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into the ground. These influences, however, in dry seasons, like that of
last summer, produce a noticeable diminution in the quantity of water
left for use ; a deficiency which would be fully and conveniently supplied
by the springs ia the bottom of the well, were it not for the fact that
when the water is pumped too low, these springs, which are below the
bed of Charles River, press in with such violence as to render the
water turbid with sand, and in this way materially to injure the polished
surfaces of the metallic pumps.

The reservoir on the hill can be easily filled by working the engine
for a few hours every morning. With this supply it is found that the
smaller fountain in the Lawn can be made to play with clear water during
the whole day, and the larger fountain also for about an hour in
the forenoon, and as long in the afternoon. If certain hours are fixed
for the latter purpose, spectators will be able to time their visits accordingly,
and experience shows that temporary spectacles are often better
appreciated by visitors, than those which are perpetual.

If more fountains are hereafter constructed with the present supply of
water, they will have to alternate in operation with those already existing.
And if more water is wanted, it can only be obtained in this place, by
sinking more or deeper wells, an undertaking which would be difficult
and expensive on account of the existence of quicksand at a certain depth
in this part of the grounds.

The culvert ae in the last Annual Report, has this year been
finished and covered in, completing an important amount of drainage,
and affording a nearly level bed for the smaller or branch water pipe.

The ground which constitutes the Lawn west of the gate, being too
low for Cemetery purposes, has been divided into two parts. The lower
part contains the basin and surrounding area of the fountain; while the
upper part has been raised about four feet and laid out into lots, some of
which have already been sold at an advanced price.

For the protection of visitors who may be detained at the Gate in
inclement weather, a stone roof, as described in the last year’s report,
has been thrown over the two recesses in rear of the entrance. They
are finished with cornices and Egyptian columns, conforming to the style
of the rest of the Gate.

The catacomb or receiving tomb, announced in the last year’s report as
being under contract, is not yet completed, owing to some unsettled
questions with the contractors. Most of the stone work, however, is said
to be in a state of forwardness.