7 OCTOBER 1938, Page 21

ONE WAY WITH BURGLARS

[To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR] Sta,—In Japan if you are going to live in a Japanese house it is explained to you that the burglar is dangerous because he is armed. It is best not to tackle him. But before lying down at night you will place a 5-yen note on the tansu. The burglar will come in, look to see if the householder has recognised that burglars are persons to be placated, will pick up the note, and peace will reign. " Do not disrespect him. Must not resist him. He has a knife. He will be pleased with 5 yen. He will not make trouble for you."—Yours faithfully, J. W.R. S.