The Salutation in Newgate Street, some time called the SALUTATION AND CAT, (a combination of two signs,) was haunted by many of the great authors of the last century. There is a _poetical_ invitation extant to a social feast held at this tavern, January 19, 1735/6, issued by the two stewards, Edward Cave (of the _Gentleman’s Magazine_,) and William Bowyer, the antiquary and printer:-- “Saturday, January 17, 1735/6. “SIR, You’re desired on Monday next to meet, At _Salutation Tavern_, Newgate Street, Supper will be on table just at eight. (Stewards) one of St John, [Bowyer,] t’other of St John’s Gate, [Cave.]” Richardson the novelist was one of the _invités_. He returned a poetical answer, too long to quote at length: the following is part of it:-- “For me, I’m much concern’d I cannot meet At _Salutation Tavern_, Newgate Street. Your notice, like your verse, (so sweet and short!) If longer I’d sincerely thank’d you for it. Howev’r, receive my wishes, sons of verse! May every man who meets your praise rehearse! May mirth as plenty crown your cheerful board! And every one part happy, ---- as a lord! That when at home by such sweet verses fir’d, Your families may think you all inspir’d. So wishes he, who, pre-engag’d can’t know The pleasures that would from your meeting flow.” In this tavern Coleridge the poet, in one of his melancholy moods, lived for some time in seclusion, until found out by Southey, and persuaded by him to return to his usual mode of life. Sir T. N. Talfourd, in his Life of Charles Lamb, informs us that here Coleridge was in the habit of meeting Lamb when in town on a visit from the University. Christ’s Hospital, their old school, was within a few paces of the place:--