Autolycus in Germany
Autolycus in Germany is a letter written by Arthur Conan Doyle published in the Daily Mail on 23 april 1907.
Autolycus, from Greek mythology, had the ability to steal without being caught. Thus, comparing German publishers as Autolycus as they published his works without his consent.
Autolycus in Germany
To the Editor of the "Daily Mail."
Sir, — Your correspondent couples my name with two plays appearing in Berlin called "Sherlock Holmes" and "The Hound of the Baskervilles."
Would you kindly state that, save for the fact that the names of two of my novels have been stolen to make the titles, I have nothing to do with such plays, having neither written them, authorised them, or seen them. They have been invented by a certain Herr Bonn without any reference at all to myself.
As the facts are well known in Germany, and as a law case is pending, on the matter, your correspondent could have very easily found the true facts had be made any inquiry. I may add that both in literature and in the drama Germany appears to have a very low commercial morality. I have had several books sent me from Berlin with my name upon the cover but with no word of mine within them. Honest Germans should see to it for the credit of their country.
Arthur Conan Doyle.
Undershaw, Hindhead, Surrey.
