24 MARCH 1933, Page 16

SPRING'S DATE.

Almost every countryman in England deplores an early spring—and rejoices in if. Very few agree whether it is in fact early or late. And indeed the signs are contra- dictory. The first thrush's nest is a month later than our best garden record ;, and the migrant birds are perhaps a little late. On the other hand our anemones have been flowering since December ; the worms have never ceased their activities. "Whom shall my soul believe ? " The phennlo- gists (blessed word I), those who would make a study of the comparative date of appearances, tell me that they regard the blackthorn as a key plant. They even advise farmers to sow their barley by its guidance. If they are right, this

is a late, not an early spring. W. BEACH THOMAS.