Picnic to the Asylum Patients

THE WEEK. On Tuesday the 4th instant a picnic of an unusual kind was given at Woodman's Point near Fremantle. Ten of the female patients in the Lunatic Asylum accompanied by Dr and Mrs. Barnett, and by the matron and one assistant matron, passed a most agreeable day in the country. Music was provided and the patients danced vigorously and frequently; at times they collected under a tree and sang together; one or two of the voices being very sweet and plaintive. The drive to Woodman's Point and the exercise of dancing on the grass during a strong sea breeze combined to freshen the appetites of the party, and very full justice was done to an ample and comfortable cold dinner provided by Mr. Albert. After tea had been made and partaken of, the dancing recommenced; and ultimately all returned safely and pleasantly to Fremantle. Not a single unpleasant circumstance occurred during day which will be marked by a white stone in the memories of the patients, all of whom expressed warmly the gratitude which they felt for the kindness shown to them, and the enjoyment they had experienced in getting such a pleasant change to the monotony of their usual life. This is the first time that a picnic has been attempted from the Asylum and its complete success ought to serve as an example for similar occasional parties. In other countries it is customary to provide funds for such amusements by public subscription and on future occasions, it is hoped, an appeal to the public will enable the patients to enjoy a little variety. Such an excursion as that which they have had is not only a harmless pleasure but a potent means of benefit to them physically and mentally.