14 JUNE 1997, Page 30

Fine distinction

Sir: Twice in the last week I have read the phrase 'fine toothcomb' or 'toothcomb', most recently in your review of Lord Mel- bourne (Books, 7 June). Surely it should be fine-tooth comb (one with its teeth finely spaced)? Only a baleen whale needs a `toothcomb'.

Martha Crewe

14 Elsworthy Terrace, London NW3