Correspondence with Edith Maryon 1912–1924

GA 263 — 3 June 1913

Letter from Edith Maryon

Edith Maryon to Rudolf Steiner
[Translation]

Türkenstraße 27 I1
Munich, June 3, 1913 Dear

Dr. Steiner,

please take a look at the enclosed clipping from the “Church Times” that my father just sent me. Unfortunately, the date is cut off, but I assume that it is last Friday's edition. This paper is read by practically all the English clergy, and certainly by the whole of the Anglican Church, and through the clergy reaches a large proportion of the laity. In addition, it is also read by many non-theologians. The matter seems to me, therefore, of considerable importance and an answer should be made to the many false views expressed. Will you let me know if you agree that an answer would be appropriate?

I am of the opinion that an answer should be given by an English author, since only an Englishman can know and understand the English Church. Only such a person could convey a different understanding to the readers of the “Church Times”. The answer would have to be written by the most capable thinker we can find.

The person who comes most to mind is Mrs. (Professor) Mackenzie. I believe you met her at Dr. Felkin's, she has been a member of his order for 7 or 8 years and is Professor of Education at Cardiff University (where her husband is a philosophy lecturer). Both are members of the Anthroposophical Society. I am personally friends with her, so I could ask her if she would write a reply, but of course I can't speak for you, nor do I know if you would agree, or perhaps you have a better suggestion.

From the other clipping, you see that Mrs. Besant is giving a lecture in London. I don't see how she dare do that after the way the second suit turned out for her. We had a telegram with the judge's verdict, but so far no newspaper report (I mean the defamation suit). If a reply is to be made, I think it should be as soon as possible; perhaps you would let me know what you would wish, and in what direction the answer should go - or let someone convey it to me.

Yours sincerely

L. Edith C. Maryon

Perhaps Prof. Mackenzie would agree to do it with me; in any case, I could provide her with the facts, which she would process in an article. If she accepts, it will be well done, she is extremely clever.