LET me hasten to assure Herr Schroeder (You Say, October 14) that had he been an Englishman his complaints would probably never have arisen.

While respecting his right of free speech, it is considered extremely bad manners to publicly criticise one's hosts when visiting another country.

By the same token I refrain from criticising our guest, whom I assume is here to learn a little more of our ways and probably knows no better.

Meanwhile, I am pleased my oblique response hit home and trust it will provide him with a valuable lesson for the future.

JOHN HINTON,

Victoria Avenue,

Worcester.