The new-comer into the service speedily takes all these conveniences and comforts for granted, and perhaps is aggrieved because arm-chairs and lounges are not yet provided; but the middle-aged official, who remembers times when nothing apart from his work was ever considered by his chiefs, rubs his eyes sometimes and wonders whether it is all a dream.
King Edward's Building is in keeping with all the traditions of the City of London. Charlotte Brontë in Villette says: “I have seen the West End, the parks, the fine squares: but I love the City far better. The City seems so much more in earnest: its business, its rush, its roar are such serious things, sights, sounds. The City is getting its living—the West End but enjoying its pleasure. At the West End you may be amused, but in the City you are deeply excited.” That is the mood which will possess the visitor as he leaves the new building.
Here is a list of the huge buildings which now make up the London General Post Office:—
1. G.P.O. North. For the Postmaster-General and the offices of the Secretary, Accountant-General, and Solicitor.
2. G.P.O. West. For the Central Telegraph Office and Engineering Staff.
3. G.P.O. South (Queen Victoria Street). For the Telephone Department.
4. King Edward's Building. For the Controller of the London Postal Service and his staff and for the E.C. and Foreign Sections of the Sorting Office.
5. Mount Pleasant. For the Inland Letter and Parcel Sections of the Sorting Office, Returned Letter Office, Telegraph Factories, &c.
6. West Kensington. For the Post Office Savings Bank.
7. Studd Street, N. For the Stores Department.