A Peep at the Gas Lights A scene in Cockspur Street following the installation of gas-lighting. On the far left a young man points to one of the lights, and explains to his female companion: "The coal being steam'd produces tar or paint for the outside of houses - the smoke passing thro water is deprived of substance and burnt as you see". Next to him an Irish man says: "Arrah Honey, if this man bring fire thro water we shall soon have the Thames and the Liffey burnt down - and all the pretty little Herrings and Whales burnt to cinders". A large man looks up at the light and comments: " [Wauns?] what a main pretty light it be we have nothing like it in our country". His companion, a Quaker, replies: "Aye friend, but it is all Vanity, what is this to the inward light". Next to them are a prostitute and her client. She complains: "If this light is not put a stop to we must give up our business. We may as well shut up shop". Her client replies: "True my Dear not a dark corner to be had for love or money". [23 Dec 1809]