Nixon on U.S. China Policy

Thanks for your in-depth coverage on China (June 25). The case of a gerontocracy turned “gerontocrazy” reminds me of the ancient Roman Senate, so-called for being made of “senes” or senescent members. A graphic Latin saying characterizes that citadel of power for all ages and cultures: “ Senatores, boni viri; senatus, mala bestia “ (The senators, decent guys; the senate, a wild beast.)

MARY C. GARIANO

Northridge