17 MAY 1940, Page 17

MISS JANE AUSTEN

StR,—Allow me to voice a protest against the nauseous vulgarity of those who call themselves " Janeites." I am a devoted and lifelong admirer of Miss Austen's novels ; but I feel the imper- tinent familiarity of the use of her Christian name shows a want of discrimination strange in would-be adorers. Sympathy with the writer should insure some observance of her standards ; these people are obtuse to her delicate reserve. But has not our author herself chastised them? Let these descendants of Mrs. Elton turn to their Emma (chapter 33), and try for better manners.

[Ref.—" Jane Fairfax and Jane Fairfax!' Heavens! let me not suppose that she dares go about Emma Woodhouseing me! "1 Hardown, Morcombelake, Bridport, Dorset.