START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK CITY SCENES*** Transcribed from the 1828 Harvey and Darton edition by David Price, email ccx074@pglaf.org [Picture: Decorative shield] CITY SCENES. _OR_ _A PEEP INTO_ LONDON. [Picture: View of St. Paulâs from the Thames] [Picture: Decorative pattern with swords] _LONDON_ _Published by Harvey & Darton_ Gracechurch Street. _1828_. INTRODUCTION. COME, peep at Londonâs famous town, Nor need you travel there; But view the things of most renown, Whilst sitting in your chair. At home, an hundred miles away, âTis easy now to look At City Scenes, and London gay, In this my little book. Yes, there in quiet you may sit, Beside the winterâs fire, And see and hear as much of it, As ever you desire. Or underneath the oak so grey, That stands upon the green, May pass the summerâs eve away, And view each City Scene. Thereâs great St. Paulâs, so wondrous wide, The Monument so tall, And many curious things beside The Giants in Guildhall. The post-boy galloping away, With letter-bag youâll find: The wharf, the ship, the lady gay, The beggar lame and blind. The boatman plying at his oar, The gardâner and his greens, The knife-grinder, with many more Of Londonâs City Scenes. CITY SCENES. 1. Countryman on a Stage Coach. [Picture: Countryman on a stage coach] HERE is Farmer Clodpole, who lives a hundred miles from London, coming to see it at last. They have just reached the top of a hill, and catch a fine view of the city. âWhat! is that _Lunnun_, coachey? Well, Iâm glad to see it at last; for I, thatâs only used to jog along a few miles in our cart, donât much fancy this jumbling and jolting. But what a smoke they are in, master coachman: I shall be glad enough to get back again, if I am always to be in such a _puther_. Pray, whatâs that there great round thing in the midst of the housen? Oh! St. Paulâs: why that beats our parish church all to pieces. Well, drive away, coachey, that I may see all the fine things; and nobody shall laugh at me any more, because I have not seen _Lunnun_.â 2. The Monument. [Picture: The Monument] There is the Monument: it is situated on the east side of Fish Street Hill, and is the highest column in the world. It was erected in remembrance of the great fire of London, which broke out in _Pudding Lane_, very near Fish-Street Hill, destroying all the buildings from Tower Wharf in the east, to Temple church in the west; and from the north end of Mincing Lane, to the west end of Leadenhall Street; passing to Threadneedle Street, thence in a direct line to Holborn Bridge, and extending northward to Smithfield, when, after having burnt down thirteen thousand and two hundred houses, it terminated. At that time provisions were very cheap, and many people eat to the full; so that gluttony was alleged by some as the cause of the fire; it beginning, as they said, at _Pudding Lane_, and ending at _Pie Corner_, which was the case. The Monument is a very fine pillar, 202 feet high, having a staircase leading to the gallery, from which, on a clear day, beautiful views of the city and surrounding country may be seen. By the inscription on the Monument, the Roman Catholics are accused of âburning this Protestant city;â but Pope, the poet, was of a different opinion, for he says, âLondonâs high column, pointing to the skies, Like a tall bully, lifts its head and lies.â 3. Pie Corner, [Picture: Pie Corner] West Smithfield, where you see the white projecting house, as it was left after the fire of London, which took place at midnight, 2d September, 1666, and burnt with unabated fury till the 10th of the same month. There is also, at the corner of the lane, against a public house called the Fortune of War, a figure of a boy carved in wood, on which was painted an inscription to commemorate the event, and also stating the calamity to have been a punishment on the city for the sin of gluttony; but this being since considered a vulgar error, is not painted on the new figure, which in other respects is exactly like the old figure first put up. 4. New London Bridge. [Picture: New London Bridge] The new London Bridge is built from a design of the late John Rennie, Esq. engineer; and the works are conducted under the direction of John and George Rennie, Esqrs. It stands a short distance westward of the old bridge. The first stone was laid by John Garratt, Esq. lord mayor, on the 15th of June, 1825. This bridge consists of five arches: the centre one is 150, those next to it 140 feet, the extreme arches 130 feet. The roadway is nearly level, and the parapet is plain, with buttresses rising from the piers, 5. Billingsgate, [Picture: Billingsgate] The only fish-market in London, to which the fishing-smacks bring their cargoes. Whoever goes to Billingsgate, at market-time, must expect to be pushed about and dirtied. The crowd is generally very great, and the people very noisy, and some are quite abusive to strangers. There goes a tall fish-woman sounding her cry, âWhoâll buy my fine flounders, and oysters whoâll buy?â Poor flounder, he heaves up his fin with a sigh, And thinks that _he_ has most occasion to cry; âAh, neighbour,â says oyster, âindeed, so do I.â It is supposed that more money is taken at this place for shell-fish, in a year, than there is at Smithfield for butchersâ meat in the same period. Within these few years, great quantities of salmon have been sent from Scotland to Billingsgate in summer-time, preserved in ice, which had been stored up in winter for that salutary purpose. The ice, when taken from the fish, is sold to confectioners and pastry-cooks, for forming ice-creams in summer. 6. The Scavenger. [Picture: The Scavenger] I am glad to see this man, whose business it is to sweep up the mud and dirt from the streets, and collect it in a cart. Surely, no part of London needs this work more than Thames Street and Billingsgate; for, even in a dry season, the narrowness of the streets, and great traffic of men and women, with fish in wet baskets, &c. keep the pavement constantly dirty. When the cart is well laden, he empties it into some waste place in the outskirts of the town, or delivers it at some wharf by the water-side; and as it proves a very rich manure, he finds it a profitable and useful occupation. âIâm very glad âtis not my luck To get my bread by carting muck; Iâm sure I never could be made To work at such a dirty trade.â âHold, little master, not so fast, Some proud folks get a fall at last; And you, young gentleman, I say, May be a scavenger, one day. All sober folks, who seldom play, But get their bread some honest way, Though not to wealth or honours born, Deserve respect instead of scorn. Such rude contempt they merit less, Than those who live in idleness; Who are less useful, Iâm afraid, Than this black mud thatâs in my spade.â 7. The Bellman. [Picture: The Bellman] Well, here is the Bellman and Crier, calling the attention of the people to a description of a child that has been lost. The number of children who have at times been stolen from their homes, has caused great alarm to many parents. It was not far from London Bridge that little Tommy Dellow was taken away, which caused the parish-officers to advertise a reward of one hundred guineas for his recovery; and the bills were the means of his being discovered at Gosport, in Hampshire. It appeared that this little boy and his sister were enticed away by a decently dressed woman, who sent the girl home, but took the boy. Having no children of her own, she contrived to take him to Gosport, and to present him to her husband, on his return from a long voyage at sea, as his own son. The whole history of the distressing loss and happy recovery of little Thomas Dellow, has been published; and, in another account of him, {9} it is shortly described in verse. The little boy and girl, who stand hand in hand, before the man with the basket on his head, are the portraits drawn from the life of little Thomas Dellow and his sister. âA sweet chubby fellow, Named little Tom Dellow, His mamma to a neighbour did send, With a caution to stop At a green-grocerâs shop, While she went to visit a friend. âThe poor little soul, Unused to control, Oâer the threshold just happenâd to stray, When a sly cunning dame, Mary Magnay by name, Enticed the young truant away. âAt a pastry-cookâs shop She made a short stop, And gave him two buns and a tart, And soon after that She bought him a hat And feather, that made him quite smart. âThen a man they employ To describe the sweet boy, Whom they sought with such tender regard! And soon you might meet Bills in every street, Which offerâd five guineas reward! âThey did not succeed To discover the deed, Thoâ much all who heard of it wonderâd, Till at length they sent down Large bills to each town, And raised the reward to one hundred! The office of bellman was first instituted in 1556, for the purpose of going round the ward by night to ring his bell, and to exhort the inhabitants, with a loud voice, to take care of their fires and lights, to help the poor, and pray for the dead. This custom, though once general, is used only at Christmas-time, when a copy of verses is repeated, instead of the admonition used in former days. 8. A Wharf [Picture: A wharf] Is a landing place by the side of a river, for the convenience of boats, barges, or ships. At these wharfs many casks of fruit, plums, currants, figs, oranges, and lemons, are brought on shore, to be taken away in carts to grocers, fruiterers, and orange-merchants. It is the business of a merchant to bring over these things for our use, and for which we are obliged to him. The West and East India Docks receive now, most of the shipping used to and from those countries, and are considered more secure from robberies, than the open wharfs by the sides of the river Thames used to be. 9. The Coal-ship and Barge. [Picture: The coal-ship and barge] This is one of the ships called Newcastle Colliers, laden with coals from the mines in Northumberland. These vessels are too large to come close to the wharfs to unload; so the coals are emptied into barges, (which are a kind of large, flat boats,) and carried in them to the different wharfs where they are to be landed. Drawn up from the dreary mine, See the black and shining coal; Where the sun can never shine, Through the deep and dismal hole. There the sooty miners stay, Digging at their work forlorn; Or, to see the light of day, In a swinging bucket drawn. Then along the roaring tide, Where the tempest bellowâd keen, Did the laden vessel ride, Tossâd among the waters green. Wide were spread her canvass sails, Tall and taper rose her mast: Now, before the northern gales, She has reachâd her port at last. 10. The Custom House. [Picture: The Custom House] Adjoining Billingsgate stands the New Custom House, which is the office where the duties are collected on goods exported or imported. The building is situated in Lower Thames-street, fronting the river, occupying an immense space of ground. The dimensions of it are upwards of 480 feet long, by 107 feet wide. The first stone was laid on the 25th of October, 1813, being the 53d anniversary of king George the Thirdâs accession; and it was opened for public business on the 12th of May, 1817. The long room is of extraordinary size, being 190 feet long, by 66 wide, and proportionably high. This is the principal place for all foreign business. The former Custom House having been burnt down, precautions have been taken to prevent the recurrence of a similar accident in the new building; and fire-proof rooms are provided on each floor, where the books and papers are deposited every evening. 11. The Press-gang. [Picture: The Press-gang] From the Custom House it is but a few steps to Tower-hill. Well, there is a view of it, and of the Tender, which is an old man-of-war, riding at anchor on the Thames, for the purpose of receiving impressed men for the kingâs service. Say, Mr. Lieutenant, before I surrender, By what right you take me on board of your tender? In the peaceable trader I rather would be, And no man-of-war, Sir, I thank you, for me. 12. The Tower of London [Picture: The Tower of London] Is an ancient and irregular building, which arises from its having been erected and enlarged by different sovereigns, at distant periods of time. It was the palace of many of our monarchs, as well as a place of defence. William of Normandy, called the Conqueror, having no great reliance on the fidelity of his new subjects, built a fortress, (called the White Tower,) on part of the present scite of the Tower, to which the origin of this fabric may be attributed. In 1092, William Rufus laid the foundation of a castle to the south, towards the river, which was finished by his successor. Beneath this were two gates, one called _Traitorâs_ Gate, through which state-prisoners were conveyed to their prisons; the other entitled _Bloody_, which, too many who entered it, found it deserved; imprisonment in those dark ages, being mostly the certain passport to death. {14} Charles the Second cleared the ditch, improved the wharfings, and introduced water by convenient sluices. The whole underwent considerable repairs in the reign of George the Third. The principal entrance is by three gates on the west side. The whole are guarded by soldiers; and when these gates are opened of a morning, the formalities of a garrison are observed, though the interior now resembles a town at peace, having streets, and a variety of buildings. When the gates are shut at night, the Yeoman Porter, with a serjeant and six privates, goes to the governorâs house for the keys, and on the porterâs returning from the outer gate, he is challenged by the guard, drawn up under arms, with, â_Who comes there_?â to which he replies, â_The Keys_.â The guards answer, â_Pass Keys_,â and rest their firelocks. The yeoman porter says, â_God save the King_!â and the ceremony closes with a general â_Amen_.â The Wardens, or Yeomen Porters of the Tower, wear a uniform, the same as the yeomen of the kingâs guard at the palaces. Their coats are of fine scarlet cloth, laced with gold round the edges and seams, with several rows of gold lace, and bound round the waist with a girdle of the same material. Their form is uncommon, having full sleeves, and short, full skirts. On their breasts and backs they wear the kingâs silver badge of the rose, thistle, and shamrock, with the letters G. R. Their heads are covered with round, flat-crowned caps, tied with bands of coloured ribbons. The whole appearance forms an elegant livery, well adapted to royalty. 13. The Armory. [Picture: The Armory] The spoils of the Spanish Armada are still shown in the Tower. There are, amongst them, several kinds of arms and instruments of cruelty, designed for torturing their English prisoners; and the following list of them will prove the barbarity of Spain at that period. THE SPOILS OF THE SPANISH ARMADA. 1. The popeâs banner, by him blessed and declared invincible. 2. A battle-axe for penetrating steel armour. 3. A spadole, used as a small sword, the point poisoned. 4. An anchove, for hooking men off their horses. 5. A lance. 6. A lance, with the current coin on the head. 7. A Spanish morning star: the points were poisoned, to keep people from boarding ships. 8. A lance, which the Spaniards vauntingly said was for bleeding the English. 9. A battle-axe with a pistol at the end. 10. A battle-axe. 11. A Spanish bilbo, to lock the English by the legs. 12. A thumb-screw, an instrument of torture. 13. A Spanish instrument of torture, called the cravat. 14. A Spanish shield with a pistol fixed in it. 15. A battle-axe, or scull-cracker, to make four holes at a blow. 16. The Spanish generalâs shield of honour. 17. Spike-shot. 18. Bar-shot. * * * * * The figure of Queen Elizabeth in armour, forms a proper addition to the collection. She stands in a spirited attitude, by a cream-coloured horse, attended by her page. The axe that beheaded the unfortunate Ann Boleyn, wife of the cruel King Henry the Eighth, is also shown here. The small armoury contains stands of arms for one hundred thousand men, tastefully arranged in a variety of figures. The apartment is three hundred and forty-five feet in length, and is thought to exceed every thing of the kind in Europe. 14. The Horse Armory. [Picture: The Horse Armory] The Horse Armory is a large apartment, containing, amongst many curiosities, seventeen of the kings of England on horseback, in the suits of armour they had each worn. Most of this armour is very rich, and beautifully ornamented. The furniture of the horses is of velvet, laced with gold. There is a suit of armour belonging to John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, which is seven feet high; and another made for Henry the Eighth, when sixteen years old, which is six feet in height. 15. The Wild Beasts in the Tower. [Picture: The Wild Beasts in the Tower] But no sight in the Tower is more interesting than the wild beasts: lions, tigers, leopards, bears, monkeys, &c. As they are confined in cages, with iron gates before them, there is no danger, if people keep their distance; but some dreadful accidents have happened, by children going within reach of the paws of the lion, she bear, or tiger. Donât be frightenâd, young lady, to look at the lion, You see he canât spring through the grating of iron; But if you were wandâring, like poor Mungo Park, In Africaâs forests, bewilderâd and dark; And there, where no refuge or hut could be found, Should hear his fierce roar throâ the valleys around; Or there, by the moonlight, astonishâd to stand, And see his huge shadow glide by on the sand; Oh, then you might tremble with terror, and fly And hide âmid the palm-tree till he had passed by: An enemy fierce and all-powerful then, But now a poor captive confined in his den. 16. The Jewel Office. This office is a strong stone room, in which are kept the crown, ball, and sceptre, used by the kings of England at their coronation, all richly set with jewels; besides other crowns and regal ornaments, and some pieces of curious old plate. The crown worn by the king when he goes in state to the House of Lords, is enriched with an emerald seven inches round, with other gems of great value. Great precautions are taken to secure the regalia, the whole being enclosed within a grate. This was found needful in the days of Charles the Second, after a daring, unprincipled man, named _Blood_, had attempted to steal the crown and other royal ornaments. Under the form of a clergyman, and pretended friendship to Mr. Edwards, who was keeper of the jewels, he introduced three of his companions, as wicked as himself, and having knocked down and gagged the unsuspecting old man, they concealed the crown and other valuables under their clothes, and were going off with their booty, leaving the keeper, as they supposed, dead, or stunned with their blows, on the floor; but he never lost his senses, and taking advantage of their security, forced out the gag, and calling for assistance, pursued the villains, and recovered the spoil! In our picture is seen Fig. 1. The imperial crown of Great Britain. 2. The golden sceptre with the cross. 3. The sceptre with the dove of peace. 4. St. Edwardâs staff, carried before the king at his coronation. 5. The golden orb, which is put into the kingâs right hand before he is crowned. 6. The kingâs coronation ring. 7. The culanna, or pointless sword, being the sword of mercy. 8 and 9. The swords of justice, spiritual and temporal. 17. Rag Fair and Old Clothes. Not far from the Tower is Rosemary Lane, where Rag Fair is daily held. To describe the great variety there sold, would exceed all bounds; we would, however, advise every country customer who visits that place, to take particular care of his pockets, that the money depart not without his consent; and, if he takes change, to see well that the silver be good. A word to the wise is sufficient. But as many dealers in old clothes know that an industrious disposition is worth more than good opportunities without it; and as nothing is to be got by standing still, up old Levi gets early in the morning, and rambles about from street to street, and buys old clothes of those who have got new ones: or sometimes he gets a stock of hats and slippers, and then begins his walk again. So, as he wants his money more than he does his goods, he sells them to those who want the goods more than they want their money. Thus both parties are accommodated. This is the business of a trader; and his customers are as much obliged to him for letting them have his things, as he is to them for letting him have their money. 18. Ship-building. Now we have a distant view of a man-of-war (which is a great fighting ship) building at Deptford. You may see, by the boats in the front, how large it must be; for the further off any thing is, the smaller it looks; and yet it seems larger at this distance, than the boats which are close by. It is like a large floating house, with convenient apartments, sufficient to accommodate 800 people. Numbers of men have been at work on it for several years; and hundreds of fine oaks, which have been from fifty to a hundred years in growing, have been cut down to build it with: besides all the iron from Sweden, for bolts and nails; and fir-trees from Norway, for planks and masts; and copper from Cornwall, to cover its bottom with, to preserve it from being rotted by the sea-water and from other injuries; and the pitch, tar, paint, glue, and I cannot tell how many other things, which must be used before it is fit to swim. What a pity that all this expense and trouble should be wasted in contriving to kill our neighbours and destroy their property; when it might be employed to the advantage of both parties by promoting a friendly intercourse with each other. 19. Nosegays. [Picture: Nosegays] Through many a long and winding lane, My wandâring feet have strayâd; While yet the drops of early rain Were sparkling on the blade. Along the hedge I bent my way, Where roses wild are seen; Or cowslips peeping out so gay Among the tangled green. Or primrose, with its puckerâd leaf And simple early bloom; Or violet, hiding underneath The hedgeâs shady gloom. With finger wet with morning dew, And torn by many a spray, My roses red, and violets blue, I bound in posies gay. Before the sun has risen high, And all their colours fade, Come, lady fair, my posies buy, Of modest wild-flowârs made. 20. The Water-cress Girl, Lady, lady, buy, I pray, Water-cresses fresh and young; Many miles Iâm forced to stray, Lanes and meadows damp among. Stooping at the crystal brook, By the morning light Iâm seen: Lady, lady, pray you look; Buy my water-cresses green. âTis the honest truth I tell, These were gatherâd fresh to-day; I have cause to know it well, By the long and weary way. On my arm, so tannâd and brown, So my little basket hung; As I travellâd back to town, With my water-cresses young. Hardly was a little bird Stirring as I went along; Not a waggon-wheel I heard, Nor the ploughmanâs cheery song. Still upon the waters grey, Mists of early morning hung; Buy then, lady fair, I pray, Buy my water-cresses young. 21. The Brewerâs Dray. [Picture: The Brewerâs Dray] Here travels the brewer along with his dray, And the horse seems as if he had something to say; Now (thoâ between friends I am forced to confess That I cannot quite _hear_ him) I think I can guess: âGood master,â perhaps, âdo not give such a smack; For even a dray-horse can feel on his back; And surely âtis fair that my labour should earn, At least civil treatment from you in return.â 22. The Twopenny-post Boy. [Picture: The Twopenny-post Boy] This is a most welcome lad to many a tradesman, when he brings good orders, with a Banknote, or bill to be regularly paid: also to every parent, child, or friend, who wishes to hear of the welfare of parties that live at a distance. Quoth I to the Postman, good master, your nag, By this time is tired by the weight of your bag; Youâve set off from your office, and rode without stopping, Till your poor panting steed is in danger of dropping. Now, said he, if these letters were weighâd by their sense, âTwere a chance if they rose oâer a couple of pence; And if that could be managed, my beast would not mind, If I carried them with me, or left them behind. 23. The Dancing Bear and Dogs. [Picture: The Dancing Bear and Dogs] I wish the bear had remained in Russia or Poland, rather than, after being brought from his native woods, to be thus tormented; for who can tell what misery he underwent in learning to move at the command of his keeper. And as for the poor dogs, they must be very tired before their dayâs work is ended. I would rather find employment for the men, than give them money for punishing poor animals as they do! 24. The Camel and Monkey. [Picture: The Camel and Monkey] What a wonderful place is this said London! Here are not only bears from the cold regions of Russia, Poland, and America, but also a camel from the hot sands of Arabia or the East Indies, walking in the streets! Behold the playful monkey on its head, and numbers of fearless boys upon its back. In Turkey, Arabia, and Persia, the camel is a most useful creature, carrying very great weights of spices and merchandise, for a considerable number of miles, and for several days together, without any kind of sustenance. They are said to have a particular property, in scenting out places in the sand where water is to be found. The milk of this animal is very nutritive, and, mixed with water, forms the principle beverage of the Arabians. The flesh supplies them with food: that of the young is reckoned a delicacy. The camel feeds entirely on vegetables. Not only pencils and brushes for painters, but some very neat and fine garments have been made with its hair. In Arabian deserts bare, I have toilâd with patient care, While upon my crooked back Hung the merchantâs precious pack, Full of spices and of gold, In the markets to be sold: But it was my native clime, And I liked it all the time. Now a poor and weary hack, With a monkey on my back, Taught by many a knock and bruise, I the gaping crowd amuse, Through your city as I go, Tired and dismal, for a show: Oh! that I could see again My native, sandy, barren plain! 25. The Royal Exchange. [Picture: The Royal Exchange] Here merchants meet from all parts of the world. The traffic on the seas being very great, to and from every nation, in time of peace, it must afford great convenience to the ship-owners, ship-captains, and traders, to have one spot where they can meet to transact their business. Sir Thomas Gresham, a merchant, laid the foundation in 1566, and Queen Elizabeth was so pleased with the building, that she dignified it with the title of _Royal Exchange_, by sound of trumpet. The inside of the Exchange affords a busy scene: Englishmen, Dutchmen, Frenchmen, Spaniards, Russians, Turks, Americans, and Jews. How intent every one appears to be on business, and what a general buzz and din we hear: yet the figure of one individual stands very silently in the midst of all, I mean the statue of Charles the Second, on a pedestal. In a few years, every one of these active merchants will be as motionless as this marble statue. It may be of service to the busy Englishman, sprightly Frenchman, lazy Spaniard, plodding-Dutchman, rough Russian, proud Turk, and rich Jew, to reflect on this; and to endeavour, with all their gettings, to get understanding. 26. The Fire-engine. [Picture: The Fire-engine] We know of no place better supplied with engines for putting out fire, than London; and though fires are very frequent, they seldom do so much damage as formerly, when houses were built of wood, or without party-walls. An engine is a very clever contrivance: the pipes convey the water over the tops of the houses; and if an engine arrives in time, it frequently prevents the flames from spreading further. {29} 27. Drawing Goods in a Truck. [Picture: Drawing Goods in a Truck] Well done, my good boy! and well done, my good dog! Why the dog works as hard as the boy, and seems to do it with quite as much ease. In drawing that truck, boy, you now feel a part Of what evâry horse feels, when drawing a cart. Come, my lad, haste away, to make room for a fine coach, full of gay people, coming to the East India House. 28. The East India House. The East India Company is one of the most powerful and wealthy associations in Europe; and their house in Leadenhall Street is a very elegant building. The Company was originally formed by Queen Elizabeth, in 1600, principally for the purpose of procuring spices at a cheap rate, which were advanced in price by the Dutch. From traders they became conquerors of the natives, and having obtained a footing in the country, usurped the sovereignty over considerable districts; and war, with oppression, have too often befallen the harmless natives. The India ships bring home tea, coffee, silks both raw and manufactured, cottons, muslins, calicoes, drugs, China-ware, rice, sago, saltpetre, pepper, indigo, &c &c. 29. London Stone. [Picture: London Stone] This is to be seen in Cannon Street, against the wall of St. Swithinâs church, where it has long been preserved. It is now cased with stone-work, and guarded by an iron bar and spikes, but still remains open to view. It has been supposed to be a standard, from which the Romans, when in England, computed their miles. Proclamations were formerly delivered from this stone to the people. 30. Guildhall. [Picture: The Guildhall] This is the place where the public business of the corporation of London is transacted; and where the judges sit to hear and determine causes. In this hall the Court of Aldermen and Common Council have a very handsome chamber, or court-room, which is ornamented with a capital collection of paintings, presented to the City of London by the late worthy Alderman Boydell, who greatly promoted the arts. The fine painting by Mr. Copley, representing the siege of Gibraltar by the Spanish flotilla, and likewise an elegant marble statue of George III. our late venerable monarch, are well worth seeing by every admirer of the arts of painting and statuary. Nearly opposite to the entrance of this fine building, and on each side of the clock, formerly stood two gigantic statues, commonly called Gog and Magog, supposed to be the figures of a Briton and a Saxon; but they are now removed to the west end of the hall, as they are seen in the picture, No. 31. Two modern painted windows complete the decorations of this venerable building; the one representing the royal arms, the other those of the city of London. 32. The Mansion House, [Picture: The Mansion House] Well, here are the Lord Mayorâs coach and six horses, standing opposite the Mansion House, which is the place of residence for every chief magistrate during his mayoralty. It is a stone building of magnificence, but appears the more heavy and gloomy from its confined situation. 33. The Bank of England. [Picture: The Bank of England] Not far from the Mansion House stands the Bank of England. This building fills a space enclosed by the four streets, Bartholomew Lane, Lothbury, Princeâs Street, and Bank Buildings. It is truly interesting to behold the busy scene that daily passes in the rotunda, amongst the buyers and sellers of stock, or those who are engaged in transferring it, all so eagerly occupied with their affairs, and showing their anxiety by their countenances. Where money is, there the crowd will be; and persons who go to the Bank should be careful lest their pockets be picked of such money as they may have received. 34. St. Paulâs Cathedral. [Picture: St. Paulâs Cathedral] This is a wonderfully fine building! and the countrymanâs amazement on first seeing it, is very naturally expressed in the following lines: Of all the brave churches I ever did see, Sure this seems the greatest and grandest to me! What a wonderful place! I am full of surprise, And hardly know how to believe my own eyes. Why sure that gold cross at the top is so high, That it must, now and then, prick a hole in the sky; And, for my part, I should not be much in amaze, If the moon should run foul of it, one of these days. It is not only the outside of this fine building that commands attention, but the inside also. The whispering gallery, the great bell, the library, and so many other curiosities are to be seen, that even to name the whole would require more space than we can afford in our little work. A young country gentleman, who was never before on any thing higher than a haystack, has now reached the top of St. Paulâs, and is admiring the prospect from the iron gallery. Well, certainly, this is a wonderful sight; And pays one for climbing up here such a height. Dear, what a large city! and full, in all parts, Of churches and houses, of horses and carts. What hundreds of coaches, and thousands of folk! And then, _above all_, what a very thick smoke! I could stand here all _day_ to behold this fine town; Thoâ, as nightâs coming on, I had better go down. I think so too, young gentleman: and mind how you go along the dark staircase, for it would be a sad thing to fall down among that frightful scaffolding. Walk gently, and lay hold of the rail as you go along, and you will be safe enough. 35. The Blue-coat School, called Christâs Hospital. [Picture: The Blue-coat School] There are nearly one thousand children educated here at a time. The boys continue to wear the dress worn in the days of the virtuous and youthful prince, Edward the Sixth, who founded this school for orphans and other poor children. Their singular dress consists of a coat of blue cloth, formed something similar to a womanâs gown; and in winter they wear a yellow woollen petticoat. Their stockings are of yellow worsted, and round their waist they buckle a red-leather girdle. They are also furnished with a round, flat woollen cap, about the size of a tea-saucer, which they generally carry under their arm. A pewter badge on their breast, and a clergymanâs band round their neck, complete their antique uniform. 36. The enraged Ox. [Picture: The enraged Ox] This is what might have been expected, my lad! You have been teasing and worrying that animal, till it is become quite furious, and now you must take the consequence. It was as tame and quiet as any ox in Smithfield, till you began to pull it by the tail, and beat it about the horns; and now, (as oxen do not know they ought not to be revengeful,) you cannot be surprised if it should give you a toss or two. Cruel folks are always cowardly, and it is no wonder to see you running away in such a dreadful fright. 37. The Dustman. [Picture: The Dustman] Bring out your dust, the dustman cries, Whilst ringing of his bell: If the wind blows, pray guard your eyes, To keep them clear and well. A very useful set of men are these: they remove the dust and dirt from the houses in the city. It is a very profitable business; for, by sifting and sorting what is taken away, every thing becomes useful. There are frequently found cinders for firing, ashes and breeze for brickmakers: bones and old rags, tin and old iron, are carefully separated from oyster-shells and stones, which have their several purchasers. My masters, Iâm dirty, nor can I be clean; My busâness it would ill become, With my face and hands clean in the streets to be seen, While I carry my shovel and broom. 38. The taking of Guy Fawkes. [Picture: The taking of Guy Fawkes] In one of the print-shops of London may be seen a representation of the taking of Guy Fawkes, in the reign of King James the First. In the year 1605, the plot to destroy the king and parliament was discovered, owing to an anonymous letter sent to Lord Monteagle. In a cellar under the parliament-house, there were found thirty-six barrels of gunpowder; upon which were laid bars of iron, massy stones, faggots, &c. Near these Guy Fawkes was concealed, with a dark lantern and three matches. He instantly confessed his guilt; and, with Sir Everard Digby, Catesby, and several others, was executed. 39. Guy Fawkes in Effigy. [Picture: Guy Fawkes in Effigy] Who comes riding hither, as black as a coal, With matches and old tinder-box, And holding his lantern, a figure so droll? âTis nobody less than Guy Fawkes! Every parish in England formerly used to have its _Pope_ or _Guy_ carried about by idle men and boys on the 5th of November, who usually went from house to house, begging for money to make a bonfire and a feast. In many of the villages near London, there used to be two or more parties of large boys from different parts of the parish; and it frequently happened, that when one of them thought the other had encroached, by visiting such houses for money as were deemed out of their bounds, that battles were fought between them. Many were lamed in these affrays, and the treasurer to the weakest party has often been plundered of such money as had been collected. The people of England in general, of late years, have discouraged these processions and riots, and they have become so insignificant, as to be noticed only by children. But even in the present time, some idle people will fire guns, and throw squibs into the streets, which have caused many serious accidents; and here seems some poor creature going to 40. Bartholomewâs Hospital, [Picture: Bartholomewâs Hospital] Which is in West Smithfield, and where all persons accidentally injured, are admitted at any hour of the day or night, and carefully attended by skilful surgeons, and proper nurses. This hospital has long remained a monument of the piety of its founder, â Rahere, who was minstrel, or jester, to King Henry the First. Grown weary of the gay offices of his station, he reformed, founded a priory, and established this hospital for the sick and maimed. It was granted by King Henry the Eighth, on certain conditions, to the City of London, in the last year of his reign, for the same purposes as those of its original foundation. The present building was erected in the reign of George the Second, in 1730. 41. Smithfield Market [Picture: Smithfield Market] Is in a large, open, square place, called West Smithfield; where is held, for three days in the week, a market for hay and straw; and the other three days for horses and cattle of all kinds, which make the place very dirty and inelegant in its appearance. Various have been the purposes, at different periods, to which this place has been applied, it having been equally devoted to festive joy, and extreme misery. Here, in the days of chivalry, the court and nobility held their gallant tilts and tournaments, with a magnificent parade, characteristic of the age. On the same spot, for a series of years, have been enjoyed by the lowest vulgar, the buffoonery humours of Bartholomew Fair, which was first granted by Henry the Second, to a neighbouring priory, as a mart for selling the commodities of the drapers of London, and clothiers of England. As other channels for the disposing of drapery goods arose, this fair, from a resort of business, became a meeting of pleasure. It continues three days, to the great annoyance of real trade and decorum; and a court of _pie-powder_ is held daily, to settle the disputes of the people who frequent it. On the other hand, in ancient times, it was the common place of execution for criminals. In the centre of the place now enclosed with rails, many martyrs were burned at the stake, for their adherence to the reformed religion; and, lastly, it was the field of combat, when the guilt of the accused was attempted to be decided by duel. There has been of late years, a show of fat cattle annually at Smithfield, and the feeders of the best kinds have been rewarded with money, or a piece of valuable plate, which has greatly contributed to encourage the improvement of various breeds of sheep and cattle. 42. St. Dunstanâs Church. [Picture: St. Dunstanâs Church] This is in Fleet Street, and had a very narrow escape from the great fire of 1666, which stopped within three houses of it. There are two savage figures on the outside of the clock, that strike the quarters with their clubs, with which children and strangers are much amused. Dunstan, before he was made a saint, was well skilled in many arts: he was a good engraver and worker in brass and iron. He was supposed to be the inventor of the _Eolian Harp_, whose soft notes are produced by a current of air causing the wires to vibrate. This was not comprehended by the vulgar; so, from being wiser than his neighbours, he was deemed a conjuror by them. 43. The Postman and Letter-Carrier. [Picture: The Postman and Letter-Carrier] Make haste, my good lad, or the postman may be gone. These letter-carriers begin to ring a bell about five oâclock every evening, and collect letters and newspapers in the several parts of the town, so as to be able to get to the General Post Office in time for sorting them for the mail-coaches. The gentlemanâs servant with the letter, seems to be sent from some lawyer in the Temple, as there is a view of the gardens and fountain. 44. The Temple Is a place of residence for students of the common law, divided into two societies, called the Inner and the Middle Temple, which, with the other law-associations, are called Inns of Court. The buildings of the Temple are ample and numerous, with pleasant gardens extending to the shores of the Thames, which prove agreeable retreats to young persons who have been engaged in study. 45. The Knife-grinder. [Picture: The Knife-grinder] This man seems to be very busy, and it is but reasonable to suppose that he may meet with many employers amongst the students of the law, and the law-stationers, in and about the Temple: for as they use many pens, a sharp knife must be quite needful for mending them. But I think he does not confine himself to grinding knives only, but when wanting a job, he cries, âKnives to grind! Scissors to grind! Razors to grind!â Well! who would believe it? why, that is lazy Tom, turned knife-grinder at last! âAy, master, and I never was so happy in my life. I thought, like a foolish old fellow, that a beggarâs life must at least be an easy one; but at last I found out, that, though I had nothing to do, I often had nothing to eat. So, one day, I thought to myself, thinks I, âIâve a vast mind to bestir myself, and work for my living, for after all this idling, I donât see that I am much of a gentleman for it.â So I bought this grinding barrow, and began business for myself; and now I earn a comfortable living, and am as happy as the day is long: âAnd so every body who tries it, will find: I wish you good morning, SirâScissors to grind!â 46. The Chair-mender. [Picture: The Chair-mender] Old chairs to mend! old chairs to mend! If Iâd as much money as I could spend, Iâd leave off crying, old chairs to mend! Perhaps so, but then you might not be more healthy, useful, or happy, than at present. Exercise and sobriety contribute to health, and industry produces the means of procuring wealth sufficient to live in a comfortable manner. A chair-bottomer is a very useful man: he contributes to the ease and comfort of many of his employers; yet, one cannot help asking, Has every chair which wants a new bottom, been worn out fairly? What! have no little boys, or great girls, been standing up in them? or drawing them up and down the house and yard, to wear out the rushes? During the war with Holland, rushes for bottoming chairs were very scarce and dear, so that the poor men in that line of business found a great difficulty to obtain materials and employment. This man, although he appears poor, yet he occupies the highest situation in the city of London, having taken his seat in Panyer Alley, leading from Newgate Street to Paternoster Row; where a stone is placed, in the wall of one of the houses, with the following inscription in old English verse: WHEN Y HAVE SOVGHT THE CITTY ROVND, YET STILL THS IS THE HIGHST GROVND. AVGVST THE 27, 1688. 47. The News Boy and Flying Pieman. [Picture: The News Boy and Flying Pieman] âGreat News! Great News!â âAll Hot! Smoking Hot!â These are two busy men, indeed; one cries food for the mind, and the other food for the body. Neither of these tradesmen keep long in one place. The news-boy would be very glad to have a hot plumcake, but he has not time to eat it; nor will the pieman wait to hear what the news is. So that they are not only _busy men_, but what is very different, _men of business_. They are passing by _The Obelisk_, in Fleet Street, built by the City of London, on the spot which was once the centre of Fleet Ditch, which flowed as high as Holborn Bridge, under that part which Fleet Market is now built upon. 48. Blackfriarsâ Bridge. [Picture: Blackfriarsâ Bridge] Here we have a view of Blackfriarsâ Bridge, and, from the great bustle there is upon the river, there seems to be a rowing match among several watermen. This bridge is a noble structure, consisting of nine arches, the centre one being one hundred feet wide. Over each pier is a recess, with seats for passengers on the bridge, supported by two beautiful Ionic pillars, which stand on a semi-circular projection, rising above high-water mark; and the whole appears an admirable piece of workmanship, upon the water. This bridge was begun in the year 1760, from a design of Robert Mylne, Esq. the architect, and finished in about eight years, at the expence of rather more than one hundred and fifty thousand pounds. Blackfriarsâ Bridge is a very pleasant place for a walk, especially on a fine summerâs evening, when the air is still and serene, and the light pleasure-boats are gliding up and down the river with their gay companies. It is a
{'title': 'City Scenes; or, a peep into London by Ann Taylor and Jane Taylor', 'source': 'Project Gutenberg', 'lang': 'en'}