the field) was, in reality, a near neighbour of Mr. Allen, 
 who had a daughter " passing fair ;" and that this young 
 lady did marry a " foundling," who became possessed, by 
 such marriage, of two joining estates. The authority, per- 
 haps, at this period, may be considered as rather question- 
 able. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 195 
 
 Mr. Allen was one of the best as well as the 
 most fortunate of men. 
 
 Let low-born* Allen, with ingenuous shame, 
 Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame. 
 
 Born in 1692, of humble parents, Allen inherit- 
 ed little from his ancestors, except a decent 
 country-village education; but nature had given 
 him a clear head and an excellent heart. With 
 these endowments he came to Bath early in the 
 18th century, and was appointed a clerk in the 
 Post-Office there. The diligence and fidelity 
 which he manifested in his employment were 
 rewarded in 1715, when having obtained infor- 
 mation of a waggon-load of arms, coming from 
 the West of England, to be secretly dispersed 
 among those who favoured the cause of the Pre- 
 tender in the neighbourhood of Bath, he com- 
 municated the intelligence to General Wade, 
 quartered at that time in the city. The Com- 
 mander, pleased with the vigilance and loyalty 
 of the young man, immediately honoured him 
 with his favour, and determined to be the 
 guardian of his fortunes. He accordingly pro- 
 cured his succession to the office of Postmaster, 
 and shortly afterwards married him to his na- 
 tural daughter, a Miss Earl. Thus established, 
 Allen soon rose into affluence. Having submit- 
 ted an ingenious plan to Government for the 
 multiplication of the Cross-Posts, by which the 
 revenue would gain 6000 per annum, it was 
 adopted, and a lease, at that rent, of the Cross- 
 
 * Mr. Allen, it appears, was displeased at the epithet of 
 tow-born, in I*ope, and occasioned it, by the suggestion of 
 Warburton, to be softened to humble. 
 
 02 
 
19G WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 Posts, granted to the inventor for twenty-one 
 years. The profits of his tenure may be ima- 
 gined from his taking another lease for twenty- 
 one years, at the expiration of the former one, 
 at the annual rent of 20,000. It was during 
 this latter period that he built the stately man- 
 sion of Prior-Park, and opened those vast quar- 
 ries on Coomb-Down, which are to this day 
 objects of curiosity ; bringing down the stone 
 from the place where it was cut, to the river, by 
 the means of a rail-road, or inclined plane, 
 which he ingeniously contrived for the purpose. 
 But though thus actively occupied, he did not 
 omit to cultivate, with unremitting attention, 
 his interests at Bath; and at length acquired 
 such a complete controul of the city, as to give 
 occasion to the publication of a ludicrous cari- 
 cature, called the One -Headed Corporation; 
 wherein, amid an assembly of figures, (intended 
 for the mayor, aldermen, and common council- 
 men, and marked by the appropriate emblems 
 of apothecaries, booksellers, &c.) a single mon- 
 strous head is discovered, to which all the 
 others are doing obeisance. As Mr. Allen's 
 object, however, was to use the corporation, and 
 not to serve them, he carefully and wisely avoid- 
 ed becoming their representative, and contented 
 himself with pointing out to them whom they 
 should choose for that purpose. This reign of 
 influence continued many years ; during which 
 time Prior-Park was the resort of the wits and 
 literati of the age. Amidst this constellation of 
 geniuses, Pope shone the distinguished star ; 
 who had become intimate with Allen from the 
 personal advances of the latter, in consequence 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 197 
 
 of an esteem he liad conceived for him on 
 reading the surreptitious edition of his letters in 
 1734. But the friendship of a wit is not to be 
 depended upon. Pope, who visited much at 
 Prior-Park, and found the house so comforta- 
 ble as to be desirous of being there more, re- 
 quested Mr. Allen togrant him the mansion at 
 Bath -Hampton, in order that he might bring 
 Martha Blount thither (with whom Pope's con- 
 nexion was somewhat equivocal) during the time 
 of his own residence at Prior- Park. This re- 
 quest, Allen (whose delicacy was extreme) flatly 
 refused ; which so exasperated the little wasp, 
 that he quitted his house in disgust, and never 
 afterwards expressed himself in terms of com- 
 mon civility with respect to his old host and 
 former friend .* Nay, urged by the malice- of 
 Mrs. Blount, he meanly and wickedly carried 
 his resentment beyond the grave, and inserted in 
 his will an order to his executors to pay Mr. 
 Allen the sum of 150, being the amount (as 
 he apprehended) of the charges Mr. Allen 
 
 * This relation, which is given partly on the authority of 
 the historical account of Bath, is not correct. Pope kept 
 up his friendship with Mr. Allen to the last, as appears by 
 his letters, and Mrs. Blount remained in Mr. Allen's house 
 some time after the coolness took place between her and 
 Mrs. Allen. Allen's conversation with Pope on this subject, 
 and his letters to Mrs. Blount, all whose quarrels he was 
 obliged to share, appear in Mr. Bowles's edition of Pope's 
 Works. See a note (c.), Vol. XII. p. 96, of Chalmers's 
 edition of the British Notes. lu also making an extract 
 from the work alluded to, it becomes necessary to give the 
 authority from whence the contradiction to the above cir- 
 cumstance is taken. See Beauties of England and Wales. 
 SOMERSETSHIRE, Vol. XKI. Part I. p. 441. 
 
198 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 might have been at in entertaining him at Prior- 
 Park ; adding, that if Mr. Allen would not re- 
 ceive the money, he hoped he would at least 
 order it to be paid into the fund of the Bath 
 Hospital. Allen was too wise and too good a 
 man to feel resentment at this contemptible 
 instance of impotent revenge ; and when com- 
 plying with the latter part of the deceased poet's 
 wish, and ordering the money to be applied to 
 the charity, he with a smile observed, that 
 " when Mr. Pope was expressing the sum of 
 obligation, he certainly had forgotten to add 
 one more cipher to it/' Previously, however, 
 to Pope's disgust at Allen, he had introduced 
 Warburton to him, and by that means laid the 
 foundation of that prelate's future fortune.* 
 This, indeed, was but a fair return for the 
 assistance which the divine had conferred upon 
 the poet; for when Crousa z attacked the "Essay 
 on Man," and accused its writer of favouring 
 fatalism and rejecting- revelation, Warburton 
 voluntarily became the champion of the work.; 
 
 * It is curious to remark on what trifling accidents the 
 destinies of men frequently depend. This was strikingly ex- 
 emplified in the fortunes of Warburton. Pope, being one 
 day at dinner with Mr. Allen, had a letter put into his hand 
 by one of the footmen. The poet, on reading it, shook his 
 head. " What occasions your perplexity?" said Allen. 
 ' A Lincolnshire clergyman,' said he, ' to whom I am much 
 obliged, writes me word that he will be with me in a few 
 days, at Twickenham.' " If that be all, Mr. Pope, request 
 him to come to us ; my carriage shall meet him at Chippen- 
 ham, and bring him hither." Pope complied with the kind 
 request ; and the Lincolnshire clergyman, in consequence 
 of his visit to Prior-Park, became Bishop of Gloucester, 
 the husband of Allen's niece, and an inheritor of a large 
 part of his property ! WARNER. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 199 
 
 and in the Monthly Review of that time, called 
 " the Republic of Letters," published a series 
 of essays in vindication of it ; which were after- 
 wards melted into an exposition, and given to 
 the world in the Bishop of Gloucester's edition of 
 Pope's Works. This service Pope never forgot; 
 and repaid it first by recommending Warburton 
 to Mr. Murray, by whose interest he became 
 preacher at Lincoln's Inn; and afterwards (as 
 has been before observed) to Mr. Allen, who gave 
 him his sprightly niece in marriage, procured 
 him a mitre, and at length left him an entailed 
 estate in Prior- Park. But Warburton, it should 
 seem, was not more indebted for his success 
 with Mr. Allen to Pope's recommendation than 
 to his own knowledge of the human character. 
 Delicate flattery he knew would be gratifying 
 even to the best regulated mind ; and therefore 
 duly poured into the ear of his friend a just and 
 regular proportion of it. Sometimes, indeed, 
 he went a little beyond the mark in adulation ; 
 but it was erring on the right side ; a venial 
 fault, and easily forgiven. " Doctor," said Mr. 
 Allen to him one day, when conversing on the 
 subject of the Divine Legation, " your adver- 
 saries appear to me to advance only weak and 
 futile arguments against you." ' Sir,' replied 
 Warburton, ' you have spoken more to the pur- 
 pose in those few words than all the rascals, in 
 all their volumes, have written.' After Mr. 
 Allen's death, Warburton took possession of 
 Prior-Park, in right of his wife ; and there 
 produced some of those profound literary 
 labours, which will be an ornament to the 
 
200 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 English language and nation as long as they 
 exist.* " He was a man of vigorous faculties; 
 a mind fervid and vehement, supplied, by in- 
 cessant and unlimited inquiry, with wonderful 
 extent and variefy of knowledge, which yet had 
 not oppressed his imagination, nor clouded his 
 perspicacity. To every work he brought a me- 
 mory full fraught, together with a fancy fertile 
 of original combinations, and at once exerted 
 the powers of the scholar, the reasoner, and the 
 wit. But his knowledge was too multifarious to 
 be always exact, and his pursuits too eager to be 
 always cautious. His abilities gave him a 
 haughty confidence, which he disdained to con- 
 ceal or mollify; and his impatience of opposi- 
 tion disposed him to treat his adversaries 
 with such contemptuous superiority, as made 
 his readers commonly his enemies, and excited 
 against the advocate the wishes of some who fa- 
 voured the cause. He seems to have adopted 
 the Roman Emperor's determination, oderint 
 dum metuant; he used no allurements of gentle 
 language, but wished to compel rather than per- 
 suade. His style is copious without selection, 
 and forcible without neatness; he took the 
 
 * The Bishop's literary labours confined him a great deal at 
 Prior-Park. After a long absence from London, he appear- 
 ed at Court, wht:ii the King, for the sake of saying some- 
 thing, observed to him, that he supposed he had just left his 
 diocese. Warburton, considering the speech as a tacit re- 
 buke, replied, with point and spirit, " No, please your 
 Majesty, I am come from Prior- Park, near ray diocese, but 
 not in it ; where I have been combating the enemies of that 
 faith, of which your Majesty is the avowed and zealous 
 Defender." WARNER. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 201 
 
 words that presented themselves; his diction is 
 coarse and impure, and his sentences are un- 
 measured." * 
 
 The back part of PRioR-PARK-HousE is 
 also extremely elegant, and ornamented with six 
 very lofty pillars of the Doric order ; it is sin- 
 gular to remark, that the roof is made of 
 stone, and also several of the window-sashes. 
 The prospect from every part of this elegant 
 residence captivates the beholder. On quitting 
 the house a lodge is soon passed, contiguous to 
 which are two roads, the left leading to Trow- 
 bridge, and the right to Bristol. Proceeding 
 forwards, the traveller arrives at a spot of 
 ground, upon which some remnants of rows of 
 fir-trees still remain, originally intended, it ap- 
 pears, as a shade for persons in their carriages. 
 In the lime of the worthy ALLEN, this place was 
 a complete grove, and extended for a long dis- 
 tance ; but since those generous days, and from 
 its change of masters, profit and the cutting- 
 down system have prevailed over any thing like 
 public accommodation. In fact, PRIOR-PARK- 
 HOUSE, with all its present contiguous beauties, 
 is but a mere skeleton, compared to what it 
 originally was. At Isabella-Place, which is but 
 a short distance from this rural spot, one of the 
 finest views for extensive scenery that can pos- 
 sibly be imagined bursts upon the already de- 
 lighted traveller: the immense chain of high 
 hills, as far as the eye can stretch, have a grand 
 and majestic appearance. On the left is Salis- 
 bury-Plain ; next appears Warminster, and the 
 
 * Dr. JOHNSON. 
 
202 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 White Horse cut out of the turf at Westbury 
 under the plain, in Wiltshire, is seen without 
 any difficulty. In the centre stands the unri- 
 valled seat of the Marquis of Bath, called Long- 
 leat, the fine park and woody appearance of 
 which tends to increase the beauty of the sur- 
 rounding prospect ; and the perspective view of 
 Alfred's tower, erected on the abrupt termination 
 of a very lofty hill, belonging to Sir Richard 
 Colt, Bart, gives an interesting finish to this 
 charming expanse of country. When the fasci- 
 nated spectator can remove from this brilliant 
 panoramic spectacle, he will pass Prospect- 
 Place, a very neat row of houses, and which 
 very properly merits its title. Byfield- Buildings 
 is also as pleasantly situated, and a few paces 
 forwards the visitor, if inclination permit him, 
 may descend into the stone-quarries at Combe- 
 Down, opened and worked by Mr. Allen. This 
 sudden contrast is extremely pleasing : the vast 
 depth of freestone which has been excavated 
 from the earth ; the lofty arches, or pillars, re- 
 maining in a craggy state, left by the excavators 
 to let in light to the subterraneous passages and 
 caverns which extend for a considerable way 
 under the earth, most interestingly claim the at- 
 tention of the explorer. The appearance al- 
 together has an effect difficult to convey to the 
 reader any thing like an adequate representation : 
 several men are employed in breaking-up the 
 freestone into different sizes, and which, it 
 seems, yields with much placency to the tools used 
 upon it ; and carriages and horses are also seen 
 among the openings, loading for the buildings of 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 Bath.* From its yellow appearance, it has a 
 very clean and pleasing look. On regaining the 
 daylight by a short circuit into the road, to- 
 wards returning to Bath, a small enclosed spot 
 is passed, which is used as a bury ing-ground 
 for the Jews. Several shafts are seen in the 
 fields, raised about three feet from the ground, 
 to let light into different parts of the quarry, 
 to give facility to the excavators in proceeding 
 with their work. The prospect continues en- 
 chanting at every step, and in a small quarry, 
 in repassing the grounds of PRIOR-PARK, some 
 
 * The Great Oolite is about 130 feet thick. This curious 
 and valuable stone is composed of exceedingly small globular 
 shells, either simply aggregated, or not very firmly cemented 
 together, The ease with which it is cut occasions its appel- 
 lation of freestone; and this quality, with its beautiful soft 
 colour, renders it in great request for building. It is depo- 
 sited in thick beds, and separated into vast blocks by vertical 
 fissures; the sides of which are frequently embossed by the 
 most delicate stalactites, and beautiful spars of diversified 
 crystallization. The blocks are sawn, and worked at the 
 quarries into masses, called AshUr, of any required dimen- 
 sions, and sold by the foot. The durability of the material 
 having been sufficiently proved by the experience of ages, 
 the demand for it is rapidly increasing: and as the utmost 
 facility is now likely to be given for its exportation to all 
 quarters by canal conveyance, it is probable, that in a cen- 
 tury more the greater part of our surrounding hills will be 
 converted into one wide quarry. The Bath oolite is now 
 in use for the sumptuous improvements of Henry Vllth's 
 Chapel at the east end of Westminster-Abbey. This stone 
 effervesces very rapidly with muriatic acid ; affording a faint 
 odour like spermaceti, and 'scarcely leaving any residuum ; 
 upon the addition of prussiate of potash, a bluish white 
 precipitate is thrown down. Its fossils are the nautilus ; 
 pinna marina and ostrea, both very large ; and the pecten. 
 It is applied to building, and every description of free- 
 Hi asonry . W A R N E R . 
 
204 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 of the pieces of the stone measure 12| feet long, 
 by 3 feet 10 wide; on the left of which, at no 
 great distance from the road, is a curious trian- 
 gular building of freestone, in the Gothic style, 
 erected by the late Mr. ALLEN, and used in his 
 time as a look-out, which commands a fine view 
 of the City and the adjacent country, and well 
 worthy of inspection. It has the following in- 
 scription: 
 
 Memoriae optimi viri, RADUJLPHI ALLEN, positum, 
 Qui virtutem verarn simplicernquecolis, venerarc hoc saxum. 
 
 Claverton-Down, which is 400 feet above the 
 City of Bath, and so distinguished for its beau- 
 tiful extensive level velvet turf, is soon gained. 
 The views towards the north, south, and west, 
 are peculiarly interesting. The Bath Races were 
 formerly held here ; and it is a most delightful 
 situation. The shell of an antique castle, which 
 appears to face every part of the City, and which 
 is a conspicuous feature for some miles, was 
 erected on this Down also by Mr. Allen. Near 
 to this spot, about thirty years ago, a duel was 
 fought by two Frenchmen of rank, who quar- 
 relled during the season at Bath, when one of 
 them was killed. This circumstance occasioned 
 considerable noise at the time. Continuing the 
 walk across the Downs, a turnpike appears with 
 three different roads connected with it. The 
 left leads to Trowbridge ; the right to Wells ; 
 and the direct line to Bradford. The high 
 elm-trees, and the ivy growing over the stone 
 walls on each side of the road, which continues 
 for some distance, pleases the eye more than 
 can be described. On the left of which is the 
 sign of the Crown-Inn, but more generally 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 205 
 
 known to the inhabitants of Bath as the " Brass- 
 Knocker ;" which, rather singular to observe, 
 derives its designation from having the above 
 appendage attached to the inn-door. Nearly 
 opposite to which is Coombe-Grove, the mansion 
 of the late William Vaughan, Esq. The " Brass- 
 Knocker' is not only important from affording 
 refreshment during this long walk to the travel- 
 Jer, but it also operates as a guide to him, in 
 leading to a curiosity, which is highly deserving 
 of notice, namely, THE AQUEDUCT, which 
 unites the Kennet and Avon Canal with the 
 Grand Junction. Here are two small stone 
 bridges across the Somerset Coal Canal, which, 
 it appears, has been reduced in size, on purpose 
 to admit only the long narrow coal-barges from 
 Tymsbury and Comerton. The view of the 
 AQUEDUCT is noble and interesting; and con- 
 nected with the other bridges, the river, and 
 canals, gives an attractive effect to this part of 
 the country. It has three arches ; the middle 
 one is wide and lofty, 40 feet at least from the 
 water which it stands over. The dimensions of 
 the other two arc much less. It is built of free- 
 stone, and is viewed as a fine piece of Grecian 
 architecture. The traveller is now five miles 
 from Bath, but the walk between the Canal and 
 the Avon is so delightfully intersected with 
 pleasing objects, occupying the mind so com- 
 pletely, that any thoughts about distance is 
 quite forgotten. Some cottages on a high hill, 
 at a place called Konkwell, produce a very 
 pleasing effect. Upon an eminence, at a small 
 distance, stands the Village of Claverton. This 
 little hamlet is important to the visitor in several 
 
206 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 points of view : Clover ton-House is a prominent 
 feature to notice, from its fine specimen of archi- 
 tecture adopted in the reign of James I. It has 
 an ascent of thirty steps, and is contiguous to 
 the CHURCH. The latter place is a small Go- 
 thic building, but conspicuous principally from 
 being the rectory of the late Mr. GRAVES, the 
 author of the Spiritual Quixote, and several other 
 publications of great merit. The above Rev. 
 gentleman held this rectory for the long period 
 of 60 years, and died in 1807, at the advanced 
 age of 90 years. He was a man of great bene- 
 volence ; and through a very long life pre- 
 served a spotless character. 
 
 Can storied urn, or animated bust, 
 
 Back to its mansions call the fleeting breath ? 
 
 Can honour's voice provoke the silent dust, 
 Or flatt'ry soothe the dull cold ear of death? 
 
 The CHURCHYARD is also worthy of a visit, 
 to view the family-vault, which contains the re- 
 mains of a man so justly dear to the people of 
 Bath. It is built of freestone, in the form of a 
 handsome square, with a mausoleum over it. 
 It has also three semicircular arches in each of 
 the sides, and a pyramidal roof. Upon a free- 
 stone table monument, within the structure, is 
 the following inscription : 
 
 On the north : " Beneath this monument lieth entombed 
 the body of RALPH ALLEN, Esq. of Prior-Park, who 
 departed this life the 29th of June, 1764, in the 71st year 
 of his age ; in full hopes of everlasting happiness in another 
 state, through the infinite mercy and mediation of our blessed 
 Redeemer Jesus Christ. And of ELIZABETH HOLDER, 
 his second wife, who died September 20th, 1766, aged 68." 
 
 At the Eastern end : " Near this place lie the remains of 
 RALPH ALLEN WARBURTON, the only son of Wil- 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 207 
 
 liam Warburton, Lord Bishop of Gloucester, and Gertrude 
 his wife, who died July 28th, 1775, aged 19 years. He was 
 a youth eminently distinguished for goodness of heart, ele- 
 gance of manners, and gracefulness of person. How tran- 
 sient are human endowments ! How vain are human hopes! 
 Reader, prepare for eternity !" 
 
 On the South side :" In this vault are deposited the re- 
 mains of GERTRUDE, wife of the Rev. M. Stafford Smith, 
 of Prior-Park, relict of William Warburton, Lord Bishop of 
 Gloucester, and niece to the late Ralph Allen, Esq. She 
 died September 1st, 1796, aged 66 years. She was a firm 
 and devout Christian; with a fine natural and highly-cul- 
 tivated understanding ; and a frank, generous, good heart." 
 
 About half a mile on the right of the canal is 
 the very elegant mansion of Mr. Skryne, built 
 in the Gothic style. The clean, light appear- 
 ance of the freestone forms an excellent con- 
 trast to the fine trees contiguous to the house ; 
 and several sheepfolds also add to the pictu- 
 resque scenery with which this situation abounds. 
 On the banks of the river there is a large iron- 
 pipe, which conveys the water from the Avon 
 into the Canal, from the force of a machine when 
 deemed necessary. Proceeding some distance 
 down the river, on the left side of which an 
 iron rail-way, from an immense steep height, is 
 to be seen. It is curious to observe the iron 
 carriages sent up and down without horses ; and 
 by the aid of machinery the vehicles change their 
 positions midway, the full one running down to 
 the barge in the canal, and the empty one mak- 
 ing its way to the top again to receive its load. 
 
 Bath-Hampton Church soon appears after 
 quitting the rail-way ; the tower of which is 
 covered all over with ivy. It reminds the spec- 
 tator of " Gray's Elegy." The Churchyard has 
 to boast of some excellent monuments, and is also 
 
208 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 very full ; among which is the tombstone, near to 
 the road on the right, belonging to the French 
 gentleman alluded to in page 229, containing 
 the following unvarnished inscription : - 
 
 Here rests the remains of 
 
 JOHN BAPTISTE Viscount Du Barry, 
 
 Obiit 18 Nov. 1778. 
 
 The Village of Bath-Hampton, small, but 
 neat, appears in sight. Proceeding forwards, 
 " BAILBROOK - LODGE'' is perceived, delight- 
 fully situated upon a very lofty and command- 
 ing eminence ; it is a most extensive and elegant 
 mansion. The above institution is rather of a 
 nouvelle description in this country, resembling 
 the German Chapitres. It was established un- 
 der the auspices of Lady King, about three years 
 since, principally for decayed females, and also 
 offering a desirable residence to ladies of very 
 limited incomes ; but it is maintained by the 
 joint-contributions of the ladies residing at 
 BAILBROOK-LODGE, without deriving any an- 
 nual support from public endowment. It has a 
 Lady President, merely to promote harmony and 
 good-order; as the inmates are all upon an 
 equality. There is no limitation to age. The 
 widows and daughters of clergymen, and of the 
 officers of the Army and Navy, have an ac- 
 knowledged preference over all other candidates ; 
 but none are admitted who cannot comply with 
 the forms of a retired life, or who do not cheer- 
 fully assist in promoting benevolence and cha- 
 rity. It has to boast of the high patronage of 
 several Duchesses, Marchionesses, Countesses, 
 &c. by which means embarrassment is pre- 
 vented : her late Majesty was one of its greatest 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 209 
 
 patrons, and during her residence at Bath vi- 
 sited BAILBROOK-LODGE. It seems the Queen 
 highly praised the mode with which this institu- 
 tion was conducted ; and, united with the Prin- 
 cesses, contributed largely towards the fund, 
 which is now placed at interest in the names of 
 the following Trustees : The Earl of Shaftes- 
 bury, Earl Manvers, the Hon. Geo. Vernon, and 
 Sir B. Hobhouse, Bart. It has also the patro- 
 nage of the Lord Bishops of Durham, St. 
 David's, and Meath ; and the Earl of Sheffield. 
 On making towards home, part of Bath soon 
 appears in sight from the houses on Bacon-Hill. 
 New objects attract almost at every step the 
 traveller proceeds. Along the banks of the Canal 
 a new range of small neat residences are nearly 
 finished ; near to which are the swimming baths. 
 In turning to the right of the Canal, Sidney- 
 Place is soon gained, when the traveller will 
 no doubt feel rather fatigued from this long, but 
 truly interesting walk, upon his safe return to 
 Great Pulteney- Street. 
 
210 WALKS THROUGH BATH, 
 
 WALK X 
 
 From the CIRCUS through Bennet-Street, Russet-Street, 
 Belmont and Oxford Row, Montpelier - Row. 
 (CHRIST CHURCH,) Belvidere-Place, Lansdorm- 
 Street, Lansdown- Grove, Spencer's Belle Vue, 
 Springfield-Place, Richmond-House, Grove-Place, 
 Lansdown - Square, America - Buildings. To tJie 
 Race - Ground and GRAND STAND. Lansdown 
 Fair. MONUMENT on Lansdown- Hill. Prospect- 
 Style. The Rocks at WICK. Return to BATH. 
 
 UPON quitting that tine architectural pile of 
 buildings, the CIRCUS, the visitor soon passes 
 through Bennet-Street, leaving the NEW AS- 
 SEMBLY ROOMS on his right. Russel-Street is 
 also passed on the left. Directly opposite Ben- 
 net-Street stand those elegant range of houses, 
 designated by the name of Belmont and Oxford 
 Row ; and, at the extremity of the latter place, 
 011 the left, is Montpelier- Row, in which is 
 situated Christ Church, built after the modern 
 Gothic style, upon a piece of land presented by 
 the Right Hon. Lord Rivers. It is a very neat 
 building, and was erected by subscription ; for 
 the very praiseworthy purpose of providing a 
 place where the poor might hear the word of 
 God preached unto them ; and in order to ren- 
 der this desirable circumstance effectual, the 
 area is left unenclosed and open to all fre- 
 quenters. The galleries only are let out ; the 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 211 
 
 produce of which are applied to the support of 
 the establishment. Proceeding forwards to Bel- 
 videre-Place, every step becomes interesting 
 to the spectator as he passes through Lans- 
 down-Street, Lansdown-Grovc, Spencer's Belle 
 Vue, Springfield - Place, Richmond - House, 
 Grove-Place, fyc. At some little distance on 
 the left is seen Lansdown- Square ; and upon 
 the right is America - Buildings and Hooper- 
 Street. In ascending the hill, if the spectator 
 turns round, a most delightful view of Bathford, 
 Lambridge, &c. presents itself. A little beyond 
 the first mile-stone, on the right, stands a small 
 public-house, known by the sign of the Hare 
 and Hounds ; and about a mile from this place 
 the road becomes level ground, walled in on 
 both sides with stones piled on each other, but 
 not fastened together by any mortar. The 
 prospect is now extensive, and a fine range of 
 hills appear on the left. The Race-Ground is 
 soon discovered from a very mean and con- 
 temptible erection, denominated the " GRAND 
 STAND;" which is nothing more than an empty 
 shed, thatched over, and the ascent to which is 
 by a temporary staircase. Such a receptacle for 
 accommodating the beauty and fashion of So- 
 merset, does but ill accord with the princely 
 mansions in the City of Bath. The races have 
 been revived within the last five years, and are 
 generally held upon the 8th and 9th of July; 
 but they are not in much estimation in the sport- 
 ing world. A board here also informs those 
 whom it may concern, " that prosecutions will 
 be instituted against those persons found bad- 
 ger-baiting, pricking in the garter, or practising 
 
 P2 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 any other nefarious games." Persons are also 
 cautioned against the danger of mounting the 
 walls, as several people have been dreadfully 
 bruised, and others lost their lives from the 
 stones giving way. At no great distance from 
 the Race-Ground stands the Blathwaytc Arms, 
 close to which the Fair at Lansdown is held an- 
 nually on the 10th of August. It is a very large 
 fair, and distinguished for the sale of horses, 
 and large quantities of cheese: great numbers 
 of cattle and pigs are also brought here. It 
 is a most convenient spot for the numerous as- 
 semblage of persons that arrive from Bristol, 
 Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, &c. and it proves 
 quite a jubilee-day for the country people to 
 enjoy the fun with which it abounds. The 
 gingerbread - stalls form a long street ; and 
 numerous shows from different parts of England, 
 of every description, to obtain the money from 
 the pockets of the lads and lasses, are not want- 
 ing. Lansdown Fair is also notorious for a 
 number of pitched battles which are fought by 
 the pugilistic heroes of Bristol. On the Downs, 
 at the third mile-stone, there is a fine view of a 
 valley and hills on the right ; and in front of the 
 traveller, the LANSDOWN PILLAR now ap- 
 pears conspicuous. The walk for the next half- 
 mile is as fertile in scenery as the most lively 
 imagination can suggest ; and this part of So- 
 mersetshire has been often compared to some 
 of the picturesque and enchanting prospects in 
 Switzerland. These Downs have often been the 
 theme of celebrated painters; and among whom, 
 it is said, not the least animated in their praise, 
 is the venerable President of the Royal Acade- 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 213 
 
 my. The Bath cream-cheese ', an article of such 
 high epicurean taste, is produced by the dairies 
 furnished from these luxuriant pastures. The 
 traveller at length arrives at the PlLLAR, which 
 stands at a short distance from the main road. 
 It is built of freestone ; but, as a piece of ar- 
 chitecture, it has nothing at the present period 
 about it to command any particular interest ; 
 and the efforts of time have also committed some 
 ravages upon its beauty. This spot, it appears, 
 was rendered famous in history, from a battle 
 fought here in 1643, between the King's and 
 the parliamentary forces, on the 5th of July. 
 The royal side was commanded by the Marquis 
 of Hertford, but the Kind's horse was so sha- 
 ken, that out of 2000 which came into action, not 
 above 600 survived the havoc of the battle ; but 
 the Parliamentary General, Sir William Waller, 
 was ultimately compelled to quit his post, and 
 to take refuge in Bath, from the spirited con- 
 duct of the Marquis. The above monument 
 was erected by GEORGE LORD LANSDOWN in 
 1720, to commemorate his ancestor SIR BEVIL 
 GRANVILLE, who fell in this desperate engage- 
 ment. The east and west sides of the monu- 
 ment are sculptred with warlike trophies, the 
 Royal arms, and those of the Granvilles. The 
 crest of the Granvilles surmounts the whole. 
 On the shaft of the columns is the following in- 
 scription ; and the subjoined account of the en- 
 gagement, from Clarendon's History of the 
 Rebellion, is engraven on the south side of the 
 pedestal : 
 
 To the immortal memory of his renowned Grandfather 
 and valiant Cornish Friends, who conquered, dying in 
 
214 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 the Royal Cause, July 5th, 1643, this Column was de- 
 dicated by the Hon. GEORGE GRANVILLE, Lord 
 LANS DOWN, 1780. Dulce est pro putrid mori. 
 
 ' In this battle, on the King's part, were more officers and 
 gentlemen of quality slain than private men ; but that which 
 would have clouded any victory, and made the loss of others 
 less spoken of, was the death of Sir BEVIL GRANVJLLE. 
 He was indeed an excellent person, whose activity, interest, 
 and reputation, were the foundation of what had been done 
 in Cornwall ; and his temper and affection so public, that no 
 accident which happened could make any impression on him, 
 and his example kept others from taking any thing ill, or at least 
 seeming to do so : in a word, a brighter courage and a gentler 
 disposition were never married together, to make the most 
 cheerful and innocent conversation." CLARENDON. 
 
 On the north are the following lines written 
 in the year 1643, by William Cartwright: 
 
 <f When now the incens'd rebels proudly came 
 
 Down like a torrent, without bark or dam ; 
 
 When undeserv'd success urg'd on their force, 
 
 That thunder must come down to stop their course, 
 
 Or Granville must step in ; then Granville stood, 
 
 And with himself oppos'd and check'd the flood; 
 
 Conquest or death was all his thoughts, so fire 
 
 Either o'ercomes, or does itself expire. 
 
 His courage work'd like flames, cast heat about, 
 
 Here, there, on this, on that side, none gave out. 
 
 Not any pike in that renowned stand, 
 
 But took new force from his inspiring hand, 
 
 Soldier encourag'd soldier, man urg'd man, 
 
 And he urg'd all ; so far example can. 
 
 Hurt upon hurt, wound upon wound did fall| 
 
 He was the butt, the mark, the aim of all. 
 
 His soul this while retired from cell to cell, 
 
 At last flew up from all, and then he fell ; 
 
 But the devoted stand, enrag'd the more 
 
 From that his fate, plied hotter than before. 
 
 And, proud to fall with him, swore not to yield, 
 
 Each sought an honour'd grave, and gain'd the field. 
 
WALKS THKOUGH BATH. 215 
 
 Thus, being fall'n, his actions fought anew, 
 And the dead conquer'd whilst the living flew." 
 
 WILLIAM CABTWRIOHT. 
 
 On the same side are the following lines by 
 Martin Llewellen. 
 
 " Thus slain, thy valiant ancestor did lie, 
 When his owii bark a navy did defy. 
 When now enconipass'd round, the victor stood, 
 And bath'd his pinnace in his conqu'ring blood, 
 Till all his purple current, dried and spent, 
 He fell and made the waves his monument, 
 Where shall the next fam'd Granville's ashes stand? 
 Thy grandsire* fills the seas, and thou the land." 
 
 MARTIN LLEWELLEN. 
 
 At this spot the spectator is well repaid for 
 his curiosity. He is lost, as it were, with the 
 vast expanse before him ; and however strong and 
 elegant language may be applied towards com- 
 municating its brilliant and sublime effect, 
 description is totally inadequate to convey any 
 thing like the reality of the scene. Through a 
 field or two on the left, which is easily ascer- 
 tained, the traveller will gain what is denomi- 
 nated " PROSPECT STYLE ;" so termed from 
 the completeness of the view which it affords. 
 The Avon in all its windings, with the cities of 
 Bristol and Bath, are immediately recognised ; 
 the junction of the Severn with the Avon is also 
 distinctly traced ; and the fine Monmouthshire 
 hills increase the effect. The scenery all around 
 is bold as well as picturesque ; and although at 
 the distance of forty miles from Lansdown, the 
 Bloreuch and Sugar Loaf mountains are accu- 
 rately distinguished. The perspective is en- 
 
 Sir Richard Granville. 
 
216 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 chanting, and the local view likewise is inte- 
 resting. Here and there a gentleman's seat is 
 seen in the valley the little spire of a country 
 church farm-houses and cottages the fertile 
 ground all around the charming foliage of the 
 trees the extent of hedges dividing the various 
 lands, the sheep feeding, &c. furnishing a most 
 admirable landscape for the exquisite talents of 
 a POUSSIN. The herbage on these Downs is 
 considered the most nutritive in the West of 
 England for fattening of sheep; and those 
 fed upon the adjacent hills hold no comparison 
 with the numbers which are reared on Lansdown. 
 
 Th' unbusied shepherd, stretch'd beneath the hawthorn, 
 His careless limbs thrown out iu wanton ease, 
 With thoughtless gaze perusing the arch'd heavens, 
 And idly whistling while his sheep feed round him, 
 Enjoys a sweeter shade than that of canopies 
 Hemm'd in by cares, and shook by storms of treason. 
 
 If the traveller wishes to extend his excursion 
 to WICK he will be amply repaid for his exer- 
 tion. He must now make forwards again to the 
 PILLAR, and be particular in taking the road 
 which leads to the left. The country all around 
 him still continues worthy of his attention, and 
 he will pass Ashton-Lodge on his right. On 
 arriving at WICK, which is a small village, con- 
 taining only a few straggling houses, the Crown 
 Inn, kept by Mr. Gulley,* affords a nice oppor- 
 tunity for refreshment to the visitor, before he 
 commences his examination of the rocks. On 
 the right, directly opposite to the above Inn, 
 you pass through a gate, and, inclining a short 
 
 * Father of the once celebrated pugilist of that name ; 
 but who is now a distinguished sportsman on the turf. 
 
WALKS THROUGH BATH. 217 
 
 distance to the left, over a small stone bridge, 
 you enter the romantic scenery of Wick, which 
 is about three quarters of a mile in length. It 
 appears like a wilderness ; the high trees, the 
 beauty of their foliage descending into a sort of 
 rivulet, and the rugged appearance of the Glen 
 altogether, tend to make a pleasing sensation on 
 the mind of the spectator. Here are also some 
 iron works situated in this recess, well worthy 
 the investigation of the traveller ; but, without 
 permission, no admittance to view them is 
 granted. A style, on the left of the above 
 works, presents itself, when, after ascending a 
 hill, at a little distance, the traveller enters upon 
 the rocks with all their majestic appearance ; 
 the loftiest parts of which exceed 200 feet in 
 height. It is true, they fall very short by com- 
 parison to those of St. Vincent, near Clifton ; 
 but nevertheless they must be viewed as a great 
 natural curiosity. In some places, the Glen is 
 extremely craggy, and to persons of a timid dis- 
 position may appear rather awkward, if not 
 dangerous to get along ; but when once they are 
 explored to the end, the prospect upon the 
 water is delightful, interesting, stupendous, and 
 grand, which is seen foaming over rugged masses 
 of stone, from a most impetuous current, which 
 ultimately falls into the Avon. The above Glen, 
 within the last few years, has lost much of its 
 romantic interest, from the introduction of se- 
 veral manufactories, in consequence of buying 
 up the water to serve those purposes; since which, 
 in the course of two miles, it now works no less 
 than six mills, consisting of a paper, a cotton, an 
 iron, a rolling, a slitting, and two grist mills. 
 
218 WALKS THROUGH BATH. 
 
 Persons visiting either Bath or Bristol ought 
 not to omit viewing the rocks at Wick, if they 
 possess in the slightest degree any taste for geo- 
 logy, painting, or romantic natural scenery, 
 which the whole of this spot exhibits in so pro- 
 minent a point of view. In fact, WICK is 
 but half way from either of the above Cities. 
 Returning to Bath the look-out all around the 
 traveller upon Lansdown-hill is so extensive, 
 diversified, and powerful, that any thing like 
 monotony is out of the question ; and the com- 
 monest or most indifferent spectator in the 
 world cannot pass and repass it, without re- 
 flecting upon the pleasure he has derived in con- 
 templating the beauties of nature and the sub- 
 limity of the works of the creation. 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 219 
 
 WALK (or RIDE) XI. 
 
 VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE ; ITS FINE COLLEC- 
 TION OF PAINTINGS, PARK, &c. 
 
 From Grosvenor- Place, on the London-Road, to Bath 
 Easton. Through the Villages of Box and Pick- 
 wick to Corsham. 
 
 Dost thou love Pictures ? we will fetch thee straight 
 
 ADONIS, painted by a running brook j 
 
 And CITHEREA all in sedges hid, 
 
 Which seem to move, and wanton with her breath, 
 
 Ev'n as the waving sedges play with wind. 
 
 THE FINE ARTS in England have made such 
 rapid strides towards perfection within the last 
 fifty-one years, under the immediate patronage 
 of his present Majesty, GEORGE III. and the 
 Annual Exhibitions of the English Artists, at the 
 ROYAL ACADEMY, have tended not only to ex- 
 cite the highest praise and admiration from 
 among the most critical judges of the talents of 
 the pencil, but also to create, generally, a taste 
 for Paintings among the various classes of so- 
 ciety, that it is fairly to be presumed, however 
 attractive and fascinating the numerous amuse- 
 ments of BATH may prove to its fashionable 
 visitors, ONE DAY, at least, will be set apart, 
 even with rapturous anticipation, to view COR- 
 SHAM-HOUSE, and its justly celebrated fine 
 collection of pictures ; indeed, it would almost 
 
220 VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 
 
 be pronounced a libel upon any lover of the 
 FINE ARTS, short as his residence might be at 
 Bath, to omit viewing this grand collection of 
 the OLD MASTERS, which are to be seen in 
 the highest state of preservation, through the 
 liberality of their owner, every Tuesday and 
 Friday, between the hours of ten and four, and 
 that at the distance of only nine miles and three- 
 quarters from the above City. 
 
 On quitting Bath and ascending the hill, upon 
 the London- Road, the appearance of the coun- 
 try all around is delightful. The traveller soon 
 arrives at the clean little town of Bath Easton, 
 (2 111.) The pretty village of Box (5 m.) 
 is the next place, but which can never be 
 passed through indifferently by any spectator. 
 The road, in continuance to Pickwick, is every 
 where interesting ; and the eye is completely 
 occupied with a variety of pleasing distant sub- 
 jects, such as churches, gentlemen's seats, &c. 
 Upon ascending a long and steep hill, (Hasel- 
 bury,) and turning to the right to gain the above 
 place, the road is level, enclosed on each side 
 with stone walls, and the locality of scenery is 
 pleasing ; but the view of the immense hills and 
 the perspective prospect is truly grand. The 
 White Swan, at Pickwick, (nine miles, if refresh- 
 ment is thought necessary,) will be found, upon 
 its entrance, completely to accord with the 
 style of those rustic sketches, so much admired 
 and made by the late GEORGE MOREL AND. The 
 stone kitchen, large fireside, bacon-rack, copper 
 saucepans hanging up, (which from their bright- 
 ness might almost serve for looking-glasses,) an an- 
 tique clock, the friendly box round the fire, &c. 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 221 
 
 The customers corresponding; being princi- 
 pally men employed in agriculture; their ap- 
 pearance unfashioned by form and art, and upon 
 whose countenances content and happiness ap- 
 pear the prominent features. It should seem as 
 if the inhabitants of this village did not trouble 
 the press much, as a long list of club articles, 
 filling five sheets of foolscap, are here nailed up 
 against the wall. On passing the Hare and 
 Hounds, the London-Road turns to the left ; and 
 the village of Corsham, in a direct line, is about 
 three-quarters of a mile's distance from Vickwick. 
 On arriving at the above place, which has a very 
 neat clean appearance, Corsham-House is soon 
 ascertained. The approach to this venerable 
 mansion is through a long wide avenue of thickly 
 planted high trees on each side, which gives it 
 a prepossessing character. It has an antique 
 look, built after the Gothic style, and the 
 church upon its right adds considerably to the 
 general effect. It has also a fore-court (in 
 which are some small buildings for aged poor 
 people) and large gates. The village of COR- 
 SHAM, with its Park, &c. can be traced from 
 the time of William the CONQUEROR, and ori- 
 ginally made part of the dower of the Queens of 
 England, which appears from its being settled 
 upon the royal Consort of Edward I. to which 
 Bath was also attached. CORSHAM-HOUSE has 
 changed its proprietors several times ; and in 
 1747 it was purchased by the late PAUL ME- 
 THUEN, Esq. in order to display his very fine 
 COLLECTION OF PAINTINGS,* at one view. 
 
 * The connoisseurs, it seems, have pronounced the above 
 collection to be the second in the kingdom, not only in point 
 
222 VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 
 
 Numerous tasteful alterations and improvements 
 were .made during his lifetime, under the direc- 
 tion of Mr. BROWN, the architect ; but it was re- 
 served for his son, the present possessor, to com- 
 plete in the most superb manner so enlarged and 
 liberal an undertaking. It is but justice to add, 
 that whatever individual gratification such en- 
 lightened pursuits might have afforded the late 
 PAUL METHUEN, Esq. when his eye luxuriantly 
 dwelt upon this celebrated collection of the 
 OLD MASTERS, in his own possession, it is the 
 public that ultimately derive the benefit from 
 exertions, which have the praiseworthy tendency 
 to improve our taste, soften our manners, and 
 excite encouragement, generally, towards the 
 promotion and extension of the FINE ARTS. On 
 entering the Hall, which is 110 feet in length, 
 25 feet broad, and 25 feet high, the visitor 
 feels impressed with its elegance. It has a gal- 
 lery all round it ; and two very handsome flights 
 of stairs, which front each other, in the middle 
 of the left and right ends of the hall. The 
 stone floor is white, but chequered with black 
 spots. It does not exhibit any of the ancient 
 trophies of war, shields, &c. like the renowned 
 Castle of Otranto ; but it has a few small bronzed 
 busts, and other little ornaments ; yet it pos- 
 sesses a sort of old baronial appearance, and 
 maintains some of the character of former times. 
 Two small flags are suspended from the gallery, 
 
 of taste and excellence, but also in value j and, unlike most 
 other collections of this kind, the above pictures have re- 
 mained undisturbed in one family upwards of seventy years. 
 They are valued at more than ,200,000 ; and one painting 
 alone cost ,30,000. 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 223 
 
 remnants of the late county election for Wilt- 
 shire, (the proprietor of this mansion being re- 
 turned one of the members, in 1818,) upon which 
 are painted " Success to the Loom, METHUEN 
 for ever ;" and " Success to the Plough ;" a 
 larger one in the middle of the hall has also 
 " METHUEN and Independence." Over the 
 fronts of the stairs leading to the gallery are 
 placed the coat of arms belonging to the family, 
 with the following motto, under each of them 
 " VIRTUS INVIDUA SCOPUS. Here a footman in 
 livery presents the visitor with a book, in which, 
 according to etiquette, he signs his name and 
 address. The housekeeper, (Mrs. Pardoe,) a 
 young, intelligent, interesting female, presents 
 herself, and accompanies the various parties 
 through the suite of rooms, explaining in a very 
 tasteful, artist-like manner, the various subjects 
 of the pictures, and the names and merits of the 
 painters. 
 
 THE STATE DRESSING-ROOM is the first 
 place which attracts the anxious expectation of 
 the visitor. It is a truly magnificent apartment; 
 and the pannels being of a dark crimson colour, 
 give to the pictures, which are in elegant gilt 
 frames, a very imposing and rich effect. The 
 following paintings are seen in it: 
 
 1 A Boy blowing Bubbles An. Caracci. 
 
 9 A Man and Woman Smoaking D. Temer$,fec. 
 
 3 Ditto Drinking Teniers. 
 
 4 A Battle Piece, a Sketch Borgnogone. 
 
 5 Death of Procris A. Elsheimer. 
 
 6 Cupid straining his Bow, with two other Cupids Parmigwno. 
 
 7 The Corinthian, Eudamidas making his Will N. Poussin. 
 
 8 Portrait of Tomaso Masaniello S.Rosa. 
 
 9 and 10 Two small Pictures D. Teniers. 
 
 1 1 An emblematical Picture, representing a guar- 
 dian Angel conveying an Infant Female to 
 
 Heaven C.Dolce. 
 
 i A Barber-Surgeon's Shop D. Tenters. 
 
224 VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSK. 
 
 13 An Ecce Homo L. Garacci. 
 
 14 A Skirmish between Dutch Boors and a Party 
 
 of Spaniards P. BruegJiel. 
 
 15 A Satyr squeezing Grapes, with a Tiger and 
 
 Leopard ;, Rubens. 
 
 A door from the above room opens into the 
 STATE BED-CHAMBER. This apartment is 
 equally grand with the former ; and the state- 
 bed of 70 years standing, which is adorned with 
 costly crimson satin hangings, claims the atten- 
 tion of the spectator. The following large pic- 
 tures add to the interest of the state bed- 
 chamber: 
 
 16 The Picture of a Curtain, with a Carpet, 
 
 Fruit, &c Maltese and M. Angela- Campidoglio. 
 
 17 William, Duke of Guienne, and Count of 
 
 Poictieu 
 
 18 Martyrdom of St. Stephen Domenichino. 
 
 The following pictures have been added to 
 the above rooms, taken from up-stairs, but 
 not placed or numbered in the regular catalogue: 
 intended originally, it seems, not to have been 
 shown to the public : 
 
 Holy Family Don Snlto. 
 
 Sacrifice of Gideon Rembrandt. 
 
 Portraits of Lord and Lady Boston Romney. 
 
 The Great-Grandfather and Grandmother of 
 
 Mr. Methuen ... SirJoshwReynolds. 
 
 Also Mr. Methuen's Grandfather and Grand- 
 mother Ditto. 
 
 These paintings are in a high state of preservation, and are 
 pleasing portraits ; Sir Paul is in a masquerade dress. 
 
 Soldier and Landscape Bombuchio. 
 
 Our Saviour in the Garden Malisso. 
 
 The face is peculiaily fine. 
 
 A Head, a fine subject Dobson. 
 
 The whole of these additional pictures are well worthy the attention 
 of the admirers of sound and exquisite painting. 
 
 The CABINET-ROOM. This splendid apart- 
 ment, from its numerous paintings, the splendor 
 of its decorations, and its beautiful look-out, 
 fastens rapturously upon the mind of the spec- 
 tator. A sofa of crimson velvet, with seams of 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 225 
 
 gold-lace ; rich red ottomans, and elegant chairs 
 to correspond ; looking-glasses, tripods, large 
 China jars, &c. &c. The following is a list of 
 the pictures: 
 
 On the Side next to the Bed-Chamber. 
 
 19 Battle Piece Franasco Mola. 
 
 20 Head of Old Bassan Himself. 
 
 1 The Holy Family P. Vervnne. 
 
 32 St. Sebastian and other Saints Fillippo Lauri. 
 
 93 Our Saviour, and the Woman taken in Adul- 
 tery, John, c. viii. v. 2. Axaretto. 
 
 The face of the woman is a masterpiece of expression. 
 
 84 A Head (doubtful) LeodaVind. 
 
 5 The Flight into Egypt Fillippo Lauri. 
 
 26 Martyrdom of St. Laurence Titian. 
 
 27 The Descent from the Cross Rubens. 
 
 88 Virgin and Child Raphael. 
 
 Fain would I Raphael's godlike art rehearse, 
 
 And show th f immortal labours in my verse, 
 
 Where, from the mingled strength of shade and light, 
 
 A new creation rises to my sight ; 
 
 Such heav'nly figures from his pencil glow, 
 
 So warm with life his blended colours glow ; 
 
 From theme to theme with secret pleasure tost, 
 
 Amidst the soft variety I'm lost : 
 
 Here pleasing airs my ravish'd soul confound, 
 
 With circling notes and labyrinths of sound; 
 
 Here domes and temples rise in distant views, 
 
 And opening palaces invite my Muse. 
 
 The &mth Side' of the Cabinet Room. 
 
 49 St. Mark and St. John in Consultation on their 
 
 Writings B. Strozzi. 
 
 30 Lot and his Daughters Lorcnzi Lotto. 
 
 31 David and Solomon B. Strozzi. 
 
 92 Portrait of Hermando Cortez Titian. 
 
 33 The Virgin and Child Carlo Cignam. 
 
 34 Judith preparing to cut off the Head of Holo- 
 
 fernes P. Veronete. 
 
 tb A Port in the Mediterranean W.Vandervelde,jun. 
 
 36 A Battle Piece, Fight with the Turks Ditto. 
 
 37 A Landscape representing the Dawn of Morn- 
 
 ing Claude. 
 
 39 The Virgin and Child in the Clouds Murillo. 
 
 39 A Man's Head Corregio. 
 
 40 Judith going out of the City to Holofernes' 
 
 Tent, companion to 32 P. Veronese. 
 
 The Side next to the Gallery. 
 
 41 Our Saviour and Nicodemus Guercino. 
 
 42 The Amphitheatre at Rome, with other Ruins Fttnant. 
 
 43 Our Saviour with the Woman of Samaria, com- 
 
 panion to 41 Guercino. 
 
 44 The Marriage of Jacob Giro Ferri. 
 
226 VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 
 
 45 The Virgin, our Saviour, and Saints Ludovica Caracct. 
 
 46 A Garland of Flowers Mario Nuzzi. 
 
 47 Virgin and Child, St. John Baptist, St. Joseph, 
 
 and St. Anne Parmigiano. 
 
 The East Side of the Room. 
 
 48 A Head Dobson. 
 
 49 Our Saviour in the Garden Malesso. 
 
 50 The Nativity Pasqualino. 
 
 The grand climacteric is now obtained on 
 entering the PICTURE GALLERY. It is like the 
 concluding highly finished scene of a pantomime. 
 The effect is dazzling. Between the partitions 
 of four windows (which command a view of the 
 park-scenery and pleasure-grounds) are placed 
 four elegant looking-glasses, with rich crimson 
 silk curtains. Under the looking-glasses are fine 
 marble slabs of variegated colours, supported by 
 gilt feet. In various parts of the GALLERY are 
 eight very beautiful large China jars to enrich the 
 scene. Along the middle of the floor, which is 
 made of fine oak, and kept bright, is placed a long 
 piece of crimson cloth. The sofas, ottomans, and 
 chairs, are of the most elegant description ; in 
 short, the ornaments are too numerous to notice. 
 The ceiling is peculiarly handsome, with good 
 cornices. The fire-place, which is in the centre 
 of the room, commands great attention on ac- 
 count of the support it receives from two female 
 figures of white marble of exquisite statuary. 
 On the middle of the mantle-piece, surrounded 
 by a variety of attractive subjects, stands the 
 bust of the Right Honourable Sir Paul Methuen, 
 Knight of the Bath, in the reigns of King Wil- 
 liam, Queen Anne, George the First, Envoy Ex- 
 traordinary and Plenipotentiary and Ambassador 
 to the Emperors of Germany and Morocco, the 
 Kings of Spain, Portugal, and Sardinia; one of 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 227 
 
 the Lords of the Admiralty; a Lord of the 
 Treasury ; Principal Secretary of 'State ; Comp- 
 troller and Treasurer of the Household. Born 
 1672, died 1757. It has also a beautiful glass 
 chandelier. 
 
 In addition to the elegance of the interior, 
 as well as a relief to the eye, the prospect 
 of a fine lawn, majestic clustres of trees, and a 
 piece of water, render the tout ensemble com- 
 plete. When the spectator gets a little over the 
 brilliancy of the scene by which he is so daz- 
 zingly surrounded, the paintings are also of that 
 beautiful, interesting nature, that he scarcely 
 knows how to quit them. The following are the 
 list of pictures in the GALLERY: 
 
 On the South Side. 
 
 51 An emblematical Picture, representing the 
 Virtues and Duties belonging to a good 
 
 Christian Titian. 
 
 Bright, beyond all the rest, Corregio flings 
 His ample lights, and round them gently brings 
 The mingled shade. In all his works we view, 
 Grandeur of style, and chastity of hue. 
 
 Yet higher still great Titian dar'd to soar, 
 He reach'd the loftiest heights of colouring power ; 
 His friendly tints in happiest mixture flow, 
 His shades and lights their just gradations know ; 
 He knew those dear delusions of the art, 
 That rous'd, relieve, inspirit every part; 
 Hence deem'd divine, the world his merit own'd, 
 With riches loaded, and with honours crown'd. 
 
 54 A Turk's Head Rembrandt. 
 
 53 Our Saviour at the Pharisee's House, and 
 
 Mary Magdalene anointing his feet Carlo Dolce. 
 
 54 A large Battle Piece Giordiano. 
 
 55 Ditto Ditto. 
 
 56 David with the Head of Goliath Leon. Spado. 
 
 57 Dead Saviour, with the Virgin and St. John .. An. Caracci. 
 
 58 A Magdalen meditating on a Skull Titian. 
 
 59 Martyrdom of the Innocents (doubtful) Vandyck. 
 
 60 Baptism of Our Saviour Guido. 
 
 61 Flight of the Assyrian Army P. Veronese. 
 
 62 A Landscape S.Rosa. 
 
 63 Holofernes entertaining Judith at a Feast .... P. Veronese. 
 
 64 A Mathematician Spagnoletto. 
 
 65 Virgin and Child Lanfranc. 
 
 66 Herodiae with the Head of St. John Baptist .. L. Giordan*. 
 
 92 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 
 
 6? Rubens and his Family, with Horses, Dogs, 
 
 Foxes, Wolves, &c Rubens and Snyders . 
 
 This is a large, interesting picture 5 and the wife of Rubens 
 appears handsome in the extreme. 
 
 68 A Physical Consultation Spagnoletto. 
 
 69 The Marriage of St. Catharine G^^erc^no. 
 
 70 The Marriage of Cana in Galilee L.Giordano. 
 
 71 Our Saviour betrayed by Judas Vandyck. 
 
 72 Judith reproves the Governors of the City .... P. Veronese. 
 
 73 Landscape S.Rosa. 
 
 74 Judith presented to Holofernes P. Veronese. 
 
 75 The Angel conducting Tobias to Media M. Angela. 
 
 76 Venus in her Chemise, dressing, and Cupid 
 
 holding her Looking-glass P. Veronese. 
 
 This painting is a voluptuous specimen of the ancient mas- 
 ters ; but the arms are considered too large. 
 
 77 Vulcan at his Forge with the Cyclops Jordaens. 
 
 78 Charity and three Children Vandyck. 
 
 On the North Side of the Gallery. 
 
 79 The Ordination of St. Dennis by Pope Clement Le Sueur. 
 
 80 David and Abigail Rubens. 
 
 81 A Female Saint kneeling, with two Children 
 
 and Angels in the Clouds Da Cortona. 
 
 82 Tancred and Ermina, from Tasso Ditto. 
 
 S3 The Annunciation P.Veronese. 
 
 84 A Landscape. Evening Claude. 
 
 85 The Nativity Tintoretto. 
 
 86 Women, &c. working by Candlelight Giacomo Bassan. 
 
 The Music-RooM. Considerable taste and 
 elegance are also conspicuously displayed in this 
 apartment. The walls are painted of a dark 
 brown, which operate as a pleasing relief from 
 the previous exhibitions ; several sofas of co- 
 loured velvet, with a variety of flowers em- 
 broidered upon them of exquisite workmanship ; 
 rich chairs to correspond; large china jars, 
 beautiful shells, inlaid cabinets, &c. &c. The 
 skylight also adds to the general appearance of 
 this apartment, which is extremely curious, with 
 stained-glass partitions. This room contains 
 nearly twice as many pictures as any of the pre- 
 ceding apartments: 
 
 Upon the North Side. 
 
 87 A Magdalen Giadnto Brandt. 
 
 88 Portrait of Don Antonio de Leiva .*. Dossodi Ferrara . 
 
 89 Portrait of Thomas Killegrew, Jester to King 
 
 Charles II. ... Dobson. 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 229 
 
 90 The Holy Family OldPalma. 
 
 91 Portrait of Berni, a Satirist of Italy Giorgiane. 
 
 92 Portrait of Cosmo, the last Duke of Florence Subtermans. 
 
 93 A Philosopher Fran. Mola. 
 
 04 The Virgin and Child in the Clouds with five 
 
 Saints Vandyck. 
 
 95 A Bacchanal with Silenus and Satyrs Jordatns. 
 
 99 The Crucifixion Tintoretto. 
 
 97 The Birth of Our Saviour, and Adoration of 
 
 the Shepherds G. Bassan. 
 
 98 Sir Charles Baromens visiting the Sick during 
 
 the Time of a Plague at Milan Giacinto Bandi. 
 
 99 Landscape and Figures of Dutch Boors Adrian Van Ostade. 
 
 100 Susanna and the Elders Givsapfx Chiari. 
 
 This is a piece of great merit; the looks of surpriseand shame 
 of the Woman are excellent. 
 
 101 Nymphs bathing Poelemberg. 
 
 104 Bacchanals Rubens. 
 
 103 Flight into Egypt Scaramuccia. 
 
 104 Education of Bacchus Simon Vvuet. 
 
 105 A Sketch of St. Augustine, in Ecstacy, con- 
 
 templating the Mystery of the HolyTrinity, 
 
 and the Incarnation of Our Saviour Vandyck. 
 
 106 The Last Supper Tintoretto. 
 
 This painting claims the most interesting attention. 
 
 107 The Nativity Young Palma. 
 
 108 The Virgin, Our Saviour, and several Saints.. Guide. 
 
 109 St. John in the Desert A. D. Sarto. 
 
 110 Landscape and Robbery Borgosmm*. 
 
 111 Nymphs bathing Poelemberg. 
 
 Upon the East Side of the Music-Room. 
 
 112 A small Head of St. Sebastian Guido. 
 
 113 Our Saviour meditating on the Sins of the 
 
 World Pordedone. 
 
 114 The Battle of Eckerbert Strada. 
 
 115 St.Peter Giacinto Brandi. 
 
 116 The Continence of Scipio Cortona. 
 
 117 St. Lawrence on the Gridiron S.Rosa. 
 
 118 Fortunetellers Giorgione. 
 
 119 Inside of a Church, with Figures Stenueyck. 
 
 120 Taking down from the Cross Alessandro Tiarini. 
 
 121 Henry the Seventh's three Children Mahu.se. 
 
 122 St. John in the Desert P. F. Mola. 
 
 123 Judgment of Paris j the Landscape by P. 
 
 Britle Rothenhammer. 
 
 On the South Side. 
 
 124 Portrait of Vandyck Himself. 
 
 126 Portrait of Charles Lewis, Elector Palatine .. Vandyck. 
 
 126 Portrait of Pope Innocent the Tenth Velasquez. 
 
 127 Portrait of Andrea Vesalius, a Physician of 
 
 great Celebrity Tintoretto. 
 
 128 A naked Boy blowing Bubbles, and treading 
 
 on a Skull, representing Vanity Eliz. Sirani. 
 
 129 Head of a Dominican Friar Lanfranc. 
 
 130 Portrait of a Spanish General Borgognone. 
 
 131 Half length of Ann Carr, Countess of Bedford Vandyck. 
 
 132 Girl, with a little Dog asleep in her Arms .... Rembrandt. 
 
230 VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 
 
 133 Landscape N. Poumn. 
 
 134 Our Saviour breaking the Bread Car. Dolce. 
 
 135 Baptism of Queen Candace's Eunuch by St. 
 
 Philip John Both. 
 
 136 Portrait of St. Bruno, founder of the Carthu- 
 
 sians C.Dolce. 
 
 137 Landscape N. Poussin. 
 
 138 Hawking Wouvermans. 
 
 139 Virgin and Child Bar. Schidone, 
 
 140 Dutch Boors in a Cottage Av. Ostade. 
 
 141 Ditto Ditto. 
 
 142 St. John with two Doctors of the Church .... Denis Calvart. 
 
 143 Stag Hunting Wbuvermans. 
 
 On the West Side of the Music-Room. 
 
 144 Portrait of an Astrologer..., G. F. Penni. 
 
 143 An emblematical Picture, showing the folly 
 
 of spending our lives in the pursuit of wine, 
 
 music, and play Schorel. 
 
 146 Omphale, the Mistress of Hercules A.Caracci. 
 
 The power of love over strength is finely depicted in this 
 painting. Omphale is represented naked, and possessing 
 great beauty of expression and warmth of colouring. 
 14? Head of a young Man Andrea del Sarto. 
 
 148 Landscape with Figures. Storm N. Poussin. 
 
 149 Flight into Egypt Bdnaschi. 
 
 150 Landscape with Figures. Storm Gasper Poutsin. 
 
 151 A Tinker with his Dog, in a Landscape Weeninx. 
 
 152 The Pope saluting a Warrior Giacoma Hassan. 
 
 1 53 The Deity, with several Angels in the Clouds F. Albano. 
 
 154 The Last Supper Gia. Bassan. 
 
 155 Landscape and Cattle Bomboccio. 
 
 The SALOON is every thing that a lover of 
 taste can admire, and the visitor enters it with 
 the most rapturous pleasure. It is of an octagon 
 shape, 40 feet in diameter, and 24 feet high ; 
 with three windows, or rather folding-doors, 
 which have a descent of six steps that lead into 
 the pleasure-grounds. An invisible fence is in 
 front of the Saloon. The ceiling is an object 
 of much curiosity, representing ribs, painted in 
 imitation of coloured marble. The sofas are 
 plentiful and elegant, particularly one of white 
 satin, worked all over with various flowers in 
 gold cord. Some rich and beautiful inlaid ca- 
 binets, very fine shells, tables, books of prints, 
 &c. ; it has also an elegant fire-place. The im- 
 pression which the SALOON makes upon the 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSfi. 231 
 
 spectator is not easily described, but it operates 
 so strongly that every person seems to leave it 
 with regret. The paintings are also of the most 
 exquisite description: 
 
 156 Head of St. John , Unknown. 
 
 157 Virgin and Child, St. Joseph, and St. Catha- 
 
 rine John Fern l?yc*. 
 
 158 Inside of a Church by Torchlight, with a Pro- 
 
 cession Pet.Neefs. 
 
 159 Head of Antonio, Son of Augustina Caracci.. An. Caracci. 
 
 160 Portrait of a Man in a Ruff Rubens. 
 
 161 Head Spagnoletlo. 
 
 16 Adoration of the Magi Al. Durer. 
 
 163 Battle Piece Borgognont. 
 
 164 Profile Head of a young Female Guide. 
 
 165 Judgment of Midas G. Loire**. 
 
 166 Soldiers on Horses Borgognome. 
 
 167 Sir Francis Xavire dying on the Coast of 
 
 China C. Marat*. 
 
 168 Battle Piece tiorgognwe. 
 
 169 Portrait of an Old Man Unknown. 
 
 170 Head Dobson. 
 
 171 Head Antonio More. 
 
 179 Queen Anne's Nurse </. Ryley. 
 
 17$ Annunciation Ptrugino. 
 
 174 Whole length Portrait of James S.tuart, Duke 
 
 of Richmond and Lenox Vandyck. 
 
 175 Head of Lord Bernard Stuart, afterwards 
 
 Earl of Lichfield Ditto. 
 
 176 Portrait of Franciscus de Talis, the first In- 
 
 ventor of Posts in Europe Unknown. 
 
 177 Headof St. James Guercino. 
 
 178 Our Saviour crowned with Thorns Bassan. 
 
 179, Judgment of Paris G. Lairesse. 
 
 This painting is much admired for its beauty of expression. 
 
 180 Sea Piece f''andevelde,jnn. 
 
 181 Portrait of a Man in a Ruff Rubens. 
 
 189 The Nativity Al.Durcr. 
 
 183 Margaret, Countess of Richmond and Derby, 
 
 Mother of Henry VII Mabuse. 
 
 184 Head of a Slave Rap.delColle. 
 
 185 Half-length Portrait of Scanderberg, in Ar- 
 
 mour Giorgione. 
 
 186 St. Peter Spagnoletto. 
 
 187 Mary Magdalene Quintin Matsys. 
 
 188 Sir Bryan Tukc Holbein. 
 
 189 Head of a Painter Unknown. 
 
 190 Murder of the Innocents All. Turchi. 
 
 191 Sea Piece Vdndvelde, jun. 
 
 192 Shipwreck of St. Paul on the Island of Melita Elsheimer. 
 
 193 Landscape and Figures J.Brueghel. 
 
 194 Ditto Ditto. 
 
 The DINING-ROOM follows in succession, 
 where usefulness seems to take the precedence 
 
232 VISIT TO CORSHAM- HOUSE. 
 
 of brilliancy of appearance. The furniture is 
 composed of fine brown solid mahogany; side- 
 board, tables, &c. The chairs are old-fashioned, 
 with red bottoms ; and a handsome Turkey car- 
 pet. Over the mantlepiece is a whole length 
 engraving of her late Royal Highness the Prin- 
 cess of Coburg, by Jones. This is the only 
 apartment that does not attract from its grandeur, 
 but it has however to boast of some very beauti- 
 ful highly finished paintings, which close this 
 
 GRAND COLLECTION I 
 
 On the West Side. 
 
 195 Fruit Piece M. Angela Car. 
 
 196 Sir Paul Rycant Sir Peter Lely. 
 
 197 Fruit Piece M. Angela Car. 
 
 198 The Duchess of Mantua, Grandmother to the 
 
 Emperor Charles V. with her Son in her 
 Lap, who was the last Duke of Mantua, 
 with Figures B. Castiglione. 
 
 199 DonQuixotte Spanish Painter. 
 
 On the South Side of the Dining-Room. 
 
 200 Battle Piece Pandolpho RescM. 
 
 201 Birds and Beasts going into the Ark B. Castiglione. 
 
 202 Battle Piece Borgognone. 
 
 203 Sir Peter Lely and Family, in a Musical Con- 
 
 cert Sir Peter Lely. 
 
 904 A Dutch Kermis, or Country Fair Old P. Bruegel. 
 
 205 Cats Fighting, and Still Life Snyders. 
 
 This painting is much admired. 
 
 206 Battle Piece Borgognone. 
 
 207 Ditto Pan. Reschi. 
 
 208 Fruit Antonio Caracci. 
 
 209 Ditto M. Angela Oar. 
 
 210 Jupiter and Ganymede M- Angela Buonarrotti. 
 
 211 Fruit M. Angela Car. 
 
 212 Dogs and Foxes * Snyders. 
 
 If admittance to the LIBRARY can be pro- 
 cured, (which is not always the case), it will be 
 
 * To those persons who may feel anxious for a more detailed ac- 
 count of these paintings, together with an historical account of 
 Corsham-House ; an essay on the Fine Arts, and a dissertation on the 
 merits of the different Schools; also a review of the progressive state 
 of the Arts in England, and biographical sketches of the numerous 
 Artists in this collection, a small but interesting volume, written by 
 Mr. Britton, will afford much valuable information and amusement 
 on its perusal. 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 233 
 
 found well worthy the attention of the visitor. 
 It is 45 feet long, and 22 feet wide, and well 
 filled with handsomely bound books ; but those 
 of a high classic description do not appear to 
 preponderate. Over the fire-place is a fine por- 
 trait, by DOBSON, of Sir Charles Lucas, shot to 
 death, August 28, 1648, for defending the Castle 
 of Colchester against the Parliamentary army 
 under Fairfax. Here are also some excellent 
 miniatures, particularly one of George II. and 
 two or three exquisitely finished bronzed figures, 
 among which is a copy of the dying gladiator; 
 not forgetting a little reasonable man, remark- 
 ably well put together, (formed by the present 
 lady of the mansion, Mrs. Methuen). The ap- 
 pearance of the library is altogether interesting. 
 It also contains globes, maps, an excellent piano- 
 forte, and a very elegant mahogany pair of steps 
 on casters. Here are likewise two fine portraits 
 of the daughters of the above Sir Charles Lucas, 
 both of whom married into the METHUEN fa- 
 mily. 
 
 In the DOMESTIC apartments above stairs, 
 which are not included in the catalogue to meet 
 the eye of the public, are some most excellent 
 paintings, among which is nearly a whole-length 
 portrait of QUEEN ELIZABETH, said to be taken 
 by her own desire when she was dying. The 
 grim king of terrors is seen standing close to her 
 left shoulder, as if to warn her Majesty of her 
 approaching dissolution. The face of the Queen 
 is finely worked up ; and it claims the admira- 
 tion of every spectator, as a masterpiece of ex- 
 pression. There is evidently a great deal of 
 doubt and apprehension depicted upon her 
 
234 VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 
 
 countenance, and she appears to be suffering 
 under the most excruciating bodily pain and 
 mental anguish. It is in high preservation, and 
 her Majesty is dressed in the peculiar costume 
 which designated her reign. The painter, un- 
 fortunately, is not known, although the most 
 anxious inquiries have been made, and are con- 
 tinually making to ascertain the fact. The King 
 of Prussia has, within the last two or three years, 
 it seems, sent an artist from Berlin to endeavour 
 to give some clue towards the painter, but with- 
 out any avail; it is however attributed to the 
 pencil of some foreign artist. In the same room 
 is also a very large picture, representing a bird's 
 eye view of the City of Peru, and some others, 
 with landscapes. 
 
 The adjoining apartment contains the greatest 
 curiosities in CORSHAM-HOUSE, from its being 
 hung with the GOBBLING TAPESTRY. The 
 subjects represented, eight in number, are ex- 
 quisitely executed, and some of them large 
 pieces ; the most prominent of which is the dog 
 jumping on the back of the wild boar, and seiz- 
 ing him upon the hind part of his neck. The 
 expression of the agony of the boar is almost 
 real life; his starting eye is fine indeed. The 
 perspective of the hills to the righj; of the 
 tapestry is also admirably portrayed ; but the 
 hunter in pursuit of the boar has the spear 
 in his left hand, which is considered as rather a 
 drawback to the otherwise finished excellence of 
 this piece of workmanship. On each side of 
 the bed is a painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds, 
 the children of the ancestors of the present pro- 
 prietor ; one is a boy playing with a fine hound ; 
 
VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 23/> 
 
 and the other a girl and a boy ; but the faces of 
 the children are almost white, the colouring 
 having completely lost its effect. This com- 
 plaint, it should seem, has become rather general 
 against the once highly esteemed flesh colouring 
 so peculiar to this deservedly famed painter. 
 
 In taking leave of the brilliant and superb 
 part of this elegant mansion, one of the most 
 useful parts of the establishment is offered to the 
 view of the visitor, namely, the DAIRY. If this 
 place, in which much taste is also shown, in the 
 formation of an octagon small building, with 
 very handsome stained glass, cannot boast of a 
 LINGO to enjoy the cream of the thing, an obli- 
 ging COWSLIP is ready to give every explana- 
 tion necessary. It is fitted up with every con- 
 venience ; and upon the whole it must be pro- 
 nounced a little elegant appendage to CORSHAM- 
 HOUSE. 
 
 The PROMENADE OF THE GROUNDS, lastly, 
 attracts the attention of the visitor. If the study 
 of art has been deemed necessary to give supe- 
 rior taste in the formation of them, it must be 
 confessed that the beauties of nature are, never- 
 theless, to be met with at every step. Trees of 
 the finest sort rise majestically over the ground ; 
 and in the lowest part of the Park a piece of 
 water has been formed to add to the effect, 
 which, with the distant hills, and the surrounding 
 woody scenery, render the prospect delightfully 
 interesting and picturesque. The late improve- 
 ments in the grounds have been made from the 
 designs of Mr. REPTON. Chairs and benches, 
 made of the boughs of trees, are to be found in 
 various parts of the walks, to rest the visitor; 
 
236 VISIT TO CORSHAM-HOUSE. 
 
 and some curiously covered ones. The summer- 
 house is a neat building, and the fond ivy has 
 nearly obscured its front ; a sort of subterrane- 
 ous turn-round is attached to it, that leads to 
 the garden, but no admittance to which is 
 granted. The stained-glass here has also a 
 pretty effect, but more particularly when the 
 trees and shrubs are viewed through it. At the 
 bottom of the walk there is a fine view of the 
 north front of the building, which has been 
 modelled after the design of Henry the Seventh's 
 Chapel at Westminster, and has a very light at- 
 tractive appearance. The flying buttresses and 
 turrets are also viewed as great ornaments to 
 this elegant mansion. The above addition has 
 been erected within the last 18 years, from the 
 design of JOHN NASH, Esq. and cost, it is said, 
 80,000. 
 
 It is thought that the proprietors of the 
 coaches in Bath might employ one or two of 
 their vehicles every Tuesday and Friday to a 
 very good account, set apart expressly for the 
 purpose of conveying visitors from Bath to 
 CORSHAM-HOUSE. 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 237 
 
 WALK (or EXCURSION) XII. 
 
 A VISIT TO CLIFTON AND BRISTOL HOT- 
 WELLS. 
 
 From the Old Bridge pass Holloway, (CHAPEL OF ST. 
 MARY MAGDALENE) through Twiverton, Saltford, 
 Keynsham, Brislington, pass AUNG'S VALE to Bris- 
 tol. WALK alongside of the Avon, pass the New 
 Jail to the Stop-Gate at Nova Scotia Wharf, and 
 proceed to Rownham Tavern and the FERRY. HOT- 
 WELL-HOUSE and PUMP-ROOM. ST. VINCENT'S 
 ROCKS. RETURN over the Downs, through Clifton, 
 to Sion-House, pass Prince of Wales's Crescent, 
 4 - c. 4rc. ; cross Brandon-Hill to Bristol, through 
 College-Green and the Docks. Pass the Exchange 
 and Post-Office through Clare-Street, turn down 
 High-Street, pass over Bristol-Bridge, through 
 Temple-Street, and arrive at the Iron Bridge, from 
 whence this WALK commenced. 
 
 THE delightful village of CLIFTON and the 
 BRISTOL HOT WELLS are so immediately con- 
 nected with a visit to Bath, the facilities so nu- 
 merous and easy to arrive at the above salubri- 
 ous and healthful situation, the distance only 
 13 miles, and the expense so trifling, that it is 
 thought few persons who are anxious to make 
 the most of their time would hesitate for a single 
 instant in setting out to view, in addition to some 
 almost unparalleled prospects, one of the most 
 majestic works of nature, namely, St. Vincent's 
 
238 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 Rocks. Stage-coaches start almost every hour 
 in the day from Bath to Bristol, outsides 2s. 6d. 
 and insides 4s. and return from the latter place 
 with the same convenience, regularity, and ex- 
 pedition. 
 
 On quitting the Old Bridge, the road along- 
 side of the Avon, on the right, affords a fine 
 view of the Royal Crescent, and the various ele- 
 vations contiguous to it. To the left is Hol- 
 loway, situated in the parish of Widcombe and 
 Lyncombe, and under Beechen Cliff stands the 
 small chapel of St. Mary Magdalene, which, 
 from its present dilapidated state is little better 
 than a ruin, and divine service has not been per- 
 formed in it for a long time past. Its founder is 
 unknown ; but it is in the gift of the Lord Chan- 
 cellor. Viewed from the road, the chapel, which 
 is built in the Gothic style, and covered with 
 ivy, has an interesting effect:-- 
 
 'Ere round the huge oak, which o'ershadows yon mill, 
 
 The fond ivy had dar'd to entwine, 
 And the church was a ruin, that nods on yon hill, 
 
 Where the rook built its nest in the pine. 
 
 It is a piece of considerable antiquity, which 
 may be seen on the east side of the porch from 
 the following lines, in rude characters : 
 
 Thys. chapell. floryschyd. wt. formosyte spectabyll. 
 
 In. the. honowre. of. M. Magdalen, prior Cantlow. hath. 
 
 edyfyde. 
 Desyring. yow. to. pray. for. him. wt. yowre. pryers, delecta- 
 
 byll. 
 That. sche. will, inhabit, him. in. hevy n. ther. evyr. to. abyde. 
 
 A small hospital for idiots, adjoining to the 
 chapel, also belongs to the endowment, which 
 was rebuilt in 1761. 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 239 
 
 TWIVERTON (provincially called TWER- 
 TON, 2 miles, 6 furlongs) is a neat, interesting 
 looking village, and is rather conspicuous for 
 its large broad-cloth manufactory. This build- 
 ing, which is lofty and capacious, possesses all 
 the appearance of an elegant mansion. It is the 
 property of Mr. WILKINS, who has erected, con- 
 tiguous to his manufactory, a very handsome 
 range of neat and comfortable dwellings, built of 
 freestone, in the Gothic style, for his numerous 
 workmen ; and, with the addition of his own re- 
 sidence and grounds attached to it, gives a 
 pleasing finish to the whole. Near the extre- 
 mity of this village stands a small neat house, in 
 which it is asserted that several chapters of 
 Tom Jones were written by FIELDING : 
 
 When from the world departs a son of fame, 
 His deeds or works embalm his precious name ; 
 Yet, not content, the public call for art, 
 To rescue from the tomb his mortal part j 
 Demand the painter's and the sculptor's hand, 
 To spread his mimic form throughout the land ; 
 A form, perhaps, when living was neglected, 
 And, when it could not feel respect, RESPECTED ! 
 
 GARRICK. 
 
 About a mile to the left of Twerton is New- 
 ton St. Loe Park, belonging to William Gore 
 Langton, Esq. which is distinguished not only 
 for an elegant modern mansion, but for the beauty 
 of its gardens and the grandeur shed around 
 from its lofty venerable oaks, added to its pic- 
 turesque scenery, which receives a considerable 
 and pleasing variety from several sheets and falls 
 of water. About half a mile farther on the 
 right, Kelweston-House, and its fine woody 
 appearance, demands the attention of the tra- 
 
240 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 veller, belonging to Sir John Hawkins, Bart. 
 Queen Elizabeth was entertained at the above 
 seat with great splendor ; and it was also in this 
 mansion, that a translation of the poem of Ari- 
 osto, the celebrated Orlando Furioso, was pro- 
 duced, when in the possession of the Harrington 
 family, which were eminently distinguished for 
 their wit and talents. Queen Elizabeth also 
 stood godmother to the above translator. 
 
 SALTFORD (5 m.) contains but a few strag- 
 gling houses. 
 
 KEYNSHAM (7 in.) consists of one street 
 of some length, and is a market-town ; it was 
 formerly distinguished for its manufacture of 
 cloth ; but the principal occupation of the in- 
 habitants, at present, is spinning for the clothiers 
 at ShepUm and Bradford. The church, which 
 is dedicated to St. John the Baptist, is a hand- 
 some erection, and has a lofty tower, and good 
 ring of bells ; and it also contains some very 
 elegant and superior monuments, particularly 
 that of Sir Thomas Bridges. Keynsham in for- 
 mer times was celebrated for an abbey, but no 
 traces of which now remain. The road affords 
 some delightful prospects, till 
 
 BRISLINGTON (10 m. 4 f.) appears in 
 sight, which is a small but clean village. Pre- 
 vious to entering BRISLINGTON, on the right, 
 stands the Lunatic Asylum, under the manage- 
 ment of Dr. Fox. It is peculiarly well adapted 
 for the reception of those unfortunate persons, 
 from the airiness of its situation, and the ad- 
 vantage of its grounds ; and, added to the supe- 
 rior skill and mode of treatment pursued by this 
 gentleman, it appears, numerous persons have 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 241 
 
 been restored to their friends and the advantages 
 of society. The following anecdote is related 
 of Dr. Fox, the authenticity of which has been 
 vouched for. The doctor, it seems, was in the 
 general habit of visiting his patients alone, and 
 also frequently walking through his grounds 
 without the attendance of his servant, at the 
 bottom of which was a large bath appropriated 
 for the use of the invalids. The doctor, in one 
 of his morning walks, was seized suddenly upon 
 by some of his patients, who threatened to drown 
 him; when, without betraying the slightest 
 symptoms of fear, and with the utmost coolness, 
 observed to his insane persecutors, that, pre- 
 vious to their throwing him into the water, it 
 might be better for them, as a token of their 
 triumph, to give three very loud cheers. This 
 stratagem had the desired effect. The noise im- 
 mediately brought the keepers to the spot ; the 
 madmen were instantly diverted from their ob- 
 ject, and the life of the doctor thus preserved. 
 
 Within a mile of Bristol, on the left side of 
 the road, is a gentleman's seat, denominated 
 ARNO'S VALE ; and near to which is the elegant 
 mansion, built of freestone, belonging to J. 
 Maxse,. Esq. On the left is a building which 
 resembles a castle, and has a good effect, but 
 upon its immediate approach it is found to be 
 stables. On descending the hill, a view of the 
 populous City of Bristol bursts upon the tra- 
 veller. 
 
 Upon crossing the iron bridge, previous to 
 the direct entrance into the City of Bristol, the 
 traveller will experience a most delightful walk 
 on the banks of the Avon, and which is one 
 
 R 
 
'24'2 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 mile and a half nearer to CLIFTON and the HOT- 
 WELLS than through the streets of the above 
 bustling city. A second iron-bridge, of one arch, 
 soon presents itself close to Bathurst's Hotel; 
 contiguous to which is the New Jail, built of 
 rock-stones. This prison is an extensive build- 
 ing, and has a lodge and yard in the front of it. 
 The keeper's house is situated in the centre, 
 adjoining to which are two iron galleries nearly 
 at the top of it, leading to two long wings. It 
 has a formidable and terrifying aspect ; the iron 
 gratings of the windows are strong and massy ; 
 and the prison is completely encircled with a 
 high stone wall. On passing this receptacle for 
 the depraved and abandoned, the eye is relieved 
 with a most enlivening, extensive, and diversi- 
 fied prospect. The spectator, on standing with 
 his back to the cut, will have to his right a 
 fine view of that part of the venerable cathedral 
 which appears to stand in the centre of the trees, 
 supported by the spires of St. Augustin's, St. 
 Stephen's, St. Werburg, Christ- Church, and All- 
 Saints. In the front, Tyndale's Park, the house 
 belonging to its proprietor, which commands an 
 extensive prospect, stands on an eminence con- 
 tiguous to Brandon-Hill. At a small distance 
 from this spot, which throws an elegance over 
 the scene, rises, in the most grand and majestic 
 style, the ROYAL YORK-CRESCENT. From its 
 extraordinary elevation it has a very attractive 
 appearance, many of the houses being orna- 
 mented with elegant verandas ; it is built of 
 freestone, though some of these lofty edifices 
 differ as to colour. To increase the effect, at a 
 considerable distance beneath the above fine 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 243 
 
 range of residences, is the LOWER CRESCENT, 
 but many of the houses remain in an unfinished 
 state. On the side of the ROYAL-CRESCENT, 
 a charming row of houses appear in great for- 
 wardness. The Hot -Wells-Road is also dis- 
 tinctly seen. Illhouse-Dock, with ships in what 
 is termed " the float," gives a most interesting 
 variety to the prospect. To the left is seen, at 
 an immense height, Ashton-Hill y which is dis- 
 tinguished from its having three trees upon the 
 top of it, and the mansion of Lady Smith, near 
 to Lee-Wood. Pursuing the walk, the traveller 
 is impeded in his career by a " stop-gate," 
 where one halfpenny is demanded for the accom- 
 modation ; and contiguous to the above gate is 
 Nova- Scotia-Wharf. It is here the entrance 
 from the river takes place to the float, passing 
 through Cumberland-Bason, which has a large 
 pair of dock-gates. The West Indiamen fre- 
 quently remain in this bason, till an opportunity 
 offers for them to unload higher up. Rownham 
 Tavern and the Ferry is now soon gained by 
 the traveller, which affords a most delightful 
 opening and view of Dundry-Hill, with the 
 tower upon the top of it. To the right, but al- 
 most close to the above tavern, stands a fine 
 handsome range of buildings, called " Watts's 
 Folly," which is built upon a rock of an immense 
 height. The ruggedness of the rock has been 
 cleaned off so smoothly, that it has now the ap- 
 pearance of elegant brick-work. The " Folly" 
 as it is termed, was originally commenced by 
 the proprietor of the Patent Shot Manufactory ; 
 but it completely ruined him before it was half 
 built, and remained in an unfinished state for some 
 
 R 2 
 
244 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 years. A story is very prevalent at Clifton re- 
 specting this Folly ; indeed, it is vouched for as 
 fact, that Mr. Watts was induced to undertake 
 these buildings in consequence of a dream that 
 had some allusion to the process of making shot ; 
 which, it appears, must fall from an immense 
 height before they can acquire a finish. The 
 story goes on to say, that out of one of these 
 fallen shot, which rebounded from the ground, 
 an immense range of high houses instantly ap- 
 peared, which promised an accession of fortune. 
 Mr. Watts being at Clifton at the time, and this 
 rock appearing to accord with his dream, the 
 erections were instantly set about : unfortu- 
 nately for himself and family, this favourable 
 interpretation was never realized ; but, on the 
 contrary, destruction and misery. On passing 
 the Folly, on the turn-round by the side of the 
 inn, a fine gravel-walk appears, shaded by a long 
 line of trees, of 600 feet in length, contiguous to 
 which is St, Vincent's Parade, an elegant row of 
 houses, built of freestone; at the end of the Pa- 
 rade is a handsome Colonade, in the form of a 
 crescent, filled with shops, that operate as an 
 agreeable promenade in wet weather ; and near to 
 which is the HoT-WELL-HousE AND PUMP- 
 ROOM. It is a very plain, small building. The 
 water drank here is without smell, of a soft, 
 warm, milky taste, and pleasing and grateful to 
 the stomach. The spring from which it is taken 
 rises near the bottom of the cliffs, ten feet above 
 low water mark, forcibly making its way through 
 an aperture in the solid rock, and is of so copious 
 a nature as to discharge 60 gallons in a minute. 
 It has been analysed for the last 200 years by 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 245 
 
 various eminent physicians, and pronounced to be 
 extremely efficacious in cases of weakness of the 
 lungs, fevers, in spitting of blood, chlorosis, dy- 
 sentery, internal inflammations, &c. if timely taken 
 in hand. It is also said to be beneficial in dia- 
 betes, stone, gravel, stranguary, gleets, loss of 
 appetite, and indigestion; and consumptions have 
 been stopped in their rapid career by its continued 
 use in milk diet. It is however considered of a 
 hard quality, and will not easily dissolve soap; 
 but it is drunk generally by the inhabitants of 
 Clifton, and brought into their houses by pipes. 
 The above PUMP- ROOM, it seems, is shortly to 
 be taken down to increase the towing-path, and 
 also in consequence of the injury it has sustained 
 from the attraction of Sion- House ; a new one 
 is to be erected in a more preferable situa- 
 tion, and a road made to it. Her late Majesty, 
 when she visited Clifton, drank the water at the 
 OLD PUMP-ROOM. 
 
 The stupendous rocks, on each side of the 
 river, called St. Vincent's, now burst upon the 
 spectator with such sublimity and grandeur as to 
 set description at defiance : the highest part of 
 which is full 300 feet from the bed of the river. 
 The Avon, which flows between them, for about 
 a mile and a half, no where exceeds 150 yards 
 in breadth ; and it is conjectured they were se- 
 parated from each other by some dreadful con- 
 vulsion of nature. They have the appearance 
 of a dark red marble. A chapel, formerly 
 erected upon the highest part of these rocks, 
 was dedicated to St. Vincent, after whom they 
 are named. The foliage of the numerous trees 
 in Lee-Wood, opposite, peeping as it were from 
 
'246 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 their summits, forms a most delightful contrast. 
 This wood, which contains the kingly oak, the 
 lofty elm, ash, sycamore, box, and grave yew- 
 trees, blending their various colours, with the 
 addition of numerous others, render it so exu- 
 berant and attracting, that numerous parties, in 
 summer-time, frequently cross the river, (what 
 might be termed " gypsying" it,) taking their 
 provisions, tea-kettle, &c. with them, and often 
 concluding these excursions, on the verdant 
 spot, to the sound of a fiddle, upon the " light 
 fantastic toe." The Indiamen, merchantmen, 
 sloops, boats, &c. sailing to and from Bristol, 
 tend very much to increase the effect. The men 
 employed in blowing-up the rocks, which is 
 rather a service of danger, have tables set out 
 by the side of the river with selections of various 
 pieces of the rock, termed bacon, blue, and 
 black spar, with some variegated Bristol stone 
 for sale, left to the generosity of the purchaser. 
 Some parts of this stone are polished, and made, 
 into chimney-pieces, but it is principally burnt 
 for lime. The echo is thunder indeed when the 
 biowing-up is performed ; and the men on the 
 rocks, engaged in sending some of the frag- 
 ments down, appear like little boys. Near to 
 the top of one of the above high rocks is to be 
 seen the " Giant's Hole." From the great 
 curiosity which frequently induced numerous 
 persons to ascend, to explore the two cavities 
 which it contained, an outer and an inner cham- 
 ber, where, according to tradition, a giant for- 
 merly dwelt, all approach to it now has very 
 properly been blown up, in order to prevent any 
 farther danger or accidents. Persons walking 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 247 
 
 by the side of these rocks appear truly diminu- 
 tive ; and the majestic appearance of the above 
 venerable cliffs must be pronounced one of the 
 grandest scenes in nature : 
 
 How beautiful the pale rocks, above the shore, 
 Uplift their bleak and furrow'd aspect high! 
 
 How proudly desolate their foreheads, hoar, 
 That meet the earliest sunbeams of the sky. 
 
 Round to yon dusky mast, with pennants gay, 
 The tall bark on the winding waters line, 
 
 Between the riven cliffs plies her hard way, 
 
 And, peering on the sight, the white sails shine. 
 
 Alas ! for those, by drooping sickness worn, 
 Who now come forth to meet the gladsome ray, 
 
 And feel the fragrance of the tepid morn 
 
 Round their torn breast and throbbing temples play ! 
 
 Perhaps the muse, with a desponding sigh, 
 On the cold vault that shall their bones inurn ; 
 
 Whilst every breeze seems, as it whispers by, 
 To breathe of comfort never to return. 
 
 Yet oft, as sadly-thronging dreams arise, 
 
 Awhile forgetful of their pain and gaze, 
 A transient lustre lights their faded eyes, 
 
 And o'er their cheek the tender hectic strays. 
 
 The purple morn that paints with sideling gleam, 
 The cliff's tall crest, the waving woods that ring 
 
 With charm of birds, rejoicing in the beam, 
 
 Touch soft the wakeful nerve's according string. 
 
 Then, at sad meditation's silent hour, 
 
 A thousand wishes steal upon the heart ; 
 And, whilst they meekly bend to Heaven's high power, 
 
 Ah ! think 'tis hard, 'tis surely hard to part 
 
 To part from every hope that brought delight ; 
 
 From those that lov'd them, those that lov'd so much j 
 Then fancy swells the picture on the sight, 
 
 And softens every scene at every touch. 
 
248 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 Sweet as the mellow'd woods beneath the moon. 
 Remembrance lends her soft uniting shades : 
 
 " Some natural tears she drops, but wipes them soon," 
 The world retires, and its dim prospect fades. 
 
 Airs of delight that soothe the aching sense ; 
 
 Waters of health, that through yon caverns glide ; 
 Oh, kindly yet your healing powers dispense, 
 
 And bring back feeble life's exhausted tide ! 
 
 Some orphan maid, deceiv'd in early youth, 
 
 Pale o'er yon spring may hang in mute distress ; 
 
 Who dreamt of faith, of happiness, and truth, 
 Of love that virtue would protect and bless. 
 
 Some musing youth in silence there may bend, 
 Untimely stricken by sharp sorrow's dart ; 
 
 For friendship form'd, yet left without a friend, 
 And bearing still the arrow at his heart ! 
 
 On proceeding a short distance, the turning 
 of the river still continues attractive. The view 
 of King's Road and Cook's Folly must be seen 
 to feel the beauty of the impression ; on the 
 latter place, it seems, a great number of the 
 trees have been cut down to increase the pro- 
 spect, and there is one of the most delightful 
 " look-outs," from an old building, that can be 
 imagined. 
 
 On the traveller's return to Bristol, upon 
 turning to the right, and ascending the hill, the 
 delightful village of CLIFTON will be gained, 
 which, from the air being so remarkably pure 
 and salubrious, added to its elevation, is styled 
 the MONTPELTER of England. It is worthy of 
 observation, that the turf abounds with aroma- 
 tic plants, which grow here wildly, and are 
 not to be met with in any other part of the 
 kingdom, being natives of this peculiar spot. 
 The fragrance from these plants proves of the 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 249 
 
 most vivifying nature, not only to the valetudi- 
 narians, but to all the frequenters of this health- 
 ful retreat. Clifton-Downs now become inte- 
 resting to the spectator, which is covered with 
 verdure all the year. The invalids are here seen 
 enjoying the light restorative breeze, several of 
 whom are drawn, in small curricles, by a pair 
 of donkeys ; the charge for this vehicle, includ- 
 ing the driver,is Is. 6d. per hour. The remnants 
 of some ancient fortifications belonging to the 
 Romans are still visible, and may be traced upon 
 these Downs, near to which are the remains of 
 an old tower, a circular building containing 
 some windows, but without any roof; the in- 
 terior of which has only to boast of a brick 
 floor and a fire-place ; it has three open spaces, 
 which were formerly doors. From the centre of 
 this building are three most delightful views 
 through the above openings. In the front, an 
 extensive prospect of Gloucestershire. On the 
 right, part of Clifton, Northampton-Buildings ; 
 and in the back ground, Dundry-Hill. On 
 the left, King's Road, with the ships lying at 
 anchor; the Bristol Channel, and the Moun- 
 tains in South Wales. At the end of the Downs 
 the traveller is attracted by the mansion of Sir 
 William Draper, once so conspicuous in the 
 minds of the public, from the severe attack he 
 received from the pen of the hitherto undis- 
 covered JUNIUS. To the left of this seat is a 
 plain but expensive monument, with an urn upon 
 its top, erected by the above gentleman, " Sa- 
 cred to the memory of the Field-Officers, Cols. 
 Brereton and J. More; the Lieutenants, Ensigns, 
 and Surgeons, of the 79th Regiment :" the in- 
 
250 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 scription also states, ' the French forces in 
 Asia were withstood and repulsed ; the commerce 
 of Great Britain preserved, by the defence of 
 Madras. The battle of Wandewash. Three 
 superb capitals taken. Arcot, Pondicherry, the 
 Manilla and Phillipine islands. The generous 
 treatment of a vanquished enemy exhibiting an 
 illustrious example of true fortitude and mode- 
 ration worthy of being transmitted to the latest 
 posterity that future generations may know 
 humanity is the characteristic of British con- 
 querors ! These conquests were obtained from 
 1759 to 1762." To the right of the house is 
 another monument, with a lofty pillar, bearing 
 the following inscription : 
 
 " GULIELMO PITT, Comiti de Chatham, 
 
 Hoc Amicitiae privatae Testlraonium, 
 
 Siraul et Honoras public! Monumentum, 
 
 Posuit GuJielmus Draper." 
 
 Near to this estate is the mansion of Hart Davis, 
 Esq. M.P. of Bristol, with some charming 
 grounds attached to it. 
 
 A few minutes bring the visitor to SION- 
 HOUSE, or the UPPER HOT WELL; it is an 
 elegant erection, and also contains a most excel- 
 lent library. At this house resides Miss SHAR- 
 PLES and her brother, (George,} portrait-paint- 
 ers in crayons, whose talents for brilliancy of 
 colouring, softness of touch, and accuracy of 
 likeness, are deservedly the theme of all the 
 fashionable visitors and judges of painting. The 
 same young lady is equally attractive in historical 
 subjects and delightful landscape scenery. The 
 Prince of Wales's Crescent is a handsome range 
 of houses, but the Mall, for beauty of situa- 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 251 
 
 tion, may be said to take the lead in Clifton. 
 Rodney and Saville Places, Richmond-Terrace, 
 Boyces Buildings, York and Prince's, &c. are 
 all worthy of inspection. The Royal York- 
 Crescent can boast of a terrace equal to any 
 street in London ; added to Beaufort, Paragon, 
 Trafalgar, Buildings, and Windsor-Terrace, 
 commanding views of the river, render this 
 watering-place a most desirable retreat. It is 
 impossible to pass over the fine architectural 
 appearance of the Mangeon- Hotel, (the daugh- 
 ter of Mrs. M. a short time since, made her 
 debut at Drnry-Lane-Theatre, as a pupil, and 
 under the auspices of Mrs. Mountain, with 
 much success,) which, for its extensive esta- 
 blishment and accommodation, is equal to any 
 hotel in the kingdom. The Church at Clifton 
 is neat but small, near to which is the mansion 
 of Gabriel Goldney, Esq. so attractive from its 
 celebrated curious grotto ; the entrance to 
 which, from its great variety of beautiful and 
 scarce shells, its fine roof, and rich Mosaic 
 pavements, together with its stream of water in 
 gentle rills, contrived to fill a reservoir for gold 
 and silver fi*h, captivates the spectator; it is 
 also enriched with metallic ores, petrifactions, 
 Bristol stones, &c. A subterraneous passage is 
 connected with the grotto, which leads to a 
 terrace-walk, from which are seen some interest- 
 ing landscapes. 
 
 On quitting Clifton, the most preferable road 
 to return to Bristol is to cross Brandon-Hill, 
 which is about 250 feet, in perpendicular height, 
 from its base. From this hill is a fine panora- 
 mic view of all the city ; and from its summit 
 
252 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 Oliver Cromwell, it appears, battered the Cathe- 
 dral and town. 
 
 College-Green and the Docks, if time permit, 
 are well worthy of observation. In Clare- Street, 
 the Exchange, Post-Office, and Council-House, 
 are equally important. On turning down High- 
 Street, the traveller will pass over Bristol- 
 Bridge, built of Portland-stone, which is an 
 elegant structure of three arches. Then, through 
 Temple- Street, and cross the iron bridge, when 
 the visitor will soon regain his vehicle. The 
 return to Bath will also furnish him with a variety 
 of rich prospects for his contemplation. 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 253 
 
 * 
 
 WALK (OR EXCURSION) XIII. 
 
 A sail down the Avon through the Majestic Rocks of ST. 
 VINCENT to PILL. Cross the River to Weeks'* 
 Hotel, in Gloucestershire. (FERRY, Id.) WALK 
 to PEN POLE, through the Village of Shirehampton, 
 the Park of LORD DE CLIFFORD'S to King's 
 Weston Hill and Tavern. A VISIT TO LOIIDDE 
 CLIFFORD'S HOUSE AND CELEBRATED COLLEC- 
 TION OF PAINTINGS BY THE OLD MASTERS. 
 RETURN to BRISTOL over Durdham Downs, pass 
 the Black Boy in the main Road, the King's Parade, 
 TyndalVs Park, Berkeley-Square, through Park- 
 Street to College-Green, cross the Docks up Clare- 
 Street to the Bush Tavern, where Stages are always 
 in readiness to convey the Traveller to BATH. 
 
 SHOULD the traveller feel inclined to prolong 
 his stay at Clifton for one evening, in order to 
 enjoy the salubrious breezes from an early 
 aquatic excursion in the morning, on the Avon,io 
 the little sea-port of PILL, about the distance 
 of six miles, and that, too, at the trifling expense 
 of SIXPENCE, (vessels and boats always passing 
 from Bristol); also to partake of one of the most 
 extensive and delightful prospects in the king- 
 dom, at PEN POLE ; and from thence to WALK 
 through the fine grounds, witnessing the pic- 
 turesque scenery with which the Park of LORD 
 DE CLIFFORD so fertilely abounds : likewise to 
 view the fine mansion of his Lordship, and his 
 
254 EXCURSION TO CLIFFON. 
 
 unique collection of Paintings, considered in 
 point of talent and value as the third private 
 collection in England, from the pencils of the 
 following great painters, VANDYCK, POUSSIN, 
 TENIERS, CLAUDE LORRAIN, MICHAEL AN- 
 GELO, GUIDO, GUERCINO, VANBLOOM, CANA- 
 LOTTI, RUBENS, &c. &c. The time so em- 
 ployed must be considered, by every intelligent 
 mind, as well devoted to the combined advan- 
 tages of pleasure and instruction. 
 
 The sail from Rownham Tavern (the Ferry) 
 is truly delightful. The effect is sublime. En- 
 compassed, as it were, on each side by the ma- 
 jestic rocks of St. Vincent, appearing like a 
 huge cavern rent asunder. The numerous mar- 
 ket-boats, sloops, brigs, Indiamen, &c. conti- 
 nually passing to and from Bristol; the men 
 employed in blowing up the rocks ; the foot- 
 passengers promenading up and down alongside 
 of the river ; the green hills in front, trees, &c. 
 with the charming variety which the windings 
 of the Avon offers to the enraptured eyes of the 
 spectator, affords contemplation of the most ex- 
 tensive and enlightened description. The pas- 
 sage becomes rather rough as Hongroad is ap- 
 proached, at which place a large clustre of 
 fine trees, on theleft, are much admired. PILL 
 is at length made, which has a convenient bay 
 for shipping ; and the packets for Cork, Water- 
 ford, &c. sail from this port. It is full of pub- 
 lic-houses, among which the Waterloo-Inn, Red 
 Lion, and Duke of Wellington, are the most 
 conspicuous. Near the river it has something 
 like the appearance of Wapping ; but, at its ex- 
 tremity, towards the country, it possesses the 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 255 
 
 neatness of a village. It has a small Church. 
 Here are also some signs put up at two or three 
 huckster's shops, pointing out the widows and 
 orphans of the men who were lost in the William 
 and Mary Packet, belonging to PtLL, in 1818, 
 as a means of attracting custom. One penny is 
 charged for the ferry across the water to Weeks's 
 Hotel, when the traveller arrives in Gloucester- 
 shire. PILL, with the ships, craft, &c. has a 
 pretty effect from the above hotel. The first 
 road on the left leads to Lamplighter's Hall, 
 and the village of Shirehampton appears on the 
 right. The singular and delightful elevation of 
 PEN POLE is soon ascertained, from which one 
 of the most extensive prospects in the world is 
 witnessed : 
 
 What a scene ! 
 
 What various views unnumber'd spread beneath ! 
 Woods, tow'rs, vales, caves, dells, cliffs, and torrent floods, 
 And here and there, between the spiry rocks, 
 The broad flat sea. 
 
 The grounds of LORD DE CLIFFORD extend 
 to PEN POLE, and upon which elevation a sort 
 of sundial is erected, in order to accommodate, 
 as well as give a direction to the telescopes of 
 the travellers. The trees, valleys, and pic- 
 turesque scenery immediately adjoining and be- 
 neath PEN POLE is very pleasing, but the vast 
 expanse which unfolds itself is of so sublime 
 a nature, that imagination must supply the 
 defect of description. In the centre appears 
 the immense space of the Severn, into which 
 the Avon empties itself. Ships making and leav- 
 ing Bristol. The range of hills and mountains 
 encompassing the view as far as the eye can pos- 
 
256 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 sibly stretch. To the right is seen the New 
 Passage-House to Wales, and the Passage-House 
 on the other side. In the circle on the right is 
 also the fine range of hills in Somersetshire. On 
 quitting PEN POLE the village of Shirehampton 
 is passed through, when the traveller soon enters 
 the delightful Park of Lord de Clifford, and 
 gains the fourth mile- stone from Bristol. This 
 Park affords some charming views of Dundry 
 Tower, the Old Ruin at Clifton, the windings 
 of the Avon, and the seats of Mr. Nash and Mr. 
 Miles, also add considerable grandeur to the 
 scene. This latter mansion, which has been 
 recently finished, is a very superior build- 
 ing. It has in the front of it a fine portico 
 with lofty pillars, and likewise a portico with 
 pillars on each of its sides. The above seat is 
 the property of a rich merchant, who has not 
 only consulted taste in its formation, but it is 
 said to have cost upwards of 150,000. It con- 
 tains 132 rooms. The expenses of the hall 
 alone were 20,000. The interior has also to 
 boast of the advantages of the most modern fur- 
 niture, with all its superb embellishments. An 
 extensive library is forming; and several of the 
 paintings which decorate the principal rooms 
 are from the first masters of antiquity. Three 
 of which cost 30,000. On proceeding through 
 the Park, the spectator obtains a front view of 
 the mansion of Lord de Clifford, which was 
 erected from a design of Sir John Vanbrugh, the 
 architect who built Blenheim-House. s It has ra- 
 ther a heavy appearance, and not much admired 
 for its style of architecture. On passing an ele- 
 gant modern little cottage, near to which on the 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 257 
 
 left is King's West on Hill ; upon this eminence 
 is erected a very commodious Inn, with large 
 stabling, &c. which proves extremely convenient 
 to those parties who leave Bristol to admire the 
 prospects of PEN POLE, and to visit the House 
 and Paintings of Lord de Clifford. On the sum- 
 mit of King's West on H'tU, the view, if possible, 
 is still more extensive than witnessed at PEN 
 POLE. Tomb Marie, the highest mountain in 
 Wales, is distinctly seen ; also the Denny, 
 Chepstow, Cardiff, &c. &c. Upon quitting the 
 above Inn, a lane on the right is the carriage- 
 road, and only entrance for visitors that leads to 
 the front door and hall of Lord de Clifford's 
 mansion, which is about the distance of three 
 hundred yards from King's Weston Inn. The 
 hours of admittance are from eleven to two 
 o'clock ; and, from the liberality of his Lord- 
 ship, in order to gratify the curiosity of the pub- 
 lic, the Paintings are to be seen nine months in 
 the year. The visitor has nothing more to do 
 than to ring a bell, and upon announcing his 
 wishes to a footman, the housekeeper instantly 
 presents herself, and the apartments are shown 
 without delay. 
 
 On entering the HALL, which is very lofty 
 and in the form of a square, the effect is inte- 
 resting and attractive. Thirty-sir large por- 
 traits, consisting of the male and female branches 
 of the ancient family of DE CLIFFORD, com- 
 pletely cover all the walls, in white projecting 
 frames. The whole of the above portraits, 
 painted by Sir Godfrey Kneiler and Sir Peter 
 Lely, are in fine preservation, and retain all their 
 original excellence and beauty of colouring. 
 
258 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 From this place, which, perhaps, might with 
 more propriety be termed the PORTRAIT GAL- 
 LERY, a door leads into an elegant inner-hall, in 
 which a very fine piece of antiquity immediately 
 interests the attention of the spectator, a wide 
 old oak winding staircase, with handsomely 
 carved bannisters, capacious landing-places, and 
 very highly polished, which leads to 
 
 LADY DE CLIFFORD'S DRESSING-ROOM. Of 
 this most magnificent apartment, viewed as a 
 Lady's Dressing- Room, it may be urged, with- 
 out disparagement or fear of contradiction, to 
 have no equal in the kingdom ; it does not, how- 
 ever, owe its importance to the art of the up- 
 holsterer, adorned with the newest fashions 
 it has no fascinating draperies tastefully 
 folded to enrapture the eyes of the spectator no 
 enticing Grecian sofa, by way of invitation to 
 loll the time away with a novel, or interesting 
 tete-ti-tete in short, there is nothing of the 
 boudoir about it ; nor are there any traces of the 
 waiting maid's " occupation" to be witnessed, 
 (although it is used by LADY DE CLIFFORD 
 every day, and a small simple toilette is the 
 only appendage of dress) that in any way tends 
 to give it the above designation. The room is 
 rather long and lofty ; the fine oak floor is 
 highly polished ; and containing three capacious 
 windows in a half circular front. From which 
 the same delightful extensive prospect is wit- 
 nessed as at PEN POLE. Not a ship enters, or 
 goes out from the port of Bristol, but is dis- 
 tinctly seen from this delightful apartment : 
 
 As far as I could cast my eyes, 
 
 Upon the sea, something, methought, did rise 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 259 
 
 Like blueish mists, which, still appearing more, 
 Took dreadful shapes, and thus mov'd tow'rds the shore : 
 The object, I could first distinctly view, 
 Was tall straight trees, which on the water flew : 
 Wings on their sides instead of leaves did grow, 
 Which gather 'd all the breath the winds could blow : 
 And at their roots grew FLOATING PAT.ACES, 
 Whose out-blown bellies cut the yielding seas ! 
 
 The walls of the room are covered with paint- 
 ings in gilt frames. The subjects in general are 
 small, but they are of the first excellence. 
 Some beautiful inlaid cabinets, rich and costly 
 shells, &c. also decorate this dressing-room. 
 The following are the most eminent of the pic- 
 tures : 
 
 Two Landscapes Poussin. 
 
 These paintings are pronounced to be two of the best subjects of 
 this great master; and were particularly admired by the Duchess of 
 York, on her visit to De Clifford-House. 
 
 The Holy Family Unet. 
 
 To the passing eye of the spectator nothing more appears than 
 a small wreath of flowers; and it almost requires the aid of a micro- 
 scope to discover the Holy Family. It is a painting of extraordinary 
 talent ; and the beauty and symmetry of the figures are finely pre- 
 served and distinctly executed. It is worthy of the most minute in- 
 vestigation. 
 
 The Last Supper Franks. 
 
 This is also an admirable production. 
 A view of King's Weston-Hill, with the Seat of 
 
 Lord de Clifford A Modern Painter. 
 
 Three delightfully executed views of Venice. 
 
 Numerous Scripture and other pieces of great beauty and talent. 
 
 A fine collection of Miniatures by the first Artists in that line of 
 
 painting. 
 
 In Crayons, over the fire-place, the Dowager Lady 
 de Clifford and her Children ; among whom 
 
 is recognized the present Earl Gardner. 
 
 Also Venus at her Toilet, in white marble ; a most delicate and highly 
 finished piece of sculpture. 
 
 Thy fair ideas, thy delightful forms, 
 By Love imagin'd, by the Graces touch'd 
 The boast of well-pleas'd Nature ! Sculpture seiz'd, 
 And bade them ever smile in Parian stone. 
 Selecting Beauty's choice, and that again 
 Exalting, blending in a perfect whole 
 Thy workmen left even Nature's self behind. 
 
 The DRAWING-ROOM. This apartment, the 
 walls of which are covered with crimson damask 
 
 s2 
 
260 EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 
 
 silk, possesses all the character of former times ; 
 the antique grate and old chairs still retain 
 their places, and the harmony of the scene is 
 not interrupted from the introduction of any 
 articles of modern invention. The paintings too 
 are from the pencils of some of the oldest mas- 
 ters, and portray most exquisitely the highest 
 order of the art. 
 
 St. John in the Wilderness Raphael. 
 
 A Connoisseur in painting would think a hundred miles but a 
 trifling distance to behold such a line picture, independently of the 
 beauty of its colouring, and possessing several other highly finished 
 requisites ; the foot of St. John positively appears protruded from the 
 canvass. It is almost reality personified, and its excellence and effect 
 cannot be communicated by description. 
 Susanna and the Elders Rubens. 
 
 This is a small painting, but the face of the woman is exquisitely 
 beautiful j the shame of her exposed situation is depictured with great 
 expression ; and the peeping curiosity of the Elders is also portrayed 
 with the utmost skill. 
 St. Cecilia Domenichino. 
 
 The drapery of this portrait is the admiration of all persons who 
 have witnessed it. 
 
 A Magdalen Guido. 
 
 Joseph and our Saviour Ditto. 
 
 The countenance of our Saviour is finely delineated ; it is a face not 
 of this world ; and possesses all those sublime touches for which the 
 heads of this great master are so eminently characterized. The hand 
 of Joseph is also executed with uncommon beauty. Both the above 
 paintings cannot be too much admired. 
 St. Cecilia and her Children Maratti. 
 
 These portraits are sweetly interesting. The harmony of all tin 
 faces are admirably personified. 
 Lot and his Two Daughters 
 Moses in the Bulrushes Poussin. 
 
 The excellence of the water in this picture is the admiration of 
 every artist, and the praise of every spectator. It appears almost 
 transparent. 
 
 This room also contains several other fine paintings. 
 
 Over the fire-place stands the Judgment of Paris, in white marble. 
 It is a finely executed piece of sculpture. 
 
 A Satyr tied is also worthy of inspection. 
 
 Two most superb inlaid cabinets, and the highly polished oak- 
 floor, tend to give the Drawing- Room the appearance of ancient 
 grandeur. 
 
 The PARLOUR : 
 
 Samson and Delilah Poussin. 
 
 The strength and energy of Samson, and the beauty and 
 nating softness of Delilah, are finely contrasted. It is an admirable 
 painting. 
 
EXCURSION TO CLIFTON. 2G1 
 
 A Madona and sleeping Child Guercino. 
 
 The loveliness of the face of the Madona and the very natural 
 situation of the Infant claims attention. 
 Venus and Cupid Guide. 
 
 The powerful attractions of Venus, and the liveliness of the young 
 urchin, have been portrayed with great felicity by this distinguished 
 artist. This painting imparts all the warmth of love. 
 
 There are also some fine views of Ancient Rome, much admired 
 for the grandeur of their architecture. 
 
 EATING-PARLOUR: 
 
 Two whole-length Portraits of Lady Elizabeth 
 
 Cromwill, and Thomas Earl of Essex Sir Godfrey Knelltr. 
 
 The beauty of Lady Elizabeth, her elegant figure, and the rich- 
 ness of the drapery and laces, are delineated with all the happy per- 
 fection of this great portrait-painter ; but the fine interesting appear- 
 ance of the Earl is truly captivating. The expression of the counte- 
 nance contains some exquisite touches of colouring. 
 
 Some excellently finished bronzed figures also decorate this 
 parlour; and the doors of which tliat lead into the other apartments 
 are of solid mahogany. 
 
 The remuneration to the housekeeper is left 
 entirely to the liberality of the visitors. 
 
 Upon leaving the inn at King's Weston-Hill, 
 a delightful walk is experienced through the 
 fields on returning to Bristol. The seats of the 
 following gentlemen are also passed : Sneyd- 
 Park, Mr. Hall; Sir Henry Lippincott's ; and 
 Mr. Webb, M.P. for Gloucester. The fine 
 Downs of Durdham, upon which are numerous 
 rich lofty trees, render this situation truly pic- 
 turesque. The Bristol Races are also held upon 
 these Downs; and the course is considered a 
 very good one. The main road is soon acquired, 
 and the line of direction is in passing the sign of 
 the Black Boy, King's Parade, Tindall's Park, 
 Berkeley-Square, through Park-Street to College- 
 Green, and upon crossing the Docks to Clare- 
 Street. The BUSH TAVERN has always nu- 
 merous stages to convey the traveller, almost at 
 every hour in the day, to the City of BATH. 
 
LITERARY PERSONS. 
 
 DISTINGUISHED LITERARY PERSONS, 
 
 NATIVES OF BATH, 
 
 Or otherwise connected with the above City. 
 
 ONE of the oldest natives on record, who distinguished 
 himself as a literary character, was JOHN HALES, de- 
 nominated the " Ever Memorable." He was born in 
 Bath in 1584, and received the rudiments of his edu- 
 cation at the Grammar-School. From his great profi- 
 ciency in the Greek language, at the early age of 
 twenty-eight years he was appointed Greek Professor 
 to the University of Oxford. It appears, that, out of 
 all his works, " GOLDEN REMAINS" was the only one 
 ever v published ; and which took place after his death. 
 It was a collection of religious tracts, to promote the 
 interest of religion, and to reduce it to its primitive 
 purity and simplicity. He experienced a great num- 
 ber of vicissitudes in the course of a long life, and 
 was at length compelled to sell his library to support 
 himself; and had it not have been for the bounty of 
 a friend, his latter end would have been marked with 
 want too often the fate of genius. He died in 
 1656, in the seventy-second year of his age, and was 
 buried in Eton College church-yard. It is said of him, 
 that he was one of the best characters that ever ex- 
 isted in any age ; and was also distinguished for his 
 fine wit, scholastic acquirements, and elegance as a 
 poet. 
 
 Mr. ANSTEY, the author of the " New Bath Guide," 
 although not a native of Bath, must, from the great 
 interest this poem excited at the time of its publica- 
 tion, and also from the long residence of this gentle- 
 
LITERARY PERSONS. 263 
 
 man in the above city, be viewed as most intimately 
 connected with its literature. As a poem, it possesses 
 great powers of satire and ridicule ; but it is also di- 
 vested of personality and grossness. As a proof of 
 its merit, it has lost none of its effect ; and the wit 
 and humour it contains, respecting the amusements, 
 &c. is as highly admired at the present day as when 
 it first made its appearance ; (and of which we have 
 availed ourselves in making several extracts to illus- 
 trate our WALKS THROUGH BATH.) Several other 
 poems were also published by Mr. ANSTEY ; but not 
 of equal celebrity with his New Bath Guide. This 
 gentleman died at the advanced age of eighty, atChip- 
 penham, in 1805. 
 
 As NATIVES, and connected with the musical his- 
 tory and literature of Bath, the family of the LIN- 
 LEYS are fully entitled to the most honourable men- 
 tion : and who, it has been observed, " were no 
 less distinguished by the private and social virtues, 
 than by originality of reciprocal genius, and high pro- 
 fessional excellence." Talents of a superior order 
 were inherent throughout the above family ; and no 
 female, it appears, ever enjoyed a greater share of 
 public attraction, or more eminently deserved it, than 
 Miss ELIZABETH LIN LEY (afterwards Mrs. SHERIDAN), 
 who was born in Bath in 1754. The biography of 
 this lady is extremely interesting, not only before but 
 after her marriage. Her extraordinary vocal powers, 
 wit, and elegant manners, added to great personal 
 charms, at one period, rendered Mrs. Sheridan the 
 admiration of all Bath. On her first appearance at the 
 Public Rooms, as a vocal performer, when only twelve 
 years of age, she displayed so much genuine taste and 
 execution, and her tones were so truly melodious and 
 fascinating, that she obtained the appellation of the 
 " SYREN," which, in the short space of two or three 
 years afterwards, from her finished and peculiarly ex- 
 pressive style of singing, was succeeded by that of 
 the " ANGEL !" Hosts of admirers were in her train ; 
 
264 LITERARY PERSONS. 
 
 but Mr. Walter Long, an old bachelor, possessing a 
 property of upwards of two hundred thousand pounds, 
 made serious overtures of marriage to her father, 
 which proposals, notwithstanding the great disparage- 
 ment of years, were accepted; but the lady, it ap- 
 pears, was always averse to such an union. The 
 dresses were however made, and the day appointed 
 for the nuptials ; but owing to some circumstances 
 the match was broke off, arid the matter of such re- 
 fusal submitted to an arbitration, when it was agreed, 
 that Mr. Long should pay one thousand pounds, as a 
 compensation for the loss her father had sustained in 
 her absence from the public Concerts. The above 
 large property has since descended to Mrs. Wellesloy 
 Pole Long. 
 
 This occurrence occasioned a great deal of chit-chat 
 in the fashionable world, and it also afforded Mr. 
 FOOTE an opportunity of introducing Mrs. SHERIDAN, 
 in a piece written by him, called the " Maid of Bath ,' 
 as Miss Linnet. This comedy was performed at the 
 Hay market-Theatre; and the prologue was from the 
 pen of Mr. Garrick. It, however, did not in the 
 slightest degree injure the reputation of Mrs. SHE- 
 RIDAN. 
 
 Mr. Charles Francis Sheridan endeavoured now to 
 procure her hand ; but who was at length compelled to 
 relinquish his pretensions in favour of his brother, 
 (Richard Brinsley,) to whom the lady had given the 
 preference. The warmth and rapture of the lover 
 cannot be better seen than in the following lines : 
 
 Mark'cl you her eyes of heavenly blue; 
 
 Mark'd you her cheeks of roseate hue ; 
 
 Those eyes in liquid circles moving ; 
 
 Those cheeks abash'd at man's approving; 
 
 The one love's arrows darting round, 
 
 The other blushing at the wound. 
 
 In consequence of an objection being made to then- 
 marriage by the parents of both parties, Mr. Sheridan 
 induced the object of his attachment to elope with 
 
LITERARY PERSONS. 265 
 
 him to the continent ; but finding there was an ob- 
 stacle to their union in France, he without delay 
 placed her as a boarder in a convent. It was not 
 long before she returned to England with her father. 
 From this flight various reports got into circulation, 
 and the Bath Herald contained some strictures upon 
 the conduct of the fugitives. The calumny was at 
 length traced to Mr. Matthews, a most intimate friend 
 of the Lady and of Mr. Sheridan. A most desperate 
 duel in consequence took place between them in a 
 Coffee-house, in Bedford-Street, Covent-Garden, when 
 Matthews was compelled to beg his life, and sign a 
 confession of the falsehoods which he had propagated. 
 This acknowledgment was also published in the Bath 
 Herald. 
 
 This was a great triumph to Mr. Sheridan ; but 
 Matthews, stung with resentment in being exiled, as 
 it were, from all the fashionable parties at Bath, 
 in which he was a leader, demanded another meet- 
 ing ; and, contrary to the laws of honour, and the 
 remonstrances of his friends, Mr. Sheridan met the 
 traducer on Kingsdown, near Bath, at four o'clock in 
 the morning. Pistols were exchanged without effect. 
 The attack then commenced with swords several 
 severe wounds were inflicted and in falling to the 
 ground both of their swords were broken. Matthews 
 being uppermost, exultingly demanded of Sheridan to 
 beg his life, when the latter boldly replied, " he 
 scorned it." They mangled each other in this situa- 
 tion till both were exhausted from the loss of blood, 
 and in a dying state. The point of Matthews's 
 sword was found sticking in the cheek and ear of Mr. 
 Sheridan. There is no parallel to this desperate duel, 
 except the one related in the Guardian, in the reign of 
 James I. between Lord Bruce and Sir Edward Sack- 
 ville. 
 
 On the recovery of Mr. Sheridan he was rewarded 
 with the hand of the object of his affections, and they 
 were married in April, 1773, he being only twenty-two 
 
266 LITERARY PERSONS. 
 
 years of age, and the lady nineteen. In consequence 
 of the pride of Mr. Sheridan refusing to let his wife 
 sing at the Concerts, (by which she might have rea- 
 lized some thousands a-year) necessity frequently stared 
 them in the face ; and it appears, one of his principal 
 resources was that of writing for the fugitive publica- 
 tions of the day, in which he was materially assisted 
 by his amiable partner. And this distinguished Se- 
 nator has often since acknowledged, tJiat he and Mrs. 
 SHERIDAN must frequently have gone without a dinner, 
 had it not been for the exercise of their pens. 
 
 In addition to the talents of Mrs. SHERIDAN as a 
 a vocal performer, she composed the music for the 
 pantomime of Robinson Crusoe, and several other 
 pieces. The song of " When 'tis Night, and the Mid- 
 watch is come," written by Mr. Sheridan, was also 
 set to music by this most accomplished female : and 
 the following production, written on the death of her 
 brother THOMAS, the celebrated composer and per- 
 former on the violin, evinces her great poetical tasie : 
 It was addressed to his violin : 
 
 Sweet instrument, for him I mourn, 
 Tuneful companion of my Lycid's hours, 
 
 How liest thou, neglected and forlorn ! 
 
 What skilful hand shall now call forth thy powers. 
 
 Ah ! none like his can reach those liquid notes, 
 So soft, so sweet, so eloquently clear j 
 
 To live beyond the touch, and gently float 
 In dying modulations on the ear ! 
 
 Thus o'er my Lycid's lyre as Icomplain'd, 
 
 And kiss'd the strings where he was wont to play ; 
 
 While yet in pensive sadness I remained, 
 
 Methought it sigh'd, amd sighing seem'd to saj : 
 
 " Ah me ! forlorn, forsaken, now no more 
 Shall fame and just applause around me wait ; 
 
 No power my gentle master can restore, 
 And I, alas! will share his hapless fate. 
 
LITERARY PERSONS. 267 
 
 " Fled is that spirit, chill'd that youthful fire, 
 
 Which taught those strains with harmony replete ; 
 And cold that hand which only can inspire 
 
 My senseless form to utter sounds so sweet. 
 " Those sounds melodious ne'er again shall please ; 
 
 No tuneful strain from me shall ever flow, 
 Save o'er my trembling strings a sighing breeze 
 
 To call one sad, soft note of tender woe. 
 
 " Else, ah ! for ever mute let me remain, 
 Unstrung, untun'd, forgotten let me be; 
 
 Guard me from curious eye, and touch profane, 
 And let me rest in mournful sympathy. 
 
 " One fate with thee, dear master, let me share ; 
 
 lake thee in silent darkness let me lie ; 
 My fame without thee is not worth my care, 
 
 With thee alone it liv'd, with thee shall die!" 
 
 Also upon the death of her sister MARIA, who ex- 
 pired at Bath, in September, 1784, while singing " I 
 know that my Redeemer liveth ;" Mrs. SHERIDAN again 
 exercised her poetical talents in some delightful verses 
 upon the occasion. In the 38th year of her age, in 
 June, 1792, this amiable female died, at Clifton, of a 
 consumption of the lungs, and was interred in the 
 ath edral at Wells. 
 
 The person of Mrs. SHERIDAN was considered to 
 possess so much beauty and symmetry, that Sir Joshua 
 Reynolds painted her portrait in the character of 
 Saint CECILIA ; but it is much regretted by a recent 
 biographer,* that, among the numerous admirers and 
 particular companions of Mrs. SHERIDAN, not one 
 was found to strike the mournful strings at her obse- 
 quies, or to suspend the votive wreath upon her tomb : 
 and the only recorded tribute of respect paid to her 
 memory, consisted in a short eulogium, by an eminent 
 physician, inserted in a respectable literary Journal, 
 concluding with the following classical inscription, no 
 less felicitous in its description of the virtues of one 
 
 * Watkins. 
 
268 LITERARY PERSONS. 
 
 sister than in its allusion to the peculiar circum- 
 stances attending the death of another. 
 
 IN OBITUM 
 DOM. ELIZ. SHERIDAN. 
 
 Forma, voce, atque ingenio, inter ornatis ornatissiraae, ab 
 ilia imo amores ita suspiret araicus. Eheu ! eheu! lugeant 
 mortales! Eja vero gaudeunt Coelestis, Dulcis ad amplexus, 
 Sociens jam Citharae melos, redit pergrata, en iterum soror ; 
 suaviusque nil manet HOSANNIS. 
 
 RICHARD TICKELL, Esq. who likewise married Miss 
 Mary Linley, was also a native of Bath. He was a 
 gentleman of small property ; but, from the gaiety of 
 his disposition, the whole of it was squandered away 
 at a very early period of his life. Mr. TICKELL had 
 received a most excellent education, and was reared to 
 the Bar; and, like his brother-in-law, (the late Richard 
 Brinsley Sheridan, Esq.) he was a man of consider- 
 able wit and talent ; but unfortunately preferred trust- 
 ing to his genius for a livelihood, rather than following 
 the more substantial occupation of his profession. His 
 connexion with the booksellers, at one time, was a 
 principal means of his support ; and the American 
 war also afforded Mr. TICKELL an opportunity of ex- 
 ercising his abilities in favour of the administration of 
 LORD NORTH, which, being noticed by that nobleman's 
 private secretary, ultimately procured him a pension 
 of o^SOO per annum, and a place in the Stamp-Office. 
 This favourable turn in his affairs came most oppor- 
 tunely for him to perform an honourable act towards 
 a female, by whom he had had several illegitimate 
 children, and from which connexion his pecuniary con- 
 cerns were considerably embarrassed. The principal 
 part of the above pension he settled upon the female 
 in question, in order to bring up that family. Miss 
 Mary Linley soon afterwards became his wife; from 
 which marriage three children were the issue ; and 
 notwithstanding the thoughtlessness of his disposition, 
 this union was distinguished for the greatest harmony 
 and good-nature towards each other; but she died, in 
 
LITERARY PERSONS. 269 
 
 the flower of her youth, and was interred in the Cathe- 
 dral at Wells. In 1799, Mr. TICKELL wrote a pam- 
 phlet, intituled " Anticipation,'' in support of the then 
 existing Administration; and which claimed so much 
 the attention of Government, that he was rewarded 
 with the situation of one of the Commissioners of the 
 Stamp Duties, at a salary of o500 a year. The above 
 pamphlet was spoken of at the time as possessing 
 great ability ; and his gratitude taught him to follow it 
 up with several other similar productions, but which 
 did not display an equal proportion of talent. In 1781, 
 Mr. TICKELL turned his attention towards the stage, 
 arid produced a comic opera, in three acts, called " The 
 Carnival of Venice ;" but notwithstanding the splendor 
 of its scenic decorations, and assisted by the charming 
 music of the Linleys, it scarcely dragged out an exist- 
 ence during the season. Allan Ramsey's " Gentle 
 Shepherd" was also adapted to the English stage by Mr. 
 TICKELL; but its principal claim to attraction consisted 
 in the delightful Scotch airs which were added to it 
 by his father-in-law. In other respects it was consi- 
 dered defective, no symmetry having been preserved 
 in cutting down the various characters. A few Poems, 
 published by Mr. TICKELL, were much admired for 
 their taste and harmony of composition ; and he was 
 also a contributor to the " Probationary Odes," a po- 
 litical satire. It is said of Mr. T. that he was not 
 without vanity, but possessed ready wit ; thoughtless 
 and extravagant, yet good-natured, generous, and 
 feeling; and his manners were of the most interesting 
 and pleasing description. In a fit of despondency, he 
 unhappily threw himself out of a window at Hampton 
 Court Palace, and was killed upon the spot, in No- 
 vember, 1793. Mr. TICKELL was married to a second 
 wife, (Miss Leigh,) and who, with her children, was 
 left nearly destitute of support ; but, by the exertion and 
 humanity of her friends the above children, it appears, 
 have since been handsomely provided for. 
 
 Mr. and Mrs. afterwards Sir JOHN and Lady 
 
270 LITERARY PERSONS. 
 
 MILLER, had purchased in Italy, in their expedition 
 thither, (of which an account was afterwards publish- 
 ed in a series of letters by Lady M.) an antique vase, 
 dug up, in the year 1759, at Frescati. This was 
 brought home, and placed in their villa at Batheaston, 
 which was now converted into the temple of Apollo ; 
 Mrs. Miller being the high-priestess, and the vase the 
 shrine of the deity. A general invitation was then issued 
 to all the sons and daughters of fashion of the neigh- 
 bouring city, " the mob of gentlemen who wrote with 
 ease," and the still more numerous mob, \vhojancied 
 they could write, to a weekly dies festus, to be held 
 every Friday, (in the first instance, and afterwards 
 Thursday,) at Batheaston Villa. Here the company 
 were ushered into a room, where they found the old 
 Etruscan vase placed upon a modern altar, and de- 
 corated with sprigs of laurel ; and as each gentleman 
 or lady passed the venerable relic, an offering was 
 made of some original composition in verse ; at first, 
 merely of what the French term bouts rimes, or rhym- 
 ing terminations, which had been filled up by the can- 
 didate for poetical fame; but afterwards of short per- 
 formances on particular subjects, given out the pre- 
 ceding week. The assembly having all contributed 
 their mor$eaux, Mr. Miller selected a lady from the 
 circle, who, dipping her fair hand into the vase, drew 
 the papers outf par hazard, as they occurred, and gave 
 them to a gentleman to read aloud. This process being 
 concluded, a select committee were named to deter- 
 'mine upon the merits of the pieces, and adjudge the 
 prizes ; these retired into an adjoining room, and fixed 
 upon the four best productions the blushing authors 
 of which, when they had identified their property by 
 naming their private signatures, were presented by the 
 high-priestess, Mrs. Miller, with a fillet of myrtle, and 
 crowned amidst the plaudits of the company. The 
 most sensible feature of the gala, a genteel collation, 
 concluded the business. This attic pastime continued 
 for several years ; till the wicked wit of an unknown 
 
LITERARY PERSONS. 271 
 
 wag having contaminated the purity of the urn by some 
 licentious and satyrical compositions, to the extreme 
 horror of the ladies assembled to hear the productions 
 recited, and the equal chagrin of the host and hostess, 
 who expected the usual weekly tribute of adulatory 
 compliment, the sacred vessel was thenceforth closed, 
 and the meetings were discontinued for ever. The 
 world, however, is in possession of two small volumes 
 of the effusions which occasionally issued from it.* 
 
 JOHN PALMER, Esq. The existence of a character 
 so long distinguished by its various excellencies, in 
 public and private life, ought not on its ceasing to be 
 passed over amidst the ordinary records of mortality* 
 Endowed with a mind naturally enlightened, cultivated 
 by education, and improved by a general intercourse 
 with the world, Mr. PALMER soon became the foun- 
 der of a personal reputation and fortune, which talents 
 well directed, and perseverance inflexible, can only 
 command. The important reformation in the esta- 
 blishment of the Post Office by mail coaches, &c. to 
 which the United Kingdom stands so highly indebted 
 for the present facilities of its correspondence, and the 
 great increase of the public revenue, is too generally 
 impressed on the grateful feelings of the country to 
 require any recital. While the public were enjoying 
 the benefits of his meritorious labours, he had to con- 
 tend (till within these few years) for a final arrange- 
 ment with Government, which at length, through le- 
 gislative interference, was settled by the payment to 
 him of o50,000, and an annuity for his life of o3000 
 per annum. 
 
 The private life of Mr. PALMER was early marked 
 by a display of abilities, and an amiableness of man- 
 ners, which afforded him an easy introduction to the 
 best society. The Chancellor, Lord Camden, the 
 Marquis of Lansdowne, Lord Mansfield, Mr. Garrick, 
 Sec. &c. were amongst those who sought his friendship. 
 
 * Warner. 
 
272 LITERARY PERSONS. 
 
 In his attachments, he was warm and zealous ; in his 
 general dealings with mankind, liberal and benevolent. 
 He was returned to several Parliaments by his native 
 city (Bath), an honour which, on his retiring, de- 
 volved on his son, Colonel Palmer, one of its present 
 representatives. He has left a numerous train of 
 friends behind him, (many of them of high distinction,) 
 impressed with one general sentiment of regret for the 
 loss of talents so useful, and private worth so rare. 
 
 WILLIAM DIMOND, Esq. son of the late proprietor 
 of the Bath Theatre. This gentleman is a native of 
 the above city, and received his education under Dr. 
 Morgan. He afterwards entered himself as a student 
 in the Inner Temple ; but his mind seems to have 
 been more occupied in producing pieces for the Thea- 
 tres than in poring over the dry study of the law. 
 His productions, although light, have been extremely 
 successful; several of them having had a long run: 
 the Hunter of the Alps, in particular, has been much 
 admired. The following is a list of his works : 
 
 Petrarcal Sonnets and Miscellaneous Poems, 8vo. 1800. Sea-side 
 Story, a dramatic opera, 8vo. 1801. The Hero of the North, an his- 
 torical play, 1803. The Hunter of the Alps, a drama, 1804. Youth, 
 Love, and Folly, a comic opera, 1805. Adrian and Orrilla, a play, 
 1806. The Young Hessian, an operatic piece, 1807. The Foundling 
 of the Forest, a play, 1809. The Doubtful Son, a play, 1810. The 
 Peasant Boy, an opera, 1811. The Royal Oak, an historical play, 1811. 
 The .Sthiop, a romantic play, 1813. The Bride of Abydos, 1818. 
 
 The Rev. RICHARD WARNER, curate of St. James's 
 Parish, at Bath, and rector of Great Chatfield, Wilts, 
 is a native of Lymington, in Hampshire ; but from his 
 long residence in the above city, where he has distin- 
 guished himself with so much ability in his preaching j 
 the zeal and industry he has also displayed in extend- 
 ing the various charitable institutions; and his volu- 
 minous History of Bath ; its Antiquities, &c. that this 
 work must appear incomplete, without an honourable 
 mention of the exertions of this reverend gentleman 
 towards rendering the City of Bath even more attrac- 
 tive. The following is a list of his numerous publica- 
 tions : 
 
LITERARY PERSONS. 273 
 
 Hampshire, extracted from the Doomsday Book, with a 'transla- 
 tion, 4to. 1789. A Companion in a Tour round Lymington, Svo. 
 1790. An Attempt to ascertain the Situation of the Ancient Clausen- 
 turn, 8vo. 1792. Topographical Remarks relating to the South 
 Western Parts of Hampshire, with a descriptive Poem, 2 vols. 8vo. 
 1793. The History of the Isle of Wight, Military, Ecclesiastical, Civil, 
 and Natural, 8vo. 1793. Collections for the History of Hampshire and 
 the Bishopric of Winchester, 6 vol. 8vo. An Illustration of the Roman 
 Antiquities discovered at Bath, 4to. 1797. A Walk through Wales, 
 8vo. 179&- A second Walk through Wales, Svo. 1799. A Walkthrough 
 some of the Western Counties of England, 8vo. 1800. The History of 
 Bath, 4to. 1801. Excursions from Bath, 8vo. 1801. A Tour through 
 the Northern Counties of England, and the Borders of Scotland, 
 2 vols. Svo. 1802. An Historical and Descriptive Account of Bath and 
 Hs Environ?, l^mo. 1802. Practical Discourses, 2 vol. 1803. W-ar 
 inconsistent with Christianity, a Fast Sermon, Svo. 1804. The En- 
 glish Diatessaron, or the History of Christ from the Compounded 
 Texts of the Four Evangelists, Svo. 1804. National Blessings Reasons 
 for Religious Gratitude, a Thanksgiving Sermon, Svo. 1805. The 
 Overflowings of Ungodliness, a Sermon, Svo. 1806. The Book of 
 Common Prayer, together with the Psalter, with an Introduction, 
 Svo. 1806. Pleasure, its Tendency to deprave the Understanding, the 
 Heart, and the Religious Principles, a Fast Sermon, 8vo. 180?. A 
 Tour through Cornwall, Svo. 1809. Scripture Characters, in a Series 
 of Sermons, 2vol. I2mo. 1810. The Duties of the Clergy, a Sermon 
 preached at the Visitation of the Archdeacon, Svo. 1810. New Guide 
 through Bath, 12mo. "112. The Claims of the British and Foreign 
 Bible Society to the Support of the Public, Svo. 1812. The Spiritual 
 Danger of an Opposition to the Bible Society, 1812. Excursions 
 through Wiltshire, Svo. Walks through Somersetshire, 8vo. 
 
 Miss WARNER, daughter of the above clergyman, 
 has written a novel, intituled Herbert Lodge, 3 vol. 
 12rno, 1810. This young lady has also edited 3 vol. 
 of Original Letters. 
 
 Dr. HARRINGTON was not only celebrated as an 
 eminent physician at Bath, but also distinguished for 
 his delightful productions in poetry and music. The 
 doctor was a native of Kelston, in Somersetshire, and 
 born in 1727 ; and received his education in his father's 
 house, under the tuition of the late Rev. Dr. Fothergill, 
 and at Queen's College, Oxford, of which he was en- 
 tered in 1745. In 1753 he commenced his profession 
 at Wells, but soon removed his practice to Bath, 
 where he continued to reside till his death. Dr. HAR- 
 RINGTON served the office of mayor, and continued a 
 magistrate for many years. He had also the honour of 
 
 T 
 
274 LITERARY PERSONS. 
 
 being the founder of the Harmonic Society at Bath ; 
 and as a composer, it is said, he was second to no 
 modern English musician. His style of composition 
 not only evinced great variety of talent, but was ex- 
 cellent in every department; and however dignified 
 and impressive in the grand, solemn, and pathetic, 
 he was equally great in the lively, gay, and ridiculous. 
 His serious trios were beautiful ; and when he was up- 
 wards of seventy years of age, he composed that cele- 
 brated piece of sacred music, so universally admired 
 by the lovers of harmony for three voices, called the 
 Passion of Christ, taken from the words of the Evan- 
 gelist, Eloi, Eloi, &c. and but a very short time pre- 
 vious to his decease, although suffering under a severe 
 attack of the gout, he went to the rooms to hear it 
 sung by Bra/iam. The justice done by this incompa- 
 rable singer to the Doctor's music affected his feelings 
 so strongly, that tears only relieved him. Many beau- 
 tiful fugitive productions have issued from his pen. 
 He was also the author of How szceet in the Woodland* ; 
 Go, false Damon., &c. &c. In short, for upwards of 
 fifty years he was the avowed patron of music at 
 Bath, and looked up to as the principal leader in all 
 the musical (inks. His eldest son, Sir Edward, who 
 was knighted on presenting an address to the King, in 
 his official capacity of mayor of his native city, died 
 a few years before him. The following is a list of his 
 works : 
 
 Nugae Amiquse, being a Miscellaneous Collection of Original Papers, 
 in prose and verse, -written (by his ancestors and correspondents) in 
 the reigns of Hen. VIII. Edw. VI. Mary, Eliz. and James I. 8vo. 
 1769, 2d edit. 2 vol. 1775. The Geometrical Analogy of the Doctrine 
 of the Trinity consonant to Human Reason, 1806, 4to. 
 
 CALEB HILLIER PARRY, M.D. F.R.S. one of the 
 Physicians of the General Hospital at Bath, and also 
 a Member of the Royal College of Physicians, London. 
 He has published, 
 
 An Inquiry into the Symptoms and Causes of the Syncope Angi- 
 nosa, commonly called Angina Pectoris, 8vo. 1799. Facts and Ob- 
 servations tending to show the Practicability and Advantage of pro- 
 ducing in the British Isles Clothing Wool equal to that of Spain ; 
 
LITERARY PERSONS. 275 
 
 together with some Hints towards the Management of fine-woolled 
 Sheep, 4to. 1800. 
 
 Dr. PARRY, besides the above works, has also con- 
 tributed various Papers in the Bath Agricultural So- 
 ciety's Collections, the Memoirs of the Medical 
 Society of London, and other Miscellaneous Produc- 
 tions. 
 
 CHARITY HENRY PARRY, M.D. F.Il.S. and 
 B.C.J. of St. Edmund's Hall, Oxford; also Member 
 of the Physical Society at Gottingen. This gentleman 
 is a native of Bath, and son of the preceding physi- 
 cian. His works are, 
 
 De Graecarum atqne Romanarum Religionum ad mores formandos 
 vi et efficacia Commentatio. In concert. ciTium Acad. Georgia Au- 
 gustae, die iv. Jun. 1789. ah ord. Ampliss. Philosoph. loco secundo 
 victrix pronunciata. Getting. 4to. 1799. G. C. Reich on Fever and 
 its Treatment in general, translated into English, 8vo. 1801. Cases of 
 Tetanus and Rabies Contagioso, or Canine Hydrophobia, 8ro. 1814. 
 
 In the year 1800 a PUBLIC LIBRARY was esta- 
 blished, principally intended to include only books of 
 science, and works of great expense ; so as not to in- 
 terfere with the Circulating l/tbrarics. 
 
 The PHILOSOPHICAL and LITERARY INSTITUTION 
 was established in 1799. See page 104. No works, 
 it appears, have been published by this Society. 
 
 There are always on sale, extensive and valuable 
 collections of books in every department of literature 
 at Bath ; and all the modern publications are to be 
 procured with nearly the same ease and facility as in 
 London ; the booksellers being of the most respecta- 
 ble description. The shops, in general, are capacious 
 and elegant. There are also several Printing-Offices 
 in Bath. 
 
276 COACHES FROM BATH TO LONDON, &C. 
 
 COACHES from the following Inns at BATH to 
 LONDON. 
 
 YORK-HOUSE. Four insidcs, at 6 o'clock every morning. 
 
 The Regent, through Chippenham, Calne, Marl- 
 borough, Newbury, and Reading, at a quarter before 3 every 
 afternoon. 
 
 WHITE HART. Four insides, through Newbury and Reading, at 6 
 every morning, (ex. Sunday). 
 
 Four insides, in two days, stops at Newbury, at 9 
 
 every morning, (ex. Sunday). 
 
 .., Four insides, through Devizes, Marlborough, New- 
 bury, and Reading, at 4 every afternoon. 
 
 WHITE LION. Original Day Coach, through Chippenham, Calne, 
 Marlborough, Newbury, and Reading, at 6 every morning. 
 
 Four insides, by the same road, at 2 every aftern. 
 
 LAMB. Royal Mail, (Exeter,) through Devizes, at 5 every evening. 
 
 Royal Mail, (Bristol,) through Chippenham, about 25 mi- 
 nutes past 5 every evening. 
 
 GREYHOUND. A Coach, (ex. Sunday,) at 4 every afternoon. 
 
 CASTLE. A Coach, at half past 6 every morning. 
 
 FROMONT and Co. The Regulator, at half past 6 every morning. 
 
 A Coach, through Milksham, Devizes, and 
 
 Marlborough, at half past 12 every day. 
 
 A Coach, through Chippenham, Calne, and 
 
 Marlborough, at a quarter before 3 every afternoon. 
 
 To BRISTOL, CLIFTON, and WESTON SUPER- 
 MARE. 
 
 YORK-HOUSE. At half past 8 and 9 every morning (ex. Sunday) 
 
 to Bristoh 
 WHITE HART. At 8 and 10 in the morning, and at 3 and 4 in the 
 
 afternoon, to Bristol. 
 To Clifton, (ex. Sunday,) at 10 in the morning, and 
 
 3 in the afternoon. 
 WHITE LION. At a quarter before 9, and at 11 every morning, to 
 
 Bristol. 
 
 At l every day (ex. Sunday) to Bristol. 
 
 At 3, 4, and 5 every afternoon to Bristol. 
 At 7 every evening (ex. Sunday) to Bristol. 
 LAMB. A Mail to Bristol, where it meets the Welsh Mail, at half 
 
 past 9 every morning. 
 
 A Coach to Bristol at 11 every morning. 
 
 At a quarter before 3 every afternoon to Clifton. 
 
 At 7 every evening to Bristol. 
 
 GREYHOUND. At half past 3 every afternoon (ex. Sunday) to 
 
 Bristol and Clifton. 
 GREYHOUND. At half past 6 and at 7 every evening to Bristol and 
 
 Clifton. 
 FROMONT and Co. At half past 8 and 9 every morning, at 12 every 
 
 day, and at 8 every evening, to Bristol. 
 CASTLE. At 9 every morning (ex. Sunday) to Bristol. 
 
 At 12 every day, (ex. Sunday,) when it goes at C in th* 
 
 evening to Bristol. 
 
 At 6 every evening (ex. Sunday) to Bristol. 
 
 At 8 every evening (ex. Sunday) to Bristol. Alternately 
 
 from the Christopher. 
 
COACHES FROM BATH TO OXFORD, &C. 277 
 
 GOLDEN LION. At 8, 9, and 12 every morning ; at half past l, at 
 
 3, 6, and 7, every afternoon to Bristol. 
 At a quarter before 4 every afternoon to Bristol 
 
 and Clifton. 
 A Coacln, at 12 every Monday, Wednesday, and 
 
 Saturday morning to Weston-Super-Mare. 
 CHRISTOPHER. At 4 every afternoon to Bristol. 
 ANGEL. The Patent Coach, built on Capt. Wyke's plan for safety, 
 
 at 9 every morning, to Bristol. 
 
 To OXFORD, 4-c. 
 
 YORK HOUSE. Through Tetbury, Cirencester, &c. at 9 every Tues- 
 day, Thursday, and Saturday morning. 
 
 WHITE HART. A Mail to Oxford, by the same road, at half past 
 9 every morning. 
 
 To WARMINSTER, SIIAFTESBURY, POOLE, 
 
 SALISBURY, SOUTHAMPTON, PORTSMOUTH, 
 
 GOSPORT, 4-c. 
 
 WHITE HART. A Mail to Portsmouth, through Salisbury and 
 Southampton, at 5 every afternoon. 
 
 A Coach to Southampton, at9 on Monday, Wed- 
 nesday, and Friday mornings. 
 
 To Gosport, through Salisbury, Ramsey, and 
 
 Southampton, at 7 on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday morn. 
 
 GREYHOUND.- To Poole, through Warminster, Shaftcsbury, 
 Blandford, and Wimbourne, at a quarter before 10 every 
 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning. 
 
 To FROME, WEYMOUTH, 4-c. 
 
 YORK-HOUSE. Toms's Coach to Weymouth, at 7 on Monday, 
 Wednesday, and Friday mornings. 
 
 WHITE HART. To Weymouth, on Tuesday, Thursday, and Satur- 
 day mornings, at 7. 
 
 A Coach to Frome, at 7 on Tuesday and Friday 
 
 evenings. 
 
 CASTLE. To Trowbridge, at 6 every evening, (ex. Sunday). 
 
 FROMONT and Co. A Coach to Bradford and Trowbridge, at 6 
 every evening, (ex. Sunday). 
 
 COACHES WESTWARD. 
 
 YORK-HOUSE. The Subscription Coach to Exeter, through Shep- 
 ton Mallet, Ilchester, Ilminster, and Honiton, where it meets 
 the Sidmouth Coaches, at 8 every morning. 
 
 WHITE HART. To Exeter, at 8 every morning, (ex. Sunday,) 
 where it meets the Falmouth and Plymouth Coaches. 
 
 LAMB. A Mail through Taunton, Bridgewater, &c. to Exeter, Ply- 
 mouth, and Falmouth, at 10 every morning. 
 
 GOLDEN LION A Coach to Exeter, through Wells, Somerton, 
 Langport, Ilminster, Chard, Axminster, Lyme, Honiton, and 
 Sidmouth, at 6 in the morning, on Monday, Wednesday, and 
 Saturday. 
 
 FROMONT and Co. To Falmouth, through Bridgewater, Taunlon, 
 Tiverton, Exeter, Plymouth, &c. at half past 8 every morning. 
 
 To South Moltonand Barnstaple, at half past 
 
 8 every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning. 
 
278 CARAVANS, &C. TO AND FROM BATH. 
 NORTHWARD. 
 
 YORK-HOUSE. A Coach to Birmingham, by the new road, through 
 
 Evesham and Alcester, where it meets all the North Country 
 
 Coaches, at a quarter before 7 on Monday, Wednesday, and 
 
 Friday mornings. 
 To Leamington and Warwick, through Stratford 
 
 on Avon, at a quarter before 7 also on Monday, Wednesday, 
 
 and Friday mornings. 
 To Cheltenham, through Redborough and Stroud, 
 
 at a quarter before 7 on the above mornings. 
 To Cheltenham, through Gloucester, at half past 
 
 8 on Tuesday,Thursday, and Saturday mornings. 
 To Shrewsbury and Ho yhead, at a quarter past's 
 
 on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings. 
 WHITE HART. A Coach, at 6 every morning, to Birmingham, 
 
 where it meets the Manchester, Liverpool, and all the North 
 
 Country Coaches. 
 To Cheltenham, through Gloucester, at 6 every 
 
 Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday; and at 9 every Monday, 
 
 Wednesday, and Friday morning. 
 To Holyhead, through Gloucester, Worcester, 
 
 and Shrewsbury, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, at 9. 
 
 CARAVANS, 4-c. 
 
 That arrive in the course of the week at the following Inns: GEORGE, 
 Walcot- Street; SARACEN'S HEAD, Broad- Street ; THREE 
 CUPS, Nor thgate- Street; NEW INN, Horse- Street ; BELL, 
 Walcot- Street; FULL MOON, Old Bridge; GOLDEN LION, 
 Horse- Street. 
 
 On the BRISTOL ROAD. 
 
 THREE CUPS. From Britton, Freeman's Cart arrives on Wednes- 
 day and Saturday, and returns the same evenings. 
 
 . From Keynsham, Freeman's Cart, on Monday and 
 
 Thursday, and returns the same days. 
 
 PACK-HORSE. Hewitt's Caravan goes to Bristol on Monday, 
 Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and returns on the same 
 days. 
 
 On the CH1PPENHAM ROAD. 
 
 BELL. From Malmesbury, Spencer's Cart arrives every Friday 
 evening, and returns on Saturday morning. 
 
 Taylor's Cart, from Milksham, on Wednesday and Satur- 
 day, and returns the same days. 
 
 From Corsham, Porter's Cart arrives on Wednesday and 
 
 Saturday, and returns on the same days. 
 
 THREE CUPS. From Chippenham, Day's Caravan arrives on Wed- 
 nesday and Saturday, and returns the same days. 
 
 Pritchard's Cart, from Corsham, on Wednesday 
 
 and Saturday mornings, and returns the same evenings. 
 
 GEORGE. From Nettleton, Strange, on Wednesday and Friday. 
 
 Knight's Cart, from Enford, arrives on Wednesday, and 
 
 returns the same day. 
 
 PELICAN. Bailey's Caravan, from Chippenham, on Wednesday 
 and Saturday, and returns the same days. 
 
CARAVANS, &C. TO AND FROM BATH. 279 
 
 PACK-HORSE. From Lacock, Branes's Cart arrives on Wednes- 
 day and Saturday, and returns the same days. 
 
 Dickman's Cart, from Castlecombe, arrives on 
 
 Saturday, and returns the same day. 
 
 From Corsham, Smith's Cart, arrives Wednesday 
 
 and Saturday, and returns the same evenings. 
 
 Salter's Cart, from Chippenham, arrives Monday, 
 
 Wednesday, and Saturday, and returns the same evenings. 
 
 On the \YK.U> ROAD. 
 
 NEW INN. --From Glastonbury, Wells, &c. Browning's Caravan 
 arrives on Wednesday, and returns on Thursday morning. 
 
 GOLDEN LION. Grandfield's Light Cart, from Wellington, Mine- 
 head, and Dunstor, arrives on Friday, and returns on Monday 
 through Bristol and Cross to the same places. 
 
 THREE CUPS.- From Curry- Hivell, through Wells, Somerton, and 
 Langport, Virgin's Caravan arrives at 2 on Thursday, and re- 
 turns on Friday morning at 8. 
 
 FULL MOON Gingcll's Caravan, from Shepton, arrives on Tuesday 
 and Friday evenings, and returns the following days. 
 
 PACK KOKSK. From Wtdmore and adjacent places, Chapman's 
 Cart urrivrs on Saturday, and returns the sanu 
 
 On tin CLOIVKSTKII ROAD. 
 
 GEORGE. From Wnttou-undor-edge, Blizzard'.* Cart arrives on 
 Wednesday evening, and returns on Thur-d..y morning. 
 
 Wiltshire's Cart, from Tarmarton, arrives Wedntsday 
 
 and Saturday, and returns the same days. 
 
 THREE CUPS. From Malmshury, Tetbury, Cirencester, Glouces- 
 ter, and ChclU'iiham, Arnold's Caravan arrives on Tuesday 
 evening, and returns in the evening on Wednesday. 
 
 BELL. White's Cart, from Tarmarton, arrives and returns on Tues- 
 day. 
 
 From Acton-Turvill, Brown's Cart, arrives and returns on 
 
 Saturday. 
 
 PELICAN. Quarrington's Caravan, from Gloucester, Rodborough, 
 &c. arrives on Tuesday evening, and returns on Wednesday 
 morning. 
 
 On the DEVIZES ROAD. 
 
 THREE CUPS. Knott's Cart, from Lacock, arrives Wednesday 
 and Saturday, and returns on the same evenings. 
 
 From Devizes, Giddon's Cart arrives on Friday 
 
 and returns on Saturday. 
 
 Barett's Light Cart from Storndon arrives on 
 
 Monday, and returns on Tuesday morning. 
 
 On the TROWBRIDGE, FROME, WARMINSTER, 
 WINCAN10N, and WEYMOUTH ROADS. 
 
 GOLDEN LION From Weymouth, Dorchester, Sherborne, Win- 
 canton, &c. through Frome, Wadman's Light Cart arrives on 
 Thursday, and returns on Saturday. 
 
 Read's Caravan, from Berkington, arrives on Tues- 
 day and Saturday, and returiij on the same days. 
 
280 WAGGONS TO AND FROM BATH. 
 
 GOLDEN LION. From Frome, Freeman's Cart arrives every Tues- 
 day, Thursday, and Saturday, and returns the same evenings. 
 
 White's Caravan, from Shaftesbury, Hindoo, 
 
 Blandford, Poole, &c. arrives on Tuesday night, and returns 
 on Wednesday afternoon. 
 
 From Warminster, Warren's Caravan arrives 
 
 every Wednesday and Saturday, and returns on the same days. 
 
 Lucas's Caravan, from Bradford and Trowbridge, 
 
 arrives every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and returns on 
 the same days. 
 
 From Westbury, Trowbridge, and Bradford, 
 
 Philip's Light Cart arrives every Monday and Saturday at 1, and 
 returns the same evening at 4. 
 
 Turner's Caravan, from Somerset, Largeport, II- 
 
 minster, Chard, and Lyme, arrives every Tuesday, and returns 
 the same morning. 
 
 PELICAN From Yeoval and Wincanton, Shepherd's Caravan ar- 
 rives every Tuesday, and returns every Thursday. 
 
 Hooper's Light Cart, from Trowbridge, arrives every 
 
 Tuesday and Thursday, and returns on Wednesday and Sa- 
 turday. 
 
 PACK-HORSE. From Westbury, through Warminster, Salisbury, 
 &c. Applegate's Light Cart arrives on Monday, Wednesday, 
 and Friday, and returns the following mornings. 
 
 Smith's Cart, from Urchfont, arrives on Friday, 
 
 and returns on Saturday. 
 
 NEW INN. From Frome, Holloway's Light Cart arrives on Wed- 
 nesday and Friday, and returns on the same evenings. 
 
 Ribbick's Light Cart, from Hindon, arrives on Wed- 
 nesday, and returns on Thursday. 
 
 From Cricklade, through Warminster, &c. Bright's 
 
 Light Cart arrives on Saturday, and returns the same day. 
 
 West's Light Cart, from Frome, arriveson Wednesday, 
 
 and returns the same day. 
 
 FULL MOON. Herridge's Caravan, from Warminster, arrives on 
 Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and returns on the same 
 days. 
 
 From Deptford, Cliffs Caravan arrives and returns 
 
 on Saturday. 
 
 Miles's Caravan, from Shuten, arrives on Friday, 
 
 and returns the next day. 
 
 From Warminster, Parry's Caravan arrives on 
 
 Saturday, and returns the same. day. 
 
 THREE CUPS. Deson's Cart, from Bradford, arrives on Wednes- 
 day and Saturday, and returns the same evenings. 
 
 BELL. From Westbury, Townsend's Light Cart arrives on Wed- 
 nesday and Saturday, and returns on the same days. 
 
 Lam perl's Cart, from Mere, Dorset, &c. arrives on Friday, 
 
 and returns on the same day. 
 
 GEORGE From Stourton, Norris's Cart arrives and returns on 
 Saturday. 
 
 WAGGONS. 
 
 SAW-CLOSE. Symes and Mitchell's Fly Waggons set out daily to 
 Bristol and London, from their warehouse as above. Offices 
 in Bristol, in Peter-Street, and Narrow Wine-Street; and in 
 London, at 69, Old Bailey; they also call at the New White 
 Horse Cellar, and P,lack Bear, Piccadilly. 
 
WATER CARRIAGE TO AND FROM BATH. 281 
 
 THREE CUPS, BATH. E. L. Lye's Fly-Waggons daily from his 
 warehouse on Wednesday and Saturday ; and from the Angel 
 Inn, Fleet-Market, London, through Warminster to Bath. 
 His Warminster, Bristol, Bath, and Salisbury Common Stage 
 Waggons, go from the Bunch of Grapes, St. Thomas- Street, 
 Bristol, every day in the week, for Warminster, Heytesbury, 
 Codford, Hindon, Tisbury, Shaftcsbury, &c. call at his Ware- 
 house, the Three Cups, Northgate-Street, Bath; and arrive at 
 the Warehouse near the Red Lion, Milford-Street, Salisbury, 
 every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evening. Return for 
 Bristol the next morning. 
 
 LADY MEAD, WALCOT, No. 10. Ballinger's Fly-Waggon every 
 Monday morning, through Rodborough and Gloucester, to the 
 Crown Inn, Cheltenham ; leave* Cheltenham on the Wednesday 
 following, and returns to Bath early on Thursday. Also a Wag- 
 gon to the White Lion, Thomas-Street, Bristol, every Satur- 
 day, and returns the same evening. 
 
 SALMON'S OFFICE, CORN-STREET, No. so. Smith and Cockey's 
 Waggons to Warminster, Salisbury, Southampton, Gosport, 
 Portsmouth, and all parts of Hampshire, every Tuesday and 
 Friday. 
 
 Thomas Smith and 
 
 Co.'s Fly-Waggons, through Amesbury, Andover, and Basing- 
 stoke, to the White Horse Inn, Cripplegate, London, every 
 Wednesday and Saturday. 
 
 James Hann's Wag- 
 gons to Shaftesbury and places adjacent, twice a week, days 
 uncertain. 
 
 Original Daily Wag- 
 gon, every morning at 8 o'clock, to the Bell Inn, St. Thomas- 
 street, Bristol, and to the Hotwells and Clifton, and returns to 
 Bath the same evening. 
 
 J. G. Ames and Co.'s 
 
 Conveyance, via Gloucester, to their Warehouses, Duke's 
 Dock, Liverpool, and Castle-Fields, Manchester, three times 
 a week. 
 
 LITTLE CORN-STREET, No. 15. Wm. Morrish's Daily Waggons 
 to the Crab's Well, Temple-Street, Bristol. 
 
 Cruttwell's Fly-Waggons leave 
 
 his Warehouses, in Bath and London, every Saturday at 3, and 
 Wednesday evening at 7, and arrive in London and Bath on 
 Wednesday and Saturday mornings early. 
 
 Slow Waggons every day, (ex. 
 
 Sunday,) and arrive in London in five days; return for Bath 
 and Bristol the following morning. The Waggons set up at the 
 White Swan, Holborn-Bridge, London, and call at the New 
 Black Bear, and Old White-Horse Cellar, Piccadilly. All goods 
 intended for the Fly-Waggon on Sunday must be brought in 
 on Saturday evening by 9. The same Waggons go to and 
 from his Warehouse in Charlotte-Street, Queen-Square, 
 Bristol. 
 
 WATER CARRIAGE. 
 
 The Kennet and Avon affords a direct communication with London; 
 and Goods are regularly conveyed from the following Ware- 
 houses : 
 
 SALMON'S OFFICE, CORN-STREET, No. 20 Charles Heale and 
 Co.'s Kennet and Avon Canal Barges, to and from the Queen- 
 hithe Wharf, Upper Thames-Street, London, every week. 
 
 QUAY. John Salmon to Kennet Wharf, London. 
 
282 ITINERARY OF THE PRINCIPAL ROADS. 
 
 ST. JAMES'S PARADE. Euclid, Shaw, and Co. to Bull Wharf, 
 
 London. 
 KENNET AND AVON WHARF Baker, to Brooke's Wharf, 
 
 Thames-Street, London. 
 Small Parcels are also conveyed by the Newsmen to most of the 
 
 towns, villages, and gentlemen's seats, at reasonable distance*, 
 
 in the counties of Somerset, Wilts, and Gloucester. 
 
 ITINERARY of the principal ROADS from BATH. 
 
 Bathford '2} 
 
 Cheltenham 
 
 18 
 44 
 
 14 
 3 
 6 
 10 
 7 
 3 
 9 
 8 
 10 
 
 69 
 
 *68 
 13 
 13 
 16 
 13 
 11 
 
 134 
 
 39 
 16 
 8 
 63 
 
 68 
 20 
 
 "sT 
 
 38 
 16 
 13 
 16 
 9 
 11 
 12 
 8 
 
 123 
 
 7 
 IS 
 
 7 
 
 Melksham 8i 
 
 To Oxford. 
 Petty France 
 
 Devizes 8 
 
 Marlborougli . 14 
 
 London described as before . . 74 
 
 Kvf 
 To Clifton. 
 Twerton 2 
 
 Tetbury 
 
 Cirencester .. 
 
 Fairford 
 
 Saltford 3 
 
 
 
 
 Bnslington 3 
 
 Kingston Inn 
 
 Bristol 2 
 
 Oxford 
 
 Clifton l 
 
 To Birmingham and Derby 
 Worcester . . 
 
 TF 
 To Bristol, by the Upper Road. 
 Kelston 3 
 
 Bromsgrove 
 
 Bitton 3 
 
 Birmingham 
 
 Hanham 2| 
 Bristol 3 
 
 Litchfield 
 Burton-upon-Trent 
 
 HI 
 To Holt/head, through Gloucester, 
 Worcester, and Shrewsbury. 
 Cross Hands 11 
 Petty France 3 
 
 Derby 
 
 To Wi nc h es ter. 
 Salisbury .... 
 
 Stockbridge 
 
 Winchester 
 
 Rodborough . la 
 
 To Portsmouth. 
 
 Gloucester 12 
 
 Upton 16 
 
 Kidderminster . .. 14 
 
 Through Fareham to Ports- 
 mouth 
 
 
 Wenlock 8 
 
 To Brighton. 
 Salisbury . 
 
 Shrewsbury 14 
 
 Oswestry is 
 
 Llangollen 12 
 
 
 Corwen 10 
 
 Botley 
 
 Kernoige 13 
 
 
 Bettws 10 
 
 
 Capel Currig 11 
 
 
 Bangor Ferry 18 
 
 The Pad 
 
 Gwynda 12$ 
 Holy head 12 \ 
 
 Brighton 
 
 Old Road to Weymouth. 
 Radstoke 
 
 23~T 
 To Cheltenlutm. 
 Cross Hands 11 
 Petty France 3 
 
 Cannard's Grave 
 Ansford Inn ... 
 
ITINERARY OF THE PRINCIPAL ROADS. 283 
 
 
 11 
 18 
 
 Pontarddyllais 
 
 9 
 17 
 16 
 4 
 10 
 8 
 
 164* 
 "aun- 
 
 7 
 
 
 Carmarthen 
 
 
 8 
 
 "eT 
 
 13 
 10 
 12 
 18 
 
 8 
 
 Tavern-spite 
 
 New Road to fVeymouth. 
 
 Narbeth . . 
 
 H averfordwes t 
 Milford-Haven 
 
 To Plymouth, thrnuzhJrcll*, 1 
 ton, and Exeter. 
 Radstock 
 
 
 
 
 Weymouth 
 
 61 
 To Southampton, through Salisbury. 
 Beckington 10 
 
 Old Down 
 
 6 
 . 6 
 
 Wells 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 4* 
 
 101 
 
 Warminster 
 
 6 
 3 
 
 3 
 3 
 3 
 2 
 
 
 
 (i 
 4 
 4 
 8 
 
 
 
 #T 
 
 New 
 12 
 
 Q\*W t 
 
 Hey tesbury 
 
 
 . 14 
 
 Knooke 
 
 Wellington 
 
 
 Codford 
 
 
 
 Depttbrd Inn 
 
 
 . 8 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 Staple-ford 
 
 ,, ia 
 
 g 
 
 Newton 
 
 
 10 
 
 Salisbury 
 
 
 10 
 
 Alderbury 
 
 Brent 
 
 . 7 
 
 White Parish 
 
 
 16 
 
 
 To Truro and Falrnouth. 
 
 125~ 
 . 84 
 
 
 To Mil ford- Haven, by the 
 Passage, Swansea, $r. 
 Bristol 
 
 
 . 11 
 11 
 
 
 Lifton 
 
 16 
 . 4 
 
 Black Rock Inn 
 Newport 
 Cardiff 
 
 121 
 3 
 14} 
 
 1't 
 
 Five Lanes' End 
 Bodmin 
 Mitchell 
 
 , 8 
 13 
 
 if- 
 7 
 
 Cowbridge 
 Pyle 
 Neath 
 Swansea 
 
 i*4 
 
 12 
 . 13 
 . 9 
 
 Penryn 
 Falmouth 
 
 , 9 
 t 
 
 180~ 
 
 Bath has two FAIRS, one of which is held on the 
 11 th of February, and the other on the 10th of 
 July. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 Addison, death of, 4. 
 Aylesbury, Earl of, 24. 
 Albemarle Buildings, 33. 
 Antiquities, found, 42. 
 Attorneys, 58. 
 Attractions of Bath without 
 
 sameness, 65. 
 Abbey-Gate-street, 94. 
 Abbey-green, ibid. 
 Abbey-street, ibid. 
 Assembly-Rooms, Kingston, 
 
 Regulations, Terras, &c. 
 
 103. 
 
 Antiquities, collection of, 120. 
 Architecture, fine specimens 
 
 of, 126. 
 
 Alfred-street, 127. 
 Ashe, Mr. and Mrs. 136. 
 Ail Saints' Chapel, 160. 
 Avon-street, 171. 
 Avon, the river, 174. 
 Albion Brewery, 175. 
 Argyle-buildings, 180. 
 Allen's Walk, 190. 
 Antique Castle, shell of, 204. 
 Aqueduct, the. description of, 
 
 20.5. 
 
 America-buildings, 211. 
 Arno'sVale, 241. 
 
 Brighton, contrasted with 
 Bath, 2. 
 
 Bath the universal place of 
 resort, and the pleasure of 
 commencing a journey, 3. 
 
 Brentford, account of, 7. 
 
 Berkeley, Earl of, 14. 
 
 Bushy Park, 15. 
 
 Benbam Park, 22. 
 
 Burdett, Sir Francis, 23. 
 
 Beckharnpton Inn, 25. 
 
 Box, pretty village of, 28. 
 
 Bath Easton, 29, 220. 
 
 Beaufort-buildings, 32. 
 
 Bedford-street, 33. 
 
 Brunswick-street, ibid. 
 
 Bladud-buildiugs, 34. 
 
 Bath, ancient history of, re- 
 marks, &c. 37. 
 
 Bladud, King, account of, 38. 
 
 Bath, founded by the Ro- 
 mans, 40. 
 
 Bath, modern, its fashionable 
 origin, rise and progress,43. 
 
 Ball-Room, when none at 
 Bath, 44. 
 
 Bath, Countess of, 50. 
 
 Bath, distinguished for its 
 woollen trade, at one pe- 
 riod, 56. 
 
 Boarding-Houses, 59. 
 
 Bond-street, 70. 
 
 Bond-street-buildings, ibid. 
 
 Burton-street, 71. 
 
 Bath and West of England 
 Society. 91. 
 
 Bath and Bath Forum Free 
 School, 92. 
 
 Bradley's Buildings, 93. 
 
 Bath Bridge, Old, ibid. 
 
 Bailiwick, Old Ruin, 100. 
 
 Butler, a gentleman's servant, 
 hung, 124. 
 
 Burlington-street, 125. 
 
 Burlington-place, ibid. 
 
 Ballance-street, ibid. 
 
 Bennet-street, 127. 
 
 Barton-street, 141. 
 
 Beaufort-square, ibid. 
 
 Blue School, 144. 
 
 Bath-lane, 147. 
 
 Baldwin, Mr. architect, 150. 
 
 Bond-street, New, 154. 
 
 Broad-street, ibid. 
 
 Bath Penitentiary and Lock 
 Hospital, 155. 
 
 Bon Ton, what is it? '163. 
 
 Brock-street, ibid. 
 
 Belmont-row, ibid. 
 
 Belvidere-House, ibid. 
 
 Barton's Fields, 1<59. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 Broad Quay, 170. 
 
 Back-street, 171. 
 
 Bath City Infirmary and Dis- 
 pensary, ibid. 
 
 Bimberries,orBlackAlms,ibid 
 
 Bellot's Hospital, Belltree- 
 lanc, ibid. 
 
 Brook's Lock, 175. 
 
 Bath Association for aiding 
 the Missions of the United 
 Brethren, 177. 
 
 Bridge-street, 180. 
 
 Bridewell, account of, 188. 
 
 By field-buildings, 202. 
 
 Bath, or Freestone, its pro- 
 perties, 203. 
 
 Brass Knocker, the, 205. 
 
 Bath-Hampton Church, epi- 
 taph, &c. 207. 
 
 Bath-Hampton,village of,208 
 
 Bailbrook Lodge, ibid. 
 
 B lath way te Arms, 212. 
 
 Bath cream-cheese, 213. 
 
 Battle fought at Lansdown, 
 ibid. 
 
 Brislington, village of, 240. 
 
 Bristol-itorie, its valuable 
 properties, 246. 
 
 Brandon Hill, Bristol, fine 
 view from it, 251. 
 
 Bristol Bridge, 252. 
 
 Booksellers, 275. 
 
 Company at Margate, poeti- 
 cal description of, 1. 
 
 Cheltenham, its season, 2. 
 
 Cockney leaving London, 3. 
 
 Chiswick-House, 7. 
 
 Child, Mr. the banker, anec- 
 dote of, 10. 
 
 Cranford Bridge, 14. 
 
 Clarence, Duke of, 15. 
 
 Colnbrook, village of, 18. 
 
 Calcot Green, 21. 
 
 Craven, Earl of, 22. 
 
 Cherrill, distinguished for its 
 large white horse, cut out 
 of the turf on the hill, by 
 Christopher Alsop, anec- 
 dotes of, 24. 
 
 Colman, George, Esq. 26. 
 
 Calne, town of, 26. 
 
 Curious custom of the chil- 
 dren on the road, 27. 
 
 Chippenham, town of, 28. 
 
 Charter granted to Bath by 
 Queen Elizabeth, 43. 
 
 Charter, new one, with an ex- 
 tension of privileges, grant- 
 ed by Geo. III. ibid. 
 
 Cathedral Church, descrip- 
 tion of, 74. 
 
 Cross Bath, 89. 
 
 Corn-street, 92. 
 
 Church, New, Bath wick, 99. 
 
 Catholic Chapel, 124. 
 
 Cottle's Lane, 125. 
 
 Catharine's Place, ibid. 
 
 Circus, description of, 126. 
 
 Concerts, subscription, terms, 
 &c. J35. 
 
 Coal Market, account of, 145. 
 
 Cheap-street, 148. 
 
 Chatham, Earl of, 150. 
 
 Camden, Earl of, ibid. 
 
 City Balls, 151. 
 
 Court of Requests, &c. 152. 
 
 Corn Market, 155. 
 
 Cornwall-street, ibid. 
 
 Chatham-row, 156. 
 
 Camden-street, 157. 
 
 (.';u endish-crescent, 161. 
 
 Caveadish-place, ibid. 
 
 Crescent Fields, 162. 
 
 Clarke's Lane, 171. 
 
 Corn -street, Little, ibid. 
 
 Charles-street, 173. 
 
 Casualty Hospital, 177. 
 
 Claverton-place, 189. 
 
 Classic Ground, English, 191. 
 
 Combe Down and StoncQuar- 
 ry, description of, 202. 
 
 Clavcrtou Down, 204. 
 
 Claverton House and Church, 
 
 206. 
 Christ Church, 210. 
 
 Corsham House ; catalogue 
 of the paintings, descrip- 
 tion of the grounds, &c. 
 219. 
 
 Cook's Folly, Clifton, 248. 
 Clifton Downs, 249. 
 Clifton Church, 201. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 287 
 
 Clifford, Lord, grounds and 
 park of, 256. 
 
 Coaches from London to 
 Bath, 59. 
 
 Coaches, list of, from Bath 
 to London, and various 
 other parts of the Kingdom, 
 276. 
 
 Caravans on the Bath, Bris- 
 tol, and other roads, 279. 
 
 Duchess of Devonshire, 7. 
 Druid's Temple, 25. 
 Derry Hill, 27. 
 Dover-street, 33. 
 Duke of Beaufort, an early 
 
 patron of Bath, 45. 
 Duke of Bedford, bust of, 
 
 91. 
 
 Darlington-street, 99. 
 Duke-street, 101. 
 Duke of Sussex, 119. 
 Dodd, Dr. W. 126. 
 Duel between two Frenchmen 
 
 of rank, 204. 
 Donkeys, charge per hour, at 
 
 Clifton, 249. 
 Draper, Sir William, ihid. 
 Dressing-room of Lady <le 
 
 Clifford, V.-58. 
 
 Entrance to Bath, description 
 of, 30. 
 
 Epitome of ancient and mo- 
 dern Bath, 36. 
 
 Earl of Darlington, 50. 
 
 Epigrams on the vast increase 
 of Bath, 51. 
 
 Eating Houses, 60. 
 
 Edgar-buildings, 68. 
 
 Eye Infirmary, 91. 
 
 Extraordinary duel between 
 Mr. Sheridan and Mr. 
 Matthews, 265. 
 
 Forgeries, extent of, 14. 
 Froxfield, Almshouses at, 24. 
 Fifield, ibid. 
 FriendlyBrothers, club of,34. 
 
 Fares allowed to the Chair- 
 men, 61. 
 
 First place of attraction at 
 Bath, 67. 
 
 Fashionable promenade, 68. 
 
 Ferry, the., 100. 
 
 Freemasons' Hall, description 
 of, 116. 
 
 Frail Sisterhood, 172. 
 
 Free Girls' School, 189. 
 
 Fielding, Henry, Esq. 191 . 
 
 Fine Arts, 219. 
 
 Fox, Dr. anecdote of, 241. 
 
 Fairs at Bath, 283. 
 
 Grand Junction Canal, its 
 
 extent, 9. 
 
 George III. long reign of, 18. 
 Grosvenor-place, 32. 
 Gaming, Bath distinguished 
 
 for, 45. 
 
 General Hospital, 71. 
 General Wade, 78. 
 Gloucester Place and Street, 
 
 125. 
 
 Gay-street, 137. 
 Gravel-walk, 139. 
 Gascoyn-place, 144. 
 Garrick's Head Tavern, 146. 
 Guildhall, description of, 150. 
 Green-street, 154. 
 Grammar School, Public, ib. 
 Gerrard-street, 171. 
 Grcen-park-buildings, West, 
 
 17.?. 
 
 Green-park-place, East, ib. 
 Gasometer, the, 175. 
 Grove-street, 180. 
 Graves, the Rev. Mr. 206. 
 Grove-place, 211. 
 Grand Stand, ibid. 
 Gobeling tapestry, 234. 
 " Gypsyine" it at Lee-wood, 
 
 V46. 
 
 Giant's Hole, ibid. 
 Grotto, curious, at Clifton, 
 
 251. 
 George III. bust of, 151. 
 
 Holland House, 4. 
 
288 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Hammersmith, ibid. 
 
 Hounslow, account of, 12. 
 
 Halloran, a noted highway- 
 man, original anecdote of, 
 13. 
 
 Herschell, Sir William, anec- 
 dote of, 18. 
 
 Hare Hatch, village of, 20. 
 
 Half-way House, 22. 
 
 Hungerford, account of its 
 
 " Home-brewed," excellent, 
 23. 
 
 Hanover-place, 33. 
 
 Huntingdon's, Countess of, 
 Chapel, 34. 
 
 Harmonic Society, 64. 
 
 Hot-Bath, 90. 
 
 Hetling-court, 91. 
 
 Horse-street, 92. 
 
 Humane Society drags, &.c. 
 101. 
 
 Henry -street, 127. 
 
 Harris-street, ibid. 
 
 Harley-street, 125. 
 
 Harrington-place, 141. 
 
 High-street, 148. 
 
 Henrietta-street, 168. 
 
 House of Protection, account 
 of, 166. 
 
 Hooper-street, 211. 
 
 Haselbury-hill, 220. 
 
 Holloway, 237. 
 
 Hospital for Idiots, 238. 
 
 Hawkins, Sir John, Bt. 240. 
 
 Hot Wells, Bristol, 244. 
 
 Hot-Well-House and Pump- 
 Rooin, Bristol, its water, 
 &c. ibid. 
 
 Hongroad, 254. 
 
 Itinerary (descriptive) from 
 London to Bath, 1. 
 
 Iron House, 33. 
 
 Increase of Bath ; its popu- 
 lation, &c. 48. 
 
 Inns, principal, at Bath, 59. 
 
 Inscription of the Corner- 
 stone of Bathwick Church, 
 99. 
 
 Inscription-stone of the New 
 Freemasons' Hall, 118. 
 
 Independent Meeting-House, 
 (Mr. Jay's,) 180. 
 
 Isabella-place, delightful pro- 
 spect from, 201. 
 
 Itinerary (descriptive) from 
 Bath to Bristol, 237. 
 
 Itinerary of the principal 
 roads from Bath, 282. 
 
 Jersey, Earl of, 10. 
 
 Jordan, Mrs. celebrated co- 
 median, anecdotes of, poe- 
 try, epitaph, &c. 16. 
 
 Jurisdiction of Bath, 55. 
 
 John's Chapel, St. 91. 
 
 James's Paradtj, St. 92. 
 
 James's Church, St. 93. 
 
 John-street, St. 141. 
 
 Jarnes's-square, St. 161. 
 
 Johristone-street, 180. 
 
 Jail, New, Bristol, 242. 
 
 Kew Palace, 8. 
 Kiln-green, 20. 
 Kensington-place, 32. 
 Kensington Chapel, ibid. 
 Kennet and Avon Canal, 55. 
 King's Bath, 86. 
 Kingston Baths, 94. 
 Kingston-buildings, 97. 
 Kingston Rooms ; or, Old, 
 
 102. 
 
 Kingsmead-terrace, 173. 
 Kings-street, Mew, 175. 
 Kingsmead-street, 177. 
 Kelwcston House, 239. 
 Keynsham, town of, 240. 
 King's-road, Bristol, 248. 
 King's Weston Hill, 257. 
 
 List of Plates, x. 
 Land's End, road to, 12. 
 Longford, village of, 15. 
 Langley-Broom, 18. 
 Lansdowne,Marquisof, anec- 
 dote of, 27. 
 Larabridge, 31. 
 Lower East-Hayes, 33. 
 Long-Acre, ibl'. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 School > 94s 
 
 155, 
 
 tAuo 
 
 ;ii, ibid. 
 
 Mr, 
 
 168, 
 
 ills, 1?1. 
 
 180, 
 
 Laura fchapel, Ml. 
 
 Labyrinth, or Maw in 
 ner Gardens, account 'of, 
 185. 
 
 Lookout, antique, in Prior- 
 park, 3O4. 
 
 LatNsdownssquare, 911. 
 
 r, account of, 
 Uandown Pillar, ibid, 
 LMpfighterVHaU, Glouces- 
 
 or connected with Bath, 
 
 John Hales ibid- 
 Mr. Areftey, ibid. 
 Mrs, Shendan, 263. 
 R. TSckell, Esq. 368 
 Sir John and lady Mil- 
 John Palmer, Esq . Wt I , 
 W. Dimond, Esq. 979. 
 Rev. Richard Warner, 
 
 ibid. 
 
 Miss Warner, 973, 
 Dr. Harrington j ibid. 
 Caleb Hitlk-r Parry, 
 
 M.D. 274, 
 
 John Cranch, 191. 
 Philosophical and Lite- 
 rary Institution, 190. 
 Public Library, ibid. 
 
 Margate compared with 
 
 Bath, 1, 
 
 Mail Coach adventures, ibid. 
 Margravine of Anspach, 4, 
 Marlborough, Duke of, 10, 
 Maidonhoa. 1 Bridge, 10. 
 Maidenhead, town of, and 
 
 thicket, 90. 
 
 Miseries of travelling, 99, 
 Marlborough Forest, 94, 
 
 Marlborough, town of, white 
 horse cut out of the turf, 
 
 ibid, 
 Manton,ibid, 
 
 Monuments of Quin, Rat- 
 ni, Beau Nash, Lady 
 Miller, &c, 78. 
 
 Masters of the Ceremonies, 
 at various times, 105, 198. 
 
 Margaret-buildings, 196. 
 Margaret Chapel, ibid. 
 Managers of die Theatre, 
 
 various, 143, 
 Market-house, 148. 
 Market, public, ibid. 
 MukerMuheado^bronae.lSO, 
 Mayor of Bath, gallantry o& 
 
 Margaret-place, 157, 
 Mount-pleasant, 160. 
 Marlborooeh- street, 161, 
 Marlborough-buUdiugs, ibid. 
 Moravian Burying-ground, 
 
 166. 
 
 Milk-street, 173. 
 Mancroft-place, 175. 
 Aronmouth-street, 177. 
 Moravian Chapel, ibid. 
 Monuments of Ralph Allen, 
 
 Esq. and of the wife and 
 
 son of Bishop Warburton, 
 
 906. 
 
 Montpeher-row, 910. 
 Morelandj George, 990. 
 
 Magdalene Chape), 
 
 Mary 
 
 Montpelier of England, 948. 
 Mangeon Hotel, Clifton, 951. 
 Mites; Mr. house of, 956. 
 U 
 
INDEX. 
 
 Northumberland, Duke of, 
 9. 
 
 Newbury, town of, 21. 
 
 Nelson-place, 33. 
 
 Newspapers, 60. 
 
 Newspaper presented to her 
 Majesty, 94. 
 
 Nash, Beau, history of, anec- 
 dotes, &c. 105. 
 
 Northumberland-place, 153. 
 
 Northgate-street, 154. 
 
 Nelson-place, 157. 
 
 Notice, curious, at Weston, 
 168. 
 
 Norfolk Crescent, 173. 
 
 Nelson-street, 175. 
 
 Nile-street, ibid. 
 
 Old Time,a poetical address,7 
 Overton, village of, 24. 
 Octagon Chapel, 69. 
 Orange Grove, 116. 
 Orchard street, 124. 
 Old Masters, 247. 
 
 Peter Pindar, anecdote of, 1. 
 Palace at Brighton, account 
 
 of, 3. 
 
 Poem addressed to the heart,5 
 Pickwick, village of, 28. 
 Piccadilly, 33. 
 Paragon-buildings, 34. 
 Physicians not bathing, 39. 
 Pulteney, Sir William, 49. 
 Poetic description of Bath,52. 
 Police of Bath, 55, 
 Poetry, on the restorative 
 
 qualities of the water of 
 
 Bath, 56. 
 Penny- Post, 60. 
 Public Libraries, Circulating, 
 
 ibid. 
 
 Post-Office, General, 62. 
 Parsonage-lane, 71. 
 Pump-Room, Great, 83. 
 Private Baths, New, 87. 
 Pinch, Mr. architect, 98. 
 Pulteney Bridge, view of,101. 
 Parade, North, ibid. 
 Pierrepoint-street, 102. 
 
 Phillips-street, 124. 
 Portland-place, 125. 
 Portland Chapel, ibid. 
 Poetic description of theBalls, 
 
 134. 
 
 Performers of the Bath Thea- 
 tre, 141. 
 Parsonage House, account of, 
 
 147. 
 Prince and Princess of 
 
 Orange, 150. 
 Pin Manufactory, 155. 
 Palmer, Mr. architect, 160. 
 Park-place, 161. 
 Pulteney Bridge, 280. 
 Pulteney-street, Great, ibid. 
 Poetic Address to the Bower 
 
 in Sydney Gardens, by Mr. 
 
 Sheridan, 183. 
 Pulteney-street,Great Upper, 
 
 187. 
 Prior Park- House,description 
 
 of, 189. 
 Pope and Martha Blouut, 
 
 197. 
 
 Prospect-place, 202. 
 Prospect-style, description 
 
 of, 215. 
 
 Poetic description of St. Vin- 
 cent's Rocks, 247. 
 Prince of Wales's Crescent, 
 
 Clifton, 250. 
 Pen Pole, fine prospect from, 
 
 255. 
 
 Pill, town of, ibid. 
 Paintings, list of, at Lord de 
 
 Clifford's House, 259. 
 
 Queen, death of her Majesty, 
 and remarks on her cha- 
 racter, 8. 
 
 Quemerfbrd Bridge, 26. 
 
 Queen's Bath, 87. 
 
 Quaker's Meeting-house, 92. 
 
 Queensbury, Duchess of, 
 anecdote of, 110. 
 
 Queen-square, 137. 
 
 Queen-square Chapel, 139. 
 
 Quiet-street, 141. 
 
 Quay, New, 17S. 
 
 Queen's Parade, 178. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 291 
 
 Queen's House, description of, | 
 
 186. 
 Queen Elizabeth,fine painting j 
 
 atCorsham House, 233. 
 
 Reading, town of, 21. 
 
 Riding Schools, 61. 
 
 Royal visitors at Bath, va- 
 rious times, 64. 
 
 Rack, Mr. Edmund, 91. 
 
 Road,New,toW5dcombe,100. 
 
 Rivers-street, 125. 
 
 Room, New ; or Upper, ac- | 
 count of, 127. 
 
 Rauzzini, Mr. 136. 
 
 Royal Crescent, 161. 
 
 Richmond House, 211. 
 
 Race Ground, ibid. 
 
 Steam boats, advantages of, 1. 
 
 Sion House, 9. 
 
 Srnallberry Green, 10. 
 
 Sir Joseph Banks, ibid. 
 
 Slough, village of, 18. 
 
 Salt-Hill, ibid. 
 
 Scott, Sir William, 20. 
 
 Spei-nhamland, 21. 
 
 Speen, numerous seats, 22. 
 
 Silbury Hill, 15. 
 
 Studley, village of, 27. 
 
 Subscription-house, 35. 
 
 Sedan Chairs, &c. 61. 
 
 Society for promoting Chris- 
 tian Knowledge, 70. 
 
 Stall-street, 74. 
 
 Sydney-place, 98. 
 
 South-parade, 101. 
 
 Saville-row, 127. 
 
 Saw's-close, 146. 
 
 Search nights at Bath, con- 
 sequences of, 1.52. 
 
 St. Michael's Church, 154. 
 
 Spencer's Belle Vue, 160. 
 
 Somerset-place, 161. 
 
 Somerset House, ibid. 
 
 Sion Hill, 166. 
 
 St. Catharine's Hospital, 171. 
 
 Seymour-street, 173. 
 
 Sheridan, Richard Brinsley, 
 Esq. 175. 
 
 Stanhope street, 175. 
 
 Stable-lane, 178. 
 
 Sunderland-street, 181. 
 
 Sydney Tavern and Gardens, 
 account of, ibid. 
 
 Springfield-place, 211. 
 
 Saltford, 240. 
 
 St. Vincent's Parade, Clifton, 
 245. 
 
 St. Vincent's Rocks, ibid. 
 
 Sion House, Clifton, 250. 
 
 Sharpies, Miss and George, 
 portrait-painters, in cray- 
 ons, at Clifton, ibid. 
 
 Sail to the port of Pill, 253. 
 
 Shirehampton, village of, 
 Gloucestershire, 255. 
 
 Turnham Green, various 
 seats, 6. 
 
 Tetsworth Water, 18. 
 
 Teryford, village of, 20. 
 
 Theal, seats near it, 21. 
 
 Thatcham, ibid. 
 
 Theatre, Old, 124. 
 
 Theatre Royal, New, ac- 
 count of, 141. 
 
 Trim-street, 144. 
 
 Turnerdli, Mr. 151. 
 
 Twiverton, village of, 239. 
 
 Tomb Marie, 257. 
 
 Unitarian Chapel, 144. 
 Upper Boiough Walls, 154. 
 Upper Camden-place, 159. 
 Upper Park-street, 161. 
 Upper Bristol -road, 175. 
 Union Blue CoatSchool,178. 
 
 Vineyards, the, 34. 
 Visit to Corsham House, 219. 
 Visit to Lord de Clifford's 
 House, 256. 
 
 Windsor Castle, view of, 18. 
 Woolhampton, village of, 21. 
 West-Kennet, famed for its 
 
 beverage, 25. 
 Wai cot-build ings, 33. 
 
INDEX, 
 
 Walcol New Chape!, 33. 
 
 Webster, Captain, first master 
 of the ceremonies, 45. 
 
 Westgate-buildings, 91. 
 
 Weymoath-street, 93, 
 
 Waterloo Gardens, 100. 
 
 Wood, Mr. architect ac- 
 count of, 138. 
 
 Wood-street, 141. 
 
 Westgate-slreet, 147. 
 
 Walcot -street, 155. 
 
 Walcot nurving-Ground,lS6\ 
 
 Walcot Church, Monument?, 
 &c. ibid. 
 
 Walcot Parade, 15?. 
 
 Walcot Ferry, ibid, 
 
 Winifred's Cottage, St. 161. 
 
 Westoiij village of, promenade 
 10,164. 
 
 Waterfall at Weston, 167. 
 
 Weston Church, monuments, 
 &c. ibid. 
 
 Whitehead, Miss, estate of, 
 109. 
 
 Wine-street, 1T1. 
 
 Wesley an Chapel, account of, 
 
 175. 
 
 William-street, 181. 
 Waterloo-place, 189. 
 Widcome, ibid. 
 VVidcome Parade, ibid. 
 Warburton, Bishop, 191. 
 Western, Squire, no traces of 
 
 the original character, 194. 
 Wick, Rocks of, 216. 
 White Swan, Pickwick, 2*1. 
 ttatts's Folly, CHfton, 243, 
 Walts, Mr. anecdote of,*44. 
 William and Mary Packet, 
 
 loss of, 255. 
 Wagajons, list of, 288. 
 Water Carriage, 283. 
 
 York-place, S3. 
 York-buildings, 34. 
 York Hotel, ibid. 
 
 THE END. 
 
 MARCHAKT, Printer, 
 logram-Court, London. 
 

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