SIR,—I have had twenty years of what is termed "control"
in journalism, and I read Punch's statement as to my uncle's —bad I not better say?—" Recollections" by Mr. Moy Thomas, for not many who knew the late Sir John Robinson can accept this book as adequately setting forth his "life." I write to suggest that some journalists acquainted with the law of libel will find it difficult to accept the Spectator's view of the effect of this verdict on reviewing. We remember that juries see what few outsiders see, the parties present in the witness-box. They have a knack of judging motive, as others outside Law Courts have to judge it: they use their eyes, and they test the tones of the human voice. I suggest also that Mr. Lucy could have said all he had a right to say, all he could rightly wish to say, of this work much more adroitly than he did in Punch,—for he is a master of adroit writing. Few of those who control the publication of reviews will be persuaded that it is more unsafe now than it always has been to say candidly and directly what has to be said, at times, of some books. But have not critics, like reformers who really wish to reform, not only to wish to do the right thing, but actually to do it in the right way P—I am, Sir, &c., J. J. ROBINSON. Rivet, Bambara, Bognor.
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