The Times, (London) March 7, 1914, p. 9:
TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMES
Sir,–I would be much obliged to you if you will allow me the use of your columns to give publicity to the doings of Mr. T. B. Mosher, of Portland, Maine, U.S.A. Mr. Mosher is an American publisher who battens at the expense of British authors and publishers by issuing piratical editions of English copyright books. He sends his list of contraband literature by post to buyers in this country, who cannot be expected to realize the true position of affairs, and who are naturally delighted to find their favourite authors issued in attractive guise and at a low pric–a price that enables Mr. Mosher, by not paying the author, to make a handsome profit. I feel sure that were his methods generally known he would cease to find a market here. As Mr. Mosher’s wares are sent into this country by post without any identifying label, it is practically impossible for the postal authorities to discover them; but that he finds a ready sale for them is proved by the fact that numbers of secondhand copies are to be found in the vicinity of Charing Cross-road, and advertisments of his books unfortunately from time to time are seen in reputable English newspapers.
In the January number of the Forum, Mr. Richard Le Gallienne has thought fit to come forward as the eulogist of the Mosher methods, which he euphemistically describes as “charming piracy.” British authors and publishers call them by a shorter name.
Believe me, Sir, yours very truly,
JAMES H. BLACKWOOD, President of
the Publishers’ Association of Great
Britain and Ireland
37, Patemoster-row, E.C., March 5.