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THE RETREAT.

R. ALEXANDER D. ALLEN 'S institution for the treatment of mental diseases, is three miles from Armagh, and one mile and a half from Richhill railway station. Its situation, in the midst of hills, gives to the name Retreat a most agreeable significance.
There is nothing to be seen in the immediate surroundings to indicate restraint. The buildings stand in tastefully kept grounds, the view of which, from the public road, is unobstructed. Walks for exercise lead for a mile through lands, the property of Mr. Allen, passing for some distance along the banks of a shallow stream, shaded by trees, and at every point suggestive of repose. The late Mr. John Allen, a member of the Society of Friends, and father of the present proprietor, founded the Retreat, in 1824. He had had many years experience at the asylums of York, and Bloomfield, Donnybrook, and approached the work on his own account under the conviction that the strict application of the humane principle would enable him to effect a large percentage of permanent cures. The blessings of the system which he practised soon became known, and the Retreat, from a very small beginning, grew to the present extensive proportions. Mr. Alexander Dawson Allen was associated in the management with his father, and practically succeeded him in 1854. The capacity of the Retreat is for thirty-five patients, a fact which occasions surprise to the visitor, considering the extent of the buildings. The explanation is that the patients have the freedom and comforts of a comfortable home, roomy apartments for social intercourse, lofty halls, and single bed-chambers. The proprietor and members of his family live in the Retreat, and patients who are progressing toward recovery have their meals at the same table. Servants ' quarters also take a considerable space. The facilities for service are so ample that any patient willing to pay for it may have a special attendant. Invalids of both sexes are admitted. The ladies are cared for under the supervision of the Misses Allen, and the gentlemen under the supervision of Mr. Joseph Allen. Lawn tennis, cricket, quoits and bowls form the principal out-door amusements. Various simple games, and dancing are provided for pastimes in-doors. Shower, reclining and sitz baths are given freely. Restraint is never used unless it can 't be avoided, and it is very rarely required. Religious services are held by clergymen of the. Church of Ireland and Presbyterian Church once a fortnight, alternately.
The farm attached to the Retreat, consisting of twenty-nine acres, supplies it with plenty of fruit, vegetables and milk.