20 AUGUST 1988, Page 24

One hundred years ago

SLEEPLESSNESS

[TO THE EDITOR OF THE "SPECTATOR.")

SIR, — A curious experience of a member of my family quite corrobo- rates Mr Stuart's testimony to the efficacy of hot water for sleeplessness. She was suffering severely, when on a sea-voyage of some days, from the distressing sensations of sea-sickness, and took a cup of very hot water in hopes of relieving them. The result was, immediately, her falling into a quiet and refreshing sleep. I believe the efficacy of this simple remedy — in this and other kinds of suffering — has been greatly underrated, perhaps because of its simplicity. — I am, Sir, &c.,

E. JANE WHATELY.