LET me assure F Thomas (You Say, January 3) that his letters would have been totally ignored had he not put questions to me both by name and implication.

Such circumstances warrant a reply that is unlikely to be repeated.

Mr Thomas seems incapable of understanding that those of us who enjoy George Cowley's contributions do not necessarily support his opinions, only his right to express them.

It would probably be beyond his comprehension to understand that, as a motorist, I was amused by Mr Cowley's comments before recognising the underlying truth.

I have had the pleasure of meeting young George on one occasion.

But it was long before that I recognised that here was a writer with originality, a sense of humour and depth of understanding.

I was rather concerned that George might become disheartened and discouraged by your correspondent's unkind comments.

But I have since noted from the way he has handled constructive criticism that he is unlikely to be perturbed.

In conclusion, Mr Thomas may deduce from this that he doesn't seem to be the kind of person either of us would be interested in trying to impress.

JOHN HINTON,

Victoria Avenue,

Worcester.