13 FEBRUARY 1932, Page 3

Mr. Edgar Wallace Mr. Edgar Wallace, who died on Wednesday

at Holly- wood, perhaps bulked larger in the minds of his con- temporaries than any other popular figure of the twentieth century. The quantity of his literary output overshadowed and, in his later work, somewhat attenuated its quality ; but his skill, within the self-imposed limita- tions of his medium, was as remarkable as his con- sistency. His best work was done for the theatre. He will remain a memory, and perhaps a proverb, even when the books that have given so much pleasure to this generation are no longer read. Relying entirely upon his own energy and talents, be built up a world. wide reputation. The fact that it was a popular reputa- tion should not detract from the honour due to him.

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