Hidden dangers

I have often passed the entrance to the National Trust's house Hatchlands but have only ventured in once, and that must be thirty years ago. So as today I didn't have to rush back after my Mah-jong session in Guildford I thought I would treat myself to a snack lunch and an exploration.

The house contains an important collection of keyboard instruments, some having been owned by famous composers. I decided to leave the house for another day and after my lunch went out into the parkland. There were meadows as far as I could see, with lots of families taking a walk. Groups of people had brought deckchairs and were picnicking. There were signs warning us not to sit under trees because several had shed big branches because of the dry weather. Most of the trees in the parkland were ancient oaks. We were also warned not to take chances with the cattle! Innocent looking parkland, but oh so dangerous!