4 NOVEMBER 1978, Page 17

Dogma

Sir: Much as I usually look forward to reading the Spectator, I shall consider doing without it if you continue to print Geoffrey Wheatcroft's unpleasant rigmaroles about dogs. He says he is no dog-hater, but the pleasure with which he contemplates beat ing one to death with that heavy stick comes out only too plainly. Evidently he has never had a dog friend (despite his inane and unmollifying remarks on country dogs) and certainly doesn't deserve one.

It appears that Mr Wheatcroft cannot look where he is going. I lived in London for ten years and do not remember ever stepping into one of the messes he raves about.

E. S. Taylor 55 Laburnum Walk, Malvern, Worcs.