Madam, – I would like to draw your attention to an item of news that could be seen as a tale of our times. Apparently there is widespread concern in rural areas that the indigenous Irish grouse is under threat. It seems that this species is in danger of dying out before we can kill it. The Irish grouse can be recognised by its distinctive red plumage, which, presumably is far more pronounced after it has been hit by a 12 bore cartridge. – Yours, etc,