THE LATE SIR ALFRED SMITHERS.
[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIR,—In the passing of Sir Alfred Smithers the country has lost one of a type of man that has made England what she is. Starting from the bottom of the ladder of life he gained a high position by his character, of which the underlying prin- ciple was to put into everyday life the teachings of the Founder of Christianity. His undaunted courage combined with an incomparable tenderness of heart, his unfailing belief in Eng- land, his invariable kindness to all who made claims on his sympathy and his generosity can be numbered among his noble qualities. His life was one of service to his country and his fellows, and the crown of his happiness was his wonder- fully happy and united family. He gave of his best, and these few words are written to his memory in the hope that they will encourage others to go and do likewise. England can ill spare such a man, and England wants now men and women like him more than ever before.—I am, Sir, &c.,
Z.
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