Not long ago I came across the very first number of that short-lived, but excellent, Dublin paper, The Jarvey. It was edited by the late Percy French, and contained many unsigned articles and verses in which his delightful form of wit was plain to see.
A series known as the "Jarvey Guides" flits from place to place in the city and its suburbs, and introduces visitors to such places as Rathmines, Phoenix Park, and Harcourt Street Railway Station.
Writing of this railway station the anonymous guide says: "This magnificent edifice must be seen to be appreciated. Having inspected the artful works depicted on the hoardings outside, the short-sighted visitor will probably be struck by the antique pillars which support the frontage. Having waited in the dilapidated entrance hall long enough to get a ticket, he will then mount the steep steps leading to the platform. From this spot a train is dispatched at the anniversary of every hour - circumstances permitting, of course.
"The simplicity of the scanty furniture in the waiting-room is a merciful dispensation of directors. By this means passengers are prevented from lingering sufficiently long in the gloomy apartment to contemplate suicide."
Since this was written in 1899 the station has brightened itself up a little.
The Irish Times, February 1st, 1939.