Hanging offence

I was dismayed to read Felipe Fernandez-Armesto's miserable attack on Prince Andrew and Prince Harry for apparently not conforming to his academic expectations ("Duke of moral hazards", 3 June).

Both princes have fought bravely as soldiers, risking their lives for their country; I have no means of knowing whether the author has done likewise.

Many historians understand the fine contributions princes, learned or not, have made over the centuries to Britain. I do hope THE will not become a red rag where disgruntled republicans display their malice. Please insist on high-quality journalism that concentrates on genuine academic matters.

Peter Rice-Evans, Emeritus professor of physics, Royal Holloway, University of London.