BHOWANIPORE LUNATIC ASYLUM.                            127

Grounds.

Grounds.—These are small for an institution of the kind, but they are admirably kept,
and beautifully ornamented with creepers and shrubbery. A spacious shed, roofed with
iron, has been erected in the back part of the compound, where the women sit and walk
morning and evening. This has been artistically covered with creepers, which serve the
double purpose of ornament and protection from the sun. Great credit is certainly due
to Dr. Payne and Mr. De Vere for the manner in which the grounds have been planned
out. The shrubs and plants are not only pleasant to look at, but they temper the fierce
heat of the summer weather, and so add to the comfort and health of the inmates.

Sanitary ar-
rangements.

Hygieny sanitary arrangements.—The place throughout, is kept scrupulously clean and
white-wash is freely used on the walls and drains ; so that a dirty spot is scarcely visible
anywhere. The lavatories and bath-rooms are crude and insufficient; but these defects are
largely supplied by the good management of the overseer and matron. Every patient has
a douche daily all the year round, and this appears to be enjoyed by all. The habits of the
patients are these. They rise at 4 o'clock in the morning, breakfast at 7 in summer, and at 8
in the cold season; dine at 1 throughout the year, have tea at 6, and retire to bed between
7 and 8. In addition to the above meals, they have tea or coffee, with biscuit at 6, A.M.

Establishment.

Establishment.—Mrs. De Vere died in the year under review. Gifted with tact and
kindliness of heart to win the trust of the patients, and with the capacity to manage them,
and the arrangements which conduced to their well-being, her death is a serious loss to the
asylum. Mr. De Vere, whose heart is in his work, has discharged the duties of his office with
the same success as in other years. Mr. Franklin, assistant overseer, is a painstaking, careful
man, and has deserved well. Mrs. Hamilton, who has officiated as matron since her mother's
death, is anxious after, and attentive to, the welfare of the patients.

Repairs, &c.

Repairs, &c.—The central building has been partially repaired during the year, and
the wall round the women's dormitories has been thrown back, thus enlarging the court-yard,
and so adding to the comfort and convenience of the female patients.

FORT WILLIAM, BHOWANIPORE,
            The 17th April 1873.