1 JANUARY 1927, Page 20

BOOKS WHICH HAVE INFLUENCED US

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]

SIR,—In a recent conversation with a friend, who like myself approaches seventy years of age, the books which had influenced us most in our younger days were discussed ; amongst others the works of Carlyle, Froude, Ruskin, Huxley, Spencer, Lecky, Pater, Hammerton. A question then arose which it was found very difficult to answer. Who among modern writers have equal influence ?

Some of your readers might be good enough to produce lists which would be of general interest.—I am, Sir, &c.,

PAST AND PRESENT.