2 MAY 1896, Page 16

THE ALLEGED BORDE9.17X ATROCITY.

[To THE EDITOR OF TUE " SPECTATOR." ]

Sta,—No one can regret more than I do myself the publica- tion of the exaggeration as to the leech-swamps at Bordeaux. I thank Mr. Colam sincerely for his letter, and I can truly say that I should be " incapable" of even wishing to excite the horror of animal-lovers by detailing cruelties which are non-existent. There are quite enough real cruelties without needing to invent them. But, unfortunately, every one can- not be made to understand this, amongst others my in- formants, who make categorical statements. The Society's action in this matter shows once more the value of the old adage that only "seeing is believing."—I am, Sir, &c.,