“ The town of Gouda is laid out in a fine open manner and, like other Dutch towns, is intersected by numerous canals. On its outskirts pleasant walks and fine trees have replaced the old fortifications. The Groote Markt is the largest market-square in Holland. ”

“ In the time of the counts the wealth of Gouda was mainly derived from brewing and cloth-weaving; but at a later date the making of clay tobacco pipes became the staple trade, and, although this industry has somewhat declined, the churchwarden pipes of Gouda are still well known and largely manufactured. In winter-time it is considered a feat to skate hither from Rotterdam and elsewhere to buy such a pipe and return with it in one's mouth without its being broken. ”

“ Tramways connect it with Bodegraven (51⁄2 m. N.) on the old Rhine and with Oudewater (8 m. E.) on the Ysel, and there is a regular steamboat service in various directions, Amsterdam being reached by the canalized Gouwe ”