A SPECTATOR'S NOTEBOOK
IS too much fuss being made about the Coronation ? There are those who think it is, and I am not very much disposed to differ from them. No one would wish the historic rite cur- tailed or changed in any respect, but Westmintter Abbey as it is provides abundant facilities for -that. To close the Abbey for six months is a serious matter, and it is very questionable whether that should be done mainly to accommodate sightseers, however distinguished. Millions will hear the ceremony competently described on the wireless; it may or may not be televised. Their interest in the function, not the satisfaction of an exclusive few, is what matters. It is arguable that what always has been always must be, and that (for example) the sight of all the peeresses simultaneously placing their coronets on their heads at the moment when the crown is placed on Her Majesty's is picturesque, but it is equally arguable that to close the Abbey for, say, a month to allow for the necessary minimum of alterations, instead of for six would be a distinct gain on balance. It is said that a great influx of foreign visitors is expected for the Coronation. Practically none of them will see the Coronation itself; practically all of them will want to see the Abbey; and nearly all of them, apparently, will be disappointed. * * * *
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