174 
in a very ruinous and dangerous condition, but they are now splendidly restored, 
and the work most admirably carried out and accomplished without an accident. 
The height of the tower is 80 feet from the ground ; spire and vane 116 feet, 
Total height 196 feet. 
They who remember the church prior to 1869 will bear me out when I say 
that almost every architectural feature was as good as obliterated. 
So after the very pleasing result obtained through the care and genius (as yet, 
I grieve to say, quite unremunerated) of my friend the architect, Mr. Thomas 
Edgar Williams, of Victoria-street, Westminster, who has devoted much time and 
zealous care and skill to his work, that utterance of Mr. Ruskin, in his ‘‘ Letters 
from Venice,” does not apply (if in any) certainly not in this case :—‘“‘ Of course all 
restoration is accursed architects’ jobbery, and will go on as long as they can get 
their filthy bread by such business.”—J. R., 1877. 
Some crumbs of comfort, I am sure, may fall to my friend’s lot when you 
gentlemen pass your verdict upon his work. G. M. M. 
