Gillian Sheen
Anthony Rentoul writes: The gold medal won by Gillian Sheen (obituary, August 3) in Melbourne in 1956 stood her in good stead in developing her relationships with dental patients. One such was disappointed not to be able to secure an emergency appointment with Sheen’s principal, who had treated him for many years. Initially reluctant to be seen by a female surrogate, the patient changed his attitude when informed: “Miss Sheen is very good, you know. She won a gold medal at Melbourne for fencing.” “Oh, all right,” came the response, “I’ll give her a try.”
Lord Elystan-Morgan
Patrick Harrington QC writes: After his career at the House of Commons had ended Elystan Morgan (obituary, August 5) practised as a barrister from chambers in Cardiff.
In March 1975 I co-defended with him at the Usk magistrates’ court, defending two brothers charged with stealing copper wire that they thought had been abandoned by its owner.
At the close of the prosecution case Elystan began a subtle but erudite plea that both defendants should be acquitted. Before he got into his stride the court clerk interrupted him asking: “Mr Morgan, have you heard of the Theft Act?”
Ignoring the impertinent young man, Elystan addressed the chairman of the bench, saying, “Sir, in an earlier career I was a member of the Home Office committee that devised what became the Theft Act 1968. I profess at least a partial familiarity with this statute.”
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The court acceded to the submission, acquitting both defendants.
Elystan insisted I join him for a “proper” lunch at the Three Salmons Hotel.
John Woodcock
John Baxter, former captain of St Enodoc Golf Club, writes: John Woodcock (obituary, July 19) spent many happy holidays with his brother Hugh and his family in Cornwall. He particularly enjoyed playing golf at St Enodoc GC but found the Church Course difficult.
On being introduced by me to Nigel Buse, a committee member, in the Secretary’s Box at Lord’s he immediately demanded that the notorious marsh at the 4th hole be replaced by fairway. “I’ll see what I can do,” came the tactful reply. The hazard is still there!