There are now three fairs for horses, cattle and sheep, held here annually. The first, which concludes on the twenty-second of June, has of late years declined very much, and though chartered for eight days seldom continues more than three. The second, which terminates on the twenty-first of August, has long been celebrated as the largest fair for horses in the kingdom, perhaps it may be said in the world; it continues about ten days, being three days more than the time expressed in the charter. To this fair are brought for sale horses of all descriptions from every part of the kingdom, to the number of many thousands; and beside the most extensive dealers of this country, there are to be found in the fair purchasers and dealers from different parts of the continent of Europe, and even from America. The third fair, which is held on the twenty-eighth and twenty-ninth days of October, was removed to this place in 1768, from Market-Stainton, a decayed market town, about eight miles distant, two hundred pounds being given to the lord of the manor of that place, to permit the removal, one half of this sum was raised by subscription amongst the inhabitants of this town, the other by the lessee of the manor. {41} The market is now held every Saturday, to which it was changed from Wednesday, the day mentioned in the charter, probably in consequence of the markets at Boston and Louth being also on that day; but the time at which the alteration took place cannot now be ascertained. A building, situated on the south side of the church yard, is appropriated for the purposes of a Dispensary, which is supported by public subscription. Those to whom medical aid is administered, are such of the sick poor as are recommended by subscribers; and the many to whom assistance has been afforded, evince its utility in a striking degree. The number of patients admitted from the commencement of the institution in September 1789, to September 1818, was 9253. It is attended two days in the week by two physicians, whose services are gratuitous, and by an apothecary, who receives a salary. A female accoucheur has also been lately added to the establishment. A Literary Society, which was established here in the year 1790, has formed a permanent library, which is kept at the Dispensary. It contains about one thousand volumes, and is open to the members two days in the week. For several years the subscription was only ten shillings and sixpence per annum; it was afterwards advanced to fourteen shillings, and subsequently to one pound. Subscribers are now also required to pay ten shillings and sixpence on their admission. The society at present consists of about forty members.