26 AUGUST 1972, Page 24

Sir: As so frequently, what does Auberon Waugh mean? (August

19). Is a back colour writer: one who spurs on his gaudy felt-tip words, or is he a somewhat pedestrian un-equestrian aesthetician? Is he a philosopher confined to home stretches of purple patches or does he ride roughshod o'er the manuscripts of others adding lively padding? Is it perhaps a misprint for a negro? Indeed, I feel I shall not have had my fifteen pennyworth of Issue No 7521 until you tell me what this nonsense purple-ports!

Phillip Hodson 83a Theberton Street, London Ni