16 NOVEMBER 1956, Page 15

Sia,—After thirty years of reading and recom- mending the Spectator,

I have now been reluctantly compelled to change my opinion of its merits.

Twice, during my perusal of 'Return to Realism' I had to glance at the top of the page in order to reassure myself that it really was the Spectator and not the Daily Mirror.

This week's number is now in the wastepaper basket, and I feel that an old and reliable friend has gone mad.

Goodbye—and thanks for the more pleasant and inspiring memories. I hope we may meet again if and when you do in fact 'Return to Realism:—Yours faithfully,

F. MARKS

Bodford Vicarage, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire *