SIR,—Professor Driver writes '. . giving both sides fair warning
of their intention.' Is Professor Driver sufficiently expert in military matters to state with authority that it was physically possible 'for Egypt, had she been willing, to withdraw forces which had already crossed the Suez Canal to a line ten miles the other side within twelve hours?
Is it necessary for Professor Driver to describe as 'hysterics' those who fail to agree with his assessment of the position as a whole? Language of this sort suggests a troublesome doubt as to the validity of the cause one is trying to defend.
Mr. Angus Maude, on another page, refers to the alienation of opinion by 'systematic bombing.' The pilot of a bomber concerned told me in a letter that newspapers had in no way exaggerated the instructions which were given to the end that civilian casualties should be avoided. It was insisted that bombs be brought back to base unless the specified target had been identified beyond doubt and that the bombing run was absolutely clear and direct. All civilians had been previously warned to keep away from the targets. This first-hand account very greatly relieved my own anxieties on this score and may relieve others.—Yours faithfully,
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