Si,—Like so many contemporary writers, Mr. Price, in his article,
"Ourselves and Russia," completely ignores the material on which criticism of Russia is based. Of course it is not directed at her traditional form of diplomacy, traditional pattern of government (in spite of new labels) or, for that matter, her traditional disregard for human life and hir traditional inability to make the best of her vast wealth for the benefit of the majority. Criticism is directed towards the fact that she wishes and is attempting to impose these traditions on others. Sym- pathisers with Russia are those who have never experienced what Russian domination means. There were many who sympathised with and admired Germany from the same standpoint. Much criticism has been directed at the Poles for their objection to Russian domination, but how should we feel if we had passed through their experiences? Their homes were pillaged, and men and women, including the aged and even children, were transported to Russia. Some lived; many died in conditions of unspeakable misery. This traditional Russia has nothing to do with Communism, Socialism or any variety of democracy ; it is the dark side of a potentially great people who have much to learn. The " sensitive- ness " to criticism of the ruling group is another traditional aspect. Such criticism has always been firmly suppressed in Russia and furiously resented when it comes from abroad.—Yours faithfully, JOAN BROOKE. Grimstone Manor, Gilling, East York.
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