§ CAPTAIN NORTON (Newington, W.)I beg to ask the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware of the present highly unsatisfactory state of the footpaths in Hyde Park; whether he has taken any steps to ameliorate their condition since last year, when they were in a similar state, and when the fact was brought to his notice; and whether he will take immediate action in order to remedy the defect, at least as regards the pathways on the south side, which are so much used at the present season of the year, by having them covered with a good binding quality of gravel, if shell material is, as alleged, difficult to procure?
§ MR. AKERS-DOUGLASThe paths in Hyde Park alluded to were a short time since in excellent condition, but in consequence of the prevalence of the dry and windy weather, with the enormous traffic upon them, they have become loose and rough, though they are rolled and watered every day. Everything is being done to meet the complaint of the hon. and gallant Member.
§ CAPTAIN NORTONI should like to ask whether similar climatic influences do not exist in almost every country of Europe, and whether they do not contrive to keep their paths in good condition nevertheless? [Cries of "Order, order!"]