MARY J. LARKIN,
Sir, - No doubt those who wish for the early departure of Pope John Paul II gain some satisfaction over idly speculating that his demise is imminent (Rome Letter, January 16th).
I was privileged to be present at an audience with the Pope on Saturday, January 12th in the Pope Paul VI Auditorium. While His Holiness may be physically feeble and somewhat stooped, he is by no means bent double; he can walk short distances with the aid of a stick and as he left the auditorium he raised both arms in the gesture of a cheer.
It was also clear to me that the Pope's mental faculties remain completely intact. Indeed, this 81-year-old man has remarkable energy, irrespective of his age. Any comparison to Ronald Reagan is premature and inappropriate. No one should think for a moment that the Pope neglects or is unable to fulfil his duties, as is demonstrated by his recent, typically full, diary of engagements.
Unfortunately, Paddy Agnew's article displayed an underlying intolerance of physical frailty. I had hoped such prejudiced attitudes belonged to the past. - Yours, etc.,
MARY J. LARKIN,
Glantane Drive,
Belfast 15.