A retreat for times of ill humour. This term has largely become obsolete, which is strange, given that so many people seem to have a place to go when they are in a bad mood - a place to be alone and think. It's similar in meaning to the Latin-derived sanctum sanctorum, with the added connotation that the individual in question is going to the place to be alone while upset.
Seen on Forthwright's Favourite Words.
A well-known drinkery down the street where all the disgruntled employees who did not get a raise go to gripe.