To WFB

Having grown up in Rhinebeck, N.Y., been a resident of Stamford, Conn., and attended Yale College, I thoroughly enjoyed William F. Buckley Jr.'s recollections ("From Miles Gone By--A Literary Autobiography," August 9).

Buckley's observations of the Dutchess County Horse Show brought to mind my own childhood memories of attending country fairs in Rhinebeck on those very same grounds.

While in Stamford, I too lived on the water, and having passed many agreeable evenings watching the sun set from the boardwalk, I can attest that Buckley is spot-on when he writes of "the most dazzling light changes" that do indeed make a "happy inhabitant ... wonder at the wonder of it all."

I took the greatest interest in Buckley's tales from New Haven, where he is, needless to say, legendary. During my own time in the Elm City, I spent a term on the layout staff of the Yale Daily News, drawn to the publication in no small part because of its history and tradition--of which Buckley is a lasting icon. In the Yale Political Union's Conservative party, Buckley continues to be the figure most often cited by members as a role model for Yale conservatives, and for all young conservatives, and for every student who aspires to be a "Yale Man"--of which Buckley is practically the quintessence.

So, from a slightly younger right-winger: Thanks for the memories, and thanks even more for the enduring example.

Ian R. Fisher

Long Island City, N.Y.

I'm a 48-year-old Reagan Democrat who changed parties after the debacle of Jimmy Carter. So I've cut my conservative teeth on WFB all my adult life. While I don't begrudge him a well-earned rest in his golden years, I do hope he won't leave us utterly bereft of his wit and wisdom. Just a pearl here, a dollop there, please?

William Douglas Smith

Ceredo, W. Va.

This medium is ephemeral, but Buckley's contributions to the country are most decidedly not. He swam against the tide, and won the race, against all prognostications.

Now that he has stepped away from Firing Line and NATIONAL REVIEW, I hope Buckley will find himself re-charged, and that he will enjoy many future forays into intellectual battle, and the ensuing victories, of course!

Bonette Richards

Via e-mail

My husband handed me a copy of Buckley's Inveighing We Will Go many years ago, and after I read it I knew the author was a very interesting man. Buckley has had an opportunity to lead in so many ways, and has produced countless programs, articles, and books for the public to enjoy. I wish him good sailing in his future.

Thank you, Bill Buckley, for giving me joy--the joy of learning from you--and for saying things just the way I would say them if I had your mind.

Annette T. Day

Tuscaloosa, Ala.

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