Letters: May 12, 2003

Kudos to President Bush for facing what many are afraid of. Bush is clever, cool and bold. I can always trust his judgment. Ride on, Bush--you are my hero. DANJUMA B. FORSON Lagos

It is far too early in this administration for Kinsley to dub Bush a leader. The fact that so many people willingly approve of this man's impulsive actions has more to do with credulity than leadership. The story of the Pied Piper of Hamelin says a lot more about the rats than the Piper. WILLIAM C. OLSON Lake Panasoffkee, Fla.

Kinsley's description of the "great man" theory of history and Bush as a real leader included the observation that "great in this context does not necessarily mean good or wise." Kinsley also noted that "if real leadership means leading people where they don't want to go," then Bush is a real leader. But by this definition, Saddam Hussein is also a great man. CHRISTINE GELINEAU Windsor, N.Y.

Tongue in Cheek

Re your item "Foie Gras In The Mess?," about attempts to have a subsidiary of a French company barred from supplying food to U.S. Marines [NOTEBOOK, April 21]: First it was freedom fries replacing French fries and the burning of French toast. Then fine French wines and Dom Perignon bubbled down patriotic American drains. One wonders what France bashers will dream up next to replace the French kiss. Let's hope for a tongue twister. KATHERINE E. KREUTER Rancho Mirage, Calif.