CHAPTER XXI.

Morning--Institutions--Daily Meal Society--Its rise and progress--Lazaretto--Destitute Females' Friend Society--Its origin and purpose--Friendly societies--Bible Society-- Missionary associations--Temperance Society--Juvenile Association--Ladies' Clothing Society &c.--Banks--Library Society.

Another morning is come--a bright glorious morning: the sky is as deeply blue as the breast of the kingfisher, except where here and there a snowy pyramid of clouds mounts slowly up the heavens. Through the open windows of my apartments, a rich flood of sunshine pours in, and plays upon the floor in many a fanciful chequer. The bright red flowers of the "Scarlet Cordia" hang in tasteful branches from among their broad green leaves, and attract the attention of the little humming-bird, who, in their changeful plumage, flit around, and rob the flowers of their liquid sweets. The breeze is as gentle as an infant's sigh, a dreamy stillness is abroad, and--but what was that?--rain, I declare! A gloom has silently and suddenly overspread the sky; the late white-robed clouds have become covered with a darkened hue; the wind has raised its pipe; the rain comes pouring down, and chases away my feathered favourites. I can write no more of bright skies and glowing sunbeams, and therefore I must proceed in my task, which the beauty of the morning drove from my thoughts; and having already attempted a description of the buildings of St. John's, I shall now endeavour to give some account of its institutions.

The first to be placed upon the list, not from the number of years it has been established, but from its extent, is the Daily Meal Society, for information respecting which I am indebted to the Rev. Robert Holberton. This society, intended for the purpose of "supplying the sick and needy, of St. John's and its neighbourhood with a daily meal," was established in the year 1828, the management of its affairs being "undertaken by a committee of seven gentlemen in the town, (the present Speaker of the House of Assembly being the treasurer;) three of the clergy, (the Rev. Robt. Holberton being the secretary;) and five of the medical gentlemen." They hold their meetings in the churchwarden's office, and on the 18th of June, 1828, a female superintendent was appointed at a salary of 50l. currency per annum. A "soup-house" was erected in the yard attached to the superintendent's dwelling to the east of the church, the land being allowed to the society, free of rent, for the space of seven years by the heirs of "Donovan's Estate." A ship's boiler having been presented to the society, it was immediately put into requisition, and the first meal distributed the 2nd of August, 1828, to thirty-six persons.

Up to that time there was no parochial relief for any black or coloured person; and consequently, when the establishment of such a society became known, the sick and aged among those classes eagerly sought for shelter, and an alleviation of their distresses. The medical gentlemen of St. John's having offered to attend gratuitously, in monthly rotation, the cry of these unfortunate people was responded to; and five small houses, adjoining the "soup-house," having been first rented, and afterwards purchased by the society, fourteen of these afflicted ones were received and succoured. Many a poor outcast found his throbbing heart at rest when possessed of these humble accommodations; many a sufferer had his pains alleviated, and the oil of mercy poured into his wounds. Five or six successful amputations were also performed there during that early period.

The rise and progress of this institution is so interesting, that I think I cannot do better than follow up the account of it, in the words of the Rev. Mr. Holberton, published in a "Brief Review:" "After the destructive hurricane of 1835, (when this society was found signally useful in furnishing a comfortable meal daily to the houseless poor,) the unappropriated residue of a grant from the legislature, for restoring some of the damaged houses of the poor of St. John's, was handed over to the committee of the Daily Meal Society, with the understanding that shelter should be given to those whose houses were considered past repairing. This testimony of public confidence, together with a handsome private donation of 90l. sterling, occurring at the very time when the land on which the institution had stood for seven years was required by the owner, stimulated the committee to attempt to re-establish it on a more extensive scale."

Mr. Holberton proceeds to pass some high encomiums upon the Very Rev. the Archdeacon Parry (late of Antigua) for the great interest felt by him in the success of the society--encomiums, no doubt, richly his due; but the rector was necessitated to forego mentioning what it is in my power to do, that it was principally through his own kind heart, and from his deep Christian principles, which led him to exert every energy in its behalf, that the Daily Meal Society had its origin, and is in its present flourishing condition.

Mr. H. proceeds: "Chiefly at his" (the archdeacon's) "instance, a successful application was made to the legislature for a piece of land near the rectory, 300 feet long by 100 feet wide. This was enclosed with strong palisades, and within were erected a kitchen, or 'soup-house,' of stone, 30 feet long and 15 wide, a wooden house, 60 feet by 20 feet, divided into six apartments, capable of accommodating four persons in each. A well was also dug 24 feet deep, and four of the wooden houses which stood on the old site were transported to the new one. The expense of effecting these objects amounted to 1300l. currency, of which about 1000l. currency was raised by subscriptions. This establishment was opened on 8th March, 1837, under the name of the _Asylum_, and has been providentially raised up to meet, in the most satisfactory manner, the various cases of distress that have occurred since the general emancipation in 1834, and has effectually done away with begging in the streets of St. John's."

As leprosy is a frequent disease among the negroes, and, from its contagious character, doubts had arisen upon the propriety of admitting persons suffering from that dreadful complaint into the asylum, it was determined in 1836 to open a subscription list for the purpose of erecting another building for their reception. That they might have the benefit of sea-air and sea-bathing, the site chosen for it was by the sea-side. This building was commenced in 1837, and "although, from want of funds, scarcely one of the two wings could be completed, admission was given to five leprous persons on the 25th of April in that year." The society, however, "was compelled to declare that, without parochial allowances, the institution must fall to the ground. The claim to such help was at once seen to be most reasonable and highly needful, and the desired combination of _parochial_ with _voluntary_ relief was speedily effected. The legislature granting 600l. currency the following year, the debts were paid off, and the building finished and publicly opened under the title of the Lazaretto, on the 20th June, 1838."

The Lazaretto consists of "six rooms for females and six for males, capable of accommodating three in each, besides one small room for one person only. The enclosed yard has been, for the most part, converted into plots for provisions, and for keeping poultry in. Some bamboos have been planted, which will in time afford materials for making baskets, about which one of the men is industriously employed, and by the sale of his work contrives to purchase clothes for himself, at half-price, from the Ladies Clothing Society. All the inmates appear thankful and contented, and some have shewn a readiness to receive scriptural instruction that is very pleasing." Poor creatures! some of them are, indeed, objects for the deepest commiseration, but their sufferings are alleviated as far as possible. Their residence is a delightful situation; the sea-breeze comes so pure from off the bosom of the ocean, that one would suppose disease must fly before it. From the farthest point of the land runs a causeway over to Rat Island, (the promontory already mentioned as being the site of one of the forts,) made about the year 1748, and which is passable at ebb-tide. Upon this promontory, which rises in the form of a steep mount, a lunatic asylum has been built during the past year, (1841,) the legislature having voted a sum for that purpose, for the use of such inmates of the institution as have shewn symptoms of aberration of mind.

In 1838, the legislature gave a further grant of 500l. currency to the society, for the purpose of erecting "a separate ward for the male patients, with ten apartments capable of accommodating four persons in each," in that part of the establishment situated near the rectory, which was finished and opened on the 15th July, 1839. An iron tank, capable of holding 7000 gallons of water, has been imported from England, and placed in the yard of the same portion of the institution. In 1840, the title of the society was changed from that of "The Asylum" to "The Daily Meal Society's Infirmary and Lazaretto," by which latter designation it is now distinguished.

This establishment is, indeed, the only infirmary and hospital in the island, (with the exception of the cast-iron hospital at the Ridge, near English Harbour, for the use of the troops;) and not only the destitute poor of St. John's, but the poor from all the other parishes are admitted into it, as well as distressed and destitute sailors. The best medical attendance is procured for them; wine and other strengthening nourishment administered to the sick; and three wholesome meals allowed to each individual per day. Bedsteads and bedding are also supplied, there being "in the female ward six, and in the male ward ten furnished apartments, ready for the reception of patients at the shortest notice."

Nor are these the _only_ accommodations this inestimable charity affords to the poor and distressed of our species, there being seven detached houses on the opposite side of the inclosure, capable of containing two, three, or four persons in each. "In these separate dwellings infirm persons are distributed, whose complaints, habits, or tempers, render it expedient that they should be kept by themselves. One house, fronting the burial-ground, is reserved for the reception of the dead previous to interment, and is used for a dissecting room when required. Eighty inmates can be comfortably accommodated at the infirmary." The income for the last year, (1841,) including subscriptions, donations, legacies, and parochial relief, was 1361l. 0s. 4½d. currency, the expenditure, 1225l. 4s. 4d.; the latter sum would have been of greater extent was it not from the kindness of many of the Antiguan proprietors, in presenting each a barrel or two of sugar.

Thus have I gone with Mr. Holberton through the "rise and progress of the Daily Meal Society." Perhaps some of the truly charitable inhabitants of dear old England may be induced to send their mite across the waters in aid of this society, of whose existence they may probably not have been hitherto aware; and as I knew it was out of my power to use more cogent language-- language which speaks to the heart--nor advocate the cause so well as our excellent rector, I have therefore quoted so largely from his "brief review," feeling assured he will pardon me, and hoping my readers will bear with me. In conclusion, I will once more use his words and say--"It is undeniable that the hand of God has been over it to sustain it in its small beginning, to uphold it in every difficulty, and to raise it to its present prosperity. To God, then, be all the praise; and may the success with which He has been pleased to crown the exertions of the society provoke every member and friend of it to increasing diligence in these works of charity, for which there will still be a continual call."

The next charitable institution to be mentioned is "the Destitute Females' Friend Society," or, as it is now termed, "the Female Orphan Society." This latter title is, however, a misnomer, for but few of the inmates are orphans in the true sense of the word, they being, but with few exceptions, the illegitimate children of black or coloured women, (by white or coloured persons,) whose parents, still alive, are, from penury, incompetent to maintain them, or are living in a state of concubinage, and consequently not proper guides to youth.

This society, which is invaluable, and is well known in England by its first name, although, perhaps, lost sight of in its modernized title, was established about the year 1816. The origin of it was as follows:--

"The attention of a few pious and benevolent individuals of the female sex was called to the situation of an indigent class of coloured children of their own sex, (for whom there was then no parochial relief;) and witnessing with feelings of poignant regret their moral and religious degradation still more than their bodily necessities, they were impelled to exert, in connexion with a few other friends, all their united energies for the amelioration of the condition of these unhappy children, and thereby lessen the evils resulting to the community in general from a generation growing up without religious or moral cultivation. To effect these desirable objects, it was resolved to make an immediate and bold attempt.

"The attempt was bold, because it could not be carried into execution by persons circumscribed in their means of doing it without the concurrence and aid of others like-minded, and of whose co-operation they were not assured. Encouraged, however, by one whose heart devised liberal things, though possessing himself little power to accomplish them from his own resources, but favoured with influence over some who considered themselves as stewards appointed by God to benefit their fellow creatures, and assured by him of competent aid from England, if it could not be obtained in Antigua, a commencement was made by a few subscribers, chiefly respectable coloured persons; and several children were immediately taken to be clothed, fed, and instructed; and when the plan was made known to the community at large, and to other benevolent individuals in England and Scotland, the society, by their generous assistance, grew into its present state of maturity. Such was its origin, and we cannot but observe in it the benefit resulting from a social compact to do good to our fellow creatures--the design to rescue from the paths of the destroyer, and to train in those of piety, industry, and useful occupation, the objects of their care. The success, though not in every instance unfailing, has been considerable. A few, there is reason to hope, are where sin and sorrow cannot enter. Others, as useful domestics, or conductors of their own households, testify to the truth of the fact.

"Three of the elder girls have been sent into creditable situations, with a prospect of comfort to themselves and usefulness to their employers. Four more have been admitted to fill their places. Seventeen are now in the house. The committee would not arrogate to themselves any undue merit; but they gratefully receive the meed of approbation awarded to them by the frequent application they have for the admittance of children, and for girls to fill the place of servants."

I have quoted so largely from the reports of the society (1841) for two reasons--first, because the committee are, and of course ought to be, better acquainted with its proceedings than myself; and secondly, because its details are related with a striking simplicity of style, which must speak to every breast not devoid of the "milk of human kindness," and I am sure no words of mine would be able to influence further the minds of those benevolent persons who, through the medium of these pages, may become acquainted with its existence, and feel wishful of adding a trifle to the funds of this invaluable society.

That it is an invaluable charity none can deny, for it strikes to the root of all West Indian misery--_illicit love_; and what can be more acceptable to "the community at large" than the endeavouring to inculcate into the minds of its youthful members the doctrines of chastity and diligence in well-doing? The twenty-sixth anniversary of this society was held on the 31st December, 1841. The children, inmates of the house, are taught reading, writing, and arithmetic, and are instructed in all the arts of female plain-work,--straw-bonnet sewing and cleaning forming one branch of their employment. Their earnings for the last year were 107l. 0s. 7½d. currency, out of which, 5l. 13s. 10½d. had to be deducted for materials to carry on their different works. The matron receives a salary of 60l. currency per annum, and the children are clothed and boarded, and have medical attendance found them; and when death sends forth its summons, and any of the inmates fall a prey to its inevitable shafts, their last resting-place is provided, and the funeral expenses paid.

The next institutions worthy of mention are the town and country "Friendly Societies." They are formed upon a similar plan to some of the "poor men's clubs" in England, and prove of great assistance to the members in times of sickness and trial. The St. John's Friendly Society was established in 1829, under the auspices of that zealous minister, the Rev. R. Holberton, and was intended to promote good feelings among the lower classes, to assist them in procuring articles of mourning, aid them in times of deep distress, help those incapable of helping themselves, and encourage sobriety and industry among them.

After the abolition of slavery, in 1834, many of the negroes removing from the estates to which they formerly belonged, and other estates not finding medical advice for their labourers, as in times of slavery, it was found necessary to enlarge the rules of the society; and by increasing the amount subscribed by every member, provide them with a doctor when ill, a certain sum per week during indisposition, and upon demise twelve dollars for the funeral expenses.

The first country Friendly Society was established in 1832; but since that period they have rapidly increased. "In 1834," remarks Mr. Holberton, "there were eleven societies, with 1602 members; in 1835, 4197 members; in 1836, 4560 members." The Moravians and Wesleyans have each their Friendly Societies, formed and conducted upon a similar plan.

On the first of January, 1842, I visited St. John's church, to hear the anniversary sermon preached to the society. The members met at the parochial school-room, where they formed into a procession, the women first, and the men following behind, and marched to the church, headed by the Very Rev. the Archdeacon, the Rev. Mr. Holberton, the rector, the Rev. Mr. Piggott, and the Rev. Mr. Saulez. The morning service having been performed, and a very suitable and excellent sermon preached by the Rev. Mr. Piggott, the members again formed into ranks, and marched back to the school-room, where the report of the society was read, short addresses made, and refreshments handed round, when the whole party dispersed. I could not help remarking the smart appearance of the members--such rainbow ribbons, and stylish bonnets--such parasols and sandals--such blue coats and white trowsers!--as made their appearance on that day would surprise any one.

The next society, which by-the-bye ought to have been mentioned first, as being the oldest in the island, is the Bible Society, organized in 1815. It is comprised of every sect and shade in the island, and its interests are managed by an efficient committee. After the abolition of slavery in 1834, the parent society sent a "munificent grant, by which a choice portion of the Holy Scriptures was gratuitously circulated to about one-third of the inhabitants of this colony. Nine thousand seven hundred copies of the New Testament, bound together with the Book of Psalms, were thus placed at the disposal of the committee."

The remaining societies are the "Missionary Associations" connected with the Wesleyan mission, established in 1820, and intended for the purpose of raising funds for the parent society in England. The "Temperance Society," introduced into Antigua in the year 1836; the "Juvenile Association," established 1815; the "Ladies Clothing Society," (or Dorcas Society,) and two other associations belonging to the established church, and known as the "Society for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge," and the "Branch Association of the Society for the advancing the Christian Faith in the British West Indies, &c." The Moravians have also a Missionary society, established in 1839.

Having now gone through the charitable institutions, I must proceed to mention the "Banks," of which there are two in the island--the "Colonial Bank," incorporated by royal charter, 1836; and the "West Indian Bank," in 1840. The first of these banks issues a very neat note, (from five dollars [1l. sterling] and upwards,) bearing a lithographed representation of the royal arms, and encircled with a very prettily designed border; but the "West Indian" disseminates the most frightful "paper money" I ever witnessed. Some of their notes are _red_, and others _blue_; who was the designer of the "arms" which grace the head of them I know not, but they appear to be in direct opposition to all laws of heraldry. The shield (of an oblong figure) is divided into _three_ quarterings: 1st, or, an eagle (apparently) sable, beaked, rising from the sea; 2nd, gules, a ship full-rigged, argent; 3rd, azure, a castle, argent, battled. The supporters are two dwarfish cocoa-nut trees, (palm?) apparently springing from the same root as their companions, two gigantic pine-apples; the whole surmounted by the crown of England. With regard to the benefit which the establishment of these banks has rendered the country, various opinions have been formed.

After the "Banks," the only remaining institution to be mentioned is the "Antigua Library Society," which according to its "rules and regulations," is devoted to "the gradual formation of a permanent library of general literature, and the establishment, in connexion with the library, of a reading-room, to be furnished with newspapers, journals, pamphlets, periodicals, and other new publications."

Now it is well known that we live in an age of puffing, as well as steaming, and it may be imagined by some, that these caterers for intellectual sweets have fallen short of their promises. Not so, kind readers; take my word for it there are few better organized societies of the kind to be met with, or whose well-filled shelves bear a richer burden. Books to suit every taste (and every _age_ I might say--for our friend "Peter Parley" displays there the hidden treasures of the "earth, the sea, and skies," to the delight of the youthful reader,) may be found in this Library Society. Theological, metaphysical, biographical, historical, and lighter works, abound. Poetry is not excluded; our own sweet bards, from good old Chaucer, that "father of English poetry," down to the soft strains of Mrs. Hemans, or L. E. L., rank among its selections.

Of modern works there are no end. There, the irresistible charms of that "Wizard of the North," the late Sir Walter Scott, with his "Jenny Deans;" his high-minded "Flora McIvor;" his unfortunate "Bride of Lammermoor," and all his other "gentle dames" and "lordly knights," are displayed before the enraptured reader. There Marryat amuses with his _naïveté_, and those stirring incidents of a sailor's life, he knows so well to picture. There, "Boz" carries you perforce from the hut to the castle, and makes you weep or laugh in each. There are Bulwer and Ainsworth, who draw their gentlemen-ruffians in such a guise as to lead one to admire even a housebreaker or highwayman; Cooper, who makes us long to lead the life of a backwood's-man; James, with his darling peeps at "by-gone days;" the dear Miss Mitford and Mary Howitt, whose simple annals and sylvan scenes almost bring before us the lovely fields and sweet flowers of England; Mrs. Gore, with all her pageantries; Mrs. Trollope, with her playful but keen sarcasms; the Countess of Blessington, with her elegant diction and pure imagery, as lovely as her own sweet form; with many other authors of note, are equally at the command of the subscribers to this Antiguan bibliotheca.

This society has been established for many years, but it was not incorporated by an act of the legislature until 1839, during the government of Sir Wm. Colebrooke. The members are elected by ballot, and after subscribing for ten years, they become free of the library, retaining all the privileges without being called upon for payment.

The library is kept in the upper part of a large house, well adapted for the purpose, consisting as it does of two good sized apartments, with library tables, covered with respectable green cloth, and pamphlets of all sorts and sizes; the sides of the room are lined with bookcases. Altogether it is an admirable society, and I strenuously advise all inhabitants of Antigua, whose ideas are not absolutely tied down to "profit and loss," to become members; they cannot spend their spare money more agreeably, nor while away their leisure to better purpose.