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14
polluted as to be unfit for dietetic purposes. The
Thames was often in high flood even in summer,
and much filthy matter, ordinarily retained in sewers
and cesspools during the summer months, was swept
into the river.
In June and December the Lea water was also unsuitable
for dietetic purposes.
The deep well water, supplied by the Kent and
Colne Valley Companies, and by the Tottenham Local
Board, is unaffected by animal or vegetable life ; and as
it is exhaustively filtered and purified by percolation
through great thicknesses of porous strata, artificial
filtration is unnecessary. Throughout the year it was
uniformly clear, transparent and wholesome, and of
most excellent quality for dietetic purposes.
For the preceding observations, as well as for the
information conveyed in the annexed Tables, shewing
the condition of the London waters, I am indebted to
Dr. Frankland's Annual Report to the Registrar
General.
The demand for a pure, cheap, and constant supply
of water is increasing; but public opinion has nct yet
matured as to how that supply can best be obtained.
I have the honour to be,
Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
JAMES STEVENSON,
Vestry Hall, Paddington, Medical Officer of Health.
November, 1879.