26 NOVEMBER 1904, Page 16

Sin,—Permit me to suggest that your note in reply to

mine (Spectator, November 5th) confounds two things. The influence of wealth in public life in the two countries is shown by the fact that in Britain rich candidates are preferred by the people, in America poor candidates. When the influence of corporations, Trusts, class interests, &c., upon legislation is considered, we must compare this here with the " liquor," " railway," " shipping," " land," " legal " interests, &c., in Britain, which resist hostile legislation or support favourable legislation, just as class interests do here. In this field the two countries present no great contrast. You are right that in both countries wealth in this form has great power.—I am, Sir, &c., New York. PLUTOCRAT.

A NEGRO-LYNCHING IN VIRGINIA.