Correspondence with A.N. Monkhouse

  • This material is held at
  • Reference
      GB 133 GDN/A/M82
  • Dates of Creation
      3 Sep 1899-11 Jan 1936
  • Physical Description
      35 pieces; 42 sheets

Scope and Content

Correspondence with Allan Noble Monkhouse (1858-1936), journalist and writer, relating to discussion of Monkhouse's initial employment by manufacturing firms, potential work he might carry out for the Manchester Guardian, with reference to theatre, book and sports reviews, and a request by Monkhouse to be considered for employment on the commercial staff of the paper. Also included is internal correspondence relating to the termination of Monkhouse's employment at Swainson and Bisley, and discussion of his character. There is correspondence relating to payment for Monkhouse's work, to which he feels he is not entitled, as he has been acting in an advisory capacity only.

Also included is correspondence relating to Monkhouse's work on the [Manchester] exchange report for the Manchester Guardian, with enquiry as to his intended relations of [F.J.] Faraday, journalist and commercial editor, and discussion of Monkhouse's work on both the commercial and the arts side of the paper. There is a letter giving permission for Monkhouse to contribute to an [unknown] newspaper in New York, as it will not interfere with his work for the Manchester Guardian. There is correspondence relating to a request for advice from Monkhouse relating to a potential application for the post of master of the [Manchester Royal] exchange, for which Scott gives his blessing. Also included is correspondence relating to an interview for the post, and Monkhouse's application eventually being unsuccessful.

There is discussion of Monkhouse's work, his desire for a reduction in salary during the [First World War] and new requirements for his columns and reviews brought about by the paper shortage. There is also discussion of a proposed increase to Monkhouse's salary as the war progresses, which is accepted. There is reference to Monkhouse's desire to volunteer for national service, and Scott's [view that he cannot spare him from work at the paper]. There is correspondence relating to Monkhouse's illness, and recovery, with discussion of work which can be carried out from home, and of appropriate salary. There are arrangements for Monkhouse to continue to work on the book reviews for the paper, and to produce a weekly article on cotton. There is reference to work carried out by Monkhouse for Arnold Bennett [at the Evening Standard?] and to an [unknown] difficulty with Mrs Braunholtz. There is a list of books and plays by Monkhouse.

There is also correspondence between Monkhouse and E.T. Scott, relating to a request by E.T. Scott that Monkhouse resume his work in providing articles for the back pages of the Manchester Guardian, on the proviso that he is paid for the work, which is accepted by Monkhouse, who, however, refuses to accept any payment. There is correspondence relating to the decision to discontinue Monkhouse's responsibility for the Manchester Guardian book reviews, owing to the need to make economies, with an expression of admiration by E.T Scott for Monkhouse's work. Also included is Monkhouse's acceptance of the decision and gratitude for the good wishes expressed, with discussion of arrangements for the handing over of the work. There is an expression of condolences by Monkhouse to E.T. Scott on the death of C.P. Scott.

GDN/A/M82/35 is an obituary for Monkhouse in the Manchester Guardian, 1936.