The architect under whose directions the repairs and additions were made, is well known among the profession as an “Architectural Plagiarist,”--one who was accustomed to affix his name to the designs of other men. This person, thinking probably that the architecture of James I. would never be studied, put up the following inscription at Charlton; it is inscribed on an iron plate inserted in the wall above the roof of the saloon:-- “This edifice was rendered such as it is under the skilful direction of Matthew Brettingham, Architect, and the careful superintendence of James Darley, Clerk of the Works. (Thomas Carter, Steward.) Began A.D. 1772, finished A.D. 1776, by Henry, Earl of Suffolk and Berkshire, the principal Secretary of State to the best of Princes.” The mansion, taken altogether, is of fine character and of very considerable interest: as the baronial residence of the noble representative of an illustrious family, it retains some of the most striking and important of its ancient features, conveying the (at all times pleasant) idea, that antiquity is reverenced for its actual worth. [Illustration: From drawing by C. J. Richardson, F.S.A. Day & Son Lithʳˢ to The Queen. THE DUKE’S HOUSE, WILTSHIRE] THE DUKE’S HOUSE, WILTSHIRE. The Duke’s House, at Bradford, in Wiltshire, is so called from the Duke of Kingston, to whom it formerly belonged. It subsequently descended to Earl Manvers. It is now a dilapidated farm-house; but even in its present condition of neglect, approaching ruin, it exhibits interesting indications of its early architectural character. In its pristine state, when the whole of its ornaments were perfect, it must have presented an appearance peculiarly imposing and grand; for it is seated on the side of a steep hill, with a lofty terrace in front, approached by a flight of steps, adorned with balustrades and vases: there were other terraces, walled gardens also, and orchards in the rear and on either side of the house, which is built of the fine white stone of the district. The principal front--to the south--exhibited in the annexed view, is divided into two stories, with attics in the gables. The entire front is, as it were, one window: the three projecting bays are crowned with boldly sculptured open balustrades. The effect is remarkably striking and picturesque. The windows have all the mullions and transomes of stone like the rest of the building. The centre bay, on the ground-floor, serves as a porch, and has a fine large sculptured doorway, the upper part of which is seen in the print.