Lord Spencer seems inclined to have a regular quarrel with
London. A little while ago he wanted to spoil Wimbledon Common, and now it is stated he intends to see what he can do with Wandsworth. Mr. J. Gravell writes that his Lordship has leased "the Black Sea" or lake in that Common to an architect, who is going to drain it, and let out the ground so gained in 'building plots. "The lake is a piece of water two or three acres in extent, dotted over with pretty little islets, each having two or three birch trees growing on it ; and in summer, when the yellow flag and the broad-leaved water-lily are in bloom, a more charming little spot cannot be imagined." There is not such another near London. What with their inclosures, short leases, and refusals to build markets, these great London proprietors will force the Householder Parliament into confiscation Acts before they have done. They might as well claim the right to lease the air, and expect it to be respected.
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