This fine establishment, which serves as a focus for the sale of estates and other property by public auction, is both useful and ornamental; it was built about the time when the spirit of combination was so strong in London.

You must know, some years back, every kind of business and trade appeared likely to be carried on by Joint Stock Companies, and the profits divided upon small shares.

Many Fire-offices have to date their origin from this source--the Hope, the Eagle, the Atlas, and others.

The Golden Lane Brewery was opened upon this principle; some Water Companies were established; till neighbourhood ~319~~ and partnership almost became synonimous; and, I believe, among many other institutions of that kind, the Building before us is one.

It contains many handsome rooms and commodious offices; but, as for offices, every street and every alley abounds with them, and, now-a-days, if you want to hire a Cook or a Scullion, you have nothing to do but to send a letter to a Register-office, and you are suited in a twinkling.