10 JANUARY 1943, Page 11

Snt,—No doubt many other correspondents will have been quick to

point out that the lines quoted by Mr. Perkins are a translation of his Latin poem (composed at Peterhouse) Luna Habitabilis. But does Mr. Perkins deserve such credit for originality as you give him? If my memory serves, Mr. Mackenzie King anticipated his use of the lines in the

peroration of a memorable speech delivered during, or about the time of, his last visit to this country. Persant qui ante nos, &c.!—Yours very [We are grateful to several other correspondents for similar information. —ED., The Spectator.]