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Westminster School

This school was founded by queen Elizabeth in 1560, for the education of 40 boys, denominated the queen's scholars; who are taught in the best manner, preparatory to the university. It is situated within the walls of the Abbey, and does not occupy an entire building, the lower story being used for other purposes. It is separated into two schools or divisions, comprising seven forms or classes. Besides the scholars on the foundation, many of the nobility and gentry send their sons to Westminster for instruction, so that this establishment vies with Eton in celebrity and respectability. They have an upper and an under master, with numerous assistants. Of these masters many have been eminent in the walks of literature, but none in this or any other seminary so celebrated as Dr. Busby. His severity of discipline forms the subject of various facetious anecdotes, and has made his name proverbial; but while England records with pride the names of her learned and able men, justice will always be done to the ability, industry, and discernment of Dr. Busby, who discovered, with infinite sagacity, the peculiar talents of his pupils, and with unremitting assiduity urged them forward in those paths where they were most likely to meet with fame and advantage.

Source: Leigh's New Picture of London. Printed for Samuel Leigh, 18, Strand;
by W. Clowes, Northumberland Court. 1819