Patrick Powers wrote: > Sadly the prevalence of theft has meant that all those who keep archived > data about dials - like the BSS here in the UK - must be very vigilant > about inadvertent publication about dials of any sort since even the > humblest horizontal dial is often worth quite a bit for its brass/ bronze > content alone. It is for this reason that the BSS does not publicise > information about dials on the Internet. >
This opinion (and decision) tantalizes me and mystifies me. Sundials are there to be admired. In fact, in my opinion that's their only raison d'être. This is especially true now that they are not needed as "practical" timekeepers. If they can not be seen and revered, so what are they good for? It is a real shame that in this world of today we still have thieves, vandals and the hooligans. Nevertheless, I don't think they should prevent good people to see what exists to be admired. There may be a catch 22 here. I understand if we divulge sundials addresses and attractiveness on the Intenert (or any other means), we may get the attention of some ill-intentioned person. On the other hand, how many well-intentioned people are deprived from the pleasure of seeing something beautiful? - fernando PS - as everybody agreed I should use "coup de grâce" instead of "stroke of mercy", I concluded I souldd use "raison d'être" instead of "reason of being" :-) If that makes any sense... -- Fernando Cabral Padrao iX Sistemas Abertos mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.pix.com.br mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Fone: +55 61 321-2433 Fax: +55 61 225-3082 15º 45' 04.9" S 47º 49' 58.6" W 19º 37' 57.0" S 45º 17' 13.6" W
