[D8850AEJ], Letter from Hugh De Coursey Hamilton to Thomas Alva Edison, December 18th, 1888
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Title
[D8850AEJ], Letter from Hugh De Coursey Hamilton to Thomas Alva Edison, December 18th, 1888
Editor's Notes
"In addressing you these few lines I belive you will not consider me committing any breach of confidence towards Colonel Gouraud, taking into account my position placing me here under your employ + therefore in your interest. ### I send you this for my future protection against any accusations that I might be subjected to, as, not keeping your interest in view + also to enquire my definite position for from present prospects it seems I shall be required for some time as now, before I have taught experts, + set up the machinery I brought over, which is still unpacked, waiting, I understand [unclear] occupacy of the new office; am therefore unable to make blanks + instruct people how to make them, my entire time, up to date being fully occupied without cessation, to simply manipulate the Phonograph for Colonel's demonstrations etc. + glorification; + now I am expected to do the same for+ go round with a ('competent lecturer') who, as a matter of fact, without knowing the Phonograph delivered nervously his maiden lecture at the Inventors Institute when I was with him with the instrument in my opinion the lecturer should hb also the operator in order not to give a bad impression-like 'the phonograph requiring an expert to work it. ### Mr. Archibald's entrance into the office I heralded with satisfaction thinking it would relieve me of the show business and allow my denoting myself to actual + very necessary business. ### Mr. Edwards has been at Little Menlo several times where the instruments were until lately; he is wonderful amazed at the perfection to which you have brought at + must see the comparison between it + his 'graphophone.' ### A few lines from you will be received by me with the greatest satisfaction- you may address # 88 Gloucester Road S.W. London, or Phonograph Co. to suit your convenience. ### Hoping you will not accept this as presumption I remain." Very truly yours, H.de C. Hamilton "P.S. I have had no disagreement with Colonel whatever, + shall continue complying with his demands, so far as I feel justified, waiting to hear from you. ### Unless business prospects are better soon I shall feel I am allowing good opportuniities to step through my hands by remaining on the side of the big pond." TAE marg: "Write H + say stick + do what he wants until you."]
Author
Recipient
Mentioned
Date
1888-12-18
Type
Folder/Volume ID
D8850-F
Microfilm ID
124:820
Document ID
D8850AEJ
Publisher
Thomas A. Edison Papers, School of Arts and Sciences, Rutgers University