SKETCHES BY A PRACTISING ARCHITECT. 61 



— but in that regard for political economy which 

 has pervaded the more enlightened of our gentr5^ 

 When the science becomes more thoroughly known 

 to them, and pervading also among all classes, then 

 will England's importance become still more impor- 

 tant. So is it with the Arts. The enlightenment of 

 the general pubHc is the measure required ; and, to 

 this end, we may hope, that, for every architect in 

 the Architectural Society, we may have a hundred 

 educated gentlemen. These remarks are of course 

 directed to those who cannot enjoy the mirth of that 

 quackery to which the former part of this sketch 

 alluded. There may be some who would grieve to 

 find out, when too late, the ridiculous aspect of the 

 houses they have built, or the pictures they have 

 purchased. ^* Where ignorance is bliss, 't is folly, 

 &c." — the proverb is somewhat musty. There may 

 be others, who would become bitter under the dis- 

 covery ; and then, in Christian charity, we should be 

 obliged to withhold our laughter. Awakened to a 

 sense, that they are living — not in houses — but in 

 cabinets — they would fret under the idea, that they 

 themselves might be regarded as curiosities ! 



Gently, then, let any desired reform be brought 

 about. Do not at once, deprive the mistaken of 

 their happiness, and the informed of their food for 

 mirth — If the regular architect get into universal 

 favor, the nation will become severely dignified. We 

 shall possibly make our neighbours stare with admi- 

 ration ; but " Laughter " will no longer " hold both 

 her sides " in merry England. 



