PARIS HAS ITS SWAMPS

These are the basins of its public squares

The administration saves water in hot weather. This foresight is commendable, but it has unforeseen and regrettable consequences. The basins of public squares present in our time a lamentable aspect. The water that stagnates there, having not been renewed for a long time, gives off a very unpleasant smell. Flies and other insects hover in tight circles above these stagnant pools.

The little Parisians who cannot find themselves in these hot months by the sea or in the mountains; are more numerous at this time in public gardens than at other times. These empty basins, with yellowish water, are they not real sources of infection for our youth who frequent these places.

We were told about several squares in the center whose upkeep leaves much to be desired. Watering the streets is very good. Putting a little water in the basins would be even better.

On the other hand, we are told that several Wallace fountains are not working. "They are frozen," we are told. Repairs are urgently needed, because this winter will be a bit late. We cannot, in the circumstances, incriminate the lack of pressure.

Moved by the numerous protests of the public, the interested administration made an effort; she wanted to clean a pool in the Jardin des Tuileries, but by inconceivable bad luck, she located the cleaning of the one of the two pools that needed it the least; the pool next to Place du Carrousel. The one near the Place de la Concorde, the busiest for children, remains in its filthy state.