22 MAY 1976, Page 18

A. L. Hobhouse Sir: In my article on Keynes (Spectator,

I May) I inadvertently referred to A.L. (later Sir Arthur) Hobhouse as 'almost halfwitted'. I regret using this expression. I should have made it clear that this phrase was actually used by Keynes, no doubt in a 'moment of exasperation, and does injustice to a career of solid if unspectacular achievement.

Robert Skidelsky 18 Abinger Road, Bedford Park, Chiswick, London W4