Chapter I: Front Matter

The Builder, No. 1, December 31, 1842.

THE BUILDER.

PRECURSOR NUMBER.

THIRD IMPRESSION OF FIVE THOUSAND.

LONDON, DECEMBER 31, 1842.

No. 1.] PRICE. { _Unstamped, 1½ d._
{ _Stamped, 2½ d._

ADDRESS.

Upon the occasion of addressing, for the first time, a particular class, and that too through the medium of a decidedly class-paper, it seems to us that the views and intentions of its conductor should be unreservedly stated. We commence, then, in the spirit that will characterize our future advocacy of the varied interests enumerated in another page. It is avowed that we enter upon this portion of the wide field of literature and science as our legitimate province, inasmuch as we were brought up, educated, and have long wrought in it; mere qualification for any undertaking is, however, but one amongst the elements of success, and unless combined with well-timed efforts, frequently disappoints the possessor:—we invite the reader to judge of the timeliness of our own by the following incident, the explanations it gives rise to, and of the result in the publication before him.

Conversing a few months since with a leading bookseller and publisher in this metropolis, we had occasion to remark upon the costly, not to say exorbitant, price of Architectural books; this fact was not disputed, and the cause at once ascribed to the smallness of the number of readers, which made it impossible it should be otherwise. We almost held up our hands in astonishment, as we repeated his words “smallness of the number of readers!” Call you five hundred thousand a small number? Can a class of half a million male adults, whom we may emphatically term all readers, and members of reading families; a class of half a million of the pick of British Artisans; a class of the highest intelligence, and (measured by their wages and numbers) highest in wealth: can we talk of the smallness of the number of readers, and assume to know any thing of this large and influential body? It was in this strain that we interrogated our friend the bookseller; it was a burst of somewhat indignant feeling, for we had long thought on the subject, and felt convinced that the fault lay, not with the reader, but rather with the writer and publisher. We have since put the case in a familiar way to other parties, as we will now proceed to do to _our_ readers.

Suppose the Grocers, whose business it is to supply the commodities of their shops in a way suited to the daily wants of customers, were to act upon the principle of refusing to parcel out their tea and sugar, or to dispose of it in less quantities than a chest of the former, or a hundred weight of the latter; or, bringing the parallel nearer, suppose the Bakers, in dispensing the “staff of life,” were to set themselves above the standard of purveying the quartern, and half-quartern loaf; or again, that the Butcher should sell his meat in nothing less than the carcase; or that these tradesmen were to study only the palate and appetite of dainty and refined stomachs; what, let us ask, would be the condition of men of moderate means, and homely requirements? Why, just that which in regard to the food of the mind is the condition of the Working Builder.

There are in England, Scotland, and Wales, one hundred and twenty thousand Carpenters, of full age, and we may assume for Ireland (the compiled accounts not assisting us here) thirty thousand more, making a total of one hundred and fifty thousand, exclusive of apprentices, in this trade alone, who, in common with the other co-operating Building Artificers, require to read and study (and in some instances to abstruseness) on all subjects connected with their craft. For these hundreds of thousands there has hitherto been no retailing of proper food for the mind; no books at moderate prices, and in suitable parcels; and if we except the issue in parts and numbers of works such as those of Mr. Peter Nicholson, the large sale of which confirms the truth of our convictions, nothing in the shape of a trade instructor, or magazine, adapted to their several pursuits has yet been offered to this immense body. The “Architectural Magazine,” by Mr. London, indeed, did wonders in its way; and other journals which have followed in its track are, no doubt, well adapted to the particular departments whose cause they espouse, and promote;[1] but what is there, we ask again, for the work-shop, and for the fire-side circle of the Building Artisan?

Examine our PROSPECTUS, and contemplate the numbers forming an array of what we have advisedly termed “the pick of British Artisans.” Be it remembered, however, that we do not use these words in an invidious sense, or in disparagement of other bodies of the industrious citizens of the empire; but, considering the standard of perfection, in body and mind, required for the proper practising of the Building Arts, and considering also the healthful nature of their occupations, it will not be deemed arrogant in us to speak thus of the class to which we have the honour to belong; in addition, we have the influence which numbers, intelligence, and wealth, if united, must ever secure to us. With all these advantages present to literary eyes and ears, in an age of professed catering, printing, and publishing, is it not one of the greatest marvels—a huge paradox—that there is no such thing as a _Builder’s Newspaper and Magazine_?

We have just said Newspaper and Magazine, for it has occurred to us (rather happily, we opine and trust), to combine them; that is to say, the particular features which distinguish either. We would relieve the Working Builder from a double charge for matter less available to him in practice, as well as from the still greater evil, in many instances, of a dry magazine at home, and a well moistened newspaper at a public-house. We have an eye to the superior household and domestic economy which prevails, and which we would have still more constant in the Builder’s Circle. We would give him a book on his trade, worth preserving, and a newspaper for the reading of his wife and family, as well as for himself; and, finally, we would make the weekly pence set apart from his earnings, for the gratification of a common feeling of curiosity, not begrudged by the partner of his cares on the one hand, or to be regretted by the most thrifty economist on the other, since, even the news will be the vehicle of trade knowledge, and consequently of the means of trade, with its advantages and profits.

In designating our paper, we use the word “Builder” in its most extended sense—instancing a house, or other edifice, we regard it from the procurement and preparation of the materials, to the fixing upon its site, and to its full completion for the residence, use, and enjoyment of man, and which includes the making of the design or plan, “breaking” ground, as it is termed; the erection, or building up; decorating, fitting, and furnishing; the supply of water and drainage; and even the laying out of the garden, pleasure grounds, and park. This is the whole art of building, or, in other words, of providing and perfecting human habitations. To all, therefore, who are engaged in the Art so defined, we address ourselves without distinction, and without preference; the interests of all will, to the best of our power, be consulted, promoted, and advocated.

It now becomes us to say a few words as to how far this step (that is, the issuing of the “PRECURSOR NUMBER”) is to be considered on our part as an experiment; for, without being clear and explicit, we should, in case of failure, or rather abandonment, of our enterprise (for failure there can be none, where provision is made against that result), incur the blame of not having given our friends, the Building Classes, a clear view of the part which we humbly conceive it is their duty and interest to take in the business.

The “Precursor” is a _trial number_; and we make the avowal plainly and distinctly. Our part of the affair is to make every effort to supply what we consider a useful and most desirable public object. The part of the building fraternity, to whom it is particularly addressed, and the part of those who regard as a duty all the exertions they are making in the cause of public education; and also of those who pursue the arts out of a pure love and liking, is to support our humble efforts if they deem them worthy of appreciation. The less the sacrifice called for on either side the better. Let the covenants between us be of an equitable nature, and as we start upon the principle of discountenancing, as far as practicable, all lottery and riskful speculation (of which we will say more presently), so in the basis of this compact with our friends and readers, we would remove all unnecessary hazard, or complexion of adventure. We give our best exertion in what appears to us a work of common good; if our friends think well and approvingly of these exertions, and that work, let them contribute their part, were it alone for economy and fairness sake.

We do not rely upon the leviathan power of capital for our success; but we purpose building it up by an honest and diligent pursuit of the objects defined, aided by a fair share of judgment, and other necessary qualifications; and we anticipate it in the cheerful and generous response of our countrymen: and this Precursor Number, as its name implies, has its office in searching out the way, and exploring the track which its successor “THE BUILDER” is designed to follow. If the Precursor finds a ready passport, and a significant welcome, of which we have no doubt, it will be promptly followed by that of which it will have been the harbinger.

We invite, therefore, an active dispersion of the Precursor amongst our friends; but, above all, we respectfully invite communications from the many distinguished patrons and favourers of works of this class. We invite also the Architect, Engineer, Landscape Gardener, Master Builder, Manufacturers in ornamental processes, and proprietors generally, Clerks of Works, Foremen, and Workmen, to avail themselves of the ready means of the penny-postage, to aid us by their supporting voices, and by any suggestions they can commit to paper. A Supplement will be issued with a subsequent impression of the Precursor (without increase of price), and in that Supplement our correspondence, and additional advertisements will appear; we, therefore, scarcely need say that the more promptly our friends reply to the invitation the better.

It now remains for us to say something of the peculiar character proposed to be given to the “Builder.” The Prospectus, which serves as the basis of this exposition, sets forth that the trade essays and descriptions will be accompanied by illustrations and diagrams: that is, we shall supply drawings, to render clearer the accounts we may give of mechanical inventions and processes; drawings of ornament, or enrichment in Plasterwork, Painting, Sculpture, Carving, Iron, and other metals; drawings of Mouldings, and Moulded work, for the Carpenter, Mason, and Bricklayer; drawings of _construction_, in roofs, floors, trusses, and framing, hand-railing, &c., centering of arches and groining; drawings of Buildings, both ancient and modern; plans, elevations, sections, and details: drawings of Architectural orders and styles; drawings for instruction in perspective, geometry, and the like; and, occasionally, coloured printing, in such matters as pertain to painting and staining.

We shall also give patterns for the paperhanger and upholsterer, and designs for furniture; and a comprehensive range of constructive and ornamental design suited to that immense territory of British pre-eminence, the Iron-foundry and its workshops: as connected with these, we come to that creative and directing science, Civil Engineering, and here drawings of constructed works, of Engines and Machinery, will have a prominent place, accompanying the descriptive treatises and essays.

From this enumeration it must be evident that a large space will be devoted to the sciences in the nature of connected and consecutive essays; another part to the record of progress in the Building Art; and a third to news relating to Building and Builders.

Reviews and notices of publications intended for or likely to be useful to Builders, will also be given, and biographical sketches of eminent men connected with science and the arts. These separate heads, together with correspondence and inquiries, will constitute the peculiarities of our Journal, and the remaining space will assume the aspect of the general weekly press—home and foreign news; digest of Parliamentary reports; political opinions of the leading Journals; dramatic notices; general literary reviews; police and law reports; markets, and advertisements.

So ample is the field before us, that there can be no lack of matter or subjects; our business will be to cull the choicest for the literary banquet of our friends. Much that is valuable we hope and look for in the shape of correspondence; one of the chief merits of “THE BUILDER” being, that it is a direct and fitting medium for conveying instruction from the liberal and enlightened of every department—a free exchange of knowledge—which we anticipate may result in mutual good service to all.

[1] We would instance the Civil Engineer and Architect.

WILLIAM OF WYKEHAM.

We have selected the portraiture of this illustrious man, whose fame lives in national works, as the first wherewith to embellish our GALLERY OF ARCHITECTS—a man who was eminent, not only as an architect, but as a liberal patron of the arts—not only as a builder of colleges, but as a munificent donor to the cause of education, and whose institutions still flourish among the proudest in the land. “Many there are,” says Bishop Lowth, in his Life of Wykeham, “who have felt the influence of his liberality, or who are actually partakers of his bounty.”

It is rarely that instances approaching in interest to that of our subject present themselves; of successful talent we have many, but they are limited to its mere exercise for ordinary reward; others, where ambition and ostentation, as in the case of Wolsey, stimulated to a patronage of great works, while in that of Wykeham we have a memorable example of true nobility of mind, soaring from humble origin to the most elevated stations in church and state, and fulfilling its duties by an active exercise of all the kindred virtues.

William of Wykeham was born at the village of that name in Hampshire, in the year 1324, of reputable but poor parents, whose deficiency of means to afford him education was supplied by the generous intervention of Nicholas Uvedale, lord of the manor of Wykeham, and constable of Winchester Castle, then one of the great offices of the kingdom. After going through the course of study afforded by the school at Winchester, we find him officiating as secretary to Uvedale, and subsequently executing commissions of trust as attorney for Edyngdon, Bishop of Winchester, his immediate predecessor in that see, in whose service he appears at that time to have been engaged.

The piety, diligence, and early acquirements of Wykeham had recommended him to the notice of many patrons, both lay and ecclesiastical, and paved the way for his introduction to that of the reigning monarch, Edward III., and of his son, the renowned Black Prince; he had already entered the subordinate ranks of the clergy, and the fitness of his choice was confirmed in after times by the dignities he attained to; that elevation was, however, preceded by the execution of works which have stamped his fame as an Architect.

It is natural that we should ask, how was this talent in architecture acquired? We find no account of the preparation or training, beyond that of the general knowledge he had gained at the school of Winchester, aided by the intuitive genius and taste proper to comprehensive intellectual powers. No record exists of his having studied at either of the universities, and if it had been so, the regard and confidence of the King must be attributed to acquirements very superior to those at that time current at Oxford or Cambridge, where theological controversy was the leading and absorbing theme. We are told, indeed, that Wykeham had studied “arithmetic, mathematics, divinity, and, above all, the canon and civil law;” and we see no reason to the contrary. The school of Winchester, a city then second to none in the kingdom in splendour and opulence, would scarcely be deficient of teachers in these courses of study; in the mode, and according to the then understanding of their relative uses and value.

It is, upon the whole, probable that Wykeham gave the first proofs of skill as an Architect in the extension and reparation of Winchester Castle, during his employment by Nicholas Uvedale. That it was a fortress of considerable extent and consequence, history abundantly proves; and it continued so down to the period of the civil strife between the adherents of Charles I. and the Parliamentary armies; but whatever may have been the extent or description of building previously executed by him, it led to his appointment, by patent, dated May 10th, 1356, of Clerk of all the King’s works in the manors of Henley and Yesthampstead; and by a second patent, under date 30th October of the same year, he was made Surveyor of all the King’s works at the Castle and Park of Windsor; and subsequently of all the royal castles south of Trent.

In these capacities he was furnished with extensive powers; such as directing the issue of the King’s writ to the sheriffs of counties, requiring them to impress workmen, who were compelled to labour at fixed wages; to purvey and apply all material fitted for building; to hold courts for pleas of trespass and misdemeanours; and to inquire of the King’s liberties and rights within his demesne lands. The prelude to the erection of Windsor Castle was the assembling of 360 impressed workmen, by forties, from nine adjoining counties, in addition to those voluntarily engaged; the original Norman building was levelled, and on its site, under the eye of a warlike monarch who delighted in embattled towers and gorgeous halls fitted for the display of chivalric institutions, was reared this far-famed fortress and palace of our kings.

Windsor Castle occupied from ten to twelve years of continued labour, and comprised the King’s palace; the great hall of St. George; buildings for various purposes, on the east and south sides of the upper ward; the keep, or tower; the chapel of St. George; the residences of the custos and canons, in the lower ward, with the whole circumference of the walls, towers, and gates. Many parts of the original building remain, but the lapse of nearly five hundred years, frequent repairs, the enlargements and alterations required to meet the conveniences or tastes of successive kings, most of whom have expended immense sums in real or fancied improvements, have, in a great degree, obliterated a plan and style which was, in Castellated Architecture, the perfection of the fourteenth century.

His second work was the Castle of Queenborough, in the Isle of Sheppy, which, from the lowness of the site, and nature of the foundations, required unusual skill in the Architect. It was commenced in 1361, and completed in about six years, when the King, holding his court there, made the town a free borough, naming it Queenborough, in honour of his Queen Philippa. Of this structure no part remains; but its position and extent are ascertained by the moat which surrounded it. There can be no doubt this was one of the principal castles of the kingdom, designed both as a means of defence against invasion, and as a point for the assembling of fleets and armies for offensive purposes. We are told of this building, that it was “large, strong, and magnificent;” a fitting residence for royalty, and one of the strongholds of the realm; and its importance may be estimated by the rank of its constables, who were, in the reign of Edward III., John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster; Richard II., Robert de Vere, Earl of Oxford; Henry IV., John Cornwall, Baron Fanhope; Henry VII., Humphry Stafford, Duke of Buckingham; Edward IV., George, Duke of Clarence, &c. The last repairs were done in the reign of Henry VIII., 1536.

Pending these works, Wykeham grew into high favour with his royal master, and church preferment was heaped upon him with a lavish hand; he filled also in succession the offices of Secretary of State, Keeper of the Privy Seal, and Chancellor of England; and upon the death of Edyngdon, Bishop of Winchester, in 1366, he succeeded to that see, one of the richest and most influential in the kingdom. With his career as a prelate or a statesman, we can have little to do in this sketch, but we may be permitted to notice that it was replete with great and disinterested actions. Prosperity so brilliant had, however, its hour of adversity, but which only served to place in bolder relief the virtues of the Christian and the dignity of the man. In the dotage of Edward III., charges of malversation, in the execution of his high offices, were preferred against the Bishop of Winchester, at the instigation of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, who had always manifested an irreconcilable jealousy of his influence with the king. This proceeding was followed by an arbitrary sequestration of the temporalities of the bishop, and he retired to the monastery of Merton, and subsequently to the Abbey of Waverly, near Farnham, amid the universal regrets of the nation. The aspersion of a character so singularly exempt from the besetting sin of avarice, and its twin vices, peculation and sensualism, could not, however, be long sustained; and at the end of seven months he was happily restored to the means of carrying forward magnificent designs for the benefit of posterity.

From this period Wykeham seems, as much as possible, to have relieved himself from the burthen of secular affairs, although we find him again Chancellor in the unsettled reign of Richard II., but which office he took the earliest occasion to resign. Long and faithful services to the state had entitled him to repose; but there was no cessation in the activity of a mind fraught with benevolent purposes. Possessed of great wealth, he seems to have considered himself but as a steward intrusted with a useful application of it, and he devised, with as much judgment as human foresight is permitted to exercise, the establishments we are now to mention.

With the year 1373 began the formation of a school at Oxford, that of Winchester having much earlier been taken under his especial care; at each, masters were provided, and scholars, to the number of seventy, lodged and boarded at his sole charge. These were, however, but preliminary steps to the great and original plans contemplated, namely, the founding of colleges at Oxford and Winchester, with buildings, masters, and suitable appointments, and a perpetual maintenance for two hundred scholars, who, while receiving the advantage of liberal support, were trained from elementary learning through the whole circle of the sciences. So costly was this undertaking, that no individual, with a single exception, has had the means or generosity to emulate the example. This occurred in the person of King Henry VI., whose colleges at Eton and Cambridge were founded upon principles scarcely varying from these models.

Wykeham was now fifty-five years old, and, in realizing his plans, found full scope for the display of matured genius. Neither the cares of state which he had encountered, nor the personal ease which so frequently inclines even great minds to passive inaction, could obliterate his predilections for architecture. Under this master of his art were perfected improvements in Gothic style which have procured for examples of this period the distinction of the _pure or decorated English_. These consist in increased boldness, highly wrought and varied sculpture, and enriched vaultings, with exterior ornaments of statuary, niched or canopied, upon the western or great entrance fronts of ecclesiastical buildings. With the taste to dictate and the wealth to execute such magnificent designs, he entered upon his tasks, and, in 1379, personally laid the first stone of the college familiarly termed New College, Oxford, but by himself “Sainte Marie College of Winchestre in Oxenford,” which was completed and its establishment inducted with much ceremony in 1386.

We may here be permitted to observe, that with every disposition to dwell upon the details and beauties of this and his succeeding works, want of space compels us, for the moment, to relinquish an intention to do so; but, as subjects of national interest, we shall recur to them, aided by illustrations calculated to render many peculiarities of this style available in modern practice.

But to resume our brief notices. Scarcely a year elapsed before the second, or St. Mary’s College, at Winchester, was in progress, and in six years fitted for the reception of its professors and students. In extent and style this edifice bears the strong impress of its founder, whose memory lives freshly in the veneration of his children, for such we may term those who are here nurtured and taught, and from amongst whom have stood forth many worthies of the church, and others of the highest attainments in science.

The next, and last, work of this eminent and excellent prelate, the construction of the western front, and the nave and aisles of his cathedral at Winchester, was commenced in 1394, and the 70th of his age; and in this instance the unimpaired vigour of his conceptions, and the extreme liberality with which he appropriated his resources, are equally subjects for lasting admiration. It was built by Walklyn, the first Norman bishop after the conquest; and in its governing features, _extent and massiveness_, is in the style so called. We have before mentioned the western front as the work of Wykeham, which, though mutilated by barbarian fanaticism, retains much of its splendour, and is a marked example of his manner. Entering by this door-way, we are at once upon the scene of his mightiest achievement;—the eye becomes fixed for a moment by the gorgeous colouring of the eastern window, then wanders upwards amidst the infinite tracery and adornment of the vault, and, having scanned the vastness of the pile, seeks repose in a more leisure examination of the isolated, but not less beautiful, objects of sculpture below.

Apart from associations and impressions induced by the aspect of Gothic temples upon the great scale, we here find the elements of solidity, propriety, and uniformity carefully preserved, and the enrichments distributed with a masterly hand; the groining of the roof springs from single shafts rising from octangular bases; the capitals are highly embellished with busts and foliage, and the frieze charged with bold and finely-sculptured bosses; in fact, we have here before us an _era in the Gothic style_, and a perfect adaptation of its capabilities, carried out with all the originality that distinguished the genius of the architect.

The various writers who have treated on the antiquities of Winchester agree that the effect produced by the columnar vista of the nave, in combination with the group of chantries and screens, is not surpassed by any spot in England, or in Europe. In minute Gothic, or shrine-work, it is also unrivalled. The tomb of Wykeham, executed, according to the practice of the middle ages, under his own direction, is the purest of all authorities in this style: it is placed within the mortuary chapel, or chantry, occupying the fifth arch from the west end, and is rich in canopies and tabernacle work; the latter originally contained statues of saints, particularly that of the Virgin, which stood against the same pillar, when in his youth he had worshipped here; but these have long since been destroyed, and the tomb despoiled also of the enchased escutcheons which adorned it. The marble figure represents the prelate as possessing full features, and a placid, benign, and intelligent countenance; it is clothed in full episcopal costume, the head resting upon a pillow supported by angels, and at the feet are three figures of one of the religious orders, in the attitude of prayer.

The life so usefully spent closed in the year 1404, leaving more durable and splendid memorials than it has been the lot of any other individual to rear. Having, for nearly half a century, held the highest stations, and possessed almost unbounded influence, we find it to have been exerted in a spirit far in advance of his times; and personal aggrandizement grew upon him as a consequence of undeviating integrity and universal benevolence; these great and marked qualities were evinced in pure and unabated loyalty to his prince, courtesies and services to his equals of the church and the nobles of the land; and, above all, in the kindness, forbearance, and mercy which he caused to be exercised towards the people of a yet unenlightened age.

William of Wykeham expired at his manor house, or palace, of Waltham, Hants, A.D. 1404, in the eightieth year of his age, and his remains rest under the tomb we have described. His life affords, perhaps, the most brilliant example on record of the combined power of industry and genius; the industry to acquire knowledge, and the genius to apply it in advance of preceding theories. His earliest employments seem to have been merely such as a tolerably well-educated man of the fourteenth century would find little difficulty in obtaining. Architecture was his diverging point from the monotony of ordinary life towards the greatness he achieved, his first essays appearing to have resulted from opportunities which casually fell in his way, but embraced with an alacrity inspired by self-confidence. Having once engaged in it, his fondness for the science knew no abatement, for however lofty his position in the state, or onerous his duties as a churchman, he found leisure to cultivate it; and having engrafted new and more impressive features upon the style he delighted in, may be said to have died in the exercise of _this profession_, just before the completion of his cathedral at Winchester.

So exalted were the stations and so extensive the influence he possessed, that the spirit of benevolence by which he was actuated had full scope for exertion. While serving his prince with unswerving loyalty, he found means to protect the people from oppression and exactions, and by numerous courtesies and services to the nobility, won them to a milder exercise of their territorial privileges; while in the relations of private intercourse, we are told that he was “the kindest and most generous of patrons, and the most constant and affectionate friend, rarely changing his officers or domestics, none leaving, or being deserted by him, and all receiving in their turn testimonies of his favour.”

By his hand the revenues of the church were disbursed in her service and to her honour, and, to use the words of Lowth, the whole period from the meridian of life to the end of his days was employed “in one continued series of generous actions and great designs, for the good of his friends, of the poor, and of his country.”

OUR SERMON.

In adopting this heading for a series of articles, which will be continued as occasion offers, we are very far from intending to startle our readers with a rush of theological disquisition. In proof of our sincerity, and as an earnest of the gist of our discourses, we have chosen as a standing text, or motto, the golden rule of “peace and goodwill to all men;” but while we leave intact the functions of the divine, it is our business, as we conceive it to be our duty, to sermonize on the morals of trade, the social relations of every-day life, and even the proprieties which enhance every species of domestic enjoyment.

A right understanding of the relative duties of master and man, or of employer and the employed, yields to no subject in importance; peculiar incidents, induced by a rapidly increasing population, the tendency of commercial wealth to accumulate in masses, and its employment under the familiar term “capital,” through the agency of individuals, in the construction of great works, constitutes, however, an era in the Building trade to which former periods bear no very strict analogy. In offering our humble opinions upon actuating causes and their effects, be the subject what it may, we will never lose sight of our text; we shall make use neither of angry words nor denunciations; peace is too lovely to our minds, and charity too imperative to be abandoned; we would dispel the darker and sterner passions, giving every brother full credit for good intentions, and assign occasional deviations from the path of right rather to misfortune than intention. Whatever the class of men addressed or dealt with, this, we are convinced, is the best and only true policy. It may be very well for any one to talk of their anger being aroused, or their indignation excited, and so on, and under such pleas to vent abuse, imprecate a thousand vengeances, and the like, but, depend upon it, fear is less to be relied on than love; we would win a child to our love, not deter it by frowns and coercion;—we would have a thousand friends rather than a single enemy.

Who has not heard of the tale of the traveller, upon whom the sun and wind essayed their power? These elements, as the fable puts it, were at issue as to which was superior, and agreed to rest the decision upon the effect they should produce upon the first wayfarer. Well, first the wind fell to work, and blew with all his might, to compel the subject of their experiment to throw off his cloak, but the more vehemently the man was assailed, the closer he wrapped the garment about him; in turn the sun made trial of his power, and genial warmth soon accomplished what the bluster of the ruder element had made more and more difficult. So in human policy the kindly glow excited by generous sentiments and actions will succeed where threats, force, and even punishments have failed. The human heart has no such obduracies but that charity will overcome them.

It is a part of our present purpose to refer to practical benevolence of this nature, and it will be found in an extract from the _Leeds Mercury_, given in another part of our paper, on the subject of the treatment of workpeople, by Sir John Guest, at Merthyr Tydvil, and the Messrs. Marshall, of Leeds. These, thank God, and for the honour of our country, are not solitary instances. These gentlemen stand not alone in the practice of that soundest principle of Christian political economy which instructs the rich to dispense of their abundance for the benefit of their poorer brethren. We have Master Builders in every department, proprietors of large works and establishments, whose names we could hold up to the admiration of their craft and country, but we will not do this violence to their unobtrusive merit, neither will we invite invidious comparisons by such selections; we would rather hold up these Christian duties for common emulation, and call upon all to “go and do likewise.”

We open, then, our exhortations to MASTERS, because we know that the first impulse of benignant power must originate with _them_; kindness from them may be likened to the sun in its influence, and most surely will it be returned with usurious interest “into their basket and their store.”

Who ever saw the good father of a family putting firm faith in virtue and honour, and regulating his household by their dictates, failing to raise up virtuous, amiable, and honourable citizens? or, to put the case stronger, who ever knew the man that acted upon opposite principles succeed in sowing any thing but vice and discord? Depend upon it, then, the same principles and rules apply in business, from the overseer of the smallest undertaking to the governor of a nation. Fatherly solicitude for those under our care, or for whom we bear any responsibility, is as solemn and sacred a duty as the fulfilment of contracts or engagements; nay, it is the first of duties between man and man.

On the other hand, as to the workman,—fidelity—and more, the same generous kindness towards his master is required, as that he would receive; in fact, “to do unto others us you would be done by,” is the great and universal secret of social happiness.

It is with this view of relative duties that we deem it of as much importance to engage ourselves in giving good counsel to our craft, as in enlightening them on principles of science pertaining to their several callings; for of what avail will it be to a man to possess all the knowledge of his art, if his heart be corrupt, or continue under vicious influences? Away with, as dross, all the ability of the engineer, architect, master builder, or workman, if _the man_ be not endowed with moral excellence. What are beautiful designs, imposing structures, mechanical skill, or ingenious artifice in workmanship, without a mind and heart in harmony with the superior inspirations which virtue alone bestows? This, this indeed must come first as the base of the pyramid. In any other case the pyramid may be there, but it topples, leans, or lies on its side; the same inherent beauty may exist, but its position and action are superadded elements of deformity. Oh, how beautiful the human mind when lit up and guided by the impulses of virtue! how terrible and loathsome when passion and gaunt sensuality have their sway!

Guard, my beloved countrymen, against avarice, envy, malice; avoid contentions; be moderate in the desire of gain; repine not at another’s success in life, or the distinctions he may attain to; cast all rancorous suggestions far from your heart; contend not in any unholy spirit of craving competition; “live, and let live,” is a maxim which we conjure you at all times to observe.

In times of commercial depression, aggravate not your own or another’s suffering; these, like seasons of sickness and malady, must and will have their recurrences, and they will recur more frequently, and press more grievously, where brotherly love and charity, the great preventative and remedy of human ills, are neglected. Let none imagine it his privilege to be exempt from these obligations; let us not, because we see a neighbour unmindful of his duties in any of the multifarious walks of life, think ourselves justified in departing from our superior policy; neither must we judge and condemn; inflict, if you will, pains and penalties on yourself, but you have no right to do so on another.

Pardon us, good brothers of our building fraternity, and you who do us the favour to lend an ear to our counsellings, if we thus seek to engage your attention, and offer our well-meant importunings. Should your approving suffrages incite a continuance of our vocation, it will be our ambition to discuss the relative duties of the stations you respectively fill—master, apprentice, or workman; father, brother, son, or husband; neighbour or friend; and to do as we have now done, namely, try to improve each and all, and in doing so, promote, in some degree, the cause of human happiness.

TREATMENT OF WORK-PEOPLE BY THEIR EMPLOYERS.

In an article under this head it was mentioned that the parliamentary inquiry into the payment of wages in goods had shewn, that there are persons extensively engaged in manufactures of various kinds, who feel that the employment of bodies of workpeople involves a degree of responsibility to care for their general well-being, and who act on that conviction in a manner highly creditable to themselves, and conducive to the excellent object they have in view. These employers are of opinion that to regard as a machine a man whose skill or industry assists them to maintain their own families in respectability, is altogether unchristian, and that by viewing workpeople in such a light, they would deprive themselves of some of the finest opportunities of usefulness, and of cementing the bonds of society.

Of course, as the intention in moving for a committee of the House of Commons was to expose grievances, it was not likely that any examples of conduct distinguished for its humanity would be found in the pages of the report. As we remarked, however, when formerly writing on the subject, illustrations of this kind might be obtained by any one from our own neighbourhood. We had only last week the pleasure of visiting an extensive range of school buildings just erected on the best principles, in connection with Messrs. Marshall’s mill at Holbeck. In that suite of rooms there are between 300 and 400 children under daily instruction, independent of about 160 boys, who work half-time at the factory, and are at school either in the morning or afternoon of every day; the same gentlemen have also instituted girls’ and infant schools (which are situated elsewhere), and a night school, attended by young men and women from the mill, whose improvement in conduct as well as attainments, in consequence of this arrangement, is spoken of as highly gratifying. In the several schools every thing seems to be done to promote the comfort of the young, and to cultivate habits of cleanliness and decorum, as well as to impart an excellent plain education.[2] Plans for affording the means of recreation to the adult workpeople have also been devised in connection with these buildings; and all manifests that a sincere interest is felt by the members of the firm in the welfare of every class in their employ.

The principal example of attention to the interests of workpeople which came under the notice of the parliamentary committee, was that of Sir John Guest and Co., at their iron and coal works, Dowlais. These works, which were established from thirty to forty years since, “in an isolated place on the top of a hill,” in Glamorganshire, have now a town around them (Merthyr Tydvil), and nearly 5,000 persons are employed by this firm alone. In the first instance, great difficulty was experienced by the workpeople in procuring the means of lodging, but in the course of time this was removed by the erection of a large number of cottages at the expense of the company, and by the people being encouraged to build dwellings for themselves. The cottages belonging to the firm are stated to be low-rented, convenient, well built, well drained, and the taking of them is quite optional with the workpeople; while the granting of loans to steady men to build cottages for themselves has been pursued to a considerable extent, and has been found to attach them to the place, to keep them from the ale-house, and to produce and confirm in them a feeling of independence.

The amount of each individual’s wages at this extensive establishment is settled every Friday evening, and the whole of the hands are paid on the morning of Saturday; shewing that a large number of workpeople is no barrier to the early payment of wages if employers are determined to adopt that highly beneficial practice.

Nearly twenty-four years ago, Sir John Guest and his partners recognised the responsibility which attached to them as employers by erecting large schools, near the works at Dowlais, chiefly for the education of the children of their workmen, but (like Messrs. Marshall) not confined to them. There are at present about 220 girls and 250 boys under instruction, the children being admitted at the age of six, and usually remaining until thirteen years old. The teachers are well paid, and the whole expenses of the schools are defrayed by the workpeople and employers together, in the following manner:—Twopence in the pound is stopped every week “for the doctor” from the wages of every one in the works, of which 1½d. is appropriated to provide medical attendance for the families of the workmen, and the remainder goes towards the support of the schools. Each child is also expected to pay one penny a week, and whatever is wanting to make up the amount incurred in maintaining the educational establishments is contributed by the company. In connection with the schools, it is worthy of notice that Mr. Evans, the manager at Dowlais (from whose evidence our facts are drawn), expressed before the committee a strong conviction, as the result both of his own observation for above twenty years, and of the statements of colliers themselves, that for a collier to put his child to work in the pits very young is decidedly bad economy; instead of gaining, the family loses by it in the long run, while the unfortunate victim of error or cupidity becomes decrepit and unfit for work when individuals of the same age are in possession of mature strength. Very few of the children taught in the schools at Dowlais become colliers, the greater number being qualified for employment as carpenters, smiths, and, in some instances, even book-keepers. “We derive very great advantage,” says Mr. Evans, “from having children in the works who have been educated there; they are of great use to us.” Here, then, is a proof to masters who have not yet exerted themselves for the elevation of the families dependent on them, but are disposed to do so, that such a course is not only beneficial to others, but brings a reward to every one who adopts it. The medical attendants on the workpeople at Dowlais consist of three regular surgeons and a dispenser, whose services are remunerated chiefly by the money stopped from the wages. In 1827 a fund for the relief of the sick and aged was formed, one penny in the pound being stopped every week to furnish the necessary supply for the wants of those who are thus unable to provide for themselves; this fund is at the disposal of a committee, elected yearly by all the contributors.

From the peculiar circumstances of the district, when the works of Sir John Guest and Co. were established, and for many years after, it was desirable and even needful that the firm should afford their workpeople the means of obtaining the necessaries of life by maintaining a shop on the premises. In 1823, however, they closed it, but once again opened it at the request of the men in 1828. On the act against truck shops being passed in 1831, the workmen were called together and desired to state whether they wished the store belonging to the firm still to be continued. The votes were taken by ballot, and thirteen only were given for the discontinuance; but as there was not perfect unanimity, the company thought it best that the shop should be finally closed at that time; and the increase of population having had the usual effect of attracting private individuals to supply the wants of the community, the only result of this step was to shut up an establishment where the labouring classes were always sure of buying good articles at a moderate price. The accommodation being no longer necessary, we think the company’s decision was a wise one.

It is gratifying to find that no loss whatever has been entailed on Sir John Guest and Co. by all the beneficial regulations adopted by them on behalf of their workpeople. On the contrary, “by the education of the people,” Mr. Evans states, “we have gained more than we have spent upon them.” And this gentleman expressed himself as feeling certain that if a similar system were extended over the manufacturing and mining districts of the whole country, it would prove the cheapest and most effectual mode of benefiting both the working classes and employers, and consequently society at large. Of course, the details of the system at Dowlais, or at any other establishment of which an account is before the public, are not essential to its being adopted with advantage in other parts of the country, though the success which has attended those plans gives them a title to careful consideration; the thing to be desired is, that each employer should ask himself how far he can adopt the principle, and then carry into operation the dictates of his own judgment and conscience.—Leeds Mercury.

[2] The ventilation of the new school-rooms appears to be remarkably effective—a point of great importance where so many individuals are for three hours at a time congregated together. The playground also is being extremely well laid out.

Reviews.

_Temples, Ancient and Modern, or Notes on Church Architecture._ By WILLIAM BARDWELL, Architect. London: Fraser & Co., and Williams.

MR. BARDWELL, in the Preface to this work, states his object to be—

“To endeavour to excite among architects a spirit of inquiry
such as cannot fail to prevent a repetition of those
improprieties the existence of which in our public edifices
has so long afforded subject for complaint and matter for
criticism;” and “to put an end to that inconsistency which
is the cause of error,—namely, the tyranny of custom and
the caprice of fashion: which, while they compel the modern
architect to copy _in little_ and with meaner materials the
sublime works of revered antiquity, indulge a laugh at his
expense, because his reproduction fails to excite those
sensations of pleasure and admiration which are inseparable
from a contemplation of the original.”

Passing over the first three chapters of the work, which, although they contain much excellent matter of opinion, to which all may subscribe, do nevertheless open a door to controversy, and this it is our desire to avoid,—we come to Chapter IV. This is headed “_Errors in the details of late-erected Churches, a connected series of critical observations_;” and has for its object, by stringing together a number of critiques from the _Gentleman’s Magazine_ and other sources, to call attention to the prevalent errors of past design, and to enunciate correct principles for future practice. We quite agree with Mr. Bardwell, that “notwithstanding the querulous tone in which the writers have occasionally indulged, the extracts contain many hints that may be permanently useful;” and would wish that the spirit of a following paragraph could be always borne in mind by the critic and reviewer. “The legitimate object of criticism,” says our author, “is to improve the future, rather than to cast ill-natured censure upon the past.” However, we cannot take exception to Mr. Bardwell’s discharge of his duty. He has most appositely given these extracts through a whole chapter, and placed them in admirable order for study and profitable reflection. No one can read through this chapter attentively without being impressed with a desire to contribute his part to the rectification of such errors as are therein pointed out—it will awaken many to an active investigation where other modes of expression or remonstrance would probably fail.

In Chapter V. Mr. Bardwell enters into the great question that awaits us at every approach to a comprehensive study in architecture—THE ORIGIN. Speculation on this point is in its nature endless; but it is highly gratifying to feel occasionally that we are thrown in the way of facts, and such it is the province of this chapter to treat us to. With a little prefatory matter in the way of an assault upon the hitherto deemed orthodox authorities on such subjects, and upon the principle of adherence to rule and precedent, and upon the little fables of an inventive tradition, assigning to this accident or that the origin of this or that feature, plan, and style, we come to the “burden of the book,”—TEMPLES; and have a most interesting dissertation on those of ancient character, or on what we may more aptly term sacred edifices, memorials, or monuments.

“An altar of turf or of stones, _stones of memorial_, such
as that set up at the grave of Jacob’s beloved Rachel, the
_great stone_ near the oak at Shechem, Absalom’s Pillar,
Jacob’s Bethel, SAMUEL’s Ebenezer, the Gilgal, or circle of
stones, of JOSHUA; a heap of unhewn stones, the Pandoo Koolies,
of Hindostan, the numerous pillars set up by the Phœnician
merchants, on the shores of the Mediterranean, in France,
in Sweden; and in Great Britain, circles and rows of huge
stones, like those of Stonehenge, Abury, &c.; cromlechs and
logan stones, a portable ark, or tabernacle, were the first
sacred monuments. Next came the pyramid, a cylinder, whether a
_cippus_ or a column; a cubical block, with a particular member
superadded to the regularity of mathematical proportions. A
sphere and a _tetrahedron_; and last succeeded a vase covered
with a flat lid, and adorned with various sculptures from the
vegetable and marine world.”

Thus Mr. Bardwell connects with religion the first memorable and permanent efforts of Building Art—sacrifice he shows to have been associated with, and to have guided the workings of, the first builders, from the “primeval altar of little more than a raised hearth, built generally of unhewn stones,” to the “column or stone pillar of _mystic_ character—‘And JACOB rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillow, and set it up for a _pillar_, and poured oil upon the top of it; and he called the name of that place Beth-El.’” “The Greeks also erected pillars which they called ‘_Baitulia_,’ evidently derived from Beth-El, involving the same mystery, and both supposed to be symbols of _the Divine Presence_.”