28 OCTOBER 1905, Page 15

[To THE EDITOR OF THE " SPECTATOR:1

see that in your review of Lord Edmond Fitzmanrice's book in last week's issue you speak of the influence which Lord Granville had acquired over the House of Lords, by which he was able to induce them to accept measures they disapproved. Amongst others, you name the abolition of purchase in the Army. Is it not a fact that this never was passed by the House of Lords, and that the result aimed at by the Government of the day was accomplished under Royal Warrant? Mr. Gladstone was much criticised at the time for what was said to be high-handed treatment of the Peers.

—I am, Sir, &c., JAS. RALPH. West View, Marple, Cheshire.

[We regret our inadvertence. The facts are, of course, as stated by our correspondent. —ED. Spectator.]