I read with deep regret about the demise of Khalid Hassan. For the last few years, I literally used to wait for internet edition of the paper he was writing for to read him on line. What struck me most was his wit and easy flow of language and, then, his total objectivity. He was also very fearless. We did exchange a few mails, which I still have in my inbox. I respected his views even when he was critical of India at times. He did have an ardent fan in me on this side of the border. I will really miss his space on Sundays. May his soul rest in peace. -AARVEY, India, via e-mail, February 7.