intelligences made. Why not one for every important branch of science. The ending was logical enough, though.
In "A Modem Comedy of Science," Mr. Nathanson has at last done what this fan has long been waiting for—written up an old, old theme without the old, old development. Our Reformer is not a madman, there is no glamorous heroine to be rescued, and best of all, the secret is not destroyed at the end of the story, nor is the Reformer killed. Bravo!
When we come to the conclusion of the serial, all I can say in praise is that part two of the "Maelstrom of Atlantis" is better than part one. Which is not saying much. At least, it comes nearer to adult fare, though, than the childish "Posi and Nega" series. Don’t misunderstand me; I consider the "Posi and Nega" stories as invaluable for junior high school students who are just getting a start in their study of general science. But for Amazing Stories, which certainly is not printed for eleven-year-olds, (or maybe I'm mistaken; is it?) they are inexcusably misplaced. In the present effort, Mr. Skidmore has the same schoolboy and schoolgirl characters as usual, and the same juvenile style. By the way, Joane Cromwell was in love with Donald Millstein and adventure the last time we had the misfortune to meet her; I see she still likes adventure, and is consistent to her sweetheart's first name, only it is another Donald. Did the Falcon catch up with our brave (former) hero at last? Sad; inexpressably sad! A rather amusing coincidence has made our brave Joane find her lost Donald Millstein in another two part serial, published in a rival magazine at exactly the same dates of issue. That is a coincidence, of course, for which you are not to blame. But the onus of printing "Maelstrom of Atlantis" should be guilt enough on the editorial shoulders. Ah well, to err is human and we may as well play at being divine. In pace resquiescat!
"Labyrinth" is quite enjoyable as a science-adventure tale, and I have always found Professor Jameson entertaining. We mustn't forget, too, that they have afforded the material for some of Morey's best covers. "The Pygmies of Phobos" was very well done, and quite unusual in places. And last but not least, the "Airwayman," while not sensational, was very readable and had a clever twist to it.
That seems to be about all for now, Mr. Editor; you know from past letters that I enjoy and admire your editorials. In reply to your question: yes, the little magazine I edited was successful in its way. No, it wasn't a school newspaper, but a publication sponsored by Co. 178 CCC at Flagstaff, Maine. It was my good fortune (or perhaps I should say misfortune) to be at the helm for the first four issues, and also to have the chair on the yearbook. The newspaper was still going the last I heard from them; my time expired in October, 1934, and only four issues had been published. We didn't make any fortune, but did clear expenses and had a little over. The experience was just enough to show me how little I knew about it all, and the more I do of that kind of work, the less I see I know about if. And to readers who will immediately ask why in h--- I don't keep quiet, seeing I admit knowing nothing, my answer is: If I knew all there is known about editing a magazine, I wouldn't be here writing letters to this editor; I'd be at the wheel of my own science-fiction magazine. Our editor invites comment, of all kinds, and as a loyal reader, I'm doing my duty and sending it on; writing just what I think, mind you, and bowing to no rules. My only aim is to be constructive and if my letters sound a little harsh, remember: "Desperate diseases require desperate remedies." (Guy Fawkes.)
Until the next time then. I'll be waiting for the new issue with the sincere hope that it will be such as will let me write a letter at least as commendary as this, if not more
Robert W. Lowndes,
Springdale, Conn.
(Quite independent of its atmosphere this letter is complimentary in the sense that it takes our magazine seriously, and we certainly are trying to keep it in the class of publications that can elicit such letters as this one. Indiscriminate praise is sometimes more disagreeable than similar abuse. You can hit back at condemnation but can do little or nothing about flattery. We wonder where "Wild Bill" got the idea of such an appellation.—Editor.)
Back Issues of Magazines to Dispose of
Editor, Amazing Stories:
I have read many requests for back issues. I am writing to say that I have several numbers of different magazines. I am obliged to dispose of my collection for financial reasons. I am asking twenty cents for monthly magazines and twenty-five cents for quarterlies. I will send a list to any prospective purchaser. They go back to 1929, and up to 1936.
William Mueh,
3285 W 42nd St.,Cleveland, Ohio
