1 MARCH 1986, Page 23

Walter Taplin

Sir: May I thank you for printing the kind words written by ECH (Teddy Hodgkin), a friend and colleague of my late husband (Leader page, 25 Janauary). It was good to read his account of life at the Spectator in those inspired days, and I remember Wal- ter writing a gallant salute to the faithful `tea-lady' who died suddenly.

Susan Taplin

8 Oxford Road, Farmoor, Oxford