12 OCTOBER 1945, Page 14

EVENING DRESS

SIR,—In reply to Janus's objection to the fiat issued by luxury restaurants, one naturally supposes that men who patronise such places can afford evening dress and laundry expenses. It has been. the habit of Englishmen to show this respectful discipline towards their women folk and to the effort and service represented by the meal. Would he be willing to be served by waiters in plus fours? Men would certainly resent their women dining with them unchanged after their household labours ; why should [Janus writes : I did not say a word against evening dress ; my objection is to the fiat of restaurant-keepers that it should be made compulsory.]