12 JULY 1997, Page 27

The art of deceit

Sir: Claus von Billow suggests that the art of deceit when belonging to the serial adul- terer is as likely as that of the regular poker-player, 'whose very skills depend on deception', to produce 'potential perjurers' (Letters, 5 July). One difference of course is that the fellow card-player would most often assume a little economy with the truth, whereas the legal spouse would usu- ally assume faithfulness — it was, after all, solemnly, personally and publicly promised. Some further 'skills' are surely required to live the latter lie. What is it then about the particular deception of perjury that makes Mr von Billow put it beyond being just another fun and frivolous game?

Hugh MacKenzie

St Mary's Rectory, Draycott Terrace, London SW3