IT is Ralph Leavis’s prerogative to believe all the stories in the Bible, if he chooses to do so (Viewpoints, March 4), whereas I do not, and I find better things to do with my time than trawling through the scriptures to find support for my beliefs.

Anyone with the time and the inclination can find quotes to support all manner of injustices and cruelties against living entities – religious bigots will always find a Biblical text to support their beliefs and, as an ex-churchgoer, I am appalled at their readiness to turn aside when faced with the ghastly truth regarding blood sports.

I may not longer be a practising Christian, but I do believe that we shall all have to face up to our iniquities at the end of our lives.

BEA BRADLEY Cuxham Road Watlington