_The Observer_ is wondering whether, in view of the threat of Zeppelin raids, we are taking sufficient precautions in regard to our national treasures. It may relieve our contemporary to know that at least one post-impressionist has removed all his works to a secret destination in the country. * * * During a recent aerial attack on Dunkirk some bombs, we are told, set fire to a woollen warehouse. This just shows the danger of constructing a warehouse of such inflammable material. * * * The War Office, _The Express_ tells us, recently requested the borough of Sunderland to raise a brigade of field artillery. The Mayor, however, is reported to be a Quaker and opposed to War on principle, and it is stated that the local recruiting committee has decided to respect the Mayor's conscientious scruples. Suggested motto for the town, "Let Sunderland Quake." * * * Speaking of the new Lord of Appeal, a contemporary says, "Mr. Justice Bankes is noted for his pleasant appearance, and for the fact that he has never been known to raise his voice." He does not, in fact, belong to the firm of Bankes and Brays. * * * As a result of the War there is a famine in glass, and prices are up nearly 100 per cent. Here surely is a Heaven-sent chance for the Crystal Palace to turn itself into a financial success. * * * The strike of Billingsgate fish porters was, we hear, settled in the nick of time. The men were just beginning to brush up their language. * * * * * _The Chicago Tribune_ as quoted in _The Sunday Times_:-- "'C'est incredible!' remarked the thorough Parisian." "Pas demi," we retort in our best London accent. * * * * * "The Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following announcement:-- Goods for his Majesty's ships which have hitherto been sent by mail, addressed 'Care of Naval Store Officer, Dingwall,' should in future be addressed 'Care of Naval Store Officer, Dngwall.'" _Scarborough Daily Post._ We obey reluctantly. * * * * * [Illustration: HOCH AYE! SCENE: _A lonely part of the Scottish Coast._ _German Spy_ (_who has been signalling and suddenly notices that he is being watched_). "NEIN! NEIN! NEVER SHALL YOU LAND ON MY BELOVED SHCOTCHLAND!"] * * * * * A THOUSAND STRONG. A thousand strong, With laugh and song, To charge the guns or line a trench, We marched away One August day, And fought beside the gallant French. A thousand strong, But not for long; Some lie entombed in Belgian clay; Some torn by shell Lie, where they fell, Beneath the turf of La Bassée. But yet at night, When to the fight Eager from camp and trench we throng, Our comrades dead March at our head, And still we charge, a thousand strong!