ioo 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 
