The origin of spectacles

Every so often we receive letters to the editor commenting on a previously published paper. The following commentary is just such a letter. Its content and review are so thorough, we feel compelled to share the letter with our readers as it complements the original article on the history of glasses ("Spectacles: Past, Present and Future," March-April 1986). Modesty keeps me from further elaboration on my original article. Suffice it to say, Dr. Letocha's letter elaborates upon the issues of the date and inventory of spectacles. It stands solidly as an example of erudition in historical research.