Gossip in the First Decade of Victoria's ReignAshton, John
History
Gossip in the First Decade of Victoria's Reign
Ashton, John
Great Britain -- Social life and customs -- 19th century
“Nor were these the only modes of procuring amusement which presented
themselves. On the Serpentine river a number of boats had been
launched, which had been procured from the Thames, and watermen were
employed, during the whole day, in rowing about those who were
anxious to enjoy the refreshing coolness of the water after the
turmoil and heat of the fair. Ponies and donkeys were in the
outskirts of the fair, plentiful, for the use of the young who were
inclined for equestrian exercise, while archery grounds and throw
sticks held out their attractions to the adepts in such practices,
and roundabouts and swings were ready to gratify the tastes of the
adventurous. Kensington Gardens were, as usual, open to the public,
and not a few who were fearful of joining in the crowd, contented
themselves here, in viewing the gay scene from a distance. Timorous,
however, as they might be, of personal inconvenience, they did not
fail to enjoy the opportunities which were afforded them of looking
into the book of fate; and we observed many of the fairest parts of
the creation busily engaged in deep and private confabulations with
those renowned seers, the gypsies.
“With regard to those persons who visited the fair, we must say we
never saw a more orderly body. From an early hour the visitors were
flocking in; but it was not until Her Majesty had gone to Westminster
Abbey that the avenues approaching Hyde Park became crowded. Then,
indeed, the countless thousands of London appeared to be poured
forth, and all seemed to be bound for the same point of destination.
Thousands who had taken up their standing places at Hyde Park Corner,
poured through the gate; whilst many who had assumed positions at a
greater distance from the Parks, passed through the squares and
through Grosvenor Gate. Every avenue was soon filled, every booth
was soon crammed full of persons desirous of procuring refreshment
and rest after the fatigue of standing so long in the crowd to view
the procession.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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