5 
sound, while the parapet though renewed in portions at 
least more than once, is now again ruinous. In the resto- 
ration of these parts wherever practicable, the stone must 
be used in its bed, or decay will again spesdily commence. 
These are the principal causes which have reduced this 
magnificent building to so lamentable a condition. And 
when we consider that it contains 8 bells suspended at a 
height of 90 feetfrom the ground, which with their framing, 
altogether are nearly equivalent to a weight of 15 tons,* 
and that this ponderous mass is so often set in violent 
motion, we shall be only surprised that greater evils have 
not ensued. The bell ringing has no doubt increased the 
defects alluded to. I am inclined to believe that the 
Tower will be quite qualified to resist this strain when 
strengthened by the modes proposed. 
Another source of mischief has been the fall of water 
from the roof to the ground, on the north side; much of 
the decay on this side of the building, is to be attributed 
to this cause, and when any restoration takes place, the 
water must be conveyed down by a proper pipe fixed within 
the Tower. 
Having thus laid before you the result of the investiga- 
tion undertaken at your request, I have little further to add. 
We have undertaken the, in some respects not pleasant 
duty, of making the public fully acquainted with the decay 
of a very noble edifice. It does not perhaps form a part of 
our commission to dwell on its great merite. Well known 
throughout England as the Tower of St. Mary Magdalene 
in Taunton, is, any eulogies would be superfluous. 
The duty of those to whom the task of reparation shall 
be confided, must be limited to one objeet. The restora- 
tion of every feature and moulding to as good a condition 
as that in which its original builder left it. Old stones 
should not be re-cut to make them look like new. Lichens 
and moss are more picturesque than new ashlar. Where 
necessary the old work must be cut out, and new inserted, 
and if for a time the Tower wears rather a party coloured 
aspect, it will be preferable to that of one uniform smart- 
ness, and will soon tone down to an agreeable hue again. 
On the succeeding sheet will be found a list of the por- 
*] cannot answer for the striet aceuraey of this weight, the bells not 
being all marked, 
