126 Bath in its relation to Literature. 



smile, the soirees resembled in some respects the Shakspere 

 clubs of modern times. Later there were symposia in Bath 

 at the houses of eminent physicians and others noted for. 

 their love of letters. Dr. Haygarth and Dr. Percival had 

 stated days for reunions, which call to mind Edinburgh in 

 the time of Scott and Jeffery, and Norwich in that of the 

 Enfields, Taylors, and Martineaus. Afterwards, in 1825, 

 arose a society still flourishing — the Bath Literary and Philo- 

 sophical Association. The chief object of the founders was 

 evening meetings at the Institution, at which Papers should 

 be read and discussed, with the additional refreshment o 

 tea. One of the earliest Papers was Mr. Hunter's, on " The 

 Connection of Bath with the Literature and Science of 

 England." After some years the Association collapsed, but 

 was, ere long, revived and is now vigorous. In addition 

 to these public gatherings are some of a more quiet and 

 friendly character. The Bath Literary Club, formed in 

 1852, has monthly meetings in the winter, dinner preceding 

 Papers and discussion. Its chief founder was Mr. J. H. 

 Markland, D.C.L., F.R.S., F.S.A., who was the genial Pre- 

 sident in the earlier years. The number of ordinary mem- 

 bers is 30 ; honorary members are sometimes added, and 

 visitors are invited to the meetings. The Papers are occa- 

 sionally printed. Now in its thirty-sixth year, only two 

 original members surviving, the Club still prospers, keeps 

 up its number, and fulfils its useful object — the union of 

 men of kindred tastes and pursuits. 



At an early meeting a Paper was read by Mr. 

 Former Monkland, on the " Literature and Literati 



Literati. 



of Bath. It was pubhshed and followed by 

 a supplement, both containing some of the information now 

 given. The author included many Literati who were only 



