Letter: Art without the mysticism

Sir: David Lister ("When treasure becomes a burden", 16 April) questions whether "it makes long-term practical sense" to honour strictly the terms of a bequest. As guardians of Sir Denis Mahon's proposed bequest, the National Art Collections Fund has a clear view on this.

We firmly believe that, as long as it is possible, the clearly expressed stipulations of a testator should be respected: such acts of generosity cannot be taken for granted. There really is a danger that (to use David Lister's words) "bequests to British galleries might dry up, if benefactors fear that their dying wishes will be overturned".

Sir NICHOLAS GOODISON

Chairman

The National Art Collections Fund

London SW7