Chapter VI: Part 6

The following Report, together with her Majesty's Answer, on the occasion of the inauguration of the building, cannot fail to be interesting as a brief record of the proceedings connected with this noble undertaking up to that period:--

"May it please your Majesty,--We, the Commissioners appointed by your
Majesty's royal warrant of the 3rd of January, 1850, for the promotion of
the Exhibition of the Works of Industry of all Nations, and subsequently
incorporated by your Majesty's Royal Charter of the 15th of August in the
same year, humbly beg leave, on the occasion of your Majesty's auspicious
visit at the opening of the Exhibition, to lay before you a brief
statement of our proceedings to the present time.

"By virtue of the authority graciously committed to us by your Majesty,
we have made diligent inquiry into the matters which your Majesty was
pleased to refer to us, namely, into the best mode of introducing the
productions of your Majesty's colonies and of foreign countries into this
kingdom, the selection of the most suitable site for the Exhibition, the
general conduct of the undertaking, and the proper method of determining
the nature of the prizes and of securing the most impartial distribution
of them.

"In the prosecution of these inquiries, and in the discharge of the
duties assigned to us by your Majesty's Royal Charter of Incorporation,
we have held constant meetings of our whole body, and have, moreover,
referred numerous questions connected with a great variety of subjects to
committees, composed partly of our own members and partly of individuals
distinguished in the several departments of science and the arts, who
have cordially responded to our applications for their assistance at a
great sacrifice of their valuable time.

"Among the earliest questions brought before us was the important one as
to the terms upon which articles offered for exhibition should be
admitted into the building. We considered that it was a main
characteristic of the national undertaking in which we were engaged that
it should depend wholly upon the voluntary contributions of the people of
this country for its success; and we therefore decided, without
hesitation, that no charge whatever should be made on the admission of
such goods. We considered, also, that the office of selecting the
articles to be sent should be intrusted in the first instance to local
committees, to be established in every foreign country, and in various
districts of your Majesty's dominions; a general power of control being
reserved to the Commission.

"We have now the gratification of stating that our anticipations of
support in this course have in all respects been fully realised. Your
Majesty's most gracious donation to the funds of the Exhibition was the
signal for voluntary contributions from all, even the humblest, classes
of your subjects, and the funds which have thus been placed at our
disposal amount at present to about 65,000_l._ Local committees, from
which we have uniformly received the most zealous co-operation, were
formed in all parts of the United Kingdom, in many of your Majesty's
colonies, and in the territories of the Hon. East India Company. The most
energetic support has also been received from the Governments of nearly
all the countries of the world, in most of which Commissions have been
appointed for the special purpose of promoting the objects of an
Exhibition justly characterised in your Majesty's royal warrant as an
Exhibition of the Works of Industry of all Nations.

"We have also to acknowledge the great readiness with which persons of
all classes have come forward as exhibitors. And here again it becomes
our duty to return our humble thanks to your Majesty for the most
gracious manner in which your Majesty has condescended to associate
yourself with your subjects by yourself contributing some most valuable
and interesting articles to the Exhibition.

"The number of exhibitors whose productions it has been found possible to
accommodate is about 15,000, of whom nearly one-half are British. The
remainder represent the productions of more than forty foreign countries,
comprising almost the whole of the civilised nations of the globe. In
arranging the space to be allotted to each, we have taken into
consideration both the nature of its productions and the facilities of
access to this country afforded by its geographical position. Your
Majesty will find the productions of your Majesty's dominions arranged in
the western portion of the building, and those of foreign countries in
the eastern. The Exhibition is divided into the four great classes of--1,
Raw Materials; 2, Machinery; 3, Manufactures; and 4, Sculpture and the
Fine Arts. A further division has been made according to the geographical
position of the countries represented; those which lie within the warmer
latitudes being placed near the centre of the building, and the colder
countries at the extremities.

"Your Majesty having been graciously pleased to grant a site in this your
royal Park for the purposes of the Exhibition, the first column of the
structure now honoured by your Majesty's presence was fixed on the 26th
of September last. Within the short period, therefore, of seven months,
owing to the energy of the contractors and the active industry of the
workmen employed by them, a building has been erected, entirely novel in
its construction, covering a space of more than eighteen acres, measuring
1,851 feet in length, and 456 feet in extreme breadth, capable of
containing 40,000 visitors, and affording a frontage for the exhibition
of goods to the extent of more than ten miles. For the original
suggestion of the principle of this structure the Commissioners are
indebted to Mr. Joseph Paxton, to whom they feel their acknowledgments to
be justly due for this interesting feature of their undertaking.

"With regard to the distribution of rewards to deserving exhibitors, we
have decided that they should be given in the form of medals, not with
reference to merely individual competition, but as rewards for excellence
in whatever shape it may present itself. The selection of the persons to
be so rewarded has been intrusted to juries equally composed of British
subjects and of foreigners, the former having been selected by the
Commission from the recommendations made by the local committees, and the
latter by the Governments of the foreign nations the productions of which
are exhibited. The names of these jurors, comprising, as they do, many of
European celebrity, afford the best guarantee of the impartiality with
which the rewards will be assigned.

"It affords much gratification that, notwithstanding the magnitude of
this undertaking, and the great distances from which many of the articles
now exhibited have had to be collected, the day on which your Majesty has
been graciously pleased to be present at the inauguration of the
Exhibition is the same day that was originally named for its opening,
thus affording a proof of what may, under God's blessing, be accomplished
by goodwill and cordial co-operation among nations, aided by the means
that modern science has placed at our command.

"Having thus briefly laid before your Majesty the results of our labours,
it now only remains for us to convey to your Majesty our dutiful and
loyal acknowledgments of the support and encouragement which we have
derived throughout this extensive and laborious task from the gracious
favour and countenance of your Majesty. It is our heartfelt prayer that
this undertaking, which has for its end the promotion of all branches of
human industry and the strengthening of the bonds of peace and friendship
among all nations of the earth, may, by the blessing of Divine
Providence, conduce to the welfare of your Majesty's people, and be long
remembered among the brightest circumstances of your Majesty's peaceful
and happy reign."

Her Majesty returned the following gracious answer:--

"I receive with the greatest satisfaction the address which you have
presented to me on the opening of this Exhibition.

"I have observed with a warm and increasing interest the progress of your
proceedings in the execution of the duties intrusted to you by the Royal
Commission, and it affords me sincere gratification to witness the
successful result of your judicious and unremitting exertions in the
splendid spectacle by which I am this day surrounded.

"I cordially concur with you in the prayer, that by God's blessing this
undertaking may conduce to the welfare of my people and to the common
interest of the human race, by encouraging the arts of peace and
industry, strengthening the bonds of union among the nations of the
earth, and promoting a friendly and honourable rivalry in the useful
exercise of those faculties which have been conferred by a beneficent
Providence for the good and the happiness of mankind."

THE END.

SALISBURY, PRINTER, PRIMROSE-HILL, SALISBURY-SQUARE, FLEET-STREET.

* * * * * *

THE FOLLOWING INTERESTING AND IMPORTANT

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ARE PUBLISHED BY

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GILBERT'S

POPULAR NARRATIVE OF THE ORIGIN, HISTORY, PROGRESS, & PROSPECTS

OF THE

GREAT INDUSTRIAL EXHIBITION,

1851:

With a Guide to the future Rules and Arrangements.

BY PETER BERLYN, ESQ.

----

OPINIONS OF THE PRESS.

ATHENÆUM.

"A well-written volume. A useful record of the history and progressive
development of the marking incident of our age and nation. Mr. Berlyn
was, we believe, officially employed by the Executive Committee in the
earlier stages of their labours; his statements, therefore, are on good
authority and may be relied on. The narrative is sufficiently full in its
details for the general public now and hereafter."

EXAMINER.

"This is a clever book, full of timely and interesting matter, and with
sufficient merit as a record of the origin and history of the Great
Exhibition to outlive the mere curiosity of the hour. Mr. Berlyn has had
official opportunities of becoming well acquainted with the subject, and
has not neglected them. He puts his materials together with spirit and
intelligence, and indulges a hopeful strain of anticipation and prophecy
very properly befitting his theme."

LITERARY GAZETTE.

"Within a small compass we have here gathered together all that is
interesting in connexion with the great undertaking of the present
year--an undertaking which must form a most important chapter in the
world's history. We are bound to say that the work has been judiciously
done, and the result is a very satisfactory review of all that has been
effected in the way of Industrial Exhibitions up to the present time."

MORNING CHRONICLE.

"GILBERT'S POPULAR NARRATIVE OF THE EXHIBITION.--With this title a small
work has just been published, written by Mr. Peter Berlyn, from authentic
and official sources, tracing the origin, history, and progress, and
pointing to the prospects, of the Great Exhibition. The author has
carefully avoided all speculation and gossip on the subject, and has
applied himself with very considerable ability to the statement and
elucidation of all those facts, derived from authentic records, which
bear upon the progress of this most important national movement. Many
interesting facts are stated in connexion with the previous expositions
which have taken place on the Continent and in this country, and the
difficulties with which, upon its first announcement, the present
undertaking had to contend, and the means by which the Executive were
enabled to overcome them, are clearly and consecutively stated. The work
also contains some valuable statistical and other information connected
with the building, and copies of the most recent of the regulations
issued by the Executive. We would cordially recommend this very
interesting work."

EXPOSITOR.

"The volume before us has fair claim to its title of a Narrative of the
Exhibition. It commences with an account of such British and foreign
exhibitions as may be supposed to have led to the idea of the great
international show of industry to be held in the present year. The work
also contains a complete account of how the world's industrial products
have come to be housed in the present building; gives all the rules and
orders of the Commissioners and Executive Committee; special instructions
to colonial and foreign exhibitors and Custom-house authorities; names of
authorised agents for foreign countries; Custom-house agents recommended
by the Royal Commissioners; and such other information as renders it a
really useful volume of practical information to all exhibitors and
visitors at the Exhibition."

SUN.

"Within the compass of an elegant pocket-volume the author of the present
narrative has contrived to furnish his readers with a very copious
history of the origin, progress, and prospects of the Great Exhibition.
Throughout the work he has written with an especial regard at once to
simplicity and perspicuity, so that we rest satisfied his labours will
prove eminently successful, the book being incontestibly _the_ narrative
of the Great Industrial Exposition. Beginning with all the preliminary
particulars, which are absolutely essential for the comprehension of the
entire scheme of the Prince Consort, the narrative describes very lucidly
the growth of the first crude idea to its present gigantic dimensions.
The share taken in the project by the Society of Arts is duly celebrated,
and the influence of the successive expositions of French industry
especially notified. The volume is altogether a very clever and most
complete work."

WEEKLY DISPATCH.

"Works upon the above subject will become highly popular from the very
necessity of the case; and consequently that which the public must
chiefly look for amidst all the competition that will ensue will be
correctness and compactness combined with economy. Mr. Peter Berlyn's
book combines every requisite information regarding the Exhibition from
first to last. Its clever compilation, tasteful form, quantity and
variety of information, and the dependance that may be placed upon it for
correctness, combine with its early appearance to render it one of the
most valuable hand-books that are likely to be generally used."

ART JOURNAL.

"A very useful and sound history of the rise and progress of the Great
International Exhibition of 1851, in which the first movements towards it
are carefully and ably detailed; and a very good analysis is given of all
preceding industrial exhibitions, at home and abroad, as well as a large
amount of information connected with the construction of the building
itself, and abstracts of official documents connected with the entire
movement. The author has done justice to the efforts which have been made
to interest the English manufacturer, and stimulate him in his artistic
endeavours; and we feel bound to acknowledge his courteous notice of the
exertions made by 'The Art Journal' in helping forward its consummation
in 1851."

LEADER.

"For those who wish to know all about the rise and progress of the Great
Exhibition and its Crystal Palace this neat hand-book is the very thing.
Mr. Berlyn has performed his task with laudable industry. He has drawn
together and arranged a large amount of scattered information regarding
the Exhibition in a pleasant form. As an elegant and trustworthy
hand-book, the narrative deserves to be popular."

OBSERVER.

"This neat volume gives a history of previous Exhibitions--some on small,
some on large scales--that have taken place in divers parts of Europe of
late years. It then points out the precise origin of the Exhibition of
all Nations, snowing the share his Royal Highness Prince Albert had in
it; its history and progress are thus minutely detailed, and its
prospects are foreshadowed without exaggeration. We cordially recommend
it as a pocket-companion necessary to all those who have not as yet
mastered the chief facts connected with the erection of the Palace of
Industry."

JOHN BULL.

"An able and complete history of the scheme, which we have all to accept
as _un fait accompli_, and a useful guide to the transparent mazes of the
Crystal Palace."

WEEKLY NEWS.

"Of the works already published, and professing to treat of this gigantic
undertaking in its national, social, scientific, and artistic light, we
have not met with one so completely pervaded by a spirit of universality
as this book of Mr. Berlyn's. In matters of detail and relation his
narrative is explicit and lucid; where he has touched on the history of
an art or a manufacture he is correct in his data; and in tracing the
Exhibition to its true source he has displayed a highly philosophical
insight into the spirit of the age. Within the pages of his book will be
found a faithful record of the most important meetings of the Royal
Commissioners, as well as those convened by the corporations of cities,
by societies, or by private individuals, for the furtherance of the great
work in hand. To these is appended a verbatim report of the speeches
delivered at these meetings by the distinguished men who were invited to
preside over them; and the enlightened, liberal, and hopeful spirit which
pervades their addresses forms a cheerful contrast to the ominous
predictions of certain political and theological fanatics. After a full
discussion of what may be termed the _business_ portion of the subject,
Mr. Berlyn closes his excellent little book with a brief but eloquent and
comprehensive consideration of the beneficial results which are likely to
accrue from this great national undertaking, not only to ourselves but
mankind in general. The entire absence of partiality or prejudice
throughout the book, and the very interesting information contained in it
for all matters directly or indirectly connected with the Exhibition,
induce us to recommend the author to publish editions of it in the French
and German languages. By this means he would be conferring a boon on our
country's guests."

LADY'S NEWSPAPER.

"Mr. Peter Berlyn has produced a well arranged, clear, and concise hand
book to this wonder of the world, in which he traces its origin,
progress, and prospects, in a pleasing and interesting manner. This must
have been a most difficult task, as the materials out of which he has
formed his narrative are so widely scattered that it requires some one
who perfectly and profoundly understands the subject (as we are convinced
Mr. Berlyn does) to collect and arrange them in so satisfactory a manner.
The ladies also will hail this work with pleasure, because, though
containing every information on the subject, it is at the same time
light, interesting, and infinitely superior to the dry and prosy style
usually adopted in similar works. It is tastefully illustrated, has an
elegant fancy binding, and forms a guide-book either for the library or
the pocket."

NOTES AND QUERIES.

"A volume carefully compiled from authentic sources of information upon
the several points set forth in its ample title page."

GARDENER AND FARMERS' JOURNAL.

"We do not go out of our province as horticultural journalists in
noticing a work recently issued by Mr. Gilbert, of Paternoster-row. Our
friends in the provinces will do well to study beforehand as many of the
probable incidents of their trip as possible; and, though innumerable
prints and tabular descriptions of the Exhibition Building have been
issued, we have not had anything before like a connected history of the
great project itself. The work before us is called 'A Popular Narrative
of the Origin, History, Progress, and Prospects of the Great Exhibition
of 1851; and we think the author, Mr. Berlyn, has treated his subject in
perfect accordance with the title. More than this it is quite unnecessary
to say as to the merits of the work; but we may just notice that the
'getting-up' has evidently been intrusted to careful hands. The binding
is neat and tasteful, and, besides a ground-plan, a perspective view of
the building is given."

MINING JOURNAL.

"This volume, which unostentatiously treats on the highly interesting
subjects indicated in the title, is based on records of unimpeachable
value. All speculation has been wisely avoided, and its pages present an
unvarnished history of one of the most extraordinary undertakings of
which the history of the world can boast; extraordinary in the fact of
the people of this little island challenging the people of the universe
to meet on its shores with specimens of their several productions of
industry; and extraordinary in the magnitude, decidedly novel, and
inconceivably rapid erection of the building for their reception. The
history of every similar exhibition is traced back to its source; those
of Manchester, Birmingham, London, and France are minutely recorded; the
growing interest which followed every subsequent exposition statistically
described, and every detail connected with the Royal Commission, the
arrangements, the building, future rules, throughout a space of 200
pages, and finishing with a list of the local committees, conveys a vivid
and correct picture of this vast national undertaking."

CHURCH AND STATE GAZETTE.

"A work that was wanted. It puts the public in full possession of every
iota of intelligence in connexion with the Great Exhibition worth having,
and has some very sensible remarks on the prospects of home exhibitors,
especially at the forthcoming display. It is indispensable to all
interested in the subject."

GUARDIAN.

"'A Popular Narrative of the Great Exhibition' was really needed,
explaining its whole history from its first conception in the Prince
Consort's brain, and Mr. Berlyn's book has amply supplied the need. It is
a very smart volume, and the writer is duly impressed with the grandeur
of his theme."

LEIGH HUNT'S JOURNAL.

"We can hardly speak too highly of this elegant and useful volume. Mr.
Berlyn has done his part admirably, and the publisher has seconded him in
the business department no less satisfactorily. All the floating and
disconnected accounts that have hitherto been brought before the public
from time to time are here collected and arranged in a very popular and
lucid manner, while a mass of fresh information, entirely new and
authentic, renders this book the only complete compendium of the
Exhibition in all its bearings. The history of its origin is written with
a graphic power and a narrative vigour very surprising on such a subject.
You are carried along with as much interest as if reading a work of
fiction. The contents fully justify the ample title, and in that tact
lies more of eulogy than columns of praise could say."

THE EVENING EXPRESS.

"A neatly-printed volume on the History of the Exhibition; containing a
careful digest of all the documents which the Commissioners have issued."

THE TABLET.

"Mr. Berlyn's book is an elegant volume by way of a guide to the Crystal
Palace. It contains a well-condensed summary on everything connected with
the subject of the Exhibition."

MORNING ADVERTISER.

"A gaily-boarded volume, nattily emblazoned on the outside with colours,
with a tinted frontispiece of the Glass House from the same familiar
aspect. It is dedicated to Prince Albert, and contains an elaborate
introduction, in which the by-past expositions of Paris, Birmingham,
Manchester, Dublin, &c. are duly noticed. It is as a whole a neat mode of
preserving all the 'printed gossip,' as well as weightier reports of
Commissioners, relating to the preparations of the shell of the
Exhibition."

MARK-LANE EXPRESS.

"A most interesting record of the history and opinions as to the probable
results of the World's Fair, to be held in the Crystal Palace, Hyde Park.
The author has condensed into a most readable work every transaction
which has given rise to this exhibition of the choice products of the
world."

THE BUILDER.

"This book gives, in a concise and agreeable manner, a narrative of the
progress of the scheme towards fruition, and an account of the building.
The account is put together pleasantly, and makes a pretty book."

CHRISTIAN TIMES.

"A valuable and elegant introduction to the Great Industrial Exhibition.
It contains much useful information, lucidly and carefully arranged."

NORTHERN STAR.

"Mr. Berlyn's book is all it professes to be. It contains an ample and
popular narrative of the circumstances connected with the conception and
ultimate realisation or the idea; and incidentally throws much light upon
the progress and effects of similar exhibitions abroad. The author
deserves the greatest credit for the lively, interesting, and accurate
manner in which he has recorded all the leading events connected with the
Exhibition. In doing this we are happy to perceive also that he has the
manliness to do justice to those who first introduced the idea of such
Exhibitions into this country, and who had to struggle with all the
difficulties which usually dog the footsteps of innovators and inventors.
The first exhibitions had to encounter prejudice and apathy, and the
funds for carrying them out were comparatively small, and difficult to be
procured; they had not the _prestige_ of princely and titled names, to
give them acceptance with the vulgar herd, who eagerly copy the fashion
set by the great. They were the production of a pure love of art, and
science, and industry, and a desire to promote the improvement of public
taste and skill. One of the first promoters 'of the plan of National
Expositions, similar to those on the Continent,' was Mr. George Wallis,
formerly master of the Manchester School of Design; of whose exertions
Mr. Berlyn makes honourable mention. It is exceedingly interesting to
have presented at one view the gradual expansion of the original idea,
through a succession of varied phases, to its ultimate development as an
Exhibition of the Industry of all Nations. It appears clear that Prince
Albert is entitled to the merit of giving it this cosmopolitan character;
other exhibitions have always been either local, provincial, or national.
The idea of making that of 1851 universal is due to the Prince Consort
alone. The circumstances under which Mr. Paxton conceived the idea of the
structure which now attracts the admiration of every beholder, in Hyde
Park, read more like a sketch of the imagination than a sober reality;
and the almost incredible rapidity with which the plan has been
translated into a great fact is one of the proudest testimonies that can
be borne to the industrial resources, skill and enterprise of this
country. Of all the marvels that will be exhibited at the World's Fair
next May, none will be so marvellous as the structure in which they are
collected; and we confidently commend Mr. Berlyn's book as an agreeable
companion and guide to every visitor, as well as a record of the growth
of the Exhibition, well deserving of preservation on account of its
intrinsic merits and historical value."

MANCHESTER EXAMINER AND TIMES.

"Mr. Berlyn (whom many of our readers will remember as an active and
earnest promoter of the interests of our Athenæum, in his character of
honorary secretary to that institution), having held an official
situation in connexion with the Royal Commission for carrying out the
business detail of the intended Exhibition, finds means to present us
with an extremely able and instructive volume. His narrative is cleverly
written, and affords ample information of the origin and progress of a
movement which has already acquired a world-wide fame. The gradual
advance of public opinion and feeling in reference to the study of art,
and to the more general cultivation of a love for the ideal and the
beautiful among the people, are care fully traced, and we have every
reason to believe that credit is justly given to the humble but earnest
workers in the cause."

LEEDS MERCURY.

"A popular narrative of the origin, history, progress, and prospects of
the Great Exhibition, with a guide to the future rules and arrangements,
by Peter Berlyn, has just been published by Gilbert, of Paternoster-row.
It is a very able and useful volume, beautifully got up, and at a cheap
rate."

LEEDS TIMES.

"Mr. Berlyn's book supplies a _desideratum_. It is the first attempt, so
far as we know, to give a consecutive narrative of the circumstances
which have given birth to the great design, whose realisation is to
illustrate the history of the present year. He has done his work well.
The narrative is entirely derived from authentic and official sources, to
which Mr. Berlyn, from his connexion with the undertaking, had peculiar
opportunities of access. The author regards the Exhibition, not as a
sudden individual thought, but as the natural result of certain
industrial ideas and tendencies which have been gradually developing
themselves during several years; and this view leads him to trace the
history of various prior exhibitions on a minor scale in this country,
such as the polytechnic exhibitions in different towns, and the
exhibitions of art and manufactures which have taken place, many years,
in Manchester, Birmingham, and the metropolis. The proceedings more
immediately connected with the great World's Exhibition now in
preparation are then related from the commencement, and in a manner at
once concise and complete. Finally, we have a full account of the rules
and regulations determined on for the conduct of this remarkable
undertaking. The volume contains several excellent illustrations, is
tastefully bound, and in a portable form."

LIVERPOOL COURIER.

"This is an exceedingly interesting and useful book. It has been got up
as a hand-book for the visitors to the Great Exhibition, but its object
is more to give a condensed account of the history of the event than to
serve as a guide within the building. The writer, who treats his subject
most clearly and ably, enters into a brief narrative of all that has been
hitherto done, in this and other countries, to foster national taste in
connexion with these public displays. In our own countries he goes on, at
length, into an investigation of what may be termed the initiatory
exhibition lately held at Birmingham, and which, in its results, far
exceeded the expectations of its founders. He also gives a concise
history of the proceedings relative to the 'Palace of Glass,' from the
time that its erection was a dreamy idea until it rose in its gigantic
transparency to astonish the world."

LIVERPOOL ALBION.

"This is a book for the times and to the purpose. Its title-page tells
with what object it has been written, and is well borne out by its
contents. When we open it we find a concise and faithful account of the
causes and progress of the world's gathering which is just upon us. In
preparing his volume the author has taken care to avoid all 'culling of
simples,' and to give only such information as may be depended upon, and
which possesses more than ephemeral interest. It abounds also, in
practical suggestions and philosophical observations. We will only say
further that the publisher, although he does not puff the work by talking
of giving it away, certainly comes as near as possible to that point in
the price which he has fixed upon it. We can safely recommend it."

BIRMINGHAM JOURNAL.

"A cleverly-written and carefully-condensed little volume, containing all
that has been done, and much that should be known, respecting the great
event of the year. The author culls with great judgment from the
addresses delivered at various meetings held throughout the country; the
regulations issued by the Executive Committee are also introduced.
Altogether, a more complete record, within the same amount of space, it
would be impossible to find; it confers great credit upon the writer, who
in addition is evidently an enthusiast in the work about which he writes
so well."

LEICESTERSHIRE MERCURY.

"This volume should be in the hands of all who take an interest in the
great event of this _annus mirabilis_, 1851. What it promises in the
title-page it performs in those which follow. It contains an accurate and
deeply interesting record of the causes and progress of the preparation
for that gathering of the nations of the earth which we are about to
witness, and chronicles all the official information on the subject which
is worth preserving. The practical suggestions and observations to be
found in it are greatly to the credit of the writer. We must also give
our praise to the publisher, Mr. Gilbert, for the manner in which he has
brought it out, and the low price at which he offers it to the buyer."

LIVERPOOL TIMES.

"Of course we are already deluged with hand-books, guide-books, &c., to
the Exhibition. Such little works, properly compiled, will not only be
interesting, but absolutely serviceable, to the country visitor. We have
had oceans sent to us, varying in price as in truthfulness and English
grammar. The best we have seen is a 'Popular Narrative of the
Exhibition,' by Peter Berlyn, published by Gilbert, of Paternoster-row; a
book distinguished not only by correctness and labour, but also by very
considerable literary merit."

LINCOLNSHIRE TIMES.

"What the flower-garden is to the bees, attracting them to gather honey
from its sweets, the Grand Exhibition has been to many a candidate
anxious to take his place in the ranks of authorship. The book before us
is one of the proofs of its stimulating powers. It fully and ably
accomplishes all which the title-page leads us to expect, setting forth
the causes and progress of that wondrous festival of industry at which
the world is to meet in Britannia's Crystal Palace. The information which
it contains may be relied upon as derived from the best sources; the
practical suggestions are valuable; and the observations are penned in a
highly philosophical spirit. We can safely recommend the work to our
readers, and we are quite certain that everybody who buys it will be
satisfied that his money has been well laid out. We speak not from our
own authority only, but have our verdict backed by the opinion of persons
competent to pronounce upon the merits of the volume before us."

INVERNESS COURIER.

"This little volume has a merit which belongs to but few books published
in the present age. It is wanted. There has no doubt been a great deal
written on the subject of which it treats, as well as a great deal
spoken; but till now we have had only scattered and almost inaccessible
information on the one hand, or mere catchpenny pamphlets on the other.
Mr. Berlyn's excellence is, that he is honest; that his work fulfils the
promise of its title-page. Officially connected from its outset with the
great scheme which he describes, he has enjoyed peculiar facilities for
this task, has known where to look for materials, and been able to judge
of their relative usefulness and importance. Of these opportunities he
has diligently availed himself, and the result is to be seen in the
elegant book before us. Simple and popular in style, it is comprehensive
and instructive in its contents; we therefore recommend it."

* * * * * *

_Beautifully printed in 8vo, price only 7s. 6d., or postage free, 8s. 6d., Illustrated by Eighty very splendid Pictures, engraved by George Measom,_

DEDICATED TO HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE ALBERT,

GILBERT'S DESCRIPTION

OF THE

CRYSTAL PALACE,

Its Architectural History and Constructive Marvels.

BY PETER BERLYN & CHARLES FOWLER, JUN., ESQRS.

The Engravings will depict the various peculiarities and novelties of this wonderful Building as well as the Machinery, &c., used in its construction. The combined efforts of the Proprietor, as well as the Authors and Artists, are to produce a work worthy to be purchased and preserved by every visitor to the Great Exhibition.

----

GILBERT'S

VISITOR'S ILLUSTRATED MAP OF LONDON,

DRAWN ON A NEW PRINCIPLE,

HAVING IN VIEW THE DEPICTING OF THE PRINCIPAL ROADS AND STREETS OF THE METROPOLIS,

_With Illustrations of its most Important Buildings and Sights,_

Engraved on their exact Localities.

This novel Map will be found an interesting, intellectual, and practical guide to all Visitors who may wish to proceed readily to the more Important Sights and Attractions of London. The price, in sheet, coloured, with Letter-press Keys and References, is 1s. 6d.; or in Case for the pocket, 2s.; postage free, 3s.

----

GILBERT'S

GUIDE TO THE STREETS OF LONDON,

AS A COMPANION TO THE "VISITOR'S ILLUSTRATED MAP."

WITH FIVE THOUSAND REFERENCES;

Frontispiece and Tables of Cab Fares; the Rules and Laws relative to Metropolitan Conveyances; and Explanations in four Languages--to enable the Visitor to find his own way throughout the length and breadth of the Metropolis.--Price 6d; or postage free, 1s.

* * * * * *

_Price 1s. 6d., or 2s. bound; postage free, 6d. extra,_

GILBERT'S GUIDE TO LONDON,

WITH MAP, &C.

This original work, which has long been in full preparation for publication, is especially intended as a useful and indispensable pocket companion to every visitor to the Metropolis during the Great Exhibition of 1851.

*** Separate Editions of the book issued in the French and German Languages, price 6d. each extra.

----

"Contains much useful information for residents as well as visitors. It
has also a good Map, and is very moderate in price."--_English
Churchman._

"A very useful companion throughout the streets and sights of
London."--_Lady's News._

"The distinguishing excellences of this guide are, that it is cheap, and
that it is written especially for the benefit of the visitors to London
during the Great Exhibition."--_Standard of Freedom._

"A publication prompted by the Great Exhibition: it is a plain and
business-like affair, giving a good deal of information upon various
subjects connected with the comfort of visitors, as well as directions
for sight-seeing."--_Spectator._

"This hand-book contains the most complete information connected with the
localities, customs, public buildings, amusements, and resources of the
capital city of this kingdom; and for travellers or foreigners we say it
is an indispensable work, if they desire to possess an accurate knowledge
of London during their visit to the Great Exhibition."--_Mark-lane
Express._

"Unquestionably the most useful little work of its sort we have met with.
It abounds with accurate, ample, and valuable information respecting
London and its suburbs. We know of no more interesting or cheaper
publication."--_Catholic Standard._

----

_Price, on a large sheet, only 6d.; in case, 1s. 6d.; or on roller, varnished, 3s. 6d.,_

GILBERT'S KEY TO LONDON,

ON ONE LARGE SHEET;

Containing particulars of its Palaces, Public Buildings, Religious Edifices, Hospitals, Inns of Court, Parks, Gardens, Bridges, Museums, Literary Institutions, Theatres, Public Amusements, Exhibitions, Cab Fares, Railway Stations, Ambassadors, Bankers, Hotels, Docks, Arcades, Private Galleries, Curiosities, Churches and Chapels, Cab, Omnibus, and Coach Rules and Laws, Omnibus Routes, Environs, Post-offices, Steamers, Foreign Money Tables, &c.

----

_Price, coloured and mounted in cloth case for the pocket, only 1s.; or paper case, 6d.; in sheet, 4d._

GILBERT'S MAP OF LONDON,

BEAUTIFULLY ENGRAVED ON STEEL,

WITH A KEY TO THE STREETS AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS.

* * * * * *

THE GREAT EXHIBITION IN 1851.

----

_Just Published, size of the Engraving 18 inches by 10, printed on paper, size 21 inches by 14½,_

GILBERT'S NEW PICTORIAL VIEW

OF THE

CRYSTAL PALACE,

FOR THE

GREAT INDUSTRIAL EXHIBITION, 1851.

With several Hundred Scenic and Characteristic Figures, beautifully and accurately Drawn from the Official Documents,

BY JOSEPH PAXTON, ESQ., F.L.S.

_With Statistical Details in English, French, and German._

----

The exciting interest which the Exhibition creates throughout the world, has prompted the production of this carefully-executed, large, and beautiful Illustration of the Exhibition Building. It is got up in first-rate style, printed on the best paper, and published at the low price of SIXPENCE; or coloured, ONE SHILLING. The special object of its combined beauty and cheapness is not only to command sale in the United Kingdom, but to induce our Merchants, Manufacturers, and all interested in this glorious Institution to send this Illustration of the Building to every part of the world. It may also be had in a neat gilt frame and glazed, price only 5s.; or stretched on a frame and varnished, price 3s. Either of these two can also be had packed in a deal box for transit by railway, or other conveyance, at 1s. extra; or the 6d. and 1s. 6d. editions packed on roller, for transit by post free, at 8d. each extra.

----

GILBERT'S EXHIBITION LETTER-PAPER,

4to post size, of superior quality, with a beautiful Illustration of the Building printed in tints. Price 2s. per quire, or 34s. per ream.

GILBERT'S EXHIBITION NOTE-PAPER,

8vo post, of superior quality, with a beautiful Illustration of the Building. Price 1s. 6d. per quire, or 21s. per ream.

GILBERT'S EXHIBITION CARD,

With a View of the Building. Price One Penny. Size, 4½ inches by 3.

GILBERT'S LARGE EXHIBITION CARD,

With a View of the Building. Price Twopence. Size, 7 inches by 4½.

* * * * * *

_Just Published, in Thirty-Six Sheets, of different Subjects, at the extremely low price affixed,_

JERRARD'S

COLOURED PICTURES

OF

GROUPS AND BOUQUETS OF

FLOWERS, FRUITS, BIRDS, LANDSCAPES,

&c. &c.

----

These beautiful Pictures are on folio-sized drawing-paper, and produced in the first-rate style, being most beautiful and successful imitations of Original Drawings. They are admirably adapted for framing; would also form a tasteful ornament to Ladies' Portfolios, or as patterns for Drawing in colours.

----

Sheet 1, price only 2s.--Fruit: Peaches, Purple Grapes, Green Grapes.
Flowers: Moss Rose, Campanula (Canterbury-bell), Wallflower, Convolvulus.
Sheet 2, price 1s. 6d.--Poppy, Ranunculus, Pæonia, Hollyhock,
Convolvulus, Anagallis, Rosebud.
Sheet 3, price 1s. 6d.--White Rose, Red Rose, Anemone, Single Dahlia,
Cineraria, Nastertium, Auricula, Veronica.
Sheet 4, price 1s. 6d.--Passion Flower, Rose, Tulip, Geranium, Pinks,
Convolvulus.
Sheet 5, price 1s. 6d.--Anemone, Petunia, Mountain Aster, Heartsease,
Viola Tricolor, Anagallis.
Sheet 6, price 1s. 6d.--White Lilies, Tiger Lily, Tulip, White Fuschia.

Sheet 7, price 2s.--Fruit: Peach, Apple, Pineapple, Purple Grapes, Green
Grapes, Egg Plum, Red Currants, White Currants.
Flowers: Rose, Convolvulus.
Sheet 8, price 2s.--Fruit: Peach, Apple, Pear, Plums, Red Grapes, Green
Grapes.
Flowers: Lilium Lancifolium, Picotee, Fuschia, Scarlet Geranium, Marigold
Sonicera.
Sheet 9, price 1s. 6d.--Ipomæa Horsfallii, Ipomæa Rubro-cærulea.
Sheet 10, price 1s. 6d.--Hibiscus Splendens.
Sheet 11, price 1s. 6d.--Ipomæa.
Sheet 12, price 1s. 6d.--Yellow Hibiscus.

Sheet 13, price 2s.--Fruit: Peaches, Plums, Red Grapes, White Currants.
Flowers: Convolvulus Major, White Rose, Heartsease, Fumaria Anagallis.
Sheet 14, price 1s. 6d.--Noisette Rose.
Sheet 15, price 1s. 6d.--Orange Lily, Geranium, White Pink, Mule Pink,
Petunia, China Aster, Yellow Mallow, Anagallis, Malvi, Primula,
Mouse-ear, Tropæolum.
Sheet 16, price 1s. 6d.--Anemones, Tulip, Jonquil, Aster, Marigold,
Semi-double Rose, Yellow Rose, Convolvulus Minor, Auricula,
Nastertium, White Rose.
Sheet 17, price 2s.--Fruit: Melon, Pomegranate.
Flowers: Tulip, Honeysuckle, Lily of the Valley.
Sheet 18, price 1s. 6d.--Pinks, Carnations.

Sheet 19, price 1s. 6d.--A pair of Bullfinches, Nest, Eggs, and Flowers.
Sheet 20, price 1s. 6d.--A pair of Greenfinches, Nest, Eggs, and Flowers.
Sheet 21, price 1s. 6d.--A pair of Goldfinches, Nest, Eggs, and Flowers.
Sheet 22, price 1s. 6d.--A pair of Titmouse on the Stump of a Tree.
Sheet 23, price 1s. 6d.--A pair of Redstarts, with Nest, Eggs, and
Flowers.
Sheet 24, price 1s. 6d.--A pair of Chaffinches, with Nest, Eggs, and
Flowers.

Sheet 25, price 1s. 6d.--A View of the Castle of Chillon, Lake of Geneva.
Sheet 26, price 1s. 6d.--A View of Tintern Abbey.
Sheet 27, price 1s. 6d.--View of Caerphilli Castle and Vale.
Sheet 28, price 1s. 6d.--View of Snowdon from the Valley of Dolydellan.
Sheet 29, price 1s. 6d.--View of Llangollen, Castle Dinas-Bran.
Sheet 30, price 1s. 6d.--View of Fountain, St. Mary-le-Wigford, Lincoln.

----

It must be distinctly observed that the whole of the above are in full colours, and most successful imitations of original drawings, the price of each sheet being also fixed at extremely low prices. A variety of other sheets are in active preparation.

* * * * * *

STEREOTYPED EDITION.

_The 53rd Thousand, price only 1s. sewed, or 1s. 6d. bound (postage free, 4d. extra)_,

With a very useful steel-plate Genealogical Chart of the Sovereigns of England,

OUTLINES OF ENGLISH HISTORY,

WITH INTERESTING

Remarks on Manners, Customs, Arts, Dresses, &c.

BY HENRY INCE, M.A.

----

*** In consequence of the rapidly extended sale and approval of this Work, every page of the present Edition has been carefully enlarged and much improved. By a judicious enlargement of the width and length of the page, one-third more letter-press is introduced without any increase of price.

----

"In the system of Education sufficient regard is not always paid to
impressing on the pupil's mind the leading points in a branch of study.
His memory is confused with a too great variety of details. This manual
of Mr. Ince's is well calculated to counteract this defective method, by
affording a well-digested outline, which should be carefully committed to
memory, and afterwards filled up by means of oral instruction or
reference to larger works. Lively chapters of historical memoranda, and
brief sketches of manners and customs, are appropriately introduced. We
can cordially recommend this well-digested manual."--_Sharpe's Magazine._

"A neat and accurate compendium, and written with perspicuity. The events
of each reign are arranged under different heads, so as to give at a
glance a comprehensive view of the whole."--_Athenæum._

"A new edition, with improvements. It is a little 'Rapin' in its way, a
history condensed into a nutshell; and we feel assured will, with its
companion works, form the future text-books of the young of both sexes.
Works intended for the mental culture of the young are sure to meet our
approval when properly deserving it; and in the present instance we feel
inclined to extend the usual limit of our remarks in favour of the lucid
and well-arranged books which Mr. Ince has issued for the rising
generation. We could not forbear a smile, on glancing over their
contents, at the recollection of the sundry fat quartos and huge folios
through which in boyhood we were obliged to wade for the acquirement of a
less amount of information than is here presented within the space of one
hundred pages."--_The Mirror._

"Well-digested and useful outlines of our History, and deserves to be a
standard educational work."--_Eclectic Review._

"Superior to anything of the kind; here is a clear and comprehensive
outline of the whole History of England. We cordially recommend
it."--_Wesley Banner._

"The leading points are clearly traced, and adapted for easy transmission
to the mind."--_Mark-lane Express._

"A valuable addition to those books specially designed for
education."--_Bell's Messenger._

"These 'Outlines' are particularly well done."--_Bankers Magazine._

"A good compendium; it contains the essence of very many volumes, serving
not only as helps for the education of youth, but as refreshers to the
memory to those who are old."--_Sunday School Magazine._

"This book is not undeserving of the popularity it has obtained: it is
full of information, and contains the substance of more knowledge of the
social progress, manners, and customs of our ancestors than many works of
far larger pretensions."--_The third review of the Athenæum._

"A great deal of information in a small compass, and the author has
availed himself of the latest authorities. We prefer the form of Outlines
to Catechisms. It contributes to the formation of more logical views,
both by the teacher and scholar. Catechisms are the school-books of
parrots."--_Spectator._

"Both the plan and style are perspicuous; it is admirably adapted for
what it is intended."--_The Times._

"Contains a vast amount of interesting and useful knowledge, and
admirably adapted as helps to parents and teachers of youth."--_Tait's
Magazine._

"A well-digested little book."--_Literary Gazette._

"A very useful book for the instruction of youth, being a complete
_resumé_ of the whole History of England."--_Metropolitan._

"Well adapted for the education of the young."--_New Monthly Magazine._

"The brief statements of the principal events of each Sovereign's reign
are neat and succinct."--_The Economist._

"An improved edition of Mr. Ince's very useful book."--_The Rambler._

"Ince's 'Outlines' is a very excellent book to put into the learner's
hands: it is clear and well-arranged."--_Author's Institute Circular._

----

_In 18mo, price 1s., 1s. 6d. bound (postage free, 4d. extra)_,

THE SIXTH EDITION OF

OUTLINES OF FRENCH HISTORY,

WITH NOTICES OF

THE MANNERS, CUSTOMS, ARTS, ETC., OF THE DIFFERENT PERIODS.

BY HENRY INCE, M.A.

"It affords a very pleasing view of the whole History of France. The
author being gifted with a philosophical mind and a classical taste, the
subjects, though treated in a detached, are far from being treated in a
dry and unentertaining manner."--_The Times._

"It is embellished with some capital engravings, and abounds in the
narration of those romantic events which form the groundwork of so many
delightful works."--_The Mirror._

"Mr. Ince is not of those men who speak much without saying anything; he
says much in a few words."--_French Paper._

"A very useful educational work."--_Literary Gazette._

* * * * * *

_Price 1s. sewed, or 1s. 4d. bound (postage free, 4d. extra), the Eleventh Thousand of_

OUTLINES

OF

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE.

By Henry Ince, M.A.

----

*** This Edition has been very much extended and improved; by an enlargement of the size of the page, and careful arrangement of the type, a very great quantity of highly valuable information has been added.

----

"The 'Outlines of General Knowledge' embrace a great variety of facts
connected with the natural sciences. Even the names of all the divisions
into which the moderns have classified knowledge fill no inconsiderable
space. Add to them the names and height of mountains, and names and
length of rivers, the names of constellations, the names of the chemical
elements, the amount of population of the different kingdoms of the
world, the amount of their respective taxation per head, &c. &c., and the
mere nomenclature seems calculated to fill a tolerably large book. All
this, and more than this, is collected in Mr. Ince's 'Outlines,' and
those not accustomed to the art of the author will wonder how one small
head could carry all he has brought together."--_The Economist._

"Well-digested 'Outlines,' which should be committed to everybody's
memory."--_Sharpe's Magazine._

"A capital book, deserving especial attention."--_Family Friend._

"Contains for its size a remarkable quantity of interesting and
well-arranged information. It would make a valuable present to Sunday
Schools and lending libraries."--_Athenæum._

"A vast amount of condensed information."--_The Rambler._

"Contains a considerable amount of information of a very valuable kind,
on a variety of subjects, that in ordinary routine of education are too
much overlooked, an acquaintance with which is every day becoming more
and more indispensable. They are germs which cannot fail to vegetate in
the mind, to fructify in the head, and eventually to produce a fourfold
reward to him who labours in the acquisition of them."--_Sunday School
Magazine._

"Calculated to instruct anyone of common intelligence on every known
topic of importance, and to start him with a mind stored with the
accumulated learning of 6000 years."--_The Mirror._

"A valuable little publication, full of information in a small compass,
creating an appetite for deeper investigation."--_Bell's Life._

* * * * * *

A NEW SERIES OF PENNY MAPS.

----

_Now publishing in Monthly Parts, price only 4½d., or 8½d. coloured (each Part to contain four Maps)_,

PHILIPS'

PENNY ATLAS OF THE WORLD,

IN A

Series of fifty-two Imperial Quarto Maps, Engraved on Steel,

INCLUDING

FIVE ANCIENT MAPS, ILLUSTRATIVE OF THE IMPORTANT EVENTS IN ANCIENT HISTORY,

WITH A COPIOUS CONSULTING INDEX OF PLACES.

----

Geographical Knowledge was to a considerable extent an essential necessity even in the early periods of our world, cultivated indeed at first for almost purely social purposes, yet in the same proportion as our progenitors increased in numbers, so also did their extended range of observation instil into their minds the necessity of more practical observations on the relative bearings of the districts through which they passed, noting at the same time the numerous changes of hill and dale, rivulet and stream, and the countless varieties of the wonderful products with which it pleased Almighty God to bless its various regions. Hence progressively arose the Topographical and Geographical Delineations with which the Scriptures abound; to a similar cause may also be traced the contributions which the savage tribes have at various periods of our World's History added to the branches of Geographical science.

Now, in the same proportion as any people forming a Nation develope their commercial and intellectual strength, in the same ratio has it pleased Providence to render it necessary that its inhabitants should not only become acquainted with the Topographical and Geographical features, relative distances and bearings, of their own and neighbouring nations, but of every portion of the known world, even extending their researches to unknown regions. Indeed, no member of a commercial nation, especially in one where education is much diffused, is qualified to act his part aright as one of its people, unless he is able to form a tolerably accurate notion of the names of Nations, Places, Seas, Rivers, Mountains, &c., their relative position and extent, as well as to learn how richly the Creator of the Earth has endowed them all with the means of ministering to those comforts and pleasures of which man in every state of society and climate so much stands in need.

These reflections might be much extended, but the limits of a prospectus will not permit it. Suffice it to say that every Englishman, be he rich or poor, should have access to modern Maps of the various portions of the World, in order to possess the means of cultivating a knowledge of its divisions, the names of the chief Nations, Places, &c. &c., as well as to be able to form intellectual and commercial ideas of its numerous products, and the respective regions from whence come the countless varieties of foreign substances now in use among us as articles of ornament or necessity.

Now, though a Modern Atlas of the World is so essential to every family in this kingdom, still it has been almost limited in its possession, on account of the high price at which all really good and practical works have hitherto been issued. To remove this difficulty has been the principal motive which has induced the Proprietors of "PHILIPS' PENNY MODERN ATLAS" to issue a work which they feel satisfied will be universally admitted to be surprisingly cheap, and not surpassed in usefulness by any attempt hitherto made to extend the knowledge of Geography.

----

LIST OF THE MAPS