Letters: In Brief

Sir: Apropos the actor Robert Lindsay's lament ("Lindsay accuses critics of vile plot", 13 November), when a play succeeds it is generally the director who is feted; failure often leaves the actor carrying the can. It is, however, unjust and unreasonable that Mr Lindsay should berate his critics for his real quarrel is with his director. Our major national theatres are currently experiencing a serious dearth of competent direction; I walk out of more Royal Shakespeare Company productions than I survive. Mr Lindsay might be best advised to do likewise.

MALCOLM ROSS

Dartington, Devon

Sir: Contrary to Mohamed al-Fayed's assertions (You Ask the Questions, 11 November), Macmillan is delighted with the remarkable sales performance of Tom Bower's unauthorised biography - despite its non-appearance on Harrods' shelves.

MARI EVANS

Editor

Macmillan General Books

London SW1

Sir: Chris Harry's interesting letter (12 November) about underpants superseding shirt-tails poses a possible solution to the problem of concern about Western European loss of sperm count. Down with underpants!

HUW JAMES

Swansea