In matters touching the public weal, the Editor of "N. & Q." always finds
space for his correspondents: a few lines are asked for the present
subject, as being one on which his pages have already been earnestly
devoted.
The rebuilding of Brighton old church has been announced, and those who
have frequented the salubrious breezes of that unequalled marine residence
have often enjoyed the commanding view of the town and noble sea, which is
obtained from the hill on which this venerable fabric stands, and which is
about to disappear and perhaps "leave not a wreck behind."
The church is literally lined and flagged with monuments of the dead, more
or less noted; but all of whom have passed through the stage of this life
away from their native localities, and many falling where they went to seek
in vain renovated health.
The tombs in the churchyard, immediately adjoining the church, of Capt.
Tettersell, who conveyed King Charles to France after the battle of
Worcester; and Phoebe Hassell, who fought under the Duke of Cumberland at
Fontenoy, are continually surveyed by the old visitors. In a few months it
may be too late to suggest to your friends interested in the preservation
of monumental remains, and their inscriptions, to prevent such a similar
removal and destruction as has taken place at Lambeth, under the walls of
the Archbishop's residence, by the rector, church-wardens, and architects
of Lambeth new church.
A notice to those interested in the history of the county of Sussex may be
the means of preserving at least the inscriptions, and calling attention of
the amiable and respected vicar of Brighton to a consideration of the
subject.