Was coup a trap for hard-liners?

I am not a communist, but I think we need a reminder these days that communism is one of the many systems of thought aimed at improving the lot of mankind. It did so, on balance: Communism in the Soviet Union did much harm, especially under Stalin, but it had lifted Russia out of the gross miseries of czarist centuries. There are some sincere reasons why "conservatives" cling to communist ideals. It sad that the first act of Lithuania on becoming free is to cut away a freedom: by banning a party, the communist one. Guy Ottewell, Greenville, S.C. Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.