The Merry Past 



which consisted of water, intersected by other foot- 

 paths. 



Within the angle formed by the return of the 

 moat, opposite the gate of Queen Square, and within 

 the hedge, stood the Fishing House, a large building, 

 which had been charming, but for years before 

 its removal had fallen into decay. In its general 

 appearance it resembled the orangery in Kensington 

 Gardens. But although it was a very large building 

 it was very much smaller than that greenhouse. 

 A moderate-sized dwelling-house adjoined the great 

 room, and had been in all probability the residence 

 of Governor St. Evremond when he commanded 

 the island, as well as devoted to any other purposes 

 which might have commended themselves to Charles 

 and his merry companions. 



Before the alterations of 1770 this spot had become 

 very desolate, everything having a forlorn and un- 

 tended look. 



The water was crowded with reeds and rushes, 

 but still contained fish and some ducks. The small 

 walks which surrounded the water, and had been 

 gravelled, were overgrown with high grass and weeds. 

 In what had been their borders were some degenerate 

 flowers mixed with the weeds, with some bushes and 

 willow or other trees, some of which had grown to a 

 great height, giving the place an appearance of being 

 deserted. The island, once the scene of so much 

 unrestrained gaiety, was situated on the neglected 

 side of the Park, and as admission to it could not be 

 obtained but by application, which few were willing 



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