There
is a strong feeling amongst the waitresses that it is just these compulsory
watercresses which have made us Englishmen what we are. The whole vast
pleasure-ground really centres round them, and the reason why Londoners
flock (as the papers say) to Kew is that they are hungry for the medicinal
virtues of this aquaceous plant.
After you have taken the watercresses you are allowed to wander about the
Gardens again and look at QUEEN VICTORIA'S cottage, round which there is
always an eager and admiring crowd examining it from every point of view
and wondering what premium they would have to pay for it if it were on the
market now. And then you will want to go home and be unable to find the
gate; but after a little time the Observator will observe you with his
telescope from the top of the Pagoda and mention it to the Curator, who
will direct a bronzed and amiable man in a blue uniform to lead you to the
turnstile.
I am told that there are some people who do not care to sample their Spring
at Kew or in the country either, but prefer to go to San Remo or spend
Saturday afternoon toiling in their own back-garden.
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