he said he thought it “odd company,” but at least it shows him honest! How many people who sit patiently through a performance of the “Ring” would have as much courage of their opinions? [Illustration: WATERLOW PARK] Within the grounds of the present Park, near Lauderdale House, stood a small cottage in which Andrew Marvel lived, which was only pulled down in 1869. It was considered unsafe, and no National Trust Society was then in existence to make efforts for its preservation. In a “History of Highgate” in 1842 the connection between the place and this curious personage, political writer, poet, Member of Parliament, and friend of Milton is barely commented on. “Andrew Marvel, a writer of the seventeenth century, resided on the Bank at Highgate in the cottage now occupied by Mrs. Walker.” The reader of these lines is penetrated with a feeling that he ought to know all about Mrs. Walker, rather than the obscure writer! The kitchen-garden is large, with charming herbaceous borders, and a long row of glass-houses and vineries, and the grapes produced have hitherto been given to hospitals. Let us hope that the same complaint will not arise here as in another Park, where out-door fruit was distributed, and caused such jealousies that the practice was discontinued. With such a high standard set by the existing gardens, it is curious that the new bedding should be as much out of harmony as possible. The beds which call forth this remark are those round the band-stand. The shape of them it is impossible to describe, for they are of uncertain form and indistinct meaning. The flowers are in bold groups, and yet they look thoroughly out of place. Wandering one summer’s day near the statue, erected to Sir Sydney Waterlow, the writer overheard some girls, who looked like shop-girls out for a holiday, discussing who it was. The most enterprising went up and read the inscription. “To Sir Sydney H. Waterlow, Bart., donor of the Park 1889, Lord Mayor of London 1872–73. Erected by public subscription 1900.” “Why, it’s to some chap that was once Lord Mayor,” was the remark to her friend, following a close scrutiny of this bald inscription. The impulse to explain the meaning of the word “donor” was irresistible; it was evidently quite Greek to these two Cockney young ladies. On learning the meaning they were very ready to join in a tribute of gratitude to the giver of such a princely present. Surely a few words expressing such a feeling would have been appropriate on the statue so rightly erected in memory of the gift! Profound feelings of thanks to the giver must indeed be experienced by every one who has the privilege of enjoying this lovely Park, one of the most charming spots within easy reach of the heart of the City. GOLDER’S HILL PARK