23 JANUARY 1988, Page 25

Tasteless

Sir: The Spectator Christmas issue arrived upon my return from hospital (where I had left my nasal polyps) containing Ian Samuel's discourse 'A mouthful of ashes'. I was wearing a miniature tampon be- neath my nose, slung between the ears. Was it sensitivity that prevented Ian from disclosing this part of the treatment, or is this post-operative procedure necessary only in the Antipodes, where we are all standing on our heads?

Bruce Shaxson

61 Buxton Street, North Adelaide, South Australia 5006