I found it difficult to believe the letter from the mother who suckled her 18-month-old toddler on a public conveyance. Little wonder she received derogatory remarks from fellow passenger.

In the first place, a child of this advanced age should have been weaned off the breast long since. How long does mother intend to continue this form of comfort? Has she never heard of a dummy for just such occasions?

Secondly, to perform this natural function on a crowded bus is tantamount to relieving oneself of bodily waste - after all, it's only natural.

No, madame, keep your boobies covered up. This form of comfort should be kept private. I write as a mother of four breast-fed offspring.

-Pauline M McHale, Montpelier Crescent, Brighton