Connotative differences in spelling

[Douglas G. Wilson]

>... "Americans spell 'light' as 'lite' and 'night' as 'nite'."

IIRC, there was a simplified spelling scheme employed routinely by some
'respectable' US publications -- including particularly the "Chicago
Tribune" -- as late as the 1970's. I recall seeing 'thoro' and 'thru' in
particular -- in the "Tribune" I think. I don't know whether the reform
extended to 'nite' and 'lite'.

Many (otherwise) respectable persons use such 'reformed'/simplified
spelling in personal correspondence, and I think it's popular in e-mail. I
think I see it about as Lynne does, however.

"Thru" and -- I think -- a few other 'reformed' spellings remain in
'serious' use on US road signs. Is the UK different in this regard?

-- Doug Wilson