In many instances I have asked at
news stands, "Whose book is that?" The prompt and invariable
answer has been, "E. P. Roe's." I have seen book notices in which
the volume was ascribed to me in anything but flattering terms. A
distinguished judge, in a carefully written opinion, is so
uncharitable as to characterize the coincidence in cover as a
"fraud," and to say, "No one can look at the covers of the two
publications and fail to see evidence of a design to deceive the
public and to infringe upon the rights of the publisher and
author"--that is, the rights of Messrs. Dodd, Mead would be well,
as a rule, for other writers to begin with reputable, honorable
publishers and to remain with them. A publisher can do more and
better with a line of books than with isolated volumes. When an
author's books are scattered, there is not sufficient inducement
for any one to push them strongly, nor, as in the case above
related, to protect a writer against a "double," should one
appear. Authors often know little about business, and should deal
with a publisher who will look after their interests as truly as
his own.
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