One hundred years ago
IN the Times of Tuesday, Lord Grim- thorpe gives an exhibition of that de- light in literary insolence which disting- uishes his style of invective. With the intemperance which characterises most amateur architects, and always this one, he declares that the picturesque gate- way of Lincoln's Inn, and the only other portion of the old buildings of the Society which now remain, must be pulled down, and he no doubt intends that they shall be replaced by modern structures as gaunt and yet pretentious as those that already disgrace the grea- ter part of Old Square. Fortunately, a band of lawyers have combined to try and save the gateway, and to preserve not only an exceedingly interesting piece of architecture, but a building which has a crowd of historical associa- tions. Secretary Thurloe's chambers were in the threatened block, and here Cromwell often came to consult on weighty affairs of State. Milton, too, as Latin secretary, must constantly have had business to transact at LinColn's Inn. Surely the public will not allow Lord Grimthorpe to destroy a structure so closely connected with the memory of one of the greatest of Englishmen.
The Spectator, 19 July 1890
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