COOMBE HILL, BUCKS.
[To THE EDITOR or THE " SPECTATOR:]
Snt,—You have been so heartily with us in all the work of the National Trust that I think you will be glad to know that another beautiful English view-point has been secured, through private enterprise, for the enjoyment of the nation. Mr. Arthur Lee, M.P., and his wife have purchased 105 acres of one of the most striking spurs of the Chilterns, which com- mands a noble view of the Vale of Aylesbury. Standing on it, 850 feet above sea-level, we can on a clear day see the Berk- shire Downs, Salisbury Plain, the Cotswolds, and the Malvern Hills. The Buckinghamshire County Memorial to the men who fell in the South African War is erected on the top of the hill, so we are not without memory of those who, for so fair a country scene, have given the best they had to give—their lives. It is the intention of Mr. Lee, after the death of him- self and his wife, to bequeath the beautiful point of view to the National Trust. We cannot help hoping that others may follow so public-spirited an example. It is pleasant to think that the Coronation year in that neighbourhood will be signalized by this kind intent.—We are, Sir. &c., }L D. RAWNSIXY. NIGEL BOND.
[We congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Lee not only on their generosity and public spirit, but on the admirable form which that spirit has taken. There can be no nobler national gift than a hill-top with a wide view. For preserving such an open space for public enjoyment for ever, future generations will rise up and call them blessed. May the imitation of their example be as wide as the view from Coombe Hill.—En. Spectator.]
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