16 DECEMBER 1949, Page 16

Schoolmasters' Wives

SIR.—It is depressing for the wife of a young schoolmaster to learn (tern your correspondent "U.H." that Mr. Lewis" reflects faithfully the require- ments and attitude of the head of a certain type of school" ; I had hoped that Mr. Lewis's views were exceptional. As an undergraduate's was- one expects to be ignored, but as a schoolmaster's wife one hopes to he accepted as a useful member of the community. Surely many schr 01- masters' wives are interested in their husbands'

schools ; some even take

part in out-of-school activities. In spite of domestic_difficulties, it should be possible for a 5cl'iriolmaster's wife to make some contribution to the life of the school ; if she does not do so, it is the fault of the school for ignoring her presence and openly preferring bachelor masters.

Apart from active assistance, no wife, however young, would wish to hinder her husband in the proper practice of his profession, and during the holidays she may enjoy his company.—I am, Sir, yours faithfully,