Punch (8.1845)

THE ANTI-CORN LAW LEAGUE BAZAAR.

THE conversion of Covent Garden Theatre into a Gothic Hall is a transformation
so complete, as to be worthy the best days of Pantomime and the high reputation of
our old friend Grieve. The massy beams of § canvas, emblazoned with the Anti-corn
Law cognizance—the roof of stained calico admitting " a dim rushlightish light," the
Chinese lanterns trying to look Gothic, all tend to aid the delusion without entirely-
dispelling it. The aspect of the place
is not, however, more marvellous than
the regularity of the proceedings, when
it is remembered that a commitue
of one thousand ladies has had the

management of the arrange-
ments. Scarcely a town has
been without a female secretary
and a committee or local ladies,
all of whom have had a voice in
the matter ; so that the unani-
mity with which the plan has been carried
indeed wonderful.

The contributions to the bazaar comprise every con-
ceivable commodity. We were particularly struck with
three or four free millstones, which would form an elegant addi-
tion to the bijouterie of a lady of fashion. Some highly-polished
circular saws seemed to be objects of great attraction, and we can
fancy a gentleman presenting to his lady-love one of them, labelled,
trifle from the League Bazaar."

There is a post-office, too, where you may buy one of our old jokes
and a smile—such a smile !—for sixpence. The pretty politicians who
preside at the various counters fulfil their task with admirable tact,
and we repeatedly fouud our hands diving into our pockets, in obedience
to the mute solicitations of the bright eyes of the fair Leaguers.

Contributions to the Bazaar.