P. J. Lambert—The Palace Show



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THE PALACE SHOW


By P. J. Lambert


I consider that great credit is due to Mr. S. Legg, the Manager

of the Palace Show, for his determined and successful efforts to stage

the Annual Bird Show, in face of almost insuperable difficulties. When

the Crystal Palace was burnt down it was thought by many that it

would be impossible to hold the Show this year. The Borland Hall

was chosen as a site and under the circumstances it proved satisfactory.

It is true that on the Saturday the Hall was at times overcrowded,

but this only served to emphasize the wonderful interest that is shown

in birds of all descriptions by a section of the British public. Perhaps

the lighting arrangements were not all that could be desired, but it

was obvious that this was a most difficult hurdle to negotiate. Many

of the exhibits did not show to advantage in subdued light, but one

heard few complaints and we are after all a philosophical race,

and it was nice to hear such remarks as this, “ Well, they did their

best and all credit to them.” The Pheasants suffered rather badly in

this respect and another year it is hoped that each pen will be provided

with a small electric bulb placed in one corner. I should have dearly

loved to examine minutely all the small bird exhibits, and been in

a position to discuss them now, but time only permitted of a very

cursory glance, as I was busily engaged meeting many members of

the O.P.S., attending our meeting, and admiring the wonderful show

of Pheasants. I heard it said by an authority on small birds that these

exhibits were well up to the standard of recent years, particularly as

to condition. When one passed in front of the many rows of charming

birds, one could only wish that the many people who were passing the

Hall could have seen them. It is rather sad to think that millions of our

fellow countrymen are utterly ignorant of the beauty of bird life and

also that the exquisite song provided by these sweet creatures is utterly

lost on them. What such people miss in life ! A dreary, monotonous

life can be enlivened and sweetened by taking an interest in these

wonderful creations and a comparative few are fortunate enough to

be aware of the delights that bird life holds out for those who will

only use their eyes and ears to the best advantage. Our public will



