MS location unknown. Published in the Spectator, 85, (8 December 1900), 841.
Sir,
I am anxious to ask in the interest of the English language why the word ‘desight’ is gibbeted by [sic] in the notice of ’Modern Broods’ (Spectator, December 1st). It was marked in the proof, but I thought the objection was only that of a scrupulous ‘reader’ and I left it, having always used it, and heard it applied to a blemish or disfigurement, and I find it in the 1864 revision of Webster’s Dictionary, so that I can hardly suppose it to be objectionable or inelegant. I should much like to know whether another term can be suggested bearing the same meaning, as expressing a slight defect, marring the general appearance.1
-I am, Sir, &c.,
C. M. YONGE