Snectator's notebook
Sir: Mr Booker (8 August) is particularly fortunate to be able to consider St James's Park as his 'back garden', and I agree with him when he finds 'the ducks, too, are a constant source of wonder'. However, my amazement arises from the resilience of all the feathered species, living in and around the lake, to the increased pollution of the water. Recently, I suggested to some friends from abroad that we should stroll in the most pleasant park in London. The sludge- green water of the lake, with the tell-tale white foam on the surface, and the large quantities of undisposed disposables on the banks, made me ashamed and angry.
Yes, Mr Booker, the ducks are reluctant to wake up in the morning. to open one's eyes to such an environment would make anyone feel 'temperamentally in sympathy with them'.
N. M. Spyrou University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey
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