To the Editors of The Crimson:

What in hell is Laurie Scheffler talking about? ("The Mail," October 18). "The fact remains that the concept of Indian Summer...is constructed by many people...a reference to an 'inherited' Indian trait of sneakiness..."

Let me quote the Encyclopedia Britannica on Indian Summer: "The haziness of the air, the musty odor and glorious mordant coloring of the leaves, the smell of smoke from rampant fires in the dry woods and the relaxing physiological effect of the warmth following the previous cold snap all contribute to the distinctive and romantic stereotype of Indian Summer that has been cherished by generations of Americans." This is offensive? This is a slur on the Indian people? This shows "sneakiness?"

Perhaps Laurie Scheffler really writes for The Lampoon and the letter was a gag? I hope so! Laurence T. May Jr. '72