TLS signed “Thos. A. Edison,” one page, 8.5 x 11, From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison letterhead, November 29, 1929. Letter to Congressman Clyde Kelly regarding an upcoming bill. In full, “Fair competition between manufacturers is a good thing and will inevitably result in fair prices to the public. The competition developed by the price cutting methods of certain retailers is harmful to the manufacturer, destructive to the legitimate dealer and of no lasting benefit to the small portion of the public temporarily affected by it. I heartily approve of the Capper-Kelly bill.” In 1926 Sen. Arthur Capper of Kansas held hearings to highlight the danger to small retailers posed by chain-store price cutting, especially the use of loss leaders (selected items sold below cost to lure shoppers into the store). A bill called the Capper-Kelly Act (co- sponsored by Rep. Clyde Kelly of Pennsylvania) won the support of some large industrial firms, which saw it as a way to limit the ability of chains to exert downward pressure on the price of manufactured goods. In fine condition, with small pencil notations to lower left corner, bisecting mailing folds, and a block of light uniform overall toning to text and signature from previous display. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA, PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
