1 FEBRUARY 1957, Page 27

Many readers will be familiar with C. G. Leland's endearing

Hans Breitmann and his bibulous reminiscences. For memories which need refreshing, here is the opening of his 'Ballad of the Mermaid' :

Der noble Ritter Hugo Von Schwillenaufenstein

Rode out mit shpeer and helmet.

Und he coom to de punks of de Rhine.

Und oop der rose a meer-maid, Vot hadn't got nodings on, Und she say 'Oh, Ritter Hugo, Vhere you goes mit yourself alone?'

Competitors are asked for all or part of Hans Breitmann's version of one of the following stories : La Belle Dame Sans Merci, The Ancient Mariner, David and Goliath, Macbeth, King Alfred and the Cakes, Jonah and the Whale. Limit: 20 lines.

Entries, addressed 'Spectator Competition No. 364,' 99 Gower Street, London, WCI, by February 12. Results on February 22.