visited
it in 1775, and then complained of its " mixture of pomp and tatters."
At that time exquisite velvet, and tapestry-hung beds, and Chinese silk
embroideries, were to be seen, in rooms of which the floor was only
plain deal; whilst Silver chandeliers, black with age, and tarnish,
hung suspended in chambers where great cabinets full of priceless
miniatures, and piles of Chelsea china, had been lying almost for
centuries, undusted, and untouched. But now, during some years past,
Ham House has been adequately kept up ; and the Earl of Dysart takes
great pride in his beautiful old country seat.
Is
it in the least unreasonable to believe that the former possessors of
these rare treasurers, particularly the old Silver belongings, have
left behind them, as retained therein, attributes of mind, and body,
which will actively revive under favourable conditions 1 Indeed, it is
said already, as a matter of tradition, that visitants from the land of
ghosts (perturbed spirits these, in all probability) have been
recognised within the corridors, and chambers of Ham House. Thus
likewise beneficent souls which are now enjoying the rest and perfect
peace of Paradise, may be still diffusing from fondly-prized relics
left behind them, some of the noble excellences, or the sterling
simplicity of character, which distinguished these worthy ancestors on
earth. Furthermore, is it not more than likely that the special store
now set on old family plate, on tankards, coffee-pots, and the like,
(which realise at the present time up to seven, or eight pounds an
ounce,) may be actually dependent on some such an occult cause,
unsuspected, but none the less actual, as that which we have suggested 1
Antique Silver fabricated into articles of ornament,
