ines an almost equally large number. The milk of 140 cows, obtained
from four of the largest dairies in Scotland, is consumed at the various
branches every day; and the consumption of "cookies" and rolls averages
20,000 per diem. Some idea of the quantity of porridge consumed may be
gathered from the fact that the cost of oatmeal is from L90 to L100
monthly; and of eggs, butter, butcher's meat, and vegetables the
consumption is fabulous. The average daily number of visitors to the
depot at its various branches since the month of August last has been
10,000 to 12,000. The daily attendance at the present time is greater
than it has ever been before. The attendance is not confined to working
men, so called. Clerks, shopkeepers, and strangers to the city patronize
the depot most liberally. And well they may, for when eggs are selling
elsewhere at 1s 4d they can be had in the "Great Western" for a penny
each, and other provisions are sold in the same proportion. This result
is only possible by balancing one period of the year with another, so
that when provisions are much cheaper the difference will be made up.

The question has often been asked, why has the Great Western Cooking
Depot turned out such a marvellous success as compared with institutions
of a similar kind in other parts of the country? The most simple and
correct answer is that other cooking depots though similar were not the
same. An attempt was made in London some years ago to establish a
restaurant on the same principle, but although it was backed by the
advice and influence of Lord Houghton and some other leading men, it
proved a complete failure. It is a trite saying that "too many cooks
spoil the broth," but in this instance the saying was verified. A large
committee was appointed to take charge of the arrangements. A committee
means divided management and conflicting opinions. So far as the Great
Western is concerned, everything from the out set has been under the
control of one man (Mr. Jenkins) who still continues to preside over the
destinies of the institution. But the vigorous and able management of
the Great Western had not more to do with its success than the demand
which it was fitted to supply. There had been nothing of the same kind
previously in existence, and it was only necessary for the establishment
to be opened to command support. With regard to its moral aspects, the
depot occupies a high platform. Nothing in the shape of intoxicating
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