loo LONDON PARKS & GARDENS 



and curious shrubs, has now taken possession of the 

 large circle of people who profess to be gardeners. Apart 

 from the question whether the present fashion has taken 

 the best direction for the advancement of botany and 

 horticulture, it is evident no society can prosper unless 

 it directs its attention to suit the popular fancy. No 

 doubt this worthy Society will realise this, and emerge 

 triumphant from its present embarrassments. 



The third and best known of the societies is the 

 Zoological one. What London child has not spent 

 moments of supreme joy mingled with awe on the back 

 of the forbearing elephant ? And there are few grown 

 persons who do not share with them the delight of an 

 hour's stroll through the " Zoo." More than ever, 

 with the improved aviaries and delighful seal ponds, is 

 the Zoo attractive. It was the first of the three Societies 

 to settle in the Park, having been there since 1826, 

 Some of the original buildings were designed by Decimus 

 Burton, who, next to Nash, is the architect most as- 

 sociated with the Park. The Society was the idea of 

 Sir Thomas Raffles, who became the first President in 

 1825. In three years there were over 12,000 members, 

 and the gardens were thronged by 30,000 visitors. A pass 

 signed by a member was necessary for the admission of 

 every party of people, besides the payment of a shilling 

 each. An abuse of this soon crept in, and people waited 

 at the gates to attach themselves to the parties entering, 

 and well-dressed young ladies begged the kindness of 

 members who were seen approaching the gates. Now 

 only Sunday admittance is dependent on the members. 

 A Guide to Regent's Park in 1829 gives engravings of 

 many of the animals, and shows the summer quarters 

 of the monkeys — most quaint arrangements, like a pigeon 



