The Turnpike Gate.

1879 HENDERSON ENGLISH COACHING SCENE

In 18th century England many roads were regulated through Acts of Parliament which allowed bodies of local trustees to levy tolls on the users of a specified stretch of road, generally around 20 miles in length. The tolls were applied at the turnpikes which were usually gated. Set on a star studded night a four-in-hand is let through the turnpike by the gate keeper still in his night attire.

References Mackenzie, Ian British Prints 1987 Pg 113 Mitchell, Sally Dictionary of Equestrian Artists 1985 pg 258