14 JANUARY 1944, Page 12

Sta,—How " Janus's " note in last week's Spectator would

have rejoiced the heart of Swinburne, who wrote: " Clear the way my lords and lacqueys,.

You have had your day."

But why not go a step further and advocate the abolition of all hereditary titles, including baronetcies?

I am in favour of keeping the title lord for members of the Upper House who have been nominated to it and merited it by service to the country ; but why retain at all those antiquated titles—duke, marquis, earl, viscount—for they only breed snobbery in our so-called upper and middle classes, a vice they are unfortunately prone to. They give the

impression of a waxworks show to me. Of coupe, the monarchy must remain ; we value it for its incomparable service to the country, and are justly proud of it. The abolition of hereditary titles should not affect it. As my name would not give weight to my letter, I just sign myself,