The filthy condition in which the several little parks or squares with which the city of Philadelphia is studded, has long been a surprise, not to say disgust, to intelligent visitors to this city, and has often been commented on in this magazine. Last year there was some improvement, for which we gave credit to the Commissioners of City Property. This year they were wretched as ever. In regard to these squares the public prints have the following account of the proceedings of the Finance Committee of City Councils, considering the appropriations for 1883 :

"The appropriations to the Department of Markets and City Property was next taken up. The total amount asked for was $179,283, an increase of $40,321 over the appropriation of this year.

"The items in the bill were approved until that for the improvement of public squares was reached. It amounted to $70,000, subdivided as follows: Franklin, $20,000; Logan, $20,000; Rittenhouse, $20,000; Jefferson, $10,000.

"Mr. Wolverton moved to strike out the whole item, saying that the city's finances were not in a condition to stand such an expenditure.

" Mr. Lex seconded the motion, stating that he hoped that the squares could be improved out of the surplus fund this year.

"Gen. Snowden moved to except 'Franklin Square, $20,000/ from the motion to strike out.

"The motion was agreed to, making the total reduction in the bill of $50,000."

If these squares could only be kept decent, so that those who believe that cleanliness is next to godliness might have some encouragement, they would not look so very bad, even as they are. Still if they are "improved," they may have to be kept cleaner, and it is a gain that even one a year falls into the line of decorum.