7 MAY 1927, Page 18

LESSONS OF THE CENSUS

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIR,—In your article on the above subject on the 23rd ult., there seems to be a veiled lament over the Census figures which are supposed to reveal, or as the writer puts it, " hide an infinity of blighted hopes."

It may be so with some, but I think it is a fact that the majority of those surplus women do not want to marry. If they all could get married to-morrow what would become of our Hospitals, Creches, Rescue Homes, and other institutions which rely mainly upon the efforts of these same brave women for their upkeep ? and who in so living, realize the truth that such have " more children than she which hath an husband."

Should we not rather account them fortunate in being able to attain those spiritual heights where " there is no marrying or giving in marriage ?—I am, Sir, &c., .5 Corbett Road, Cardiff. SOPHIA H. E. LANGMAID.