Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 93, September 24, 1887

A lively, tongue‑in‑cheek portrait of the French spa towns that once drew the fashionable crowds of the late nineteenth century, this work blends travelogue with social commentary. The narrator strolls through Royat’s lofty hotels, critiquing their doll‑house façades, and offers a witty inventory of the local baths, theatres, and the strict curfew that governs the baigneurs’ nightly routine. Along the way, he proposes a series of practical reforms—earlier lights‑out, outdoor entertainment, and more disciplined schedules—to transform the resort into a healthier, more genteel haven.

The narrative then turns its eye toward neighboring towns such as La Bourboule and Mont Dore, noting the shared source of their mineral waters and the slightly different character each place has acquired. With a blend of humor, observation, and earnest suggestions, the author paints a vivid picture of a bygone era of continental leisure, inviting listeners to imagine the bustling promenades, the clink of glasses, and the careful choreography of a season that prized both elegance and well‑being.