Page:A tour through the northern counties of England, and the borders of Scotland - Volume I.djvu/30

 large collection left by the original founder, none of which, are allowed to be removed from the library on any account. The inner room, equally large with the other, contains the books purchased by the monies arising from the entrance deposit and the annual subscriptions; these are arranged against the sides, and divided into two parts by a gallery. The books in this room may be taken out by the subscribers, and carried home; returnable, however, after a certain time. Two librarians are appointed to regulate the establishment; the chief of whom has a house appropriated to his use, and a salary of 70l. per annum.

Nor should I forget, whilst thus enumerating the good points of Bristol, to mention its many humane establishments for the comfort, solace, and relief of poverty and sickness. The celebrated Colston, a second Man of Ross, has immortalized the character of the Bristol merchant by some of the most noble institutions that a private individual ever had either ability or liberality to establish. His school, in particular, which gives education, board, clothing, and subsequent settlement in life, to the children which it receives under its protection, does honour to his understanding as well as his heart; and at once attaches to his character the two most glorious titles of—wise and good.