Family History on Horsey Island
David Brayne of Evercreech, Somerset, writes about his grandparents, Gertrude and Albert (known as Old Smoke), who lived on Horsey Island in the early 20th century. His mother spent her childhood catching shrimps and looking after her donkey, charging visitors a penny a ride. Old Smoke, a thatcher and guide on the marshes, was once overtaken on the causeway by the tide, possibly returning from the pub. He lost his horse and cart but escaped on a second horse tied behind.
Zebra Finch Research Funding Criticized
Roderick MacFarquhar of Edinburgh comments on a report (26 June) about a researcher spending 10 years decoding zebra finch chirps. He finds it reassuring that funds are available for such research amid US policies of climate change denial and cuts to foreign aid, hoping the finches can warn when it's time to head for the ark.
Thatcher and Margo Leadbetter Comparison
David Prothero of Harlington, Bedfordshire, believes Margaret Thatcher based herself on the comic character Margo Leadbetter from the TV sitcom The Good Life (Penelope Keith obituary, 29 June), noting the same manner and attitude towards employees.
Monarch Memory Tests
Dr. Christopher Calman of Stroud, Gloucestershire, recalls memory tests where the question was "Who is the reigning monarch?" and the answer was often "Margaret Thatcher."
Ancient Tree Logging Concerns
Reg Hand of Derby responds to Prof Rebecca Clifford's suggestion (Letters, 26 June) to log ancient trees on the Woodland Trust's inventory, arguing this would be totally counterproductive.
