SINCE learning about James Hepburn, 4th Earl of Bothwell, I have admired him. At risk of winding up a gory heap I have kept it quiet until now.

His rescue of Mary, Queen of Scots from the louche clutches of the wishy-washy Lord Darnley was spectacular, but with the tragic consequences.

In my present regal, icily pompous, unamused mood, I must reluctantly issue a reprimand to Julian Cole for referring to Bothwell as: 'Bothy' (On The Box, March 20). This sounds like a popular part of a garden centre.

Kevin McKidd was well cast in Jimmy McGovern's romp, Gunpowder, Treason And Plot and if only I looked like the exquisite Clmence Posy in a velvet Tam O'Shanter. Fancy having the terrible story of Mary's son, James, on the box on Mothers' Day.

Margaret Lawson,

Aldborough House,

The Groves, York.

Updated: 10:38 Thursday, March 25, 2004