shown that the peculiar features of refreshments, smoking and draughts, did not answer the original expectation; that the society was over £90 in debt, to meet which there was only the library and the furniture, which, perhaps, would only sell for £30. The expenses were £30 a quarter, and the income from 100 members was only £12 10s. Even with the £80 given them in the first year and with 200 members, they could not pay their way, and it was concluded that it would be best to close the society at the end of the quarter. It was, however, resolved that Messrs. Gabb, Harvey and Cole be a committee to investigate the affairs and report thereon.
A Benefit Fête for the Atheneum took place in the Halton-House grounds, by permission of P. F. Robertson Esq., M.P., on the 18th of September, the music for which was supplied by the town’s subscription band. I have no note of this fête, but whatever it may have been, it did not prevent the society breaking up. Hence, on the 31st of October its doors were closed after three rears existence, and subject to heavy debt.
Sold Out. The books, fittings and fixtures of the defunct Atheneum were disposed of by auction on the 19th of December, realising the amount of £47 10s. The London and County bank took the premises that had been occupied by the society, as well as the underneath shop that had been vacated by Mr. Ives.
The Literary Institution.
It being known that the Hastings Literary and Scientific Institution was also not in a flourishing condition, the committee of the Mechanics’ Institution made an offer to purchase the building, although with a balance of only a few pounds in hand; where the purchasing money was to be obtained, was, probably, only known to themselves. The reply to that offer will be found in the decision of the Literary Institution at a special meeting held on the 11th of December. It was then “Resolved that the offer of the Hastings Mechanics’ Institution to purchase the building and fixtures for the sum of £1400, in order to use the same as a library, museum and lecture room, be not accepted.”
The Society’s Condition. – At a meeting held on the 29th of December, it was “Resolved that a committee be formed, consisting of the Rev. Thos. Vores, Wm. Scrivens, Rev. John Parkin, Dr. Greenhill and Michael Collin, to consider the condition of the society, and to report what alterations and improvements may be made in its condition and management.” Also “resolved that Wm. Scrivens, W. J. Gant & J. Crosbie be a committee to report on the condition of the Library generally, and the number of missing books.” The reports of the -
