civic associations, when once inside there is much of the state and
grandeur inseparable from Royalty, and I soon determine that Holland can
almost equal England for its palatial contents and embellishments. The
staircases and corridors are severe to simplicity, but when I look round
the first apartment I intend inspecting, I am struck with the immensity
and the exceeding beauty of its appearance. This is known as the Hall or
Reception-Room, and is said to be the finest in Europe. Its proportions
are certainly magnificent, 125ft. by 55ft.--a special feature being a
remarkably fine roof, 100ft. in height, with entire absence of columns
or other support. Roof, walls, and the hall entire are lined with white
Italian marble, the floor having an inlaid copper centre representative
of the Firmament. The large flag you see drooping from the roof is
commemorative of the siege of Antwerp, being the one used by General
Chassé on that occasion, the various groups of smaller ones being
reminiscences of the eighty years' Spanish war and of Indian foes. Some
very beautiful examples of the sculptor's art are manifest, the
photographic work here introduced giving some idea of the exquisite
detail and most remarkable execution of Artus Quellin and his able
assistants.

Here you will observe an allegorical group denoting Plenty, Wisdom, and
Strength, typical of the City of Amsterdam. We had a little adventure in
securing views of this hall. At one end is a small gallery, used as the
mainstay for the temporary orchestra, which is erected on festal
occasions. Thinking our work could be better shown from that point, we
proceeded to it by a dark and winding staircase in the rear.

All went well for a time, but during a period of watchful quietude our
artist was suddenly and unexpectedly confronted with a gathering of rats
of anything but peaceable aspect. It was too much for him! He made a