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gale of wind, to be levelled with, the ground, and thus possibly
occasion the loss of human life.
Considering the trade, or combinations of trades carried on at this
place, I have no hesitation in recommending the Vestry to exercise
their full powers in remedying its existing condition, which is productive
of present nuisance, with great risk of ulterior disease.
In order to render these premises in a fit condition for carrying
on the various processes, without injury to the inhabitants of the immediate
neighbourhood, a complete renovation of the paving and
drainage are necessary.
The present health of the parish is now in a very satisfactory
condition. The deaths in the week ending September 18th, being 31;
while the average for the last 11 years was 37; and for the
week ending Sept. 25th, 14, the average being 37. We had only one
fatal case of small pox in Metcalfe Court, the family in which it
occurred appear poor, almost in destitution, the room crowded and
dirty, scarcely habitable; it would be most desirable to remove them
to some other abode, and require the landlord to cleanse and limewash
the floors, walls, and ceiling before it is again inhabited.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
JOHN CHALLICE, M.D.,
Officer of Health.
TO THE VESTRY OF BERMONDSEY.
November 1st, 1858.
Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen, —On several occasions it has been my
duty to bring before your notice complaints by the inhabitants of the
district, of irregular and inefficient water supply. Your attention this
evening is earnestly requested to some practical suggestions in relation
to this important subject, inasmuch as in almost every instance of complaint,
explanations have been afforded by the Engineer to the Water
Company, which appeared to remove the cause of complaint from their
shoulders, to other circumstances over which they have had no control.
I am extremely anxious that a thorough inspection and investigation
should take place, as deprivation of this primary necessity of life, health,
and comfort, is often most severely felt by the working classes in some
of the crowded districts of the parish, creating not only discontent, but
tending also greatly to the production and aggravation of disease.
I may I trust be pardoned by the Vestry, if I recommend that some
enquiry should bo made, as to the working of improved modes of water
supply in the neighbouring and other districts,—before coming to a resolution
on this question, I am induced to suggest this, as I have reason
for believing that the system of constant supply is in operation in the
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