The Children's Hospital, founded in 1861, was first opened for the reception of patients Jan. 1, 1862, in the old mansion in Steelhouse Lane, fronting the Upper Priory. At the commencement of 1870 the Hospital was removed to Broad Street, to the building formerly known as the Lying-in Hospital, an out-patient department, specially erected at a cost of about L3,250, being opened at the same time (January) in Steelhouse Lane, nearly opposite the mansion first used. The Broad Street institution has accommodation for about fifty children in addition to a separate building containing thirty beds for the reception of fever cases, the erection of which cost L7,800; and there is a Convalescent Home at Alvechurch in connection with this Hospital to which children are sent direct from the wards of the Hospital (frequently after surgical operations) thus obtaining for them a more perfect convalescence than is possible when they are returned to their own homes, where in too many instances those important aids to recovery —pure air, cleanliness, and good food are sadly wanting. In addition to the share of the Saturday and Sunday yearly collections, a special effort was made in 1880 to assist the Children's Hospital by a simultaneous collection in the Sunday Schools of the town and neighbourhood, and, like the others, this has become a periodical institution. In 1880, the sum thus gathered from the juveniles for the benefit of their little suffering brethren, amounted to L307 9s. 11d.; in 1881, it was L193 10s. 5d.; in 1882, L218 5s. 2d.; in 1883, L234 3s. 1d. The number of patients during 1883 were: 743 in-patients 12,695 out-patients, 75 home patients, and 475 casualties—total 13,998. The expenditure of the year had been L4,399 0s. 3d., and the income but L4,087 14s. 2d.

Dental.—This Hospital, 9, Broad Street, was instituted for gratuitous assistance to the poor in all cases of diseases of the teeth, including extracting, stopping, scaling, as well as the regulation of children's teeth. Any poor sufferer can have immediate attention without a recommendatory note, but applicants requiring special operations must be provided with a note of introduction from a governor. About 6,000 persons yearly take their achers to the establishment.

Ear and Throat Infirmary, founded in 1844, and formerly in Cherry Street, has been removed to Newhall Street, where persons suffering from diseases of the ear (deafness, &c.) and throat, are attended to daily at noon. During the year ending June, 1883, 6,517 patients had been under treatment, and 1,833 new cases had been admitted. Of the total, 1,389 had been cured, 348 relieved and 116 remained under treatment. The increase of admissions over those of the previous year was 181, and the average daily attendance of patients was 25. The number of patients coming from places outside Birmingham was 577. The income of this institution is hardly up to the mark, considering its great usefulness, the amount received from yearly subscribers being only L129 13s. 6d., representing 711 tickets, there being received for 875 supplementary tickets, L153 2s. 6d., and L15 11s. from the Hospital Saturday collections.

The Eye Hospital was originated in 1823, and the first patients were received in April, 1824, at the hospital in Cannon Street. Some thirty years afterwards the institution was removed to Steelhouse Lane, and in 1862 to Temple Row, Dee's Royal Hotel being taken and remodelled for the purpose at a cost of about L8,300. In 1881 the number of patients treated was 12,523; in 1882, 13,448 of whom 768 were in-patients, making a total of over a quarter of a million since the commencement of the charity. Admission by subscriber's ticket. Originally an hotel, the building is dilapidated and very unsuitable to the requirements of the hospital, the space for attendants and patients being most inadequate. This has been more and more evident for years past, and the erection of a new building became an absolute necessity. The governors, therefore, have taken a plot of land at the corner of Edmund Street and Church Street, upon a lease from the Colmore family for 99 years, and hereon is being built a commodious and handsome new hospital, from carefully arranged plans suitable to the peculiar necessities of an institution of this nature. The estimated cost of the new building is put at L20,000, of which only about L8,000 has yet been subscribed (L5,000 of it being from a single donor). In such a town as Birmingham, and indeed in such a district as surrounds us, an institution like the Birmingham and Midland Eye Hospital is not only useful, but positively indispensable, and as there are no restrictions as to distance or place of abode in the matter of patients, the appeal made for the necessary building funds should meet with a quick and generous response, not only from a few large-hearted contributors, whose names are household words, but also from the many thousands who have knowledge directly or indirectly of the vast benefit this hospital has conferred upon those stricken by disease or accident—to that which is the most precious of all our senses. It is intended that the hospital should be a model to the whole kingdom of what such an institution ought to be; the latest and best of modern appliances, both sanitary and surgical, will be introduced. There will be in and out departments, completely isolated one from the other, though with a door of communication. From sixty to seventy beds will be provided, special wards for a certain class of cases, adequate waiting-rooms for out-patients, and the necessary rooms for the officers and medical attendants, all being on an ample scale.

Fever Hospital.—There was a Fever Hospital opened in March, 1828, but we have no note when it was closed, and possibly it may have been only a temporary institution, such as become necessary now and then even in these days of sanitary science. For some years past fever patients requiring isolation have been treated in the Borough Hospital, but the Health Committee have lately purchased a plot of land in Lodge Road of about 4-1/2 acres, at a cost of L4,500, and have erected there on a wooden pavilion, divided into male and female wards, with all necessary bath rooms, nurses' rooms, &c., everything being done which can contribute to the comfort and care of the inmates, while the greatest attention has been paid to the ventilation and other necessary items tending to their recovery. This pavilion is only a portion of the scheme which the committee propose to carry out, it being intended to build four, if not five, other wards of brick. A temporary block of administrative buildings has been erected at some distance from the pavilion. There accommodation is provided for the matron, the resident medical superintendent, the nurses when off duty, and the ordinary kitchen, scullery, and other offices are attached. When the permanent offices have been erected this building will be devoted to special fever cases, or, should there be a demand, private cases will be taken in. The cost of the whole scheme is estimated at L20,000, including the sum given for the land. It is most devoutly to be wished that this hospital, which is entirely free, will be generally used by families in case of a member thereof be taken with any nature of infectious fever, the most certain remedy against an epidemic of the kind, as well as the most favourable chance for the patient being such an isolation as is here provided. The hospital was opened September 11, 1883, and in cases of scarlet fever and other disorders of an infectious character, an immediate application should be made to the health officer at the Council House.

Homoeopathic.—A dispensary for the distribution of homoeopathic remedies was opened in this town in 1847, and though the new system met with the usual opposition, it has become fairly popular, and its practitioners have found friends sufficient to induce them to erect a very neat and convenient hospital, in Easy Row, at a cost of about L7,000, which was opened November 23rd, 1875, and may possibly soon be enlarged. A small payment, weekly, is looked for, if the patient can afford it, but a fair number are admitted free, and a much larger number visited, the average number of patients being nearly 5,000 per annum. Information given on enquiry.

Hospital for Women.—This establishment in the Upper Priory was opened in October, 1871, for the treatment of diseases special to females. No note or ticket of recommendation is required, applicants being attended to daily at two o'clock, except on Saturday and Sunday. If in a position to pay, a nominal sum of 2s. 6d. a month is expected as a contribution to the funds, which are not so flourishing as can be wished. The in-patients' department or home at Sparkhill has accommodation for 25 inmates, and it is always full, while some thousands are treated at the town establishment. The number of new cases in the out-patient department in 1883 was 2,648, showing an annual increase of nearly 250 a year. Of the 281 in-patients admitted last year, 205 had to undergo surgical operations of various kinds, 124 being serious cases; notwithstanding which the mortality showed a rate of only 5.6 per cent. As a rule many weeks and months of care and attention are needed to restore the general health of those who may have, while in the hospital, successfully recovered from an operation, but there has not hitherto been the needful funds or any organisation for following up such cases after they have left Sparkhill. Such a work could be carried on by a District Nursing Society if there were funds to defray the extra expense, and at their last annual meeting the Managing Committee decided to appeal to their friends for assistance towards forming an endowment fund for the treatment of patients at home during their convalescence, and also for aiding nurses during times of sickness. An anonymous donation of L1,000 has been sent in, and two other donors have given L500 each, but the treasurer will be glad to receive additions thereto, and as early as possible, for sick women nor sick men can wait long. The total income for 1883 amounted to L1,305 16s. 4d., while the expenditure was L1,685 4s. 11d., leaving a deficit much to be regretted.

Lying-in Hospital.—Founded in 1842, and for many years was located in Broad Street, in the mansion since formed into the Children's Hospital. In 1868 it was deemed advisable to close the establishment in favour of the present plan of supplying midwives and nurses at the poor patients' homes. In 1880 the number of patients attended was 1,020; in 1881, 973; in 1882, 894; in 1883, 870. In each of the two latter years there had been two deaths in mothers (1 in 441 cases) about the usual average of charity. The number of children born alive during the last year was 839, of whom 419 were males, and 420 females. Four infants died; 37 were still-born. There were 6 cases of twins. The assistance of the honorary surgeons was called in 24 times, or once in 37 cases. The financial position of the charity is less satisfactory than could be wished, there being again a deficiency. The subscriptions were L273, against L269 in 1882 and L275 in 1881. There was a slight increase in the amount of donations, but an entire absence of legacies, which, considering the valuable assistance rendered by the charity to so many poor women, is greatly to be deplored. The medical board have the power to grant to any woman who passes the examination, the subjects of which are defined, a certificate as a skilled midwife, competent to attend natural labours. One midwife and four monthly nurses have already received certificates, and it is hoped that many more candidates will avail themselves of the opportunity thus readily afforded to them, and supply a want very generally felt among the poor of the town. Subscribers have the privilege of bestowing the tickets, and the offices are at 71, Newhall Street.

Orthopaedic and Spinal Hospital—Was founded in June, 1817; the present establishment in Newhall Street being entered upon in December, 1877. All kinds of bodily deformity, hernia, club feet, spinal diseases, malformations, and distortions of limbs, &c., are treated daily (at two o'clock) free of charge, except where instruments or costly supports are needed, when the patient must be provided with subscribers' tickets in proportion to the cost thereof. In 1881 and 1882, 4,116 cases received attention, 2,064 being new cases, and 678 from outside Birmingham. The variety of diseases was very numerous, and instruments to the value of L420 were supplied to the patients.

Skin and Lock Hospital, Newhall Street, was founded in 1880, and opened Jan. 10, 1881. Admission on payment of registration fee, attendance being given at two o'clock on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in each week.

Smallpox Hospital.—A few years back, when there was a pretty general epidemic of smallpox, a temporary ward or addition was attached to the Workhouse, but many persons whose intelligence led them to know the value of isolation in such cases, could not "cotton" to the idea of going themselves or sending their friends there. The buildings in Weston Road, Winson Green, and now known as the Borough Hospital, have no connection whatever with the Workhouse, and were opened for the reception of persons suffering from smallpox and scarlet fever in Nov. 1874. The latter cases are now taken to the Hospital in Lodge Road, so that present accommodation can be found in the Borough Hospital for nearly 250 patients at a time should it ever be necessary to do so. Persons knowing of any case of smallpox should at once give notice to the officers of health at Council House.

Hotels.—This French-derived name for inns, from what Hutton says on the subject, would appear to have been only introduced in his day, and even then was confined to the large coaching-houses of the town, many of which have long since vanished. The first railway hotel was the Queen's, at the entrance of the old railway station, Duddeston Row, though originally built and used for officers for the company's secretaries, directors' boardroom, &c. As part of the New Street Station, a far more pretentious establishment was erected, and to this was given the title of the "Queen's Hotel," the Duddeston Row building reverting to its original use. The Great Western Hotel was the next to be built, and the success attending these large undertakings have led to the erection of the handsome Midland Hotel, opposite New Street Station, and the still grander "Grand Hotel," in Colmore Row, opened Feb. 1, 1879. The removal of the County Court to Corporation Street, and the possible future erection of Assize Courts near at hand, have induced some speculators to embark in the erection of yet another extensive establishment, to be called the "Inns of Court Hotel," and in due course of time we shall doubtless have others of a similar character. At any of the above, a visitor to the town (with money in his purse) can find first-class accommodation, and (in comparison with the London hotels of a like kind) at reasonably fair rates. After these come a second grade, more suitable for commercial gentlemen, or families whose stay is longer, such as the new Stork Hotel, the Albion, in Livery Street, Bullivant's, in Carr's Lane, the Acorn, the Temperance at the Colonnade, and the Clarendon, in Temple Street, Dingley's, in Moor Street, Knapp's, in High Street, Nock's, in Union Passage, the Plough and Harrow, in Hagley Road, the Swan, in New Street, the White Horse, in Congreve Street (opposite Walter Showell and Sons' head offices), the Woolpack, in Moor Street, and the other Woolpack, now called St. Martin's, at the back of the church.

For much entertaining information respecting the old taverns of Birmingham, the hotels of former days, we recommend the reader to procure a copy of S.D.R.'s little book on the subject, which is full of anecdotes respecting the frequenters of the then houses, as well as many quaint notes of the past.

The Acorn in Temple Street.—The favourite resort of the "men of the time" a few score years ago was at one period so little surrounded with houses that anyone standing at its door could view a landscape stretching for miles, while listening to the song birds in the neighbouring gardens. It dates from about 1750, and numbers among its successive landlords, Mr. John Roderick, the first auctioneer of that well-known name, Mr. James Clements, and Mr. Coleman, all men of mark. The last-named host, after making many improvements in the premises and renewing the lease, disposed of the hotel to a Limited Liability Company for L15,500. It is at present one of the best-frequented commercial houses in the town.

The Hen and Chickens.—In Aris's Gazette, of December 14, 1741, there appeared an advertisement, that there was "to be let, in the High Street, Birmingham, a very good-accustomed Inn, the sign of the Hen and Chickens, with stables, &c." Inasmuch as this advertisement also said "there is a very good Bowling Green joining to it," it has been quoted by almost every writer of local history as an evidence of the popularity of those places of recreation, or as showing the open aspect of the then existing town. This establishment is believed to have been on the site of Messrs. Manton's cabinet warehouse, the adjoining Scotland Passage leading to the stables, and possibly to "the Bowling Green." In 1798, the tenant, Mrs. Lloyd, removed to a new house in New Street, and took the Hen and Chickens' title with her, the place becoming famous as a posting-house, and afterwards, under Mr. William Waddell, as one of the most extensive coaching establishments in the Midlands. A mere list only, of the Serene Highnesses, the Royalties, Nobility, and celebrated characters of all kinds, who have put up at this hotel, would fill pages, and those anxious for such old-time gossip, must refer to S.D.R.'s book, as before-mentioned. At the close of 1878, the premises were acquired by the "Birmingham Aquarium Co., Limited," who proposed to erect a handsome concert-room, aquarium, restaurant, &c. The old building has been considerably altered, and somewhat improved in appearance, but the aquarium and concert-room are, as yet, non est, an Arcade being built instead.

The Midland, New Street.—One of the modern style of hotels, having over a hundred good bedrooms, besides the necessary complement of public and private sitting and dining rooms, coffee, commercial, smoking and billiard rooms, &c., erected for Mr. W.J. Clements in 1874; it was sold early in 1876 to a Limited Company, whose capital was fixed at L40,000 in L10 shares.

The Royal, in Temple Row, was erected on the tontine principle in 1772, but was not called more than "The Hotel" for a long time afterwards the word Royal being added in 1805, after His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester slept there (May 4) on his way to Liverpool. In 1830 the Duchess of Kent, and Princess Victoria (our present Queen) honoured it by their presence. In June, 1804, the Assembly Room (for very many years the most popular place for meetings of a social character) was enlarged, the proprietors purchasing a small piece of adjoining land for the purpose at a cost of L250, being at the rate of L26,000 per acre, a noteworthy fact as showing the then rapidly increasing value of property in the town. The portico in front of the hotel was put there in 1837, when the building had to be repaired, in consequence of the kind attentions of the Birmingham Liberals at the time of the general election then just passed. The whole of the front and main portion of the hotel is now used for the purposes of the Eye Hospital, the Assembly Rooms, &c., being still public.—Portugal House, in New Street, on the present site of the Colonnade, prior to its being taken for the Excise and Post Offices, was used for hotel purposes, and was also called "The Royal."

The Stork.—The Directory of 1800 is the first which contains the name of the Stork Tavern, No. 3, The Square, the host then being Mr. John Bingham, the title of Hotel not being assumed until 1808. For a few years the one house was sufficient for the accommodation required, but as time progressed it became necessary to enlarge it, and this was accomplished by taking in the adjoining houses, until, at last, the hotel occupied one-fourth of The Square, from the corner of the Minories to the Lower Priory, in which were situated the stables, &c. It was in one of the houses so annexed to the hotel (No. 1) that Dr. Hector, the friend of Dr. Johnson, resided; and at the rear of another part of the premises in the Coach Yard, there was opened (in 1833) the "The Equitable Labour Exchange." The whole of the hotel buildings were sold by auction, Sept. 26, 1881, and quickly razed to the ground, which was required for Corporation Street; but the Stork, like the fabulous Phoenix, has risen from its ashes, and in close proximity to the old site, stands boldly forth as one of the magnificences of that-is-to-be most-magnificent thoroughfare.

The Union, in Cherry Street, was built in 1790, but much enlarged in 1825. It was one of the principal coaching houses, but will be remembered mostly as furnishing the chief saleroom in the town for the disposal of landed property. The site being required for Corporation Street, the building was "knocked down" on the 21st April, 1879.

The Woolpack, in Moor Street, saw many strange events, and had in its olden days undergone some few changes for there are not many sites in Birmingham that can compare with this in regard to its recorded history, but at last it is being cleared to make way for a more modern structure. It is believed there was a tavern called the Green Tree here close upon 500 years ago, and even now there is still to be traced the course of an ancient "dyche" running through the premises which was described as the boundary dividing certain properties in 1340, and forming part of that belonging to the Guild of the Holy Cross. The house itself was the residence of William Lench, whose bequests to the town are historical, but when it was turned into a tavern is a little uncertain, as the earliest notice of it as such is dated 1709, when John Fusor was the occupier. It was the house of resort for many Birmingham worthies, especially those connected with the law, even before the erection of the Public Offices, and it is said that John Baskerville used to come here for his tankard of ale and a gossip with his neighbours. In the time of the Reform agitation it was frequented by the leaders of the Liberal party, and has always been the favourite shelter of artists visiting the town.

The Woolpack, in St. Martin's Lane.—Some eighty odd years ago the tavern standing at the corner of Jamaica Row and St. Martin's Lane was known as the Black Boy Inn, from the figure of a young negro then placed over the door. Being purchased in 1817 by the occupier of a neighbouring tavern called the Woolpack, the two names were united, and for a time the house was called the "Black Boy and Woolpack," the first part being gradually allowed to fall into disuse. Prior to its demolition it was the noted market hostelry for cattle dealers and others, the respected landlord, Mr. John Gough, who held the premises from 1848 till his death in 1877, being himself a large wholesale dealer. When the Town Council decided to enlarge and cover in the Smithfield Market, the old house and its adjuncts were purchased by them, and a new hotel of almost palatial character has been erected in its place, the frontage extending nearly the entire length of St. Martin's Lane, and the Black Boy and the Woolpack must in future be called St. Martin's Hotel.

Hothouses.—Those at Frogmore, comprising a range of nearly 1,000 feet of metallic forcing houses, were erected in 1842-3, by Mr. Thomas Clark, of this town, his manager, Mr. John Jones, being described by the celebrated Mr. London, as "the best hot-house builder in Britain."

House and Window Tax.—See "Taxes."

Howard Street Institute.—Founded in 1869. The first annual meeting, for the distribution of prizes, was held in December, 1872. The many sources for acquiring knowledge now provided at such institutions as the Midland Institute, the Mason College, &c., have no doubt tended much to the end, but, considering the amount of good derived by the pupils from the many classes held in the Howard Street rooms, it is a pity the Institute should be allowed to drop.

Humbug.—The Prince of Humbugs, Phineas Barnum, at the Town Hall, February 28, 1859, gave his views of what constituted "Humbug." As if the Brums didn't know.

Humiliation Days.—February 25, 1807, was kept here as a day of fasting and humiliation, as was also September 25, 1832.

Hundred.—Birmingham is in the Hundred of Hemlingford.

Hungary.—The first meeting in this town to express sympathy with the Hungarians in their struggle with Austria, was held in the Corn Exchange, May 23, 1849, and several speakers were in favour of sending armed help, but no volunteers came forward.

Hunter's Lane and Nursery Terrace take their names from the fact that Mr. Hunter's nursery grounds and gardens were here situated. The "Lane" was the old road to Wolverhampton, but has a much older history than that, as it is believed to have been part of the Icknield Street.

Hurricanes.—The late Mr. Thos. Plant, in describing the great storm, which visited England, on the night of Sunday, 6th January, 1839, and lasted all next day, said it was the most tremendous hurricane that had occurred here for fifty years. A large quantity of lead was stripped off the roof of the Town Hall, the driving force of the gale being so strong, that the lead was carried a distance of more than sixty yards before it fell into a warehouse, 'at the back of an ironmonger's shop in Ann Street.—See "Storms and Tempests."

Hurst Street, from Hurst Hill, once a wooded mount (the same being the derivation of Ravenhurst Street), was originally but a passage way, leading under an arch at the side of the White Swan in Smallbrook Street (now Day's establishment). Up the passage was a knacker's yard, a shop for the dyeing of felt hats, and a few cottages.

Icknield Street.—Britain was formerly traversed by four great roads, usually called Roman roads, though there are some grounds for believing that the Ancient Britons themselves were the pioneers in making these trackways, their conquerors only improving the roads as was their wont, and erecting military stations along the line. These roads were severally called "Watling Straete," which ran from the coast of Kent, through London, to the Welsh coast in county Cardigan; the "Fosse," leading from Cornwall to Lincoln; "Erminge Straete," running from St. David's to Southampton; and "Hikenilde Straete," leading through the centre of England, from St. David's to Tynemouth. Part of the latter road, known as Icknield Street, is now our Monument Lane, and in 1865 a portion of ancient road was uncovered near Chad Valley House, which is believed to have been also part thereof. Proceeding in almost a direct line to the bottom of Hockley Hill, the Icknield Street ran across Handsworth Parish, by way of the present Hunter's Lane, but little further trace can be found now until it touches Sutton Coldfield Park, through which it passes for nearly a mile-and-a-half at an almost uniform width of about 60 feet. It is left for our future local antiquarians to institute a search along the track in the Park, but as in scores of other spots Roman and British remains have been found, it seems probable than an effort of the kind suggested would meet its reward, and perhaps lead to the discovery of some valuable relics of our long-gone predecessors.

Illuminations.—When the news of Admiral Rodney's victory was received here, May 20, 1792, it was welcomed by a general illumination, as were almost all the great victories during the long war. The Peace of Amiens in 1802 was also celebrated in this way, and the event has become historical from the fact that for the first time in the world's history the inflammable gas obtained from coal (now one of the commonest necessities of our advanced civilisation) was used for the purpose of a public illumination at Soho Works. (See "Gas.") In 1813 the town went into shining ecstacies four or five times, and ditto in the following year, the chief events giving rise thereto being the entry of the Allies into Paris, and the declaration of peace, the latter being celebrated (in addition to two nights' lighting up of the principal buildings, &c.), by an extra grand show of thousands of lamps at Soho, with the accompaniment of fireworks and fire-balloons, the roasting of sheep and oxen, &c. Waterloo was the next occasion, but local chroniclers of the news of the day gave but scant note thereof. From time to time there have been illuminations for several more peaceable matters of rejoicing, but the grandest display that Birmingham has ever witnessed was that to celebrate the marriage of the Prince of Wales, March 10th, 1863, when St. Philip's Church was illuminated on a scale so colossal as to exceed anything of the kind that had previously been attempted in the illumination by gas of public buildings upon their architectural lines. Situated in the centre, and upon the most elevated ground in Birmingham, St. Philip's measures upwards of 170-ft. from the base to the summit of the cross. The design for the illumination—furnished by Mr. Peter Hollins—consisted of gas-tubing, running parallel to the principal lines of architecture from the base to the summit, pierced at distances of 3 in. or 5 in., and fitted with batswing burners. About 10,000 of these burners were used in the illumination. The service-pipes employed varied in diameter from three inches to three-quarters of an inch, and measured, in a straight line, about three-quarters of a mile, being united by more than two thousand sockets. Separate mains conducted the gas to the western elevation, the tower, the dome, the cupola, and cross; the latter standing 8 ft. above the ordinary cross of the church, and being inclosed in a frame of ruby-coloured glass. These mains were connected with a ten-inch main from a heavily-weighed gasometer at the Windsor Street works of the Birmingham Gas Company, which was reserved for the sole use of the illumination. It took forty men three days to put up the scaffolding, but the whole work was finished and the scaffolding removed in a week. It was estimated that the consumption of gas during the period of illumination reached very nearly three-quarters of a million of cubic feet; and the entire expense of the illumination, including the gas-fittings, was somewhat over six hundred pounds. The illumination was seen for miles round in every direction. From the top of Barr Beacon, about eight miles distant, a singular effect was produced by means of a fog cloud which hung over the town, and concealed the dome and tower from view—a blood-red cross appearing to shine in the heavens and rest upon Birmingham. As the traveller approached the town on that side the opacity of the fog gradually diminished until, when about three miles away, the broad lines of light which spanned the dome appeared in sight, and, magnified by the thin vapour through which they were refracted, gave the idea of some gigantic monster clawing the heavens with his fiery paws. All the avenues to the church and the surrounding streets were crowded with masses of human heads, in the midst of which stood a glittering fairy palace. The effect was heightened by coloured fires, which, under the superintendence of Mr. C.L. Hanmer, were introduced at intervals in burning censers, wreathing their clouds of incense among the urns upon the parapet in the gallery of the tower, and shedding upon the windows of the church the rich tints of a peaceful southern sky at sunset. The several gateways were wreathed in evergreens, amongst which nestled festoons of variegated lamps. So great was the sensation produced throughout the town and surrounding districts, and such the disappointment of those who had not seen it, that the committee, at a great expense, consented to reillumine for one night more, which was done on the 13th. The last general illumination was on the occasion of the visit of Prince and Princess of Wales, Nov. 3, 1874.

Improvement Schemes.—See "Town Improvements."

Income Tax.—This impost was first levied in 1798, when those who had four children were allowed an abatement of 10 per cent.; eight children, 15 per cent.; ten or more 20 per cent. At the close of the Peninsular campaign this tax was done away with, it being looked upon, even in those heavily betaxed times, as about the most oppressive duty ever imposed by an arbitrary Government on loyal and willing citizens. When the tax was revived, in 1842, there was a considerable outcry, though if fairly levied it would seem to be about the most just and equitable mode of raising revenue that can be devised, notwithstanding its somewhat inquisitorial accompaniments. The Act was only for three years but it was triennially renewed until 1851, since when it has become "a yearly tenant," though at varying rates, the tax being as high as 1s. 4d. in the pound in 1855, and only 2d. in 1874. A Parliamentary return issued in 1866 gave the assessment of Birmingham to the Income Tax at L1,394,161; in 1874 it was estimated at L1,792,700. The present assessment is considerably over the two millions, but the peculiar reticence generally connected with all Governmental offices prevents us giving the exact figures.

Indian Famine.—The total amount subscribed here towards the fund for the relief of sufferers by famine in India in 1877 was L7,922 13s. 2d.

India-rubber, in 1770, was sold at 3s. per cubic half-inch, and was only used to remove pencil marks from paper. Its present uses are manifold, and varied in the extreme, from the toy balloon of the infant to railway buffers and unsinkable lifeboats.

Infirmaries.—See "Hospitals," &c.

Inge.—The family name of one of the large property owners of this town, after whom Inge Street is so called. The last representative of the family lived to the ripe old age of 81, dying in August, 1881. Though very little known in the town from whence a large portion of his income was drawn, the Rev. George Inge, rector of Thorpe (Staffordshire), was in his way a man of mark, a mighty Nimrod, who followed the hounds from the early age of five, when he was carried on a pony in front of a groom, until a few weeks prior to his death, having hunted with the Atherstone pack duriug the management of sixteen successive masters thereof.

Insane Asylums.—See "Lunacy."

Insurance.—In 1782 a duty of 1s. 6d. per cent, was levied on all fire insurances, which was raised to 2s. in 1797, to 2s. 6d. in 1804. and to 3s. in 1815, remaining at that until 1865, when it was lowered to 1s. 6d., being removed altogether in 1869. Farming stock was exempted in 1833, and workmen's tools in 1860.

Insurance Companies.—Their name is legion, their agents are a multitude, and a list of their officers would fill a book. You can insure your own life, or your wife's, or your children's or anybody else's, in whose existence you may have a beneficial interest, and there are a hundred officers ready to receive the premiums. If you are journeying, the Railway Passengers' Accident Co. will be glad to guarantee your family a solatium in case you and your train come to grief, and though it is not more than one in half-a-million that meets with an accident on the line, the penny for a ticket, when at the booking office, will be well expended. Do you employ clerks, there are several Guarantee Societies who will secure you against loss by defalcation. Shopkeepers and others will do well to insure their glass against breakage, and all and everyone should pay into a "General Accident" Association, for broken limbs, like broken glass, cannot be foreseen or prevented. It is not likely that any of [**] will be "drawn" for a militiaman in these piping times of peace, but that the system of insurance was applied here in the last century against the chances of being drawn in the ballot, is evidenced by the following carefully-preserved and curious receipt:—

"Received of Matthew Boulton, tagmaker, Snow Hill, three shillings and sixpence, for which sum I solemnly engage, if he should be chosen by lot to serve in the militia for this parish, at the first meeting for that purpose, to procure a substitute that shall be approved of.

"HENRY BROOKES, Sergt.

"Birmingham, Jan. 11, 1762."

The local manufacture of Insurance Societies has not been on a large scale, almost the only ones being the "Birmingham Workman's Mutual," the "British Workman," and the "Wesleyan and General." The late Act of Parliament, by which in certain cases, employers are pecuniarily liable for accidents to their workpeople, has brought into existence several new Associations, prominent among which is the comprehensive "Employers' Liability and Workpeople's Provident and Accident Insurance Society, Limited," whose offices are at 33, Newhall Street.

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Interesting Odds and Ends.

A fair was held here on Good Friday, 1793.

A fight of lion with dogs took place at Warwick, September 4, 1824.

The Orsim bombs used in Paris, January 15, 1858, were made here.

In 1771 meetings of the inhabitants, were called by the tolling of a bell.

A large assembly of Radicals visited Christ Church, November 21, 1819, but not for prayer.

A "flying railway" (the Centrifugal) was exhibited at the Circus in Bradford Street, October 31, 1842.

The doors of Moor Street prison were thrown open, September 3, 1842, there, not being then one person in confinement.

March 2, 1877, a bull got loose in New Street Station, and ran through the tunnel to Banbury Street, where he leaped over the parapet and was made into beef.

William Godfrey, who died in Ruston-street, October 27, 1863, was a native of this town, who, enlisting at eighteen, was sent out to China, where he accumulated a fortune of more than L1,000,000. So said the Birmingham Journal, November 7, 1863.

The De Berminghams had no blankets before the fourteenth century, when they were brought from Bristol. None but the very rich wore stockings prior to the year 1589, and many of them had their legs covered with bands of cloth.

A petition was presented to the Prince of Wales (June 26, 1791) asking his patronage and support for the starving buckle-makers of Birmingham. He ordered his suite to wear buckles on their shoes, but the laces soon whipped them out of market.

One Friday evening in July, 1750, a woman who had laid informations against 150 persons she had caught retailing spirituous liquors without licenses, was seized by a mob, who doused, ducked and daubed her, and then shoved her in the Dungeon.

At a parish meeting, May 17, 1726, it was decided to put up an organ in St. Martin's at a cost of L300 "and upwards." At a general meeting of the inhabitants, April 3, 1727, it was ordered that, a bell be cast for St. Philip's, "to be done with all expedition."

In 1789 it was proposed that the inmates of the workhouse should be employed at making worsted and thread. Our fathers often tried their inventive faculties in the way of finding work for the inmates. A few years later it was proposed (August 26) to lighten the rates by erecting a steam mill for grinding corn.

On the retirement of Mr. William Lucy, in 1850, from the Mayoralty, the usual vote of thanks was passed, but with one dissentient. Mr. Henry Hawkes was chosen coroner July 6, 1875, by forty votes to one. The great improvement scheme was adopted by the Town Council (November 10, 1875), with but one dissentient.

A certificate, dated March 23, 1683, and signed by the minister and church-wardens, was granted to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Ann Dickens, "in order to obtain his majesty's touch for the Evil." The "royal touch" was administered to 200 persons from this neighbourhood, March 17, 1714; Samuel Johnson (the Dr.) being one of those whose ailments, it was believed, could be thus easily removed. Professor Holloway did not live in those days.

Sir Thomas Holte (the first baronet) is traditionally reported to have slain his cook. He brought an action for libel against one William Ascrick, for saying "that he did strike his cook with a cleaver, so that one moiety of the head fell on one shoulder, and the other on the other shoulder." The defendant was ordered to pay L30 damages, but appealed, and successfully; the worthy lawyers of that day deciding that though Sir Thomas might have clove the cook's head, the defendant did not say he had killed the man, and hence had not libelled the baronet.

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Interpreters.—In commercial circles it sometimes happens that the foreign corresponding clerk may be out of the way when an important business letter arrives, and we, therefore, give the addresses of a few gentlemen linguists, viz.:—Mr. H.R. Forrest, 46, Peel Buildings, Lower Temple Street; Mr. L. Hewson, 30, Paradise Street; Mr. F. Julien, 189, Monument Road; Mr. Wm. Krisch, 3, Newhall Street; Mr. L. Notelle, 42, George Road, Edgbaston; and Mr. A. Vincent, 49, Islington Row.

Invasion.—They said the French were coming in February, 1758, so the patriotic Brums put their hands into their pockets and contributed to a fund "to repel invasion."

Inventors and Inventions.—Birmingham, for a hundred years, led the van in inventions of all kinds, and though to many persons patent specifications may be the driest of all dry reading, there is an infinitude of interesting matter to be found in those documents. Much of the trade history of the town is closely connected with the inventions of the patentees of last century, including such men as Lewis Paul, who first introduced spinning by rollers, and a machine for the carding of wool and cotton; Baskerville, the japanner; Wyatt, partner with Paul; Boulton, of Soho, and his coadjutors, Watt, Murdoch, Small, Keir, Alston, and others. Nothing has been too ponderous and naught too trivial for the exercise of the inventive faculties of our skilled workmen. All the world knows that hundreds of patents have been taken out for improvements, and discoveries in connection with steam machinery, but few would credit that quite an equal number relate to such trifling articles as buckles and buttons, pins and pens, hooks and eyes, &c.; and fortunes have been made even more readily by the manufacture of the small items than the larger ones. The history of Birmingham inventors has yet to be written; a few notes of some of their doings will be found under "Patents" and "Trades."

Iron.—In 1354 it was forbidden to export iron from England. In 1567 it was brought here from Sweden and Russia. A patent for smelting iron with pit coal was granted in 1620 to Dud Dudley, who also patented the tinning of iron in 1661. The total make of iron in England in 1740 was but 17,000 tons, from 59 furnaces, only two of which were in Staffordshire, turning out about 1,000 tons per year. In 1788 there were nine blast furnaces in the same county; in 1796, fourteen; in 1806, forty-two; in 1827, ninety-five, with an output of 216,000 tons, the kingdom's make being 690,000 tons from 284 furnaces. This quantity in 1842 was turned out of the 130 Staffordshire furnaces alone, though the hot-air blast was not used prior to 1835. Some figures have lately been published showing that the present product of iron in the world is close upon 19-1/2 million tons per year, and as iron and its working-up has a little to do with the prosperity of Birmingham, we preserve them. Statistics for the more important countries are obtainable as late as 1881. For the others it is assumed that the yield has not fallen off since the latest figures reported. Under "other countries," in the table below, are included Canada, Switzerland, and Mexico, each producing about 7,500 tons a year, and Norway, with 4,000 tons a year:—

Year. Gross Tons. Great Britain........ 1881 8,377,364 United States........ 1881 4,144,254 Germany.............. 1881 2,863,400 France............... 1881 1,866,438 Belgium.............. 1881 622,288 Austro-Hungary....... 1880 448,685 Sweden............... 1880 399,628 Luxembourg........... 1881 289,212 Russia............... 1881 231,341 Italy................ 1876 76,000 Spain................ 1873 73,000 Turkey............... — 40,000 Japan................ 1877 10,000 All other countries.. — 46,000 ————— Total............ 19,487,610

The first four countries produce 88.4 per cent, of the world's iron supply; the first two, 64.3 per cent.; the first, 43 per cent. The chief consumer is the United States, 29 per cent.; next Great Britain, 23 '4 per cent.; these two using more than half of all. Cast iron wares do not appear to have been made here in any quantity before 1755; malleable iron castings being introduced about 1811. The first iron canal boat made its appearance here July 24, 1787. Iron pots were first tinned in 1779 by Jonathan Taylor's patented process, but we have no date when vessels of iron were first enamelled, though a French method of coating them with glass was introduced in 1850 by Messrs. T.G. Griffiths and Co. In 1809, Mr. Benjamin Cook, a well-known local inventor, proposed to use iron for building purposes, more particularly in the shape of joists, rafters, and beams, so as to make fire-proof rooms, walls, and flooring, as well as iron staircases. This suggestion was a long time before it was adopted, for in many things Cook was far in advance of his age. Corrugated iron for roofing, &c., came into use in 1832, but it was not till the period of the Australian gold fever—1852-4—that there was any great call for iron houses. The first iron church (made at Smethwick) as well as iron barracks for the mounted police, were sent out there, the price at Melbourne for iron houses being from L70 each.—See "Trades."

Iron Bedsteads are said to have been invented by Dr. Church. Metallic bedsteads of many different kinds have been made since then, from the simple iron stretcher to the elaborately guilded couches made for princes and potentates, but the latest novelty in this line is a bedstead of solid silver, lately ordered for one of the Indian Rajahs.

Iron Rods.—Among the immense number of semi-religious tracts published during the Civil War, one appeared (in 1642) entitled "An Iron Rod for the Naylours and Tradesmen near Birmingham," by a self-styled prophet, who exhorted his neighbours to amend their lives and give better prices "twopence in the shilling at the least to poor workmen." We fancy the poor nailers of the present time would also be glad of an extra twopence.

Jacks.—Roasting Jacks of some kind or other were doubtless used by our great-great-grandmothers, but their kitchen grates were not supplied with "bottle-jacks" till their fellow-townsman, Mr. Fellowes, of Great Hampton Street, made them in 1796.

Jennens.—It is almost certain that the "Great Jennens (or Jennings) Case," has taken up more time in our law courts than any other cause brought before the judges. Charles Dickens is supposed to have had some little knowledge of it, and to have modelled his "Jarndyce v. Jarndyce" in "Bleak House" therefrom. It has a local interest, inasmuch as several members of the family lived, prospered, and died here, and, in addition, a fair proportion of the property so long disputed, is here situated. The first of the name we hear of as residing in Birmingham was William Jennens, who died in 1602. His son John became a well-to-do ironmonger, dying in 1653. One of John's sons, Humphrey, also waxed rich, and became possessed of considerable estate, having at one time, it is said, no less a personage than Lord Conway as "game-keeper" over a portion of his Warwickshire property. Probably the meaning was that his lordship rented the shooting. Ultimately, although every branch of the family were tolerably prolific, the bulk of the garnered wealth was concentrated in the hands of William Jennings, bachelor, who died at Acton Place in 1798, at the age of 98, though some have said he was 103. His landed property was calculated to be worth L650,000; in Stock and Shares he held L270,000; at his bankers, in cash and dividends due, there were L247,000; while at his several houses, after his death, they found close upon L20,000 in bank notes, and more than that in gold. Dying intestate, his property was administered to by Lady Andover, and William Lygon, Esq., who claimed to be next of kin descended from Humphrey Jennings, of this town. Greatest part of the property was claimed by these branches, and several noble families were enriched who, it is said, were never entitled to anything. The Curzon family came in for a share, and hence the connection of Earl Howe and others with this town. The collaterals and their descendants have, for generations, been fighting for shares, alleging all kinds of fraud and malfeasance on the part of the present holders and their predecessors, but the claimants have increased and multiplied to such an extent, that if it were possible for them to recover the whole of the twelve million pounds they say the property is now worth, it would, when divided, give but small fortunes to any of them. A meeting of the little army of claimants was held at the Temperance Hall, March 2, 1875, and there have been several attempts, notwithstanding the many previous adverse decisions, to re-open the battle for the pelf, no less than a quarter of a million, it is believed, having already been uselessly spent in that way.

Jennen's Row is named after the above family.

Jewellery.—See "Trades."

Jews.—The descendants of Israel were allowed to reside in this country in 1079, but if we are to believe history their lot could not have been a very pleasant one, the poorer classes of our countrymen looking upon them with aversion, while the knights and squires of high degree, though willing enough to use them when requiring loans for their fierce forays, were equally ready to plunder and oppress on the slightest chance. Still England must have even then been a kind of sheltering haven, for in 1287, when a sudden anti-Semitic panic occurred to drive the Jews out of the kingdom, it was estimated that 15,660 had to cross the silver streak. Nominally, they were not allowed to return until Cromwell's time, 364 years after. It was in 1723 Jews were permitted to hold lands in this country, and thirty years after an Act was passed to naturalise them, but it was repealed in the following year. Now the Jews are entitled to every right and privilege that a Christian possesses. It is not possible to say when the Jewish community of this town originated, but it must have been considerably more than a hundred and fifty years ago, as when Hutton wrote in 1781, there was a synagogue in the Froggery, "a very questionable part of the town," and an infamous locality. He quaintly says:—"We have also among us a remnant of Israel, a people who, when masters of their own country, were scarcely ever known to travel, and who are now seldom employed in anything else. But though they are ever moving they are ever at home; who once lived the favourites of heaven, and fed upon the cream of the earth, but now are little regarded by either; whose society is entirely confined to themselves, except in the commercial line. In the synagogue, situated in the Froggery, they still preserve the faint resemblance of the ancient worship, their whole apparatus being no more than the drooping ensigns of poverty. The place is rather small, but tolerably filled; where there appears less decorum than in the Christian churches. The proverbial expression, 'as rich as a Jew,' is not altogether verified in Birmingham; but, perhaps, time is transferring it to the Quakers. It is rather singular that the honesty of a Jew is seldom pleaded but by the Jew himself." No modern historian would think of using such language now-a-days, respecting the Jews who now abide with us, whose charitable contributions to our public institutions, &c., may bear comparison with those of their Christian brethren. An instance of this was given so far back as December 5th, 1805, the day of general thanksgiving for the glorious victory of Trafalgar. On that day collections were made in all places of worship in aid of the patriotic fund for the relief of those wounded, and of the relatives of those killed in the war. It is worthy of remark that the parish church, St. Martin's, then raised the sum of L37 7s., and the "Jews' Synagogue" L3 3s. At the yearly collections in aid of the medical charities, now annually held on Hospital Sunday, St. Martin's gives between three and four hundred pounds; the Jewish congregation contributes about one hundred and fifty. If, then, the church has thus increased ten-fold in wealth and benevolence in the last seventy years, the synagogue has increased fifty-fold.

Jews' Board of Guardians. A committee of resident Jews was appointed in 1869, to look after and relieve poor and destitute families among the Israelites; and though they pay their due quota to the poor rates of their parish, it is much to the credit of the Jewish community that no poor member is, permitted to go to the Workhouse or want for food and clothing. The yearly amount expended in relief by this Hebrew Board of Guardians is more than L500, mostly given in cash in comparatively large sums, so as to enable the recipients to become self-supporting, rather than continue them as paupers receiving a small weekly dole. There is an increase in the number of poor latterly, owing to the depression of trade and to the influx of poor families from Poland during the last few years. Another cause of poverty among the Jews is the paucity of artisans among them, very few of them even at the present time choosing to follow any of the staple trades outside those connected with clothing and jewellery.

Jewish Persecutions in Russia.—On Feb. 6, 1882, a town's meeting was called with reference to the gross persecution of the Jews in Russia, and the collection of a fund towards assisting the sufferers was set afoot, L1,800 being promised at the meeting.

John a' Dean's Hole.—A little brook which took the water from the moat round the old Manor House (site of Smithfield) was thus called, from a man named John Dean being drowned there about Henry VIII.'s time. This brook emptied into the river Rea, near the bottom of Floodgate Street, where a hundred and odd years back, there were two poolholes, with a very narrow causeway between them, which was especially dangerous at flood times to chance wayfarers who chose the path as a near cut to their dwellings, several cases of drowning being on record as occurring at this spot.—See "Manor House."

Johnson, Dr. Samuel.—Dr. Johnson's connection with Birmingham has always been a pleasant matter of interest to the local literati, but to the general public we fear it matters naught. His visit to his good friend Dr. Hector in 1733 is historically famous; his translations and writings while here have been often noted; his marriage with the widow Porter duly chronicled; but it is due to the researches of the learned Dr. Langford that attention has been lately drawn to the interesting fact that Johnson, who was born in 1709, actually came to Birmingham in his tenth year, on a visit to his uncle Harrison, who in after years, in his usual plain-speaking style, Johnson described as "a very mean and vulgar man, drunk every night, but drunk with little drink, very peevish, very proud, very ostentatious, but, luckily, not rich." That our local governors have a due appreciation of the genius of the famed lexicographer is shown by the fact of a passage-way from Bull Street to the Upper Priory being named "Dr. Samuel Johnson's Passage!"

Jubilees.—Strange as it may appear to the men of the present day, there has never been a National holiday yet kept equal to that known as the Jubilee Day of George the Third. Why it should have been so seems a great puzzle now. The celebration began in this town at midnight of the 24th October, 1809, by the ringers of St. Philip's giving "five times fifty claps, an interim with the same number of rounds, to honour the King, Queen, the Royal Family, the Nation, and the loyal town of Birmingham." At six o'clock next morning the sluggards were aroused with a second peal, and with little rest the bells were kept swinging the whole day long, the finale coming with a performance of "perpetual claps and clashings" that must have made many a head ache. There was a Sunday school jubilee celebrated September 14, 1831. The fiftieth year's pastorate of Rev. John Angell James was kept September 12, 1855, and the Jubilee Day of the Chapel in Carr's Lane, September 27, 1870; of Cannon Street Chapel, July 16, 1856; of the Rev. G. Cheatle's pastorate, at Lombard Street Chapel, January 11, 1860; of the Missionary Society, September 15, 1864; of Pope Pius the Ninth, in 1877, when the Roman Catholics of this town sent him L1,230. being the third largest contribution from England.

Jubilee Singers.—This troupe of coloured minstrels gave their first entertainment here in the Town Hall April 9, 1874.

Jury Lists.—According to the Jury Act, 6 George IV., the churchwardens and overseers of every parish in England are required to make out an alphabetical list before the 1st September in each year of all men residing in their respective parishes and townships qualified to serve on juries, setting forth at length their Christian and surname, &c. Copies of these lists, on the three first Sundays in September, are to be fixed on the principal door to every church, chapel, and other public place of religious worship, with a notice subjoined that all appeals will be heard at the Petty Sessions, to be held within the last day of September. The jury list for persons resident in the borough, and for several adjoining parishes, may be seen at the office of Mr. Alfred Walter, solicitor, Colmore Row, so that persons exempt may see if their names are included.

Justices Of the Peace.—The earliest named local Justices of the Peace (March 8, 1327) are "William of Birmingham" and "John Murdak" the only two then named for the county.—See "Magistrates".

Kidneys (Petrified).—In olden days our footpaths, where paved at all, were, as a rule, laid with round, hard pebbles, and many readers will be surprised to learn that five years ago there still remained 50,000 square yards of the said temper-trying paving waiting to be changed into more modern bricks or stone. Little, however, as we may think of them, the time has been when the natives were rather proud than otherwise of their pebbly paths, for, according to Bisset, when one returned from visiting the metropolis, he said he liked everything in London very much "except the pavement, for the stones were all so smooth, there was no foothold!"

King Edward's Place.—Laid out in 1782 on a 99 years' lease, from Grammar School, at a ground rent of L28, there being built 31 houses, and two in Broad Street.

King's Heath.—A little over three miles on the Alcester Road, in the Parish of King's Norton, an outskirt of Moseley, and a suburb of Birmingham; has added a thousand to its population in the ten years from census 1871 to 1881, and promises to more than double it in the next decennial period. The King's Heath and Moseley Institute, built in 1878, at the cost of Mr. J.H. Nettlefold, provides the residents with a commodious hall, library, and news-room. There is a station here on the Midland line, and the alterations now in the course of being made on that railway must result in a considerable, addition to the traffic and the usefulness of the station, as a local depot for coal, &c.

King's Norton.—Mentioned in Domesday, and in the olden times was evidently thought of equal standing (to say the least) with its five-miles-neighbour, Birmingham, as in James the First's reign there was a weekly market (Saturdays) and ten fairs in the twelve months. The market the inhabitants now attend is to be found in this town, and the half-score of fairs has degenerated to what is known as "King's Norton Mop" or October statute fair, for the hiring of servants and labourers, when the Lord of Misrule holds sway, the more's the pity. The King's Norton Union comprises part of the borough of Birmingham (Edgbaston), as well as Balsall Heath, Harborne, Moseley, Northfield, Selly Oak, &c., and part of it bids fair to become a manufacturing district of some extent, as there are already paper mills, rolling mills, screw works, &c., and the Smethwick men are rapidly advancing in its direction—the Midland Junction with the West Suburban line being also in the parish. The fortified mansion, known as Hawkesley House, in this parish, was the scene of a contest in May, 1645, between King Charles' forces and the Parliamentarians, who held it, the result being its capture, pillage, and destruction by fire.

Kirby's Pools.—A well-known and favourite resort on the outskirt of the borough, on the Bristol Road, and formerly one of the celebrated taverns and tea gardens of past days. The publichouse (the "Malt Shovel") having been extended and partially rebuilt, and the grounds better laid out, the establishment was re-christened, and opened as the Bournbrook Hotel, at Whitsuntide, 1877.

Kossuth.—Louis Kossuth, the ex-dictator of Hungary, was honoured with a public welcome and procession of trades, &c., Nov. 10, 1851, and entertained at a banquet in Town Hall on the 12th. He afterwards appeared here May 7 and 8, 1856, in the role of a public lecturer.

Kyott's Lake.—A pool once existing where now is Grafton Road, Camp Hill. There was another pool near it, known as Foul Lake.

Kyrle Society.—So named after the character alluded to by Pope in his "Moral Essays":

"Who taught that heaven-directed spire to rise? 'The Man of Ross,' each lisping babe replies."

John Kyrle, who died Nov. 11, 1724, though not a native, resided at Ross nearly the whole of his long and loyal life of close on 90 years, and Pope, who often visited the neighbourhood, there became acquainted with him and his good works, and embalmed his memory in undying verse as an example to future generations. A more benevolent lover of his fellowman than Kyrle cannot be named, and a society for cultivating purity of taste, and a delight in aiding the well-being of others, is rightly called after him. The Birmingham Kyrle Society was established in 1880, and frequent paragraphs in the local papers tell us of their doings, at one time cheering the inmates of the institutions where the sick and unfortunate lie, with music and song, and at another distributing books, pictures, and flowers, where they are prized by those who are too poor to purchase. The officers of the society will be pleased to hear from donors, as let contributions of flowers or pictures be ever so many, the recipients are far more numerous. Mr. Walliker, our philanthropic postmaster, is one of the vice-presidents, and the arrangements of the parcel post are peculiarly suited for forwarding parcels.

Lady Well.—There is mention in a document dated 1347 of a "dwelling in Egebaston Strete leading towards God well feld," and there can be no doubt that this was an allusion to the Lady Well, or the well dedicated to the blessed Virgin, close to the old house that for centuries sheltered the priests that served St. Martin's, and which afterwards was called the Parsonage or Rectory. The well spring was most abundant, and was never known to fail. The stream from it helped to supply the moat round the Parsonage, and there, joined by the waters from the higher grounds in the neighbourhood of Holloway Head, and from the hill above the Pinfold, it passed at the back of Edgbaston Street, by the way of Smithfield passage and Dean Street (formerly the course of a brook) to the Manor House moat. The Ladywell Baths were historically famous and, as stated by Hutton, were the finest in the kingdom. The Holy Well of the blessed Virgin still exists, though covered over and its waters allowed to flow into the sewers instead of the Baths, and any visitor desirous of testing the water once hallowed for its purity must take his course down the mean alley known as Ladywell Walk, at the bend in which he will find a dirty passage leading to a rusty iron pump, "presented by Sir E.S. Gooch, Bart., to the inhabitants of Birmingham," as commemorated by an inscription on the dirty stone which covers the spring and its well. God's Well field is covered with workshops, stables, dirty backyards and grimy-looking houses, and the Baths are a timber-yard.

Lambert.—Birmingham had something to do with the fattening of the celebrated Daniel Lambert, the heaviest lump of humanity this country has yet produced, for he was an apprentice to Mr. John Taylor, button maker, of Crooked Lane. His indentures were cancelled through his becoming so fat and unwieldy, and he was sent back to his father, the then governor of Leicester gaol. Daniel died June 21st, 1809, at Stamford, where he was buried; his age was 39, and he weighed 52 stone 11 lb. (at 14 lb. the stone), measuring 9 ft. 4 in. round the body, and 3 ft. 1 in. round the thick of each of his legs.

Lancashire Distress.—The accounts of the Local Fund raised for the relief of the cotton operatives of Lancashire were published Aug. 3, 1863, showing receipts amounting L15,115 4s. 10d.

Lamps.—The number of ordinary lamps in the borough, under the control of the Public Works Department, on the 31st of December, 1882, was 6,591, of which number 1,950 are regulated to consume 5.20 cubic feet, and the remainder, or 4,641, 4.30 cubic feet per hour; their cost respectively inclusive of lighting, cleaning, and extinguishing, was L2 12s. 4-1/2d., and L2 5s. 2-1/4d. per lamp per annum. In addition there are 93 special and 53 urinal lamps.

Lands.—In Birmingham it is bought and sold by the square yard, and very pretty prices are occasionally paid therefor; our agricultural friends reckon by acres, roods, and perches. The Saxon "hyde" of land, as mentioned in Domesday Book and other old documents, was equivalent to 100, or, as some read it, 120 acres; the Norman "Carncase" being similar.

Land Agency.—An International Land and Labour Agency was established at Birmingham by the Hon. Elihu Burritt in October, 1869; its object being to facilitate the settlement of English farmers and mechanics in the United States, and also to supply American orders for English labourers and domestic servants of all kinds. Large numbers of servant-girls in England, it was thought, would be glad to go to America, but unable to pay their passage-money, and unwilling to start without knowing where they were to go on arriving. This agency advanced the passage-money, to be deducted from the first wages; but, though the scheme was good and well meant, very little advantage was taken of the agency, and, like some other of the learned blacksmith's notions, though a fair-looking tree, it bore very little fruit.

Land and Building Societies.—Though frequently considered to be quite a modern invention, the plan of a number uniting to purchase lands and houses for after distribution, is a system almost as old as the hills. The earliest record we have of a local Building Society dates from 1781, though no documents are at hand to show its methods of working. On Jan. 17, 1837, the books were opened for the formation of a Freehold Land and Building Society here, but its usefulness was very limited, and its existence short. It was left to the seething and revolutionary days of 1847-8, when the Continental nations were toppling over thrones and kicking out kings, for sundry of our men of light and leading to bethink themselves of the immense political power that lay in the holding of the land, and how, by the exercise of the old English law, which gave the holder of a 40s. freehold the right of voting for the election of a "knight of the shire," such power could be brought to bear on Parliament, by the extension of the franchise in that direction. The times were out of joint, trade bad, and discontent universal, and the possession of a little bit of the land we live on was to be a panacea for every abuse complained of, and the sure harbinger of a return of the days when every Jack had Jill at his own fireside. The misery and starvation existing in Ireland where small farms had been divided and subdivided until the poor families could no longer derive a sustenance from their several moieties, was altogether overlooked, and "friends of the people" advocated the wholesale settlement of the unemployed English on somewhat similar small plots. Feargus O'Connor, the Chartist leader, started his National Land Society, and thousands paid in their weekly mites in hopes of becoming "lords of the soil;" estates here and there were purchased, allotments made, cottages built, and many new homes created. But as figs do not grow on thistles, neither was it to be expected that men from the weaving-sheds, or the mines, should be able to grow their own corn, or even know how to turn it into bread when grown, and that Utopian scheme was a failure. More wise in their generation were the men of Birmingham: they went not for country estates, nor for apple orchards or turnip fields. The wise sagaciousness of their leaders, and the Brums always play well at "follow my leading," made them go in for the vote, the full vote, and nothing but the vote. The possession of a little plot on which to build a house, though really the most important, was not the first part of the bargain by any means at the commencement. To get a vote and thus help upset something or somebody was all that was thought of at the time, though now the case is rather different, few members of any of the many societies caring at present so much for the franchise as for the "proputty, proputty, proputty." Mr. James Taylor, jun., has been generally dubbed the "the father of the freehold land societies," and few men have done more than him in their establishment, but the honour of dividing the first estate in this neighbourhood, we believe, must be given to Mr. William Benjamin Smith, whilome secretary of the Manchester Order of Odd Fellows, and afterwards publisher of the Birmingham Mercury newspaper. Being possessed of a small estate of about eight acres, near to the Railway Station at Perry Barr, he had it laid out in 100 lots, which were sold by auction at Hawley's Temperance Hotel, Jan. 10, 1848, each lot being of sufficient value to carry a vote for the shire. The purchasers were principally members of an Investment and Permanent Benefit Building Society, started January 4, 1847, in connection with the local branch of Oddfellows, of which Mr. Smith was a chief official. Franchise Street, which is supposed to be the only street of its name in England, was the result of this division of land, and as every purchaser pleased himself in the matter of architecture, the style of building may be called that of "the free and easy." Many estates have been divided since then, thousands of acres in the outskirts being covered with houses where erst were green fields, and in a certain measure Birmingham owes much of its extension to the admirable working of the several Societies. As this town led the van in the formation of the present style of Land and Building Societies, it is well to note here their present general status. In 1850 there were 75 Societies in the kingdom, with about 25,000 members, holding among them 35,000 shares, with paid-up subscriptions amounting to L164,000. In 1880, the number of societies in England was 946, in Scotland, 53, and in Ireland 27. The number of members in the English societies was 320,076, in the scotch 11,902, and in the Irish 6,533. A return relating to these societies in England has just been issued, which shows that there are now 1,687 societies in existence, with a membership of 493,271. The total receipts during the last financial year amounted to L20,919,473. There were 1,528 societies making a return of liabilities, which were to the holders of shares L29,351,611, and to the depositors L16,351,611. There was a balance of unappropriated profit to the extent of L1,567,942. The assets came to L44,587,718. In Scotland there were 15,386 members of building societies; the receipts were L413,609, the liabilities to holders of shares amounted to L679,990, to depositors and other creditors L268,511; the assets consisted of balance due on mortgage securities L987,987, and amount invested in other securities and cash L67,618. In Ireland there were 9,714 members of building societies; the receipts were L778,889, liabilities to the holders of shares L684,396, to depositors and others L432,356; the assets included balance due on mortgage securities L1,051,423, and amount invested in other securities L79,812. There were 150 of the English societies whose accounts showed deficiencies amounting to L27,850; two Scotch societies minus L862, but no Irish short. It is a pity to have to record that there have been failures in Birmingham, foremost among them being that of the Victoria Land and Building Society, which came to grief in 1870, with liabilities amounting to L31,550. The assets, including L5,627 given by the directors and trustees, and L886 contributed by other persons, realised L27,972. Creditors paid in full took L9,271, the rest receiving 8s. 9d. in the pound, and L4,897 being swallowed up in costs. The break-up of the Midland Land and Investment Corporation (Limited) is the latest. This Company was established in 1864, and by no means confined itself to procuring sites for workmen's dwellings, or troubled about getting them votes. According to its last advertisement, the authorised capital was L500,000, of which L248,900 had been subscribed, but only L62,225 called up, though the reserve fund was stated to be L80,000. What the dividend will be is a matter for the future, and may not even be guessed at at present. The chief local societies, and their present status, areas follows:—

The Birmingham Freehold Land Society was started in 1848, and the aggregate receipts up to the end of 1882 amounted to L680,132 12s. 7d. The year's receipts were L20,978 16s. 5d., of which L11,479 represented payments made by members who had been alloted land on the estates divided by the Society, there being, after payment of all expenses, a balance of L11,779 12s. 9d. The number of members was then 772, and it was calculated that the whole of the allotments made would be paid off in four years.

The Friendly Benefit Building Society was organised in 1859, and up to Midsummer, 1883, the sums paid in amounted to L340,000. The year's receipts were L21,834 19s. 6d., of which L10,037 came from borrowers, whose whole indebtedness would be cleared in about 5-1/2 years. The members on the books numbered 827, of whom 684 were investors and 143 borrowers. The reserve fund stood at L5,704 5s. 9d There is a branch of this Society connected with Severn Street Schools, and in a flourishing condition, 32 members having joined during the year, and L2,800 having been received as contributions. The total amount paid in since the commencement of the branch in June, 1876, was L18,181 13s. 11d. The Severn Street scholars connected with it had secured property during the past year valued at L2,400.

The Incorporated Building Society comprises the United, the Queen's, the Freeholders', and the Second Freeholders' Societies, the earliest of them established in 1849, the incorporation taking place in 1878. The aggregate receipts of these several Societies would reach nearly 3-1/2 millions. The amounts paid in since the amalgamation (to the end of 1882) being L1,049,667. As might be expected the present Society has a large constituency, numbering 6,220 members, 693 of whom joined in 1882. The advances during the year reached L78,275, to 150 borrowers, being an average of L500 to each. The amount due from borrowers was L482,000, an average of L540 each. The amount due to investors was LL449,000, an average of L84 each. The borrowers repaid last year L104,000, and as there was L482,000 now due on mortgage accounts the whole capital of the society would be turned over in five years, instead of thirteen and a half, the period for which the money was lent. The withdrawals had been L85,409, which was considerably under the average, as the society had paid away since the amalgamation L520,000, or L104,000 per annum. The amount of interest credited to investors was L19,779. A total of L100,000 had been credited in the last five years. The reserve fund now amounted to L34,119, which was nearly 7-1/2 per cent. on the whole capital employed.

The Birmingham Building Society, No. 1, was established in May, 1842, and re-established in 1853. It has now 1,580 members, subscribing for shares amounting to L634,920. The last report states that during the existence of the society over L500,000 has been advanced to members, and that the amount of "receipts and payments" have reached the sum of L1,883,444. Reserve fund is put at L5,000.

The Birmingham Building Society, No. 4, was established in June, 1846, and claims to be the oldest society in the town. The report, to end of June, 1883, gave the number of shares as 801-3/4, of which 563-1/4 belong to investors, and the remainder to borrowers. The year's receipts were L10,432, and L6,420 was advanced. The balance-sheet showed the unallotted share fund to be L18,042, on deposit L3,915, due to bank L2,108, and balance in favour of society L976. The assets amounted to L25,042, of which L21,163 was on mortgages, and L3,818 on properties in possession.

St. Philip's Building Society was began in January, 1850, since when (up to January, 1883) L116,674 had been advanced on mortgages, and L28,921 repaid to depositing members. The society had then 326 members, holding among them 1,094-1/4 shares. The year's receipts were L13,136, and L7,815 had been advanced in same period. The reserve fund was L3,642; the assets L65,940, of which L54,531 was on mortgages, L7,987 deferred premiums, and L2,757 properties in hand.

Several societies have not favoured us with their reports.

Law.—There are 306 solicitors and law firms in Birmingham, 19 barristers, and a host of students and law clerks, each and every one of whom doubtless dreams of becoming Lord Chancellor. The Birmingham Law Society was formed in 1818, and there is a Society of Law Students besides, and a Law Library. At present, our Law Courts comprise the Bankruptcy and County Courts, Assize Courts (held pro tem in the Council House), the Quarter Sessions' and Petty Sessions' Courts.

League of Universal Brotherhood.—Originated by Elihu Burritt, in 1846, while sitting in the "Angel," at Pershore, on his walk through England. He came back to Joseph Sturge and here was printed his little periodical called "The Bond of Brotherhood," leading to many International Addresses, Peace Congresses, and Olive-Leaf Missions, but alas! alas! how very far off still seems the "universal peace" thus sought to be brought about. Twenty thousand signatures were attached to "The Bond" in one year. Far more than that number have been slain in warfare every year since.

Lease Lane.—Apparently a corruption of Lea or Leay Lane, an ancient bye-road running at the back of the Dog or Talbot Inn, the owners of which, some 300 years ago, were named Leays. When the Market Hall was built and sewers were laid round it, the workmen came upon what was at the time imagined to be an underground passage, leading from the Guildhall in New Street to the old Church of St. Martin's. Local antiquarians at the time would appear to have been conspicuous by their absence, as the workmen were allowed to close the passage with rubbish without a proper examination being made of it. Quite lately, however, in digging out the soil for the extension of the Fish Market at a point on the line of Lease Lane, about 60ft. from Bell Street, the workmen, on reaching a depth of 8ft. or 9ft., struck upon the same underground passage, but of which the original purpose was not very apparent. Cut in the soft, sandstone, and devoid of any lining, it ran almost at right angles to Lease Lane, and proved to extend half way under that thoroughfare, and some four or five yards into the excavated ground. Under Lease Lane it was blocked by rubbish, through which a sewer is believed to run, and therefore the exact ending of the passage in one direction cannot be traced; in the excavated ground it ended, on the site of a dismantled public-house, in a circular shaft, which may have been that of a well, or that of a cesspool. The passage, so far as it was traceable, was 24ft. long, 7ft. high, and 4-1/2ft. wide. As to its use before it was severed by the sewerage of Lease Lane, the conjecture is that it afforded a secret means of communication between two houses separated above ground by that thoroughfare, but for what purpose must remain one of the perplexing puzzles of the past. That it had no connection with the Church or the Grammar School (the site of the old Guild House) is quite certain, as the course of the passage was in a different direction.

Leasing Wives.—In the histories of sundry strange lands we read of curious customs appertaining to marriage and the giving in marriage. Taking a wife on trial is the rule of more than one happy clime, but taking a wife upon lease is quite a Brummagem way of marrying (using the term in the manner of many detractors of our town's fair fame). In one of the numbers of the Gentleman's Magazine, for the year 1788, Mr. Sylvanus Urban, as the editor has always been called, is addressed as follows by a Birmingham correspondent:—"Since my residing in this town I have often heard there is a method of obtaining a wife's sister upon lease. I never could learn the method to be taken to get a wife upon lease, or whether such connections are sanctioned by law; but there is an eminent manufacturer in the vicinity of this town who had his deceased wife's sister upon lease for twenty years and upwards; and I know she went by his name, enjoyed all the privileges, and received all the honours due to the respectable name of wife." A rarer case of marital leasing has often been noted against us by the aforesaid smirchers of character as occurring in 1853, but in reality it was rather an instance of hiring a husband.

Leather Hall.—As early as the Norman Conquest this town was famed for its tanneries, and there was a considerable market, for leather for centuries after. Two of the Court Leet officers were "Leather Sealers," and part of the proclamation made by the Crier of the Court when it held its meetings was in those words, "All whyte tawers that sell not good chaffer as they ought to do reasonably, and bye the skynnes in any other place than in towne or market, ye shall do us to weet," meaning that anyone knowing of such offences on the part of the "whyte tawers" or tanners should give information at the Court then assembled. New Street originally was entered from High Street, under an arched gateway, and here was the Leather Hall (which was still in existence in Hutton's time), where the "Sealers" performed their functions. It was taken down when New Street was opened out, and though we have an extensive hide and skin market now, we can hardly be said to possess a market for leather other than the boot and shoe shops, the saddlers, &c.

Lench's Trust.—See "Philanthropic Institutions."

Liberal Association.—On Feb. 17, 1865, a meeting was held in the committee room of the Town Hall for the purpose of forming an organisation which should "unite all the Liberals of the town, and provide them with a regular and efficient method of exercising a legitimate influence in favour of their political principles." The outcome of this meeting was the birth of the now famous Liberal "Caucus," and though the names of ten gentlemen were appended to the advertisement calling the meeting, the honour of the paternity of the Liberal bantling is generally given to Mr. William Harris. The governing body of the association was fixed at two dozen, inclusive of the president, vice, and secretary; all persons subscribing a shilling or more per annum being eligible to become members. The "General Committee," for some time known as the "Four Hundred," was enlarged in 1876 to Six Hundred, and in June, 1880, to Eight Hundred, the Executive Committee, at the same time, being considerably increased. The recent alteration in the franchise, and the division of the borough and outskirts into seven electoral districts, has led to a reorganisation of the Association, or Associations, for each of the seven divisions now works by itself, though guided by a central Council.—A "Women's Liberal Association" was founded in October, 1873, and a "Junior Liberal Association" in October, 1878.