5 SEPTEMBER 1925, Page 15

LITTER

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR] Sin,—May I add our experience to " A.'s " ? We live in Berk. shire, and own unenclosed land on the opposite side of the narrow road which runs in front of the house. We make no objection to picnickers so long as they leave no paper and other litter about and do not light fires. About two months ago there drove up a smart motor, and ladies to match, and a well-groomed chauffeur. The motor was drawn up almost in front of the house and the picnic proceeded. We debated as to whether we should ask the party to be careful not to leave litter, and (like " A.") arrived at the conclusion that they did not' look like people who would misbehave themselves. What happened ? The litter was not left on the spot where they pic- nicked, but tilted over the hedge into what was obviously part of our garden and almost in front of the house, and the party drove off.

The sequel must be told. A short time after another motor drove up with more picnickers, and drew up on, the same spot the first motor had occupied. I consulted the family, and it said : " Remonstrate If you have the courage." And I plucked up courage, and going up to the hedge asked mildly if they would be so kind as not to leave any litter about or light a fire. The answer was an indignant " We should not dream of doing such things." The indignation was, however. turned to sympathy when I explained our difficulties, and I think it may be some comfort to " A." to know there are " five righteous " still left in the land.—I am, Sir, &c.,

F.