On Mill Rock, a strong block-house was erected during the war of 1812; and on Hallett's Point, a military work called Fort Stevens was constructed at the same time.

Near Hell-gate the Harlem River enters the East River, and not far distant are Ward's and Randall's Islands. These belong to the corporation of New York. The former contains a spacious emigrants' hospital,

THE HUDSON.

and the latter nursery schools for poor children, and a penal house of refuge for juvenile delinquents. This is a delightful portion of the East Eiver, and here the lover of sport may find good fishing at proper seasons.

"Ward's Island contains about 200 acres, and lies in the East Eiver, from One Hundred and First to One Hundred and Fifteenth Streets inclusive. The Indians called it Ten-Tcen-as. It was purchased from them by First Director Yan Twilles, in 1637. A portion of the island is a potter's field, where about 2,500 of the poor and strangers are buried annually. The island is supplied with Croton water. A ferry connects it with the city at One Hundred and Sixth Street. Randall's Island, nearly north from Ward's, close by the "Westchester shore, was the residence of Jonathan Eandall for almost fifty years ; he purchased it in 1754. It has been called, at different times. Little Barn Island, Belle Isle, Talbot's Island, and Montressor's Island. The city purchased it, in 1835, for 50,000 dollars. The House of Eefuge is on the southern part of the island, opposite One Hundred and Seventeenth Street. There youthful criminals are kept free from the contaminating influence of old ofi'enders, are taught useful trades, and are continually subjected to reforming influences. Good homes are furnished them when they leave the institution, and in this way the children of depraved parents who have entered upon a career of crime, have their feet set in the paths of virtue, usefulness, and honour.]