Differing Tastes

How many readers are interested in truffles? One must, indeed, have an unusual interest in this food to spend so much time in its pursuit, when there are so many historical and prehistoric monuments in this part of France.

I have been a frequent and regular visitor to France since 1948 and have still to understand the passion for French food. In recent years my wife and I visited the Perigord region. Our interests were in the grottoes and paintings of the Cro-Magnon period. We have, in fact, found that eating was something of a problem rather than a source of pleasure. Restaurant opening hours are very limited, and between 2 and 7 p.m. one is not permitted to feel hungry. And then there is the long wait for service.

NORMAN F. BATES

Dana Point