5 JUNE 1953, Page 13

SPECTATOR COMPETITION No. 173

Set by Edward Blishen Silent deck-scrubbing machines (large vacuum-cleaners in appearance) have been introduced by a British shipping line. Competitors are invited to submit a comment on this innovation by Capt. Bligh, Lord Nelson, Capt. Hornblower, the Ancient Mariner or any of the saltier characters from the works of Masefield or Marryat. Limit 150 words or 12 lbws of verse.

Entries must be addressed to the Spectator, 99 Gower Street, W.C.1, in envelopes marked " Competition," and must be received not later than June 17th. Results will be printed in the Spectator of June 26th.