Correspondence with J[ohn] B[lack] Atkins (1871-1954), journalist, relating to discussion of his work as a member of staff and a war correspondent for the Manchester Guardian. The correspondence includes discussion of the development and form of articles and features, and the subjects of articles, including accompanying the American army to Cuba to observe the guerrilla warfare of the insurgents, discussion of the situation in and a potential trip to the Balkans, a record of travel with the British army in South Africa, duelling, ragged schools and scholarships for technical colleges, and the visit of King [Edward VII] to the Vatican.
There is also discussion of Atkins' engagement to be married, and the effect this may have on his work as a war correspondent, of terms of employment and salary, and of the retention of staff in the London office of the Manchester Guardian. There is correspondence relating to other writers for the Manchester Guardian, including reference to [Alexander Bell] Filson Young, journalist, and the recommendation of other correspondents by Atkins. There is correspondence relating to Atkins' request for permission to stand for election as a member of parliament, which is refused.
Also included is correspondence which took place during Atkin's employment at The Spectator, relating to a request for material from Scott and Scott's pleasure in Atkin's involvement in relief work, and a request to use Scott's foreign correspondents to write articles for the Spectator from capital cities. There is a letter from Gerald Miller, which contains a reference to Atkins' personal troubles, and also an enquiry by Atkins as to potential employment at the Manchester Guardian for Lord Sudley [Arthur Paul John James Charles Gore, 7th Earl of Arran, writer].
GDN/A/A59/28 is a newspaper cutting of an article announcing Atkins' appointment as editor of the weekly church newspaper, the Guardian.
GDN/A/A59/30 is a newspaper cutting of an article by Atkins of reminiscences on living in Manchester for a series on the subject in the Manchester Guardian.
GDN/A/A59/25 and 26 are duplicate letters.