Never frighten them away.”
And can the dead beneath the soil object to the little feet above them? I am sure they cannot. Even Gray, in describing Stoke Pogis Churchyard, which is surrounded by meadows, rejoiced to see the “little footsteps lightly print the ground.” Such a space as Spa Fields may never have been consecrated for the use of the dead, but perchance the omission is in part redeemed by its dedication to the living.
APPENDIX A.
Burial-grounds within the Metropolitan Area, which still exist, wholly or in part. Abridged from the Return prepared for the London County Council in the Spring of 1895, and corrected up to date.
HAMPSTEAD.
1. St. John’s Churchyard.—1½ acres in extent. It is full of tombstones, but very neatly kept, and although not handed over to any public authority, nor provided with seats, the gates are usually open.
2. Burial-ground in Holly Lane.—1¼ acres. This is still used for interments, and new graves are occasionally dug here. It was consecrated in 1812. It is tidily kept, and the gates are open whenever the gardener is on the ground.
3. Hampstead Cemetery.—19½ acres. First used in 1876. Open daily. It is well kept, except the part nearest to Fortune Green.
4. The Tumulus, Parliament Hill Fields.—Excavated in 1894 by the London County Council, and said to be an ancient British burial-place of the early bronze period. Railed round for its protection.