A reader has implied in your columns on 11/01 that it was during Sir John’s premiership that a deer was shot at in a national park by a member of the Nepalese royalty. It is also alleged that the flesh was barbecued to satiate the regal taste buds!

If I remember correctly, it was during SWRD’s time that this unfortunate incident occurred. I have no doubt that it incurred the Prime Minister’s wrath. SWRD tendered an apology in the State Council in a tactful way that perhaps only he could have done. He said that when the King saw the deer "His sporting instincts got the better of him, and he fired". The incident, no doubt, was embarrassing to all.

If my averment is correct Sir J’s spirit is entitled to an apology too.