Recollections of John Pounds: Feeding the Children by Reverend Henry Hawkes

On my way back to my lodgings in High Street, I had to pass the old cobblers shop. As I drew near, I heard many children’s voices, chattering and laughing all together. The upper part of the door was open, as usual; and his little tumble-down window was open too, Looking in; – there was the good old man in his glory! – in the midst of a host of little girls and boys, crowding about him, with merry laughing looks and voices! Read more…

Recollections of John Pounds: Continuing my Tour of Portsmouth by Reverend Henry Hawkes

It was no easy thing to get away from the old cobbler. For though we had repeatedly bid him Good Morning, he had always something else to tell us, or show us; his heart was so thoroughly in all he was doing. At last – we were determined! But as we went away from his door, I could not help feeling sorry for him; he seemed so desiring to tell us something else about his doings. Read more…

Recollections of John Pounds: I meet John Pounds by Reverend Henry Hawkes

“Well, Mr. Pounds, here you are.” “Yes, here I bes.” “Busy as usual.” “Yes I’ve always something to do.” “I’ve brought our new Minister to see you.” The old man deliberately raised his head from his work, and said. “Yer sarvant Sir:” – and fixed his large eye full upon mine, with a penetration, that at once I felt. – There’s strength of character there. “I’m glad to be introduced to you, Mr. Pounds;” I replied. Read more…

Recollections of John Pounds: My Introduction to Portsmouth By Rev’d Henry Hawkes

The next morning, about ten o’clock, w were on our way to the old cobbler’s. It was a beautiful morning in May; the sun was shining bright, and the air was refreshing. Going out of High Street, by Golden Lion Lane, we entered St. Thomas’s Street, and turned to our right. “As you are new to Portsmouth,” Mr….. said, “it may perhaps be interesting to you if I point out some of the characteristics of this garrison town.” Read more…