'Now, _I_ look at it in this way.

It's to celebrate the fiftieth year of the reign of Queen Victoria--yes: but at the same time, and far more, it's to celebrate the completion of fifty years of Progress.

National Progress, without precedent in the history of mankind! One may say, indeed, Progress of the Human Race.

Only think what has been done in this half-century: only think of it! Compare England now, compare the world, with what it was in 1837.

It takes away one's breath!' Thus Mr.Samuel Bennett Barmby, as he stood swaying forward upon his toes, his boots creaking.