MEMORIAL TO OCTAVIA HILL
[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]
Sia,—In former years you frequently opened your columns to appeals by Miss Octavia Hill, on behalf of the National Trust, and always with most useful results. I shall be grateful if you will allow this appeal in connexion with Miss Octavia Hill herself to appear in your columns.
Shortly after her death in 1912 a commission was given to a gifted American sculptress, Miss Abbott, to make a recumbent figure of Miss Hill, in the belief that she would produce a more entirely satisfactory record of her spiritual power than is shown in Sargent's otherwise fine portrait.
The many friends who have seen the figure in its plaster stage have fully confirmed this hope. After repeated delays it became evident that Miss Abbott's failing health made it impossible for her to complete the work she had so success- fully begun, and this has now been entrusted to Mr. Esmond Burton, well known for his extensive work in Belfast Cathedral and elsewhere.
The change in the value of money since 1912 has rendered the sum originally fixed quite inadequate, and a further sum of about £600 is now required to complete the work. Towards this sum about £80 has already been either given or promised in sums ranging from £20 to £1 1s.
I write in the hope that a large and widespread number of friends may be glad to lend a hand in what was originally intended to be a tribute of private affection.
The National Trust have already raised a noble memorial to Miss Octavia Hill in the purchase of Hyde Ball for the nation, but it is hoped that many friends of the Trust will be willing to give something towards this more personal memorial.
I am allowed to say that the project has the full sympathy of H.R.H. the Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll, the President of the Trust. The memorial, when completed, is to be placed in the little church at Crockham Hill, Kent, where Miss Octavia Hill frequently worshipped, and where her body lies in the churchyard.
Subscriptions will be gratefully acknowledged by Miss Shaen, 15, Upper Phillimore Gardens, W.8.—I am, Sir, &c., MARGARET J. SHAEN, [At a time when our thoughts are directed to the Rousing problems of the poor in our large cities, it is appropriate that we should express our indebtedness to the great pioneer work of Miss Octavia Hill.—En. Spectator.]
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