§ Lord Wharncliffesaid, he had a petition to present to their lordships, on a subject which was well worthy of their attention. The petition was signed by the inhabitants of the western portion of the metropolis. They stated, that the water taken up from the river Thames, at a certain spot, for their use was charged with the contents of the great common sewers and the refuse of hospitals and slaughter-houses; and they prayed their lordships to appoint a committee of inquiry. He was not, however, certain that the best mode of effecting the wishes of the inhabitants would be by appointing a committee. At present, he should only move, that the petition be read, and on Monday he would call the attention of the House to the subject.