Smoking and Free Speech

There are not many times I can write you a compliment regarding editorials in The Times. But your comment (Dec. 18), “Second-Hand Smoke,” is an exception.

Your editorial regarding the surgeon general of the United States’ report regarding the deadly effects of cigarette smoking on people was truly outstanding. Had you asked me to write the editorial, I could not have done so well.

B.W. (SONNY) STIRES

El Centro