In the Times of Thursday, Mr. Laurence Gomme makes an
appeal to the public which we trust will meet with a response. He wants money subscribed to do three things. First, to buy the land on which, or rather, under which lie the remains of the Roman city of Silchester. Next, to " excavate thoroughly every inch of the ground, carting completely away all the surplus soil. This would bring to light roadways, villas, public buildings, garden ground, every conceivable aspect of the ancient city." Lastly, to roof in the remains as they are laid bare. Mr. Gomme hopes that Parliament may be induced to vote money for this purpose, or to let the County Council of Hampshire do what is necessary out of the rates. We fear however, that this English Pompeii, of which the greater part still remains unexcavated, and which has already yielded a fine mosaic, and an Eagle belonging to the Roman legionaries, will not melt the stony heart of the Treasury. If new dis- coveries are to be added to the villas and baths, the round temple, the forum and basilica, already laid bare, and if what has already been found is to be preserved, it must be by private munificence. Is there not some millionaire who would like to amuse himself by waving an enchanter's wand over Silchester, and calling back to life the Roman city ?
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