So, I'm doing some research into some topics relating to late-19th-century America. I keep running into a Mr. J. M. Stoddard.
First you'll find
The American Supplement to the Encyclopedia Britannica, then you may run across
Stoddard's Encyclopedia Americana. If you compare the two, they are identical. Both published by J.M. Stoddart. And, at least in the sections I'm concerned with, troubling as to the accuracy of some small but important details.
Well, I just ran into this little tidbit about Stoddard.
American Bookseller, August 1, 1883, page 563, under "Literary Notes"
The question of international copyright is brought up now and then in a piquant sort of way. The following correspondence is published in a late number of the London Bookseller, under the name of "Modesty."
From J.M. Stoddard & Co.,
1018 Chestnut St., Philadelphia
15th February, 1883
Messrs. W. & A.K. Johnston:
Gentlemen: As you are probably aware, we are the publishers of The Reprint of the Encyclopedia Britannica. We are not quite satisfied with our reproduction of maps as regards the colors. The trouble with our lithographer lies in the fact of his inability to get a plate of "stipple" sufficiently fine to work out the tints.
Our object in writing you is to ascertain whether you would supply us with a "pure line stipple" plate, and at what price?
As a sample of the stipple desired, we refer you to plate 5, vol. 8, of the 9th edition E.B., which were printed by you.
Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience,
I remain, yours respectfully,
John Vansant.
Manufacturing Dept.
(copy)
Edinburgh, 27th February, 1883
Dear Sirs: We have the favor of the 15th instant, but, as we are the engravers and printers of a great many of the maps in the Encyclopedia Britannica, it is most unlikely that we should assist a rival house to copy these; we think you cannot have fully considered our position before you wrote us.
Ever since you began to pirate this work, the Messrs. Black have had our deepest sympathy; we are very glad you find the maps difficult to copy, and our aim in the future will be to put as many obstacles in the way of reproduction as possible.
Yours very truly,
(signed) W. & A. K. Johnston.
Messrs J. M. Stoddard & Co.
1018 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, U.S.
I love imagining that reply letter read out in an Edinburgh accent.
Anyone quite get the "Messrs. Black" reference? Is it a reference to piracy?