Letter to Herbert Greenhough Smith about The Dancing Men (1903)
From The Arthur Conan Doyle Encyclopedia
This letter was written by Arthur Conan Doyle in 1903 from Hill House Hotel, Happisburgh (UK), to Herbert Greenhough Smith, editor of The Strand Magazine.
Letter
My dear Smith
I think perhaps this would meet the case. I have a strong bloody for the fourth "The Adventure of the Dancing Men". We could put this third and so separate the two crimeless stories. That would give a stronger start to the series.
I must say that I cannot agree with your estimate of the "Norwood Builder". I read it to a roomful of people and I was never more conscious of holding an audience absolutely spellbound.
The other is a dramatic & ingenious plot, but it is weakened by Holmes having little to do with the denouement.
- Yours,
- A.C.D.
Shall be back on Tuesday.
