16 JANUARY 1959, Page 19

SIR.- I dislike adding to all the fuss about LoMa,

especially as I appear to be one of the few persons Within the trade that has not read it. More surprising, too, since I spend most weekends at Tunbridge Wells!

What, however, I am shocked to read is the revela- tion made in your article that another well-known Publisher has already attacked the book. If the ranks of publishers are not serried—for what purpose did Mrs. Webb (then of Hutchinson's) and people like myself stand in the dock? Or is this publisher (and others?) seeking to establish another 'Board' to censor reading in order that morons and teenagers are free from corruption?—Youes faithfully,

HERBERT VAN THAL Director

Art!, Barker Ltd.. 30 Museum Street, WC!