Typed Letter Signed / Signed Pamphlet.
This French-born American broadcast journalist pioneered transatlantic radio broadcasting while European director of Columbia Broadcasting System (1930-37), bringing to the airwaves figures ranging from Hitler and Mussolini to George Bernard Shaw and King George V; he hosted "The Story Behind the Headlines" (1938-48) for NBC and on the side was a serious musicologist, penning a biography of composer Artur Schnabel. Item #42258
TLS, 1p, 6¼" X 9¼", New York, NY, 26 June 1939. Addressed to Arnold F. Gates (1914-93, future noted Lincoln/Civil War scholar). Near fine. On personal letterhead, Saerchinger graciously pens an admirer: "You've let yourself in for something! Having written to me about my broadcasts, you are irrevocably a 'fan'. Therefore, you are politely requested to add your voice to those who want these talks to be resumed. The matter will be decided this week; so will you quickly vote 'yes'? Just drop a note to the N.B.C. and tell'm what you think -- whether an objective treatment of world events against the background of history is worthwhile, better than 'swing', or indispensable to to the intelligent citizen!" Boldly signed in blue ink. Apparently the fate of Saerchinger relatively new "The Story Behind the Headlines" show was uncertain -- but (also apparently) this write-in campaign succeeded, for the show ran for another nine years. Accompanied by a booklet printing of one installment of the radio show in question, the March 21, 1939 (Vol. 2, No. 23) issue of "Bulletin of the Story Behind the Headlines: The Death of Czecho-Slovakia," a 12mo (5" X 7") 22-page pamphlet published by Columbia University Press. Very good. Across the front wrapper, he boldly pens "For Mr Arnold F. Gates / with the Compliments of / Cesar Saerchinger" in black ink. An interesting pair from this pivotal radio figure.
Price: $95.00