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much thereby. In this case we were well rewarded for making so simple an inquiry, for the stranger, noting the interest we took in the fine old building, appeared forthwith to take an interest in us, and thereupon offered to show us over it himself—a civil word how profitable it sometimes is!—he even appeared to enjoy his self-imposed task of doing duty as a guide. Possibly it pleased him to have a talk with a sympathetic soul as it did another antiquary we met later on, who on parting with us jokingly remarked: "It has been a treat to exchange views with a brother lunatic!" so bearing this in mind we chatted with our new friend about things old, of bygone times, and of antiquarian-lore galore—for he was a man whose life seemed in the past, his conversation gave one the impression that he was born at least a century too late for his own pleasure. The result of our discourse was that on leaving the hospital we had so gained his good-will that he further offered to show us something of the town, "As strangers might readily miss so much, and I should like to point out to you a few of the chief objects of interest"; then he added, "It will not be any trouble to me; I've nothing particular to do this morning." We were only too glad to accept his kind aid, and greatly did we enjoy our exploration of Stamford under his helpful guidance.

But to "hark back" a little. Upon entering the old hospital our attention was called to the carved stone figure of the founder over the door-*way, where he is shown holding a plan of the building in his hands. Then we were led into a