Sir, - Your Arts Editor's comprehensive article on Patrick Mason's tenure as director of the National Theatre at the Abbey was timely and much needed (Arts, January 5th).
As a nation we have a curmudgeonly attitude to success, particularly in the arts, which manifests itself in less than gracious acceptance that someone could have possibly achieved what they set out to do. The reaction of critics and audiences abroad to Mr Mason's productions perhaps says more about us than we are willing to acknowledge.
The fact that he managed to do more than any previous incumbent is a tribute to his diplomacy and vision, and it is to be hoped that his clear vision will not be too long away from the theatre and opera companies of Dublin. - Yours, etc.,
Desmond Graham, Collins Avenue East, Dublin 5.