It is divided into five compartments, the central one is illuminated by a dome of tinted glass, and decorated with a representation of the God of Thunder, surrounded with his appropriate emblems, as described in the Chinese mythology. Corresponding ornaments adorn the adjoining compartments, which are partially separated from each other, by trellis-work of iron, in imitation of bamboo. The staircases, at each extremity, are lighted by horizontal skylights of beautiful stained glass. On the ceiling of one of the outer compartments, is exhibited the _fum_, or Chinese bird of royalty; on that of the other, the imperial dragon.” Here Lewis interrupted, to ask if there really was such a bird as the fum. His mother told him, that “the Chinese are so singular a people, and so fond of mystery, that less is known of them or their country, than of almost any other nation. But travellers describe this bird as really existing, and being one of exquisite beauty, with a head much resembling the peacock’s. They say, that it is found in no other part of the world beside China, building its nest in the mountains near Pekin; and its absence for any considerable time is looked upon as an omen of misfortune to the royal family. The Chinese consider the shoulders of the fum an emblem of the virtues; their wings signify justice, their sides obedience, and their nest fidelity.” “Well, dear mamma,” said Edward, finding that his mother did not proceed, “have you quite done with the Pavilion?” Mrs. Ashton did not recollect anything else that would be likely to interest them: she was disappointed in the library, which contained but few books; the royal chapel, near the south wing of the palace, she hoped papa would be able to show them, on his return to Brighton. Edward and Lewis thanked her for the treat in store for them, and for the entertaining account she had given them. “And now,” said Mrs. Ashton, “I am quite rested; and we must not sit here any longer if we wish to see Kemp-Town this morning.” Edward asked why it was so called, and was told that the buildings were erected on the estate of a gentleman of that name. They include a square of great extent, opening from the centre of a crescent, which is terminated at each end by a wing; and consist of elegant and commodious private dwellings, all commanding a view of the Channel. The fronts of the houses are adorned with Corinthian columns and entablatures, and surmounted with balustrades; and before them is spread a fine lawn, enclosed with cast-iron railings. Many of the houses, however, were uninhabited, which made Edward and Lewis think the place had an air of desolation. “Perhaps,” said Mrs. Ashton, as they turned to go homewards, “you may like Kemp-Town better should you live to see it some years hence. Suppose now we return over the Downs, in order to vary our walk.” The boys joyfully assented, and the party soon found themselves above the dusty road, and out of the immediate neighbourhood of houses.