metalled and gravelled paths are now the rule, well-laid-out gardens have been formed, many acres have been brought under cultivation, and with all that is yet to be achieved, the work of the institution can be proceeded with with comfort. Mr. Macdonald, who with his co-labourers bore the heat and burden of the day, is, after the long period of 25 years' good service, still connected with the institution.
The main building, which can accommodate 500 patients and 50 of a staff, was commenced in 1879, and its erection occupied three years. Mr. R. A. Lawson was the architect, and Mr. J. Gore the builder. In architectural design it is said to partake somewhat of the form of Balmoral Castle, and its cost, all told, including the meat-house and laundry (separate buildings), attendants' cottages, the reservoir, &c., exceeded £100,000. It is 568 feet in length, by 228 in width at the broadest part, and the tower, in which there is sufficient space for a clock, and a large circular opening on each of the four sides for the dials, is 160 feet high. The spaces for the dials, 11 feet in diameter, are of course at present boarded up. In front the building rises three stories, and in the back part two stories. As seen from the Heads, or the Ocean, or the Waitati Cliffs, it is a very prominent land-mark. The Recreation Hall, which is also used for Divine service, and is capable of accommodating between 800 and 900 persons, has a large stage at one end, and a tastefully-formed gallery at the other end. The principal stage-drop is a fine view of Dumbarton Castle from the sea, the work of Mr. Willis, the well-known scenic artist. The dining hall, equal in size to and directly under the recreation hall, is a handsome room. The large day-rooms throughout the Asylum are carpeted or matted, as far as possible a homely appearance is given to them, the walls are profusely hung with pictures, and strong padlocked screens securely fixed in front of the fireplaces effectually protect the patients from fire. From the windows of the rooms on the second and third stories a magnificent view of the Heads and of the Ocean out to the horizon is obtainable. The airing courts are large, and each has a verandah running the whole length to shield from rain or from the sun's heat, while in the centre of each is a large, circular flower-plot. The Medical Superintendent's quarters are still in
