THE ARMY AND NAVY CLUB-HOUSE.
In anticipation of the full possession to be taken of the new Pall Mall Club-house by the members on Tuesday next, it has been opened this week for the inspection of visitors. That the building is fitted up with every ap- pliance of ease and luxury, persons familiar with any of our London clubs will not require to be informed ; that portion of the subject, there- fore, which concerns itself with mirrors, carpets, furniture, Sm., may be safely dealt with by foregone conclusions. The most remarkable feature of the edifice (though we may be thought to hazard a paradox in saying so) consists in the almost total absence of distinctive character : beyond the external cornice of dolphins and other emblems, a similar cornice round the entrance-hall, and the occasional introduction of mural and naval crowns, the only clue to the specialty of its destination is to be found in various portraits of distinguished members of the two services. Mr. Grant's equestrian likeness of the Queen occupies what may be the place of honour, but is certainly not the point of sight. A work of Grobe- lins tapestry, presented by President " Prince " Bonaparte, also adorns the grand staircase.
The "morning room" has a very handsome and imposing effect ; the deep rich tones which characterize it being tastefully relieved by light and elegant decorative carvings,—a style which prevails in several apart- ments. The smoking-room has been painted by Mr. Sang in German fashion ; but its appearance, with a pale sea-green as the prevailing co- lour, is cold, and, we think, inappropriate.
The club-house, it may be remembered, is built from the designs of Mr. Parnell and Mr. Alfred Smith.
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