archery grounds and throw
sticks held out their attractions to the adepts in such practices,
and roundabouts and swings were ready to gratify the tastes of the
adventurous. Kensington Gardens were, as usual, open to the public,
and not a few who were fearful of joining in the crowd, contented
themselves here, in viewing the gay scene from a distance. Timorous,
however, as they might be, of personal inconvenience, they did not
fail to enjoy the opportunities which were afforded them of looking
into the book of fate; and we observed many of the fairest parts of
the creation busily engaged in deep and private confabulations with
those renowned seers, the gypsies.

"With regard to those persons who visited the fair, we must say we
never saw a more orderly body. From an early hour the visitors were
flocking in; but it was not until Her Majesty had gone to Westminster
Abbey that the avenues approaching Hyde Park became crowded. Then,
indeed, the countless thousands of London appeared to be poured
forth, and all seemed to be bound for the same point of destination.
Thousands who had taken up their standing places at Hyde Park Corner,
poured through the gate; whilst many who had assumed positions at a
greater distance from the Parks, passed through the squares and
through Grosvenor Gate. Every avenue was soon filled, every booth
was soon crammed full of persons desirous of procuring refreshment
and rest after the fatigue of standing so long in the crowd to view
the procession.

"These, however, were not the only persons who joined the throng.
Every cab, coach, or omnibus which had been left disengaged, appeared
to be driving to the same point, full of passengers. Fulham, Putney,
Mile End and Brixton alike contributed their vehicles to carry the
people to the Parks, and thousands from the very extremity of the
City were to be seen flocking towards the Fair. All seemed bent on
the same object, that of procuring amusement, and work seemed to have
been suspended, as if by common consent. While the East-end thrust
forth her less aristocratic workmen, the West-end was not altogether
idle in furnishing its quota to the throng, and we noticed many
really elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen alight from their
carriages to view the enlivening scene; and many of them, who were,
apparent