Sanctuary Tactics
The National Trust is about to celebrate a notable anniversary, and its possessions have never multiplied more rapidly. The nation (which as such has unfortunately no responsibility for the Trust) should rejoice in its cumulative success and wise management. I think I may say that it is growing more fond of the sanctuary for animals, birds, insects and flowers. It now possesses, wholly or in part, a number of sanctuaries; and has achieved one success that some have thought impossible. It has made the sanctuaries accessible to the public without damaging their virtues as nature reserves, so called. One admirable regulation, due perhaps to Mr. Masefield's initiative, might be more widely adopted. For a period of thirteen weeks which, it is estimated, covers the breeding season of the birds, an armistice (from the public) is ordained. The birds breed in peace. Flowers are harder to protect ; and it is strange that in the North the acquisitive instinct of the public cannot resist ferns. One sanctuary, I believe, has lost all its little Harts-Tongue ferns.
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