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41
the Basin of bilge water, night soil, and
other descriptions of filth.
Dr. Sanderson added that in the opinion of the
Vestry these evils could only be remedied by the
adoption of the following measures—(1) To renew
the water every year at least three times during the
summer months; (2) To make and enforce on all
persons carrying on trade in manure or other offensive
matters, and on all bargemen, such regulations
as regards the construction of their barges and
landing places as are necessary to prevent the spilling
or soakage above referred to, and to prohibit
the discharge of soil, bilge water, or other offensive
liquids into the Basin. Dr. Sanderson further
expressed a decided opinion that the changing of
the water was in every respect preferable to the
employment of any means of disinfection. In May,
however, ten tons of chalk-lime were introduced
into the water and scattered over its surface. The
supply of water did not permit the Basin to be
emptied before June, when it was found that the
depth of the mud did not exceed a few inches in
any part except in the neighbourhood of the bridge,
The improvement in the health of the surrounding
inhabitants, and particularly of the families of the
bargemen, consequent on the removal of the water,
was marked. In the summer of 1866 it was necessary
that the Basin should be emptied. This was