The rightful king

I enjoyed reading the interesting article by Caitlin Ellis on the rivals for the throne in 1066 (October). In particular, it was fascinating to read about Edgar Ætheling's claim, which was surely the strongest, based on pure bloodline.

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But other factors were considered, too, by the Witan (king's council) in those days, and bloodline by itself was no guarantee of success. The ability to command respect through leadership and bravery on the battlefield were also required characteristics, along with the support of the leading nobles. With England facing external threats and with Harold's proven ability on the battlefield, there was only really one choice for them.

Edgar was too young and inexperienced; Harald Hardrada was surely just a chancer out to get what he could; and William was a 'foreigner'. Edward the Confessor had caused tension by bringing to England Norman advisors in his reign, and there is no way the Witan would have wanted a Norman duke as king when 'their' man Harold was willing and able. Personally, I believe that Harold should have prevailed at Hastings if only he had listened to his brother's wise counsel and delayed the confrontation. That is another story, of course!

Edward Yeats-Brown,
Westerham

Hair and the dog

I enjoyed the article on ghost dogs by Karen R Jones (November) but was surprised to read in the caption beneath the image of the film poster for The Hound of the Baskervilles that "Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was inspired by tales of ghostly dogs on Dartmoor".

I live in the Welsh Marches and most people here believe that Conan Doyle's inspiration came from a different source. He and his first wife were friendly with the Baskervilles of Clyro Court near Hay-on-Wye. About 9 miles away is Hergest Ridge, part of the Offa's Dyke Walk. The 15th-century manor house of Hergest Court was once the home of Sir Thomas Vaughan, who was killed fighting for Edward IV at the battle of Edgcote in the Wars of the Roses.