30 APRIL 1994, Page 27

Sir: Perhaps James Buchan is unaware that in North London,

where we both live, a hostess's best food and drink are reserved for the Bores' Dinner Party, where they console her for the rude, dull and cantan- kerous. The rocket salad and plonk of which he complains are served to those whose company needs no embellishment.

Clearly, Mr Buchan got on to the wrong guest list.

Amanda Craig

20 Falkland Road, London NW5