WCP522

[1]¹

47 Teversal Avenue,

Lenton Sands,

Nottingham.

23rd January 1912.

Dear Sir,²

A friend of mine informs me that he remembers reading in a periodical called "The Young Man"³ — it was either in an article written by you, or the report of an interview with you⁴ — a recommendation of a novel called "A Walking Gentleman"⁵, by James Prior.⁶

I am extremely interested in the books of Mr. James Prior. It seems to me that he is making fine literature out of the scenes and people of his (and my) native county of Nottingham. It surprises me, and troubles me as a lover of literature, to find that after a lifetime of effort, and fine artistic achievement, Mr Prior’s work still asks, even in his native place, for recognition.

I my small way I have been doing what I can to help rescue these fine books from oblivion, and it would help encourage⁷ me greatly to have the assurance of so distinguished a man as yourself that you know and admire James Prior’s work.

I have already had a letter from one of our most distinguished lady novelists (Mrs Mary E. Mann);⁸ and speaking of one of Mr Prior’s books, which she first read over ten years ago, she says she still remembers the thrill of delight which it gave her, and after a long and interesting letter she concludes by saying that she has not the least doubt in her mind that it should be a classic.

You will excuse me taking the liberty of addressing you, but it is a subject upon which I feel very deeply indeed.

Yours respectfully | S. Fisher⁹ [signature]