Black limestone

[John Graham <john@zzzzzzzzz>]

Norman --
   A person may take things only from land they own, or from government
land if the laws allow. This is a hundreds-of-years old fact of our
society of which no one can pretend ignorance. Ownership is honorable,
and not to be mocked.

   Perhaps the owners had gazed upon an especially nice piece of marble
for generations as they say beside the stream. Now, rather than the
exuberant paint of vandals, they find the moist impression and missing
beauty that tells the tale of thievery.

   I never met a landowner, anywhere in the world, who would refuse a
traveler a walk on their beautiful land, or a small natural souvenir --
if asked politely. Maybe the guest might talk of stone carving, and
become a welcome regular visitor, or even friend?

   Merry Christmas, or other holiday, as appropriate, to all.