27 FEBRUARY 1953, Page 18

SIR,—You are right that in the Bishop of Birmingham's book.

The Rise of Christianity, " there was really not much to disturb the orthodox unduly," but it is both incorrect and unfair to say he had " some defect of temper which caused him to create unfavourable impressions." To have the courage of one's convictions and to-declare them regard- less of consequences is no defect but rather to be expected in all public positions whatsoever. Jesus and Socrates are the leading examples in history.—Yours faithfully, E. C. TIPPET TS. The Vicarage. Newton-upon-Rawclifie, Pickering.