22 OCTOBER 1927, Page 16

"MOTHER INDIA."

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIE,—I quite agree with Colonel Chrystie that Miss Mayo might have referred to the undoubtedly good and noble side of Indian life. Speaking for myself, after twelve years' experi- ence as collector and magistrate in Madras, I know quite well that I could not have managed any of my three distrietei without the most cordial and loyal support of most of my subordinates.

It is also quite true that a very black list might be made out against any Western nation, including our own ; but we do try to "right what is wrong," and our guilt will not excuil the weakness of Hinduism. Nor is it fair to lay all the blame on Miss Mayo ; she only says in still more startling language what Mr. Gandhi has been saying (most courageously) for years, and he, at any rate,. is a good and religious Hindu. It would be more satisfactory if Mr. Gupta was to answer hirn as to " untouchability," for instance —I am, Sir, &c., J. R. PENNINGTON.

5 Ewell Pork Gardens, Ewell, Surrey.