17 MAY 1924, Page 14

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]

SIR,—In his article, "The Last Laureate ? " Mr. " Richard Jennings asserts or implies that Lord Salisbury did not recommend William Morris for the Laureateship on account of his political views. This may or may not represent the feelings of Lord Salisbury correctly, but at least it is little to the point when the recommendation lay with Gladstone. That Morris was approached on Gladstone's behalf by a mem- ber of the Cabinet is a well-known fact, but as Morris, nature- ally enough, could not entertain the suggestion, the matter went no further. The story is told by Mr. Mackail in his admirable biography, vol. II. pp. 287-288.—I am, Sir, &c.,