Correspondence with Gordon Phillips (1890-1952), journalist, relating to an application by Phillips for employment as a reporter for the Manchester Guardian, with reference to previous experience, and contributions of verse to the miscellany column of the paper under the pseudonym 'Lucio'. There is a query regarding Phillips' competence at shorthand, and internal memoranda discussing the subject. Also included is an offer made to Phillips for responsibility for the miscellany column of the paper, discussions and negotiations of increases in salary, and the likelihood of Phillips' being called up for war service [during the First World War]. There are requests from Phillips to be considered for assignments abroad, and a letter of credential for Phillips as a correspondent for the Manchester Guardian in Belgium and northern France. Also included are related internal memoranda.
There is correspondence between Phillips and E.T. Scott, relating to a contribution to the cost of a nursing home for Phillips by the paper, and hopes for a quick recovery.
There is correspondence between Phillips and W.P. Crozier, relating to discussion of work allocation, the writing of leader articles, salary, and updates on office matters provided during a period which Crozier is absent. There is reference to the printing of verses by Phillips in a volume of prose entitled Brighter Intervals, and discussion of a complaint by Phillips over the removal of a verse he had provided from the paper. Also included is correspondence relating to a summons sent to Phillips for jury service.
There is correspondence relating to a period of absence from the paper for Phillips owing to ill health, with discussion of arrangements for treatment, and potential return to work, accompanied by related internal memoranda. There is reference to the progression of the [Second World War], and discussion of Phillips working from home for a period of time, on reviews and miscellany articles. There is also correspondence with Jess Phillips, wife of Phillips, relating to the assistance of the papers as a second signature guarantor for the payment of Phillips' treatment, which is provided, and facilitating work carried out by Phillips from home.
There is correspondence between Phillips and A.P. Wadsworth, relating to the deterioration of Phillips' health, with discussion of treatment, and growing difficulties in the completion of his work for the paper. Also included is correspondence with Anthony Phillips, son of Phillips, J.R. Scott, and L.P. Scott. There is an enquiry regarding the availability of publications which feature verses by 'Lucio', and reference to The Second Show, Brighter Intervals and a novel by Phillips entitled High Explosive, all of which are out of print.
GDN/A/P60 is a proof copy of a review by Phillips entitled 'Opera House, Black Chiffon', 1950.
GDN/P36/65 and 67 are an obituary and death notice for Phillips in the Manchester Guardian, 1952.
GDN/A/P36/66 is a letter to the editor by Peter Green, clergyman, entitled 'Mr Gordon Phillips' in the Manchester Guardian, 1952.