7 DECEMBER 1962, Page 13

HANGOVERS SIR,—With all respect to Mr. Andrew Robertson, Underberg should

not be taken in water. The Ger- mans who make it may not know much about food, but they know a lot about drinking, and Underberg should be drunk neat and fast in a shallow glass on an empty stomach. The feeling of unutterable physical wretchedness that almost at once super- venes is replaced a few minutes later by relief. A good solid breakfast is then recommended, though the German one of Matjes herrings in sour cream with raw onion and apple and plain boiled potatoes will probably remain an unacquired taste to most English drinkers. The worst thing possible, especi- ally after Underberg, is to drink strong black coffee. If coffee at all, then with hot milk; but tea with three scrambled or poached eggs, toast or fresh rolls with a lot of butter and cherry jam afterwards if marmalade is unobtainable, is very much better for the hangover.

But, in my experience, the best way to avoid a hangover while not forgoing its cause, is to eat while drinking. With lots to drink, lots of food, and a sleep afterwards. That's the ticket, Germany