13 AUGUST 1988, Page 47

No. 1538: Veiled reference

You have been asked to write a testimonial for someone who is quite unsuitable for the job concerned but whom you do not wish to offend. Such a letter, please (maximum 150 words), giving satisfaction to the appli- cant but conveying hidden warnings to the potential employer. Entries to 'Competi- tion No. 1538' by 26 August.