Letter from William Gerhardie, London, to Kenneth L. Dickman, 1931 September 15

Refusing to send him a copy of his book; saying "No hints or innuendos from you will produce any free copies from me. I don't see why I should both write my books and pay for them. I have ceased to distribute free copies even to relations. One day when you are a successful author you will be surprised to find how poor you are. I have no doubt that you are as good as you say. If you read of the paucity of great writers, which is the standing complaint of all contemporary critics, you will be cheered by the reflection of how much room there is at the top, however the profession may seem to be overcrowded in the middle and at the bottom. I hope you will have all the success you wish : but I will not share my few commissions, nor part with any of my first editions."