25 MARCH 1966, Page 16

Ipse Dixit

SIR,—Tragmatidal). In the diplomatic, historical, and philosophic senses, the -ic form is usual. In the general sense of officious or opinionated, -ical is commoner. In the interests of DIFFERENTIATION these tendencies should be encouraged; see -tc(m.).'—Fowler's Modern English Usage.

Harold Wilson would seem to have used the correct form, and you (Spectator's Notebook,' March 18) to have misunderstood the difference! Or were you pay- ing your readers the delicate compliment of assum- ing they all knew the other half of the definition, and inviting them to join you in a little academic teas- ing of a former don?

T. GRIFFITIIS

South Copse, Hoe Court. Lancing. Sussex

[Yes.—Editor, SPECTATOR.]