30 SEPTEMBER 1995, Page 31

Ironic Anne

Sir: I was more than a little surprised to read Josephine Quinataville's letter (23 September) which can only be described as a complete misunderstanding. In my article on the Peking women's conference, I explained at great length that there was more than one view in America (and else- where) about abortion; my use of the expression 'all right-thinking American women are pro-choice' was meant to be ironic, as the context clearly demonstrated. It is a pity Ms Quinataville is not a more careful reader.

Anne Applebaum

The Spectator, 56 Doughty Street, London WC1