2110-6-9-23

Chauvel Street Ascot Vale West (W2) Victoria Australia

December 27th 1934

Mr. John Buchan

Dear Sir

As an avid reader of your works, I take the liberty of writing you re the following: Your Oliver Cromwell has just been added to my private library. To my mind, Sir, your treatment of 'Old Noll' is magnificent, and will be read and studied by millions yet unborn. As an historical work, its grandeur, plus the intellectual enjoyment, stands alone. When chapters of this masterpiece were first published in the Melbourne "Herald" some months ago, I metaphorically stood before a moving picture, so vivid were the impressions created by your inimitable pen. I can say, without fear of contradiction, that the "Cromwells" of Firth, John Morley and Gardiner fade into insignificance as regard

the impressions and educational value created by this "Biography of the Century". Without being deemed extravagant in my phrasing, Sir, I wish to convey to you, that your 'Cromwell' is magnificent in conception, brilliant in execution, and will be permanent and everlasting in its results.

In regard to your work, letters of appreciation from the writer were published by the Melbourne "Herald" during the publication.

Wishing you many years of happiness and success.

I am Sir Yours Respectfully

Hector Milne

P.S. In conversation with a Professor of the Melbourne University last week, he gave me the opinion that a 'Napoleon' by Buchan, would improve those of 'Abbot' & 'Rose'.

H.M.