LETTER FROM PEKING (252 pp.)Pearl S. BuckJohn Day ($3.75).
Pearl S. Buck is still presiding over her China with the air of a lady dispensing oolong from a rare porcelain tea service. In her 43rd book, she subdues the storm over Asia to the dimensions of one of her teacups. The conflict between Communist China and the West is symbolized by the MacLeods of Raleigh, Vt. Gerald MacLeod, although not a Communist, lives in Peking and is president of its Communist-run university. Wife Elizabeth MacLeod lives in Vermont with their son Rennie and her father-in-law. Old Mr. MacLeod, who was once adviser...