SURPRISING A CASTLE.
The least ancient and least interesting part of Warwick Castle has been burned. Subscriptions are tendered in aid of a restoration. Question is raised whether Lord Warwick should accept these, lest the public should consider that by subscribing it acquires a certain right in the Castle, and that the Earl's legend will have a second meaning, when affixed over the new buildings: Vix ea nostra voco. The suggestion is unworthy and sordid. Mr. Punch would like to see a vote of the Commons in aid of the subscription for conserving about the noblest relic left to us. He would be glad to say to the Earl, in Lord Warwick's own words in the Temple Garden, after a certain rose-plucking,
"This blot that they object against your House
Shall be wiped off in the next Parliament."
The cool idea that giving a nobleman help to rebuild entitles one to walk into his property, is concentrated cheekiness; and if castles are capable of astonishment, Mr. Punch would again quote W. S. to the Earl, and say, "Your Castle is surprised."