So far as Mr. Kipling's statement goes we cannot but
agree with it. The present writer has seen some of the great military cemeteries in America, and it would be impossible to conceive anything more massive or more restful than the uniform rows of graves which give one the impression of a mighty army asleep. We are therefore in favour of uniformity on both architectural and symbolical grounds. At the same time we cannot think it right in the last resort that those whose whole lives are wrapped up in the memory of the dead should be refused the right, if they ask for it, to erect their own headstones within the limits of a general uniformity. Art must compromise, if the issue be fairly joined, with the cravings and passionate affections of the human heart. The final decision must depend upon the wideness and strength of the expression of feeling which the opponents of the Commission can command.
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