Gilbert Parker Writes To An American During The Lead-Up To America’s Entry In World War I: “It Is Good To Hear You Say Again How Much You Wish That Your Country Could Aid Us More Directly In This Struggle. She Is Aiding Us Already By Giving Us Such Sympathy As Yours”

GILBERT PARKER (1862-1932). Sir Gilbert Parker, a Canadian novelist and poet, served in Parliament. He is best remembered for his novels set in Canada, such as The Seats of the Mighty, The Power and the Glory and When Valmond Came to Pontiac. Two Gilbert Parker letters written shortly before the United States entered World War I: TLS. 2pg. 8” x 10”. March 12, 1915. London. A typed letter signed “Gilbert Parker” on “Carleton House Terrace” letterhead. He wrote to Dr. Edward O. Otis: “I am well aware that American enterprise has made available reprints of the official papers relating to the present European war; but the original British prints of these publications may not be accessible to those persons of influence who would study them for a true history of the conflict. I am venturing to send to you under another cover several of these official documents. I am sure you will not consider this an impertinence, but will realize that Britishers are deeply anxious that their cause may be judged from authoritative evidence. In common with the great majority of Americans, you have, no doubt, made up your mind as to what country should be held responsible for this tragedy, but these papers may be found useful for reference, and because they contain the incontrovertible facts, I feel that you will probably welcome them in this form. My long and intimate association with the United States through my writings gives me confidence to approach you, and I trust you will not think me intrusive or misunderstand my motive.” The letter has two mailing folds and is in very fine condition. TLS. 1pg. 8” x 10”. March 8, 1916. London. A typed letter signed “Gilbert Parker” on “Carleton House Terrace” letterhead. He wrote to Dr. Edward O. Otis: “You will have heard already that I have been away several weeks in the South of France by doctor’s orders, in order to recoup my health. I am glad to say that I am now back in London and able to take up my correspondence once more. Let me thank you now for your letter of February 7th, enclosing a clipping of Professor Royce’s article in the ‘Boston Herald.’ It is good to hear you say again how much you wish that your country could aid us more directly in this struggle. She is aiding us already by giving us such sympathy as yours…”. The letter has three mailing folds and is in very find condition.