17 FEBRUARY 2001, Page 28

Death of a saint

From Mr David Lloyd-Edwards Sir: The significance of the allegory on your front cover and 'Downing Street's day of shame' (3 February) should not be underestimated. St Sebastian was the captain of the Praetorian Guard but, when his secret beliefs were discovered, the Emperor Diocletian ordered his death by arrows. However, the archers failed to kill him and he then had the temerity to question the cruelty of his master's decision. To avoid any further revolt he was beaten to death with rods. Somebody should warn the late minister.

David Lloyd-Edwards

Tuscany, Italy