Peter Johnstone says the “Sam Vimes ‘Boots’ theory of socioeconomic unfairness” was not invented by Terry Pratchett but by Paul Jennings in the Observer in 1954 (Letters, 28 January). The same theory was in fact put forward much earlier – by the character Owen in The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists by Robert Tressell, published in 1914. Owen illustrates it with reference to buying stockings, boots, shoes and underclothes for his family.
He says: “This is how the working classes are robbed. Although their incomes are the lowest, they are compelled to buy the most expensive articles – that is, the lowest-priced articles. Everybody knows that good clothes, boots or furniture are really the cheapest in the end, although they cost more money at first; but the working classes can seldom or never afford to buy good things; they have to buy cheap rubbish which is dear at any price.” If you want to know about capitalism and socialism, The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists is still a good guide.
Sally Goldsmith
Sheffield
Neither Terry Pratchett nor Paul Jennings was first with this idea. The adage “buy cheap, buy twice” was a favourite of northern grannies long before 1954.
Cassy Firth
Morley, West Yorkshire
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