

Letter about German Firms (23 august 1914)

From The Arthur Conan Doyle Encyclopedia


This letter was written by Arthur Conan Doyle on 23 august 1914 from Windlesham, Crowborough, Sussex.


Dear Sir

I think Wells' idea of the German commercial firms is excellent. They may very well contribute as firms not as individuals. I have written to two of them, Albert E. Stern of Stern Brothers, 6 Angel Court, EC, and Sir Adolph Tuck of Moorfields. I have given each of them your name and address so you may hear. When the slip is printed you might send specimens to them.

I don't like the 'rauberisch' [1]. An understatement is always better than an overstatement. Also I think for the same reason that 'Gegen dieses Unrecht' [2] is more impressive than the 'Raubritter th... and Tyrannei' [3]. I should leave out from 'Gegen' to 'Kommen' in that sentence. I am sure it is more effective.

You have been very generous in the matter.

Yours sincerely

A. Conan Doyle

  1. Thieving
  2. Against this injustice
  3. Robber baron ... and Tyranny