Madam, - News of the death in America of the scholar John V. Kelleher on December 31st has been sent around the world by his former students, colleagues and friends.
As professor of Irish Studies at Harvard University, John dedicated his professional life to his subject, introduced generations of undergraduates to Irish literature and history and guided many post-graduates through their work.
Greatly admired by colleagues at Harvard, such as Harry Levin, Walter Bates and Renato Poggioli, he left a lasting impression on all who knew him, or studied under him, for his comprehensive knowledge, prodigious memory and perceptive interpretations. His professional and personal integrity was exemplary.
He was a generous friend and a man of great warmth who will be missed by all of us and remembered for his outstanding work. - Yours, etc.,
MAURICE HARMON, Mount Merrion, Co Dublin.