NEW PICTURE OF LONDON; OR, A VIEW OF THE POLITICAL, RELIGIOUS, MEDICAL, LITERARY, MUNICIPAL, WITH PLAN OF LONDON, AND MAP OF THE ENVIRONS, 68. AND 110 VIEWS, 98. Do. Do. Do Do. Do. Do. Do. 1824-5. PREFATORY ADDRESS. THE unexampled success which the New Picture of London has enjoyed from its first publication, has prompted the editor to renewed exertions, and the present edition is respectfully submitted to the public, as a faithful picture of the existing state of the British Metropolis. The editor was induced to undertake this work in consequence of the glaring blunders, and palpable inattention, so conspicuous in all preceding guides; which, notwithstanding a pompous display of recent dates on their title-pages, were calculated to defeat the objects of the purchasers, by erroneous descriptions; and, at the same time, to exhibit to foreigners a disgraceful specimen of the actual state of the arts of printing and engraving, in the most opulent city in the world. To point out particular portions of the New Picture of London to the public attention might appear unnecessary, for it is presumed that the most prominent features åre portrayed in their just proportions; while the subordinate and minor objects have been sketched with a minute regard to their relative situation and importance in the general group. A correct history of London, from the earliest period to the present moment, will be found in a condensed form; but in sufficient detail for general information. The work will also afford a distinct view of the Political, Religious, Medical, Literary, Municipal, and Moral state of the British Metropolis, at this period. All the establishments connected with Literature appeared to demand especial notice, and the description of the British Museum may be referred to as a specimen of the great care bestowed on this department. The state of our Police will interest those who feel a laudable anxiety for the improvement of public morals, which are so intimately connected with the increased prosperity of the country. The several establishments for the education of the rising generation well deserve attention, as some of the proudest monuments of our national glory. The history of British Legislation, and the peculiarities which distinguish the two houses of Parliament, will at once gratify the youthful reader, and convey that kind of information with which every Briton should become early acquainted. The magnitude of our Commercial affairs, the public Companies, Docks, Markets, &c., have received their due notice; also the Public Buildings, National Establishments, and other important edifices. The Places of Public Amusement, and the Exhibitions of Works of Art have been described at considerable length; and as the Environs of London present attractions to the native as well as to the foreigner, a concise account of them has been subjoined. It must, however, be admitted, that with the utmost care and diligence, perfection is unattainable; but the editor has exerted himself to the best of his ability to deserve success; indeed, he challenges a comparison with any similar work, and leaves the decision to an impartial and discerning public. Any corrections, or suggestions for the further improvement of this Guide, will be thankfully received, addressed to the editor, at No. 18, Strand. CONTENTS. HISTORY of London, tracing the Origin and Foun- dation of the City, with the rise and progress of its Privileges and Immunities; and the gradual |