Dear Mr Cornwell, I was surprised by the suggestion (12th June 2008) that you seem to portray Christians in a less than flattering light and by your response that this may be because you have never much liked the Christian religion. I had noticed that there are a number of delightful characters in the Sharpe books whose Christian faith is displayed most sympathetically; e.g. Colonel McCandless, Major Blas Vivar and indeed, Patrick Harper. This is reflected in the television series (surprisingly refreshing in today’s politically correct environment) with some magnificent Christian characters, such as the superb Major Septimus Pyecroft and the delightful Father Curtis. Who can forget Pyecroft praying for the orphaned gypsy girl, or Father Curtis rescuing the novice nun from being raped by Simmerson? I believe that this accurately reflects the spirit of the time, when many people had a robust Christian belief and felt strongly enough to fight and die for it if necessary. As a Christian, I feel that the Sharpe series (books and television) are definitely on the side of the angels. Ian Marchant