wild rush for the staircase, which, being narrow and treacherous,
resulted in a too rapid descent, a very forcible alighting at the foot,
and a much bruised and shaken body.

For a few minutes we thought our photographic work would be closed for a
season; but when spirits and energies revived, we began to think of the
camera and the very long exposure plate up at the top; so up we went
again with much clattering commotion to warn our enemies of our
approach, and thus you have a view that one of our party will ever
regard as dearly obtained.

Note the extremely delicate crystal chandeliers, for these are quite a
feature in the Dutch Palaces; so graceful and handsome, and so unlike
the generality of heavily-constructed appendages one is accustomed to
behold. The other end of the hall has also some choice sculptured
marble, but unfortunately part of it is hidden by the before-mentioned
gallery. Could you obtain a clear view, you would see a figure of
Justice, with Ignorance and Quarrelsomeness crouched at her feet: on one
side a skeleton, and on the other Punishment. Above all is the figure of
Atlas supporting the globe.

Here I am given a full description of the appearance of this hall when
laid for the State banquet on the occasion of the somewhat recent visit
of the German Emperor. Splendid, indeed, must have been the effect of
the hundreds of lights gleaming upon the pure marble, the rare exotics,
the massive plate, the State dresses, and the rich liveries; and I am
not surprised at the enthusiasm of the narrator as he dilates on the
grandeur displayed.

[Illustration: THE THRONE ROOM.