Page:Item 10 1862.pdf/61

From Historical Hastings
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which we now see open, that I may have the pleasure of first tasting the water which is to flow from it, as we hope in a never-failing stream. It is quite impossible for me adequately to express how deeply gratifying to my feelings is such a mark of your respect. The inscription which you have done me the honour to place on its base states that it is dedicated to me "on grateful remembrance of the benefits which I have conferred on the town and neighbourhood." It is difficult for me to say how much you estimate those benefits above that which is due to myself. It has pleased God to place me in a position which enables me to use a portion of that which He has so bountifully bestowed upon me for the good of my fellow creatures. To Him, therefore, be all the praise. Many would do the same if they had the power. But as I have derived the desire to promote His honour and glory through the teachings of His holy word, as set forth in our admirable church services my mind naturally turned towards assisting in the building of churches and schools. How much others have done in completing these works is plainly seen in the beautiful church before us; and I am sure I shall be excused for alluding to the very handsome donations of our worthy Bishop of the Diocese and Mr. St. Quintin at the commencement of the church, and to Miss Sayers who contributed so large a sum towards completing the east end of the Holy Trinity church [Hear, hear!] for the day will most assuredly bring back to her remembrance the many happy years in which she celebrated the anniversary of her birthday with one who it has been the unscrutible will of our Heavenly Father to remove from her by death. And how has she been under this heavy infliction? May we all follow her good example." Her ladyship then tasted the water and handed it round to others, after which she declared the fountain to be open. The structure was built by Mr. John Howell from designs of Mr. Toulon of London; its style is gothic with rich carvings; its height about 18 feet; and its cost about £200. Among its inscriptions is the following:-

To Sarah,
Countess of Waldegrave,
In grateful commemoration of the constant
support by her afforded to the religious
And benevolent institutions of the
Borough and neighbourhood.
Erected, 1861,
By subscriptions
of the inhabitants
of Hastings and St. Leonards.
Including the pence of children and
young persons educated in
the National Schools"