302 OLD WEST SURREY 



repose that closely clings about our churchyards, but the 

 safeguard of their being in the absolute guardianship of 

 the clergy. The most passing glance at the places of 

 burial of the two countries would show the most careless 

 observer what a precious thing it is that our own church- 

 yards are so guarded. 



I cannot write these words of unfavourable criticism 

 of anything French, without accompanying them by an 

 expression of wonder, that, among a people so distinctly 

 gifted as a nation with a just appreciation of what is 

 beautiful and seemly, and so well trained in their excellent 

 government technical schools, this crying abuse in their 

 treatment of their most sacred places should exist. It is 

 enough to say, as an example, that I have seen as a monu- 

 ment over a grave an iron erection exactly like a hat- 

 stand, with pegs for the holding of bead-work wreaths. Is 

 this honouring the dead ? 



Let us jealously guard and treasure the quiet beauty 

 and dignity of our country churchyards, and above all keep 

 them from the desecration of anything ill-designed, mean, 

 or tawdry. A rosebush costs less even than an artificial 

 wreath, and is a beautiful and more enduring monument. 

 It may want a little pruning and tending from time to 

 time, but this small trouble will scarcely be grudged ' In 

 loving memory.' 



