TLS signed “Thos. A. Edison,” one page, 8.5 x 11, From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison letterhead, December 19, 1922. Letter to J. A. Maher, explaining the Edison Records business model. In part: "In getting a dealer it is preferable that the dealer should be a young man who has a backer, preferably somebody affiliated with the local bank so the installment paper can be discounted. This young dealer can also act as a salesman and if the local trucker charges too much or does not want the business a Ford Runabout can be used…Renting space in a store is the cheapest thing. The store owner could take care of selling records to those who come to the store…The profits on these sales of records shall be split fifty fifty between the salesman dealer and the store owner…In this way there would be two salesmen: a regular salesman and the dealer himself selling and between them shifting with the runabout….I want you to get thoroughly sold on these economical methods which are absolutely essential in order to show a profit in this time of depression and great competition. If a fair profit can be made now the profits in good times will be very attractive." In fine condition, with intersecting folds. A significant letter revealing Edison's keen business savvy, boasting a crisp and bold example of Edison's iconic 'umbrella' autograph.
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