SIR, —I read every line in the Catholic Herald, but have seldom enjoyed an article so much as your own correspondent's article (circa 4.9.37) wherein he discoursed upon the questions of profound interest which have lately been exercising the minds of Muinntir na Tire. Unlike so many articles (which a Puhlic Schoolboy recently bewailed) it was easy to read, racy and, one wished to re-read it only for further delight: but Mrs. Vida Lentaigne was offended.
Gallantly she defended the Protestant woman, adroitly avoiding anything but the merest hint that she herself disapproved of Irish being a compulsory subject in Irish schools.
That hint should be countered. Gaelic should be the sole medium of all studies in Irish schools and not merely a compulsory subject, and the use of English by any stu dent should be severely punished. Mrs. Lentaigne says " Force is the right word." I say that it is also the right way. The cane was the effective method used by those who implanted the English tongue in Ireland in the past.
MICHEAL MAC SEAMAIS.
48, Avondale Drive, Loughton, Essex.