On Tuesday, 14 June, we shall hold an English Tea in Florence's 'English Cemetery' to launch its Emergency Appeal. We shall read the messages of support sent from interested persons.

Aureo Anello Associazione Biblioteca e Bottega Fioretta Mazzei e Amici del Cimitero ‘degli Inglesi’

We request the honour of your presence at an English Tea to be held in the Swiss-owned, so-called ‘English’ Cemetery, Piazzale Donatello, Tuesday, 14 June, 2005, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. * * * Siamo lieti di invitare la S.V. a un Tè all’inglese nel Cimitero Evangelico Svizzero, detto ‘degli Inglesi’, in Piazzale Donatello, martedì 14 giugno 2005, dalle ore 18.00 alle ore 19.00.

R.S.V.P. 055 582608 http://piazzaledonatello.blogspot.com

Poet Laureate, Andrew Motion, 3/5/05, writes:

'The 'English' Cemetery in Florence is a kind of miniature, overseas Poets Corner, and deserves the most profound respect and veneneration. Like thousands of others, I bitterly regret the plans to abandon it, and wholeheartedly support the scheme to save and restore it. This is vital - for poetry in particular, and for civilized values in general.'

The Chairman, The Browning Society, Berry Chevasco, writes:

I do agree most wholeheartedly that the English Cemetery in Florence should not be closed without further consultation and without the careful consideration of other alternative sources of financing. I am sure that there would be widespread dismay amongst both academic specialists and general enthusiasts if such an important historical site were to close. I send the Browning Society's support for your efforts to at least delay this process until all concerned can consider possible solutions. . . . I feel sure that our membership would wish to join in your campaign in any way you feel could be useful.

With best wishes

Berry Chevascvo