" GREY STEEL "
[To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR.] Sut,—I write to thank you for the long and prominent review you gave to my Grey Steel in your edition of May 7th. Would you allow me to reply to Mr. Malcolm ?
Mr. Malcolm doubts my knowledge of South Africa and quotes my spelling of Afrikaans words as a proof. A corre- spondent in your issue of May 14th maintains that my spelling is correct. The explanation is that Mr. Malcolm is behind the times. Afrikaans words were at one time somewhat nebulous in their spelling. They are now being standardised and a dictionary issued under the direction of my old and respected friend Professor J. J. Smith of Stellenbosch University. Professor Smith taught me the vitality-which exists in Afrikaans and I was careful to consult the best experts on the spelling. I accept the rebuke that I did not give to Jameson nor to the English delegates sufficient credit for their share in making the Act of Union.
I ended Grey Steel at the latest possible date when I could judge the value of actions, and at a moment when by a fine gesture Smuts renounced his personal interest for the good of South Africa. Under the mists of the future, and only vaguely outlined, there are problems and dangers world-wide. I trust that Smuts may be ready and able to help solve those problems and to face those dangers. It may be that, though he has done great things in the past, he will do fai greater things Pen's Porch, Burghclere, Newbury, Hants.
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