that of chaste and classic beauty: the light is tastefully introduced
into the extreme sections of the great room by concealed skylights,
and through stained glass in the panels of the ceiling and the dome,
decorated to correspond with those that are not pierced for that
purpose. Three staircases lead to this splendid room, with the interior
of which the principal staircase is made to harmonize. The
foundation-stone of the building was laid August 19, 1822, by James
Brierley, Esq. Boroughreeve; and its expense is stated at 40,000_l_.


THE INFIRMARY

Was established in 1752, by Joseph Bancroft, Esq., in conjunction
with Charles White, Esq., M.D.; and in 1755, a building for the purpose
was erected by subscription. It has been liberally supported, and
since it was first opened for the reception of patients, has afforded
medical relief to more than half a million of the labouring class.
The buildings, which have been progressively enlarged, and to which
other establishments have been attached, contain 180 beds for the
accommodation of in-patients, with apartments for the officers and
attendants, and a surgery, library of medical books, committee-rooms,
and other offices; also a complete set of baths for the use of the
patients. The grounds are tastefully laid out in gravel-walks, lawns,
and parterres, and form a public promenade, to which a fine pool in
front of the buildings adds considerable beauty. A complete set of hot,
cold, vapour, and medicated baths has been fitted up here, with every
accommodation for the public use, the profits arising from which are
appropriated to the support of the institution. A Lunatic Asylum and
Hospital was founded in 1765, and the building was opened for the
reception of patients in the following year. The Dispensary was