Literary Section
Deacon, in trouble with the management of The Globe and Mail, mainly because
of radical political views expressed in his My Vision of Canada, had solicited
from his friends testimonials of their regard for him and his work.
Thursday A.M.
[16 Nov. 1933]
Dear Billy,
I have just sent off to Scott a letter expressing my great appreciation of the Literary Section of the Mail. I was a constant reader of the paper; my interest increasing since your connection with it. Your columns gave the ablest, the most vital criticism in Canada. Then my own candid opinion of 'The Vision' as I have stated it to you, — that in the circle in which I move I found genuine admiration and respect etc. etc.
Immediately got in touch with Fennel: Bob says he will not only telephone but will personally see both Scott & Smith. Smith he says he is a friend of his — a dinner friend and so forth. He will tell Smith (and Scott) that he thinks the literary exposition of the Mail without a rival in this country, and your book is in like vein.
Then I have just seen Edgar again. Edgar will see Smith whom he knows better than Scott and speak positively for you. I know he will do that.
I will scout about & get more fellows besieging the Mail.
Yours as ever
Ned
Forgive rush just now. Devil of a hurry!