Dear Editor,

I note, with a tincture of sadness, the letter in SN of December 3, headlined: ‘Why are adults lying to their children about Santa Claus?’ written by Montgomery Chester.

May I say to Mr Chester that, as for me and my house, we were told about and we believed in Santa Claus.  And so, too, my children, my grandchildren, and my great grandchildren.  And, to the end of time, I would wish succeeding generations to be told at an early age about Santa Claus/Father Christmas until they are at an age to appreciate the philosophical issues such as goodness, and kindness, and generosity involved in the concept.

Perhaps Mr Chester is unaware that then eight-year-old Virginia Hanlon of 125 West Ninety-fifth Street in New York wrote to the New York Sun asking whether there is a Santa Claus.  In an editorial dated September 20, 1897 and titled: ‘Is there a Santa Claus?’ Francis Pharcellus Church asserted triumphantly: “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus,” and he proceeded to explain some of the philosophical issues involved.
I have no quarrel with Mr Chester’s interpretation and pronouncements in respect of Santa Claus.  With respect, I disagree without being disagreeable.  And so I say: “Yes, Mr Chester, there is a Santa Claus.”

And further I say not.

Yours faithfully,
George N Cave