“THE WHISPERING GALLERY”

Dominion, Volume 20, Issue 55, 29 November 1926, Page 9

“THE WHISPERING GALLERY”

CHARGE OF FALSE PRETENCES

HESKETH PEARSON IN COURT

London, November 26.

Hesketh Pearson, charged with false pretences, was remanded for a week The publishers’ counsel pointed out that Pearson approached Mr. John Dunbar, of Oldham’s Press, Ltd., with whom he was acquainted, and suggested the publication of “The Whispering Gallery" as a serial in the newspapers. Mr. Dunbar said that this would be useless without a name. Subsequently, as a result of pressure, Pearson gave Sir Renuell Rodd’s name a>s the author. Mr. Dunbar then submitted the manuscript to Lane’s publishers, giving Pearson’s name. Mr punbar’s name was of high standing in the publishing world, so Lane proceeded with the publication. When the newspaper attack started Mr. Dunbar interviewed Pearson. The latter said: “I am sorry I have caused this trouble ’’

Mr. Dunbar said: “Did you tell me a lie?” '

Pearson replied: “Unfortunately I did I have already apologised to Sir Rennell Rodd for ft.” [The book “The Whispering Gallery” purported to give intimate descriptions of what transpired in the British Cabinet room in the early days of the war, and contained quotations of alleged conversations between some of the more prominent personages. When the Press expressed doubts as to the veracity of the book it was withdrawn from publication.]