A subscription has been raised for an organ, which is now building by Gray, of London.
MAGNA CHARTA ISLAND.
(To the Editor.)
An early and constant subscriber to the Mirror is very much pleased with the view of Magna Charta Island, in No. 467; but there is something more attached to this spot than the Editor seems aware of.
About half a mile from Magna Charta Island, on the right bank of the river, in the parish of Wyrardisbury, is a farm house, for many years past in the occupation of a family of the name of "Groome," as tenants to the late Alderman Gill, holding an estate in the aforesaid parish. This farm house was a residence of King John, whose arms are beautifully, painted, or emblazoned, on stained glass in the windows of the house.
In the kitchen of this farm-house is, or has been, a table of antique manufacture, upon which the identical Magna Charta was signed, and upon which the writer hereof has written and sealed many a letter, and partaken of many a glass of home-brewed ale, and bread and cheese equally homely—that is, genuine. This table is considered as an heir loom in the family of Mr. Gill, and if removed at all, has been removed to the manor-house.
It is an erroneous idea that Magna Charta was signed on Runnymede: it was signed on Magna Charta Island, which goes a great way to prove the identity of the table. If reference is made to the signing of treaties generally, as well in ancient as in modern times, it will appear that they have been signed at a distance from the scene of action; each party (particularly in feudal times) being attended by an equal number of adherents, to prevent surprise or stratagem.
The writer hereof has caught many a trout and perch off the banks opposite to the island, and has passed many a contemplative hour on the events of former ages, which have rendered the spot particularly interesting.
Gray's Walk, Lambeth.