Where to, Mum?

The N.Y. Times did an extensive article on the London taxi cab, that ubiquitous vehicle with the ample leg room and the color black which would have pleased Henry Ford. There are 25,000 roads in Greater London, some carry overs from Roman times. Prospective taxi drivers have to take stringent oral tests on their knowledge of streets, buildings, parks and the quickest route between points. To pass can take a four year effort and applicants can be seen cycling around at night making mental notes. But you can usually be assured that your driver will speak English and know the way. And no more farthings and shillings to deal with but the blokes still drive on the left so be alert when stepping off the curb.
tjs