[To the Editor of the Srecraroa.]
Sru,—One rather important point in this case having failed to come to light in the recent correspondence, I feel compelled to say a word on behalf of Mr. Keitludin and myself.
Ralph Keithahn identified himself completely with the Ehadi movement, which aims at restoring the pessaet industries of spinning and weaving—hence his Gandhi cap. On the other hand, he systematically avoided involving himself in the political struggle, in view of his nationality and the pledge of " neutrality."
In the eyes of many Government servants, however, the encouragement of peasant industries is a crime, as the perse- cution of the Gandhi cap has clearly shown. Keithahn was " warned " and made to feel that he had incurred the displeasure of the Government.
Finally came my visit. I do not know what Dr. Thompson means when he suggests that I was " off my heat." Madura was actually on my direct route from Madras to Colombo, whence I sailed a few days later. Ralph Keithahn kindly asked me to break my journey for a night, which I was glad to do owing to the state of my health. I addressed no public Meetings for the same reason, and the crowd that came to the station was not of my seeking or his. My friend was penalized for his love of ,the peasants, his active sympathy with an economic movement on their behalf, and hospitality shown to a sick man.—I am, Sir, &c., REGLNALTI A. REYNOLDS.
8 Fairdenc 'toad, Coulsdon, Suirey.
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