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“The London of the last generation is, day by day, being rent away from the sight of the present, and it is well that Mr. Timbs is inclined to walk and talk about it ere it vanishes altogether, and leaves the next generation at a loss to understand the past history of the metropolis so far as it has a local colouring, as so very much of it has. . . . . Much of this has now gone for ever, but our author has watched the destructive course of the ‘improver,’ and, thanks to his industry, many a memory that we would not willingly let die is consigned to the keeping of the printed page, which in this instance, as in so many others, will doubtless prove a more lasting record than brass or marble.”—Gentleman’s Magazine.

“Pleasantly communicative as to every relic of the past, and every notability of the present. The present volume is an encyclopaedia of local lore, and will be popular far beyond the boundaries of the kingdom of Cockayne.”—Morning Post.

“This amusing volume contains, as might be expected from its authorship, much curious information on the changing manners and altered sites of London. The natural extension of the limits of the metropolis, as well as the demolition of buildings which clears the ground for improvements, is sweeping away many memorials of the past, over which we may linger in these Walks and Talks. . . . . This, and other entertainment and instruction of a similar kind, is provided in the present little book of chatty perambulations.”—Reader.

“In this new and exceedingly pleasant book of Mr. Timbs’s, reference is made to the varied aspects under which London appears, and to its being a subject which is always new; while it seeks to show what has been lost or gained by modern change, the volume is crammed with pleasant gossip about persons, places, and events connected with London.”—City Press.