Demise of A Perfect Spy

Both CIA agent Aldrich Hazen Ames and Russian informant Dmitri Polyakov ((ESPIONAGE, Aug. 8)) were double agents. But General Polyakov's altruistic nature was evidenced by the fact that "he would not accept much money" for passing Moscow's secrets to the U.S. This behavior, coupled with his commitment to remain in Russia to right the wrongs within the Soviet system, shows that he was the antithesis of Ames, a piece of profit-oriented garbage. Why is someone like Ames extended the courtesy of a life prison sentence? It would seem his very existence poses a security threat.

Ricks L. Falk

Oakdale, California

Polyakov acted for love of country, and he may even have prevented World War III. He is dead. Ames was motivated by love of money. He lives. In espionage, as in life, there is no justice.

Larry Roberts

Winnipeg, Canada