Part 10

The student, labouring hard to master the difficulties of the magnificent but stern profession of the Law, must often feel his heart stir within him with emulation, when he remembers how many are the celebrated men who have also studied diligently beneath the shelter of these gray old walls, or who have reposed, perchance, at times beneath the spreading branches of the grand old trees.

The gates of the Temple of Fame are open to every man, if he can but win his way up the steep and thorny path that leads to its golden portals.

None, however, can grapple with the difficulties of the road but the courageous, the resolute, and the talented.

Woe to him who lingers or faints by the way. To the laggard, as to the weakly, the shining temple becomes but a glittering mist. It is there, but unattainable. He who falters or shrinks from the struggle can but veil his head in grief and disappointment, as those aspirants who are made of stronger and sterner stuff than himself pass him in the race.

Centuries roll on, generation after generation passes away; but those who love this venerable and time-honoured Society, trust with heartfelt affection and gratitude that there will ever be some "Chronicles of this Old Inn."

CHARLES DICKENS AND EVANS, CRYSTAL PALACE PRESS.