At Last 5 Minutes with Einstein Himself (Engl. text + German summary)

AT LAST FIVE MINUTES WITH EINSTEIN
HIMSELF
An English publisher visits German scientists in
1921
Frederick Muller's letters
edited and annotated by
Dennis Miller
Im November 1921, war Deutschland eine führende Wissenschaftsnation,
aber politisch und wirtschaftlich instabil – es waren nur drei Jahre nach dem
Ende des Ersten Weltkriegs. Dies war die Situation, als Frederick Muller, ein
englischer Verleger von deutscher Abstammung, mehrere führende
Wissenschaftler (einschließlich Einstein) besuchte. Er suchte nach Büchern, die
für den englischsprachigen Markt übersetzt werden könnten.
Die neuen Entwicklungen in der Physik, insbesondere der Relativitätstheorie,
interessierten damals viele Leser. Das war nicht mehr nur etwas für Spezialisten
mit soliden mathematischen Kenntnissen. Ein Großteil der neuen Erkenntnisse
kam von deutschen Wissenschaftler. Der wissenschaftliche Kontakt zwischen der
deutsch- und englischsprachigen Welt war jedoch während des Krieges
eingestellt worden. Nach dem Waffenstillstand vom November 1918
boykottierten offizielle internationale wissenschaftliche Gesellschaften
Deutschland und seine Verbündeten für mehrere Jahre. Kommerzielle Verlage in
den englischsprachigen Ländern konnten aber problemlos Bücher deutscher
Autoren veröffentlichen. Diese Situation schuf ein Hindernis für den
wissenschaftlichen Fortschritt, aber auch einen Markt, um ihn zu überwinden. Es
gab eindeutig eine Nachfrage nach guten Büchern auf Englisch, die die neuen
Theorien und Experimente erklärten.
Frederick Muller berichtete fast täglich per Post an seiner Firma in London. Die
Briefe geben eine Momentaufnahme der deutschen Wissenschaftswelt aus der
Sicht eines ausländischen Verlegers. Die Listen von Büchern in einigen der
Briefe, geben einen Überblick der damals wichtigen wissenschaftlichen Themen.
Manche der Autoren sind bekannt, einige inzwischen vergessen; Information zu
fast allen war aber im Internet zu finden. Ein Anhang gibt biografischen
Angaben. Ebenfalls sind historische Hintergrundinformationen hinzugefügt.
Endlich 5 Minuten mit Einstein
- Zusammenfassung auf deutsch -

1
Introduction
Among the pictures in my grandfather's house was a signed photograph of Einstein. When first
shown it, I was just old enough to have heard of Einstein and asked where it came from. Well, my
grandfather was a publisher, and had once visited the famous scientist to discuss a book on the
theory of relativity. Many years later, I found out more: there were copies of letters giving almost
daily updates of his trip to Germany in the autumn of 1921. The object was to talk German scientists
and find books that would be worth translating into English.
At that time, recent developments in theoretical physics, especially the theory of relativity,
interested many readers. This was no longer something just for specialists with a solid grasp of
mathematics. Much of the work had been done in Germany. However, it was only three years after
the end of the First World War, during which scientific contact between the German and English
speaking worlds had dried up. After the war the official international scientific societies boycotted
Germany and its allies. Commercial publishers, however, remained free to publish books by German
authors. This situation created a barrier to scientific progress and at the same time a market to
overcome it. There was clearly a demand for good books in English explaining the new theories and
results.
The letters are given here with only very minor editing. They include several received by Frederick
Muller during the trip. I have changed the font to indicate a different handwriting or a typed letter.
The formatting has been kept generally similar to the originals. For business letters, the spacing and
indentation are different from how one would write today.
Several of the letters include lists of books which give an idea of the important scientific topics at
that time. Some of the authors are well-known, others rather obscure, but information on almost all
of them could be found on the internet. A list with brief biographical details is included. I have also
added background historical information.

2
Methuen & Co Ltd
Publishers
36 Essex Street
London W.C. 2
Oct. 13. 21
Dear Muller,
I should like you to go to Germany for a fortnight to negotiate for various
German scientific books to be issued here in translation and to interview
various authors, e.g. Prof. Einstein. It will be well for you to do so as soon
as possible.
Yours sinc.
A. Methuen, Bart.
Chairman of Methuen & Co. Ltd
Germany visit 23 Oct. – 12 Nov. 1921. Underlined towns: meetings with scientists and publishers.

3
De Oude Molen
The Hague
24.X.1921
[Answered 27 Oct 1921]
Dear Mr. Webster,
The crossing yesterday was more shaky than I liked, but I managed to sleep
right with the aid of a Remedy supplied by Mr. Lucas!
I have been to Leiden today to see Prof. Lorentz and saw also Mr. Pettenburg,
his publisher and printer. I enclose a little report.
The travelling from Brussels was not too good; it is no great distance as miles
go, but there are two lots of customs (examinations very perfunctory in each
case) and I have been in no less than 6 trains.
I am going to see the Vermeers here before going on to Berlin tomorrow.
With kind regards
Yours sincerely
F. Muller
Pettenburg presumably worked at the firm E. J. Brill, which was Lorentz's publisher in Leiden.

4
Leiden 24.X.1921
I called at the publishing office of Mr. C. Pettenburg today and found, as I
expected, Prof. H. A. Lorentz waiting to see me. He is a charming old man of
nearer 80 than 70.
We naturally discussed his own books.
The physics work is in two volumes, containing in all 1100 pages and 504
diagrams. If we decide to take it, Mr. Pettenburg suggests printing it for us, not
charging us for the use of the blocks.
The work is in its 7th edition in Holland, the 8th being printed, and has gone
through 3 editions in Germany where Barth of Leipzig publishes it.
The Differential volume is out of print in Holland and can now only be
obtained in its German form (Barth).
Of both books copies will be sent to Essex Street during the next week or so for our
consideration. As also will several lectures by Prof. Lorentz, one dealing with
the Quantum Theory.
As to terms, I told him our difficulties and that we have to pay a translator. He
suggested our finding out what we can get the translation done for, and the
cost of printing in Holland; then we could make a firm offer. Meanwhile the
suggestion made by Pettenburg when in England i.e. £2 per sheet (about £140
for the Physics book) still stands, to be altered as circumstances may dictate
and subject to his approval.
If a translation is wanted I think Prof. Lorentz would put us in the way of
finding the right person, for obviously the book should be translated from the
Dutch - not from the German which is in itself a translation.
I asked Prof. Lorentz if he would tell me in what branches of science we might
expect developments. He said it was impossible to say, but having looked at me
first he said we were undoubtedly on the right track. More than that I could
not get from him and soon after he left for his house at Haarlem.
Mr. Pettenburg has a travel book in preparation – dealing with different
countries by different authors: he is going to send a specimen for consideration
later.
FM
Lorentz (born July 1853) would have been only 68!

5
Berlin 26.X.1921
Dear Mr. Webster,
I arrived safely in Berlin this morning. The Central Hotel where I had written
before I left London were absolutely full and so were many others. Moreover,
there is a strike of hotel employees all over the city so I had some difficulty in
getting into a very third rate place which, however, has the advantage of being
central. If I can get into something better tomorrow I will, for there are few
conveniences here.
I have appointments with Prof. Einstein now and Mr. & Mrs. Moszkowski
tomorrow and hope to see some of the publishers too. One firm, Vereinigung
Wissenschaftlicher Verleger, I called on today but the man in charge of the
books about which we have written was out and not likely to be back for some
time.
Berlin is very different and the impression generally is one of hard-uppish-ness.
But I have only seen the outside today. Economy is the order of the day – even in
the trains the lights are reduced to a minimum.
Prices are interesting. Breakfast – 2 eggs, 2 rolls, butter and coffee (and the
latter quite good in quality) cost 23 marks at the Central Hotel. That is
equivalent to about 1/- at present rate. Lunch: 43 marks.
Train rides: 1 mark – quite cheap. Daily Mail continental edition: 5 marks.
My room at this hotel is 50 marks plus 12 for heating.
A note for E.V.L. is enclosed.
With all good wishes
Yours sincerely
F. Muller
E.V.L.: E. V. Lucas

6
Berlin 28.X.1921
Julius Springer, 23-4 Linkstrasse
This is a publisher of considerable standing who has a large place near the
Potsdamer Station. I was received by Mr. O. Lange, who has carried on the
correspondence.
We discussed the various books which we are considering:-
Born – Die Relativitätstheorie Einsteins
This is the work at presence in abeyance. Lange told me that the second edition
is nearly exhausted: the book sells as well as Weyl‘s.
Reiche – Die Quantentheorie
The new edition which was referred to in a recent letter will not be ready as
early as anticipated. It is now expected in the spring. A letter is probably at the
office by now in which Springer asks for 7½ % on the published price with an
advance on publication. He would be equally prepared to keep to his original
suggestion i.e. 6000M (about £10 at present rate) with this proviso – if by the
time the value of the mark has depreciated to say 900 to the £ our payment of
marks must be increased, in other words we must pay the English equivalent of
the original offer at the then rate of exchange.
Reichenbach – Relativitätstheorie und Erkenntnis a priori
A copy of this is being sent for consideration. This is one of Brose‘s suggestions.
Stock – Ultrastrukturenchemie
We have a copy of this book (or should have by this time). Springer has asked for
£6 for the English rights. In this case the author was particularly anxious that
the offer should be in £s
New Books
Copies being sent
Peter Pringsheim - Fluoreszenz und Phosphoreszenz im Lichte der Neueren
Atom Theorie
202 pp, 32 text figures
Dr. Clemens von Horvath - Raum und Zeit im Lichte der speziellen
Privatdozent für Physik Relativitätstheorie
in der Universität Kasan 58 pp 8 text figures
Dr. W. Kossel - Valency Kräfte und Röntgenspektren. Zwei Aufsätze über das
o. Professor an Elektronengebäude des Atoms.
der Universität 70 pp 11 text figures
Kiel
Max Born - Aufbau der Materie
2nd edition in press. Copy will be sent as soon as ready.

7
Rudolf Ochs - Einführung in die Chemie
244 text figures
A book for advanced students and those university students in
their first year. Springer found it a slow starter but it has a good
steady sale. New and enlarged edition just issued.
Mr Lange will send the various books mentioned during the next few days.
His firm finds that the numerous Relativity books are all selling very well and
they do not anticipate any reduction in the near future.
FM
Inflation led many towns to issue their own money as an emergency measure. In 1921
Berlin issued these small denomination notes. There were twenty versions, each naming
one of the administrative districts on the reverse.

8
Berlin 28.X.1921
Dear Mr Webster,
I had a long talk with Mr. Lange of Julius Springer of Berlin, but there is not
time to write about various suggestions that were made for I am due at the
Moszkowski’s very soon, and Berlin, like London, needs some traversing. I was at
Prof. Einstein’s this morning but had a great disappointment for he has gone to
Italy. I am writing to him to try and fix up an appointment in Holland where
he will be when I return from Germany. I think Mrs. Einstein might have let me
know, but it is a queer family. He apparently agrees to my suggestion for the
translation of his books and I gather that at least one very irate gentleman
called after our Relativity was out to expostulate, for he had been told he could
translate it and had indeed done the work!
Mrs. Einstein and her daughter apparently try to keep him in order but I gather
that it is difficult. I think I ought to try and meet him even at the expense of
one or two more days.
Tomorrow I am to see Professor Freundlich.
I will try to write more tomorrow (or perhaps this evening).
With kind regards
Yours
F. Muller

9
Berlin 28.X.1921
A. Moszkowski
I called on the author of Einstein the Searcher in the afternoon and had a cup
of what is called tea in Berlin – a very weak solution taken with sugar only!
Both Mr. and Mrs. Moszkowski are very pleasant and the visit has been useful.
The German edition of the book has been very successful and is already in its
30th thousand with a prospect of continued sales.
The Author has written a large number of books, all or nearly all of an
instructive trend. He is a whole-hearted worshipper of Einstein whom he regards
as an extraordinarily brilliant man. He sees a great deal of him and knows his
views of modern writers on Physics. The following are some titles he recommends
us to consider.
Ernst Cassirer - Zur Einsteinischen Relatvitiätstheorie
Erkenntnis theoretische Betrachtungen
Published by Bruno Cassirer, Derfflinger Strasse 15
Schlick - Raum und Zeit in der gegenwärtigen Physik
- Erkenntnislehre
both published by Springer
Ernst Mach - Erkenntnis und Irrtum
- Analyse der Empfindungen
- Popular Wissenschaftlichen Vorlesungen
published by Barth of Leipzig
________________
I will endeavour to get copies sent along of all these books.
________________
So far as his own work is concerned he would be grateful to have our cheque
(due on publication) sent by registered post – an open cheque. He asked
Einstein to share in his profits from the work (seeing that without Einstein there
would have been nothing written) and on Einstein refusing Moszkowski
arranged to send half of the initial payment to scientific institutes in need of
help, in order that a large number of people may benefit.
FM
Moszkowski had several long conversations with Einstein, which he used as basis for a book. Einstein, though
lavishly praised by Moszkowski, did not want the book published. It was too sensational and lacked substance;
this might easily be used by opponents who claimed the interest in relativity was due to “mass suggestion”. His
objections were of no avail and it appeared in both German and English.

10
Berlin 29.X.1921
Einstein
As mentioned in my letter to Mr. Webster yesterday I had a great disapointment
here for Professor Einstein is away in Italy. I have an address at Zürich where I
am telegraphing asking whether I can see him when he is in Leiden, where he is
to be from Nov. 3 onwards. Apparently he is giving lectures in both countries.
However, I had a long talk with Mrs. Einstein and her daughter Ilse. The latter
is a bright girl and apparently does as much (if not more) than her mother to
keep the Professor’s affairs in order – a matter of considerable difficulty.
I will give various pieces of information under separate heads.
Princeton Lecture. This is very nearly written out – about 4/5 being done: this
portion makes about 19.000 words and Miss Ilse thinks in all there may be 25 –
30.000 words. It should be ready for delivery in the middle of December.
But according to Mrs. Einstein it will be delivered in German, not in English as
promised by Prof. Einstein in a letter to me. This is a matter I must take up with
the Professor when I see him.
Das Relativitätsprinzip. The portion of this work translated in English and
published in Calcutta was not authorised, but Saha the translator corresponds
with Prof. Einstein. I understand that a letter will be written to Saha, but the
fact of the publication in India need not hinder our translating the book.
It is desired that we publish Teubner’s work as it stands with Lorentz, Minkowski
and Sommerfeld’s contributions. As to Minkowski’s article I have his widow’s
address and will write to her from London for leave. She lives some way out and
there is little time for me to go there.
Geometry and Experience, Aether and the Theory of Relativity
These will have to be issued together without the addition of anything else. No
other lectures are available, and the King’s College lecture does not exist on
paper, nor are the notes in the Westminster Gazette of much use. I gather that
the view of Prof. Einstein is that what he said on that occasion has all been said
already and is included in his book which is out, or in the Princeton Lecture
which we are to issue.
Collected Lectures mentioned in June by Lawson. Mrs. Einstein knows nothing of
this.
________________
Mrs. Einstein was very friendly, gave me a portrait of Einstein (a very good one
taken in America) which we can issue with the Princeton lecture and showed
me another (of which she had not a spare copy) taken by herself in Chicago,
which I can write for when I get back if you think it would be useful.

11
Mrs. Einstein showed me the Professor’s study – a pleasant room lined with
books and papers. He still works at a table which he bought in his early and
less successful days. The flat is a very pleasant one, on the top floor of a huge
building in Charlottenburg. Flat life is the rule in this part of Berlin.
FM
Einstein visited Italy in October 1921. His lectures in Padua and Bologna attracted large audiences. They were
given in Italian, which Einstein could speak as he had lived in Italy for a short time in the 1890s. The visit was an
opportunity for a personal meeting with the Italian mathematicians Levi-Civita, Ricci and Enriques, who had
developed methods used in the general relativity theory. Einstein was particularly pleased to meet Levi-Civita,
with whom he had had extensive correspondence in the previous years.

12
Berlin 29.X.1921
Vereinigung Wissenschaftlicher Verleger
Genthiner Strasse 38, Berlin W 10
Jäger - Theoretischer Physik (Göschen Collection)
We have the 4 vols. under consideration.
Haas - Einführung in die theoretische Physik
A prospectus enclosed. I can’t remember whether they promised to send
a copy, but if it doesn’t turn up before I return and you would like it I
can write for it. The work is in two volumes and a third will probably be
published.
Haas - Das Naturbild der neuen Physik.
I offered £30 for the rights. The publishers are writing to the author.
Other books recommended:
Dr. Phil. Ludwig Gattermann - Die Praxis des organischen Chemie
16th ed. 17th ed. revised by Fromm (author is
dead) now in preparation.
E. Riecke - Lehrbuch der Physik
Edited by Dr. Ernst Lecher, Head of the Physical Institute, Vienna
University
6th ed., 7th ed. in preparation.
Göschen Collection
A very fine series covering a vast field. The books ticked on pp 47-56 of list
herewith have already been translated (some by Dent).
Dr. Hugo Dingler - Physik and Hypothese
(Prof. at Munich) - Die Grundlagen der Physik
I will ask Sommerfeld.
Other lists on:
1 Philosophy, Psychology, Pedagogy
2 Mathematics etc.
3 Languages, Literature, Culture
I will bring with me.
FM
The Manager of the Göschen department is Herr Grethlein

13
Moszkowski (trans. Brose): Einstein the Searcher. Extract from preface.
Minkowski: Raum und Zeit. Figure explaining four-dimensional
space-time.

14
Berlin 29.X. 1921
Dear Mr. Webster,
Here are some reports which I think you will find interesting. Presently I go to
Professor Freundlich, about whose work (colloid chemistry) we have been in
correspondence.
I am still in the same hotel, not being able to get into anywhere else. The strike
among hotel employees has been going on for 3 or 4 weeks now: there are
numerous visitors in Berlin and the result is chaos. The motor-taxi drivers are
also out on strike.The tubes and suburban trains are more crowded even than
ours and ones only chance of a seat is on the top of a bus (there are not many
busses) as the Berliner is not so keen on fresh air as we are!
There is a good deal of apparent hardship. Even at the very good-class flat of
the Moszkowskis things are now on the lowest scale. The huge enamel stoves have
had very tiny anthracite fires fitted in them, and the heat given is hardly felt.
Depression reigns and the Silesian decision has taken away any hope that
remained, with a result that though everyone seems to be working hard there is
no goal in view and everything is aimless. The flags at the Reichstag are all at
half mast (because of Silesia).
Generally Berlin is far from being comfortable. Food is fairly good, but I miss
very much the really good coffee. Now it is mainly “Ersatz” and the milk
supplied is so small in quantity one might almost do without.
Another development is the large number of street sellers of all kinds of
commodities even in best commercial streets in the centre of the town.
Restaurants are mainly shuttered and barricaded because of the strike and
one enters between numerous pickets carrying placards that all the employees
are on strike because wage demands have not been met. Some restaurants and
hotels are closed altogether. The depreciation of the mark is of course at the
root of a good deal of this trouble, for it means that food prices go up and
wages do not go far enough.
A friend of mine in the English boarding house tells me that he was paying
recently 2500 marks per month for his part of a room shared with a friend
including breakfast and dinner. For him that is cheap enough as he is paid at
English rates by the government. But officials in the German government offices
sometimes earn only 2000 marks a month and have to support a family: so
things are very difficult in this unhappy country.
________________
All being well I propose to go to Leipzig on Sunday. I am telegraphing for a
room. To Munich perhaps on Tuesday. But all depends on circumstances. It is
very difficult to do one’s business – and that also in the experience of residents
here.

15
With all good wishes and kind regards to you all
Yours sincerely
F. Muller
I hope Massey is managing all right. I expect he has his hands full.
Perhaps you would not mind letting him see this letter as I cannot
today send him a line.

16
Berlin 29.X.1921
Dear Mr Webster,
Yesterday was spent with Prof. Freundlich in the morning and the Verein
Wissenschaftlicher Verleger in the afternoon. In the evening I went to friends
and there was not time to write my reports. Nor is there this morning for I have
still a large number of calls to to make, including Geheimer Regierungsrat
Prof. Dr. M. Planck (some title!).
Tomorrow I go to Leipzig where I have ordered a room by telegram.
Weather is atrocious for getting about – rainy and cold. And I have managed
to get a bit of a cold also.
I think I saw a shop yesterday where green leads may be procurable. Presently I
will try.
No answer to my telegram to Einstein yesterday yet. It was rather amusing at
the post office. My two wires (reply paid) came to just on 100 marks and the
man was almost horrified – still more when I had to ask him to change a 1000
mark note!
I haven’t spent much here so far. But having several friends has meant being
invited out two of three times.
All good wishes to you all.
Yours sincerely
F. Muller

17
Berlin 29.X.1921
Prof. Dr. M. Planck
Wangenheimstrasse 21
Grünewald, Berlin
I called on Prof. Planck and discussed the various books we have under
consideration.
Entstehung und Entwicklung der Quantentheorie
The English MS of this should by now be in our hands (from Prof. Andrade of
Cricklewood)
Sold to the Clarendon Press
Vorlesungen über die Theorie der Wärmestrahlung
This has already been translated into English and issued in America. But a
much revised German edition is in preparation and I am to see Barth the
Leipzig pubisher to enquire whether this is available or whether the American
publishers have the rights.
Mechanik Deformierbarer Körper and some new lectures
I am to see to see Hirzel about this (at Leipzig).
Die Einheit des Physikalischen Weltbildes
This is a lecture given at Leiden which Prof. Planck thinks might be useful.
I could not get a great deal of information from the Professor, but he suggested
that we might get Laue’s books if they are not already arranged for. Max von
Laue is a Professor of Theoretical Physics at Berlin and I will try to track his
publisher here. I have an idea however that Laue is already done in England.
FM

18
Leipzig 1.XI.1921
Herrn Geh. Hofrat Rinne of the mineralogical institute, University of Leipzig.
Private address Talstrasse 38.
This gentleman (recommended by Prof. Freundlich of Berlin) received me very
kindly. He has published several works about which I have written to, or seen,
the publishers: -
Die Kristalle als Vorbilder des feinbaulichen Wesens der Materie
published Gebr. Borntraeger, Schöneberg Ufer 129, Berlin W, 35
A book dealing with the discoveries made recently by the application of
Röntgen Rays to cristallography.
Gesteinkunde
publisher Dr. Max Jänecke (Herrn Wilhelm Ehrenberg)
Hospitalstrasse 10, Leipzig
A book on rocks and stone.
Well illustrated and perhaps very useful. A copy is being sent.
Einführung in die Kristallographische Formenlehre
publisher Dr Max Jänecke as above
A smaller work which is also being sent.
________________
Geheimrat Rinne gave me a heap of names of good professors:
Dr. Max Le Blanc (Leipzig) Electrons
I am to see him on Thursday morning
Prof. Litt (Leipzig) Philosophy
Dr. Ostwald Colloid Chemistry
Dr. Drucker Physics + Chemistry
Dr. Abert Music
Dr. Weule Ethnography
Dr. Krueger ) Psychology
Prof. Klemm )
Prof. Lipsius Philosophy
Dr. Spranger (Berlin) Pedagogic Philosophy
Prof. Wiener Physics
Prof Meisenheimer Zoology
Prof Buder Botany
Dr. W. Nernst (Berlin) Theoretical Chemistry
(publisher Ferdinand Enke Stuttgart)

19
Geheimrat Rinne took a lot of trouble. I promised him a copy of the Anthology
when I discovered he liked poetry – if you would sign it would doubtless please
him.
FM
Leipzig University: the Augusteum by moonlight (about 1900). This building was demolished in 1968.
The New Augusteum, which now stands on the site, was completed in 2012.

20
Leipzig 1.XI.1921
Akademischer Verlagsgesellschaft m. B. H.
Schlossstrasse 7-9, Leipzig
Dr. Leo Jolowicz is the chief director, a middle aged vigorous man, a little
vehement in manner reminding me of Hilaire Belloc. A Pole by birth, but
German by nationality.
He said he had a letter from Dr. Freundlich in which the latter had expressed
his willingness to accept the terms we offered (10% royalty). Jolowicz however
would prefer a single payment. He originally asked for £500 and I said that
was impossible. But on being pressed I promised to wire, which I have done,
suggesting that you allow me to offer £120 or £150. This is a large work
(Kapillarchemie) of which everyone to whom I have mentioned it speaks very
highly, so that £20 or £30 is quite out of the question. We should probably
publish at 35/- to 40/- and at 10% even 1000 copies at 40/- would work out at
nearly £200. I wired yesterday afternoon but at the time of writing this
(2.XI.1921 7pm) no answer has come.
Arndt - Grundbegriffe der Physikalischen Chemie.
This is a work recommended by Patterson with whom we practically came to
terms. However, the new edition for which he has been waiting is not yet ready.
I fear the terms he originally arranged with the publishers may no longer hold
good (over a year ago). Dr. Jolowicz is going into the matter and will write.
FM
I have a catalogue also which I’ll send later.

21
Leipzig 1.XI.1921
Johann Ambrosius Barth
Dörrienstrasse 16
Prokurist – H. Grohmann
A. Einstein - Grundlagen der Allgemeinen Relativitätstheorie
This is the same lecture as that with the same title in the collected volume
issued by Teubner, for which we are to send an agreement to Einstein. Barth has
no rights in the matter.
Planck’s lectures
Another publisher, S. Hirzel, is issuing a collected edition of lectures and
though Barth has certain rights we can arrange with Hirzel and they will
arrange matters between themselves.
Letters he has written to me here are enclosed.
Also a catalogue in which the following books might be considered.
p8 Dieudonné & Weichardt - Immunität, Schutzimpfung und Serumtherapie
p14 Heymans (a Dutch author) books on Psychology, Metaphysics and Ethics
p22 Mach books on Psychology
p23 March - Quanten Theorie
p29 Pfänder - Psychology
p34 Stern Books on Psychology of the Child and Philosophy
- On the Intelligence of children and young persons and on
methods of their investigation
N.B. A pirated edition of this book has appeared in America
p35 Stettbacher - Explosives
p 36 Truttwin - Cosmetic Chemistry
p 41 Wien - The World of Knowledge
appeals popularly
p42 Wittmann - Analytical Psychology
One other book about which we have corresponded which I omitted above:
Planck - Vorlesung über die Theorie der Wärmestrahlung
The first edition of this was translated into English and issued in U.S.A. A new
German edition is in preparation – much altered. If we are interested it would
be necessary to find out if the American publisher proposes to revise. If not we
would make a new translation. Planck is a first rate man.
Some other lists (not digested yet) I will bring this home with me.
FM

22
JOHANN AMBROSIUS BARTH
Inhaber HOFRAT Dr. h. c. ARTHUR MEINER
Verlagsbuchhandlung
Leipzig, den 1. November 1921
Herrn F. Muller v. H. Methuen & Co. Ltd., London
z. Zt. Leipzig, Hotel Hauffe, Zimmer 16
Sehr geehrter Herr!
Aus Ihrem Brief von gestern ersehe ich, dass Sie in
Leipzig eingetroffen sind und ich erwarte Ihren Besuch, am
besten passt es in der Zeit zwischen 10 - 12 Uhr vormittags
und 1/2 4 - 1/2 6 Uhr nachmittags.
Ich sende Ihnen gleichzeitig einen Brief, den ich schon
vor mehreren Tagen an Ihre Firma geschrieben hatte, aber
zurückgehalten habe, da Sie Ihren Besuch ankündigten. Ferner
füge ich je zwei Verlageverzeichnise meiner Firma und meiner
Schwesterfirmen Leopold Voss und Kurt Kabitzsch bei, in denen
Sie vor Ihrem Besuch vielleicht schon anstreichen wollen,
welche von den Werken Sie zwecks Uebersetzung in die englische
Sprache evtl. bei mir einsehen wollen.
Hochachtungsvoll
Translation:
I saw from the letter you sent yesterday that you have arrived in Leipzig and expect your visit; the best time
would be between 10 and 12 in the morning or 3:30 and 5:30 in the afternoon.
Enclosed is a letter to your firm which I wrote several days ago, but did not post, as I then heard I could meet
you personally. Also, a list of our books and those of my partner firms Leopold Voss and Kurt Kabitzsch.
Perhaps, before your visit, you would like to mark the titles that you would be interested to see in view of a
possible English translation.

23
JOHANN AMBROSIUS BARTH
Inhaber HOFRAT Dr. h. c. ARTHUR MEINER
Verlagsbuchhandlung
Leipzig, den 21. Oktober 1921
Methuen & Co.,
Publishers
L o n d o n W.C. 2
Street 36 Essex
Ich danke Ihnen bestens für Ihre Zuschrift vom 7. Okt. mit
welcher Sie sich nach den Bedingungen für Überlassung des
Übersetzungsrechtes von Planck „ Vorlesung über die Theorie der
Wärmestrahlung “ für die englische Sprache erkundigen. Ich kann Ihnen
heute keinen endgültigen Bescheid in der Angelegenheit geben und muß
Sie daher bitten, sich noch etwas zu gedulden, ich werde auf die
Sache zurückkommen.
Gleichzeitig erhielt ich Ihren Brief vom 10. Okt., mit welchem
Sie die Bedingungen für Überlassung des Übersetzungsrecht von
Einstein, „ Die Grundlage der allgemeinen Relativitätstheorie “ für
die englische Sprache erbitten. Der darin erwähnte Brief vom 12.
August ist nicht in meine Hände gekommen.
Ich bin bereit, Ihnen das Übersetzungsrecht für die englische
Sprache dieses Buches zu überlassen und zwar zu folgenden
Bedingungen :
Sie zahlen mir hierfür den Betrag von £ 6/6, wofür Sie das Recht
haben, eine Auflage bis zu 2000 Exemplaren zu drucken. Für jedes
weitere 1000 Exemplare, daß Sie mehr drucken, würden weitere £ 3/3
zu entrichten sein; außerdem liefern Sie mir 2 gebundenen
Freiexemplare der englischen Ausgabe.
Das Übersetzungsrecht gilt erst als verkauft, wenn der obige
Betrag in meinen Händen und Ihnen der Empfang desselben bestätigt
worden ist.
Ich halte mich an mein Gebot bis zum 15. November diesen Jahres
gebunden und sehe Ihren Nachrichten gern entgegen.
Hochachtungsvoll

24
Translation:
Many thanks for your letter of 7th Oct. in which you ask about the conditions for the English translation
rights of Planck's Vorlesung über die Theorie der Wärmestrahlung. I cannot yet give a definite answer and must
ask you to be patient; I will get back to you in due course.
At the same time I received your letter of Oct. 10th, about the translation rights of Die Grundlagen der
allgemeinen Relativitätstheorie. You mention a letter of 12th Aug., but I did not receive this.
I can offer you the English translation rights for this book under the following conditions:
On payment of £ 6/6, you have the right to print up to 2000 copies. Every further 1000 copies will cost £ 3/3.
In addition, you will send me (without charge) 2 bound copies of the English version.
The translation rights are considered sold when I have received the above mentioned sum and issued a
receipt.
This offer holds until 15th November of this year. I look forward to hearing from you.

25
METHUEN & CO LTD
PUBLISHERS 36 ESSEX
STREET LONDON W.C. 2
2nd November 1921
F. Muller Esq. ,
Hotel Hauffe
LEIPZIG
Dear Muller,
Your telegram has just arrived, and we interpret it to
mean that Freundlich wishes a sum of £120 or £150 for the
complete rights in the English language of his
"KAPILLARCHEMIE". I think we had better not accept this right
away as we have to go into the question of cost of production
etc. I am afraid it will be rather an expensive book. Perhaps
you would tell the publishers that we will let them hear as
soon as possible, but we think the sum still too high.
We have just heard from Brose, recommending us to take up
the little Sprengler book, about which I wrote to you a few
days ago. In case you have not received my letter I enclose a
duplicate of the review which I sent to you. You will see that
this is the little book, not the big book, which I understand
is a very long one.
I also send a letter from Prof. Levy with a message for
you. Perhaps you could ﬁnd out whether there is a good sound
textbook on the Calculus.
I hope you are getting on well, and having an interesting
time. I am sorry you may have to remain until Friday. Is this
because of Einstein?
Massey is getting on very well; he is doing his utmost
and is, I think, keeping things straight.
Yours sincerely,
A. Methuen
P.S. I wrote to you the other day at the Poste Restante
Leipzig. Perhaps you have got the letter by this time.

26
36 Stratford Street
Oxford
1.11.1921
Messrs Methuen & Co. Ltd.
Dear Sirs,
I am sending you a review of a booklet by Spengler, whose large book I mentioned to you some
time ago as having created a great sensation in literary circles abroad. It struck me that you
might feel inclined to have a book of this kind translated; it is a serious contribution of small size
for which the favorable review has somewhat prepared the ground. It would be appreciated by many
who have neither the time not the training to master the large volume.
If you consider it, I should be able to suggest an excellent translator for this kind of work; Mr H.
M. Andrews B.A. of New College Oxford has a perfect knowledge of German; he has been attached
to the League of Nations in an interpretive capacity, and was vice-president of the Oxford Union,
which as you know is a rare distinction. He writes in fine style, such as has called for much praise
here. – He occurred to me, too, when I suggested Simmel’s Kant.
If Spengler’s big book were not so excessively long, it would have been an excellent thing for
translation purposes.
Sommerfeld is occupying my attention now.
Yours very sincerely
Henry L Brose
Spengler's Untergang des Abendlandes (Decline of the West) is a massive work of about 1300 pages. The “little
book” refers to an eleven page article entitled “Pessimism?”. It appeared in the 1921 Prussian Yearbook as a
summary and to answer some criticisms.

27
METHUEN & CO LTD
PUBLISHERS 36 ESSEX
STREET LONDON W.C. 2
2nd November 1921
Henry L. Brose, Esq.,
36 Stratford Street
Oxford
Dear Sir,
We thank you for your letter of the 1st of November. We had
already noticed the issue of the small book by Spengler, and
wrote several days ago to Mr. Muller, who is, as you perhaps
know, in Germany. He may probably, by this time, have called
on the publisher. In any case, we thank you and will remember
your note about the possible translator.
We are, dear Sir
Yours faithfully
Methuen & Co
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
105 Cambridge Road
Teddington, Middx
31st Oct. 1921
Dear Sir
Enclosed please find the book “Relativitätstheorie etc. ” which you sent me, and my notes
on same.
If Mr. Muller is still abroad and if it is possible for you to communicate with him before he
returns I should like to suggest that if he can procure a good sound textbook on the Differential
and Integral Calculus it would be well worth translating. University teachers of mathematics in
this country are continually handicapped by the fact that there does not exist a sound textbook on
the subject in English. For the moment I cannot remember a German one of this nature published
before the war but there may have been one since then.
Yours faithfully
H. Levy
Hyman Levy’s notes, which might well have been interesting, were not in the collection of letters.

28
Leipzig 2.XI 1921
Dr. Ernst Jolowicz
Grimmaischen Steinweg 15 II
Leipzig
This is a brother of the controlling head of the Akademischen Verlagsgesell-
schaft (publishers of Freundlich’s book). He is a doctor who specialises in Nerve
Troubles. According to himself and his brother, he is in touch with the modern
works and would prepare lists of the latest books in the subjects in which we are
interested and send us reports once a month. I suggest we try this for three
months at 30/- per month.
If more detailed accounts of special books were desired we might have to pay a
little more. I said we would write in any case.
FM

29
Leipzig 2.XI 1921
B. G. Teubner, Poststrasse 3-5, Leipzig
A huge concern opposite the post office. The firm does its own printing and
binding, and has the best building (in spaciousness and light) that I have seen
in a country where publishers seem to dwell in more palatial and roomy offices
than they do on our side of the channel.
I saw Mr. Conrad Gieseke-Teubner, one of the chiefs, and also Mr Kurt Jacoby
who apparently deals with our correspondence.
Sander - Praktische Analysis
We offered £30 for this, and they are willing to accept for the first edition of
2000 copies. I pointed out that they had misread our letter which meant (and
to me conveyed clearly) that it was for the book outright. But they would not
give in: they want something for subsequent editions. Teubner is a pretty tough
nut to crack, I imagine. I said I would not offer more but would refer the
matter back to you.
As a set-off against the larger amount demanded they suggest that we let them
print and bind the book , which would work out quite cheaply. Paper is cheap
(cellulose and linen mixed – not wood).
I pointed out that we should probably run our heads against our various trade
unions which were strong. Still, the matter could be considered if you thought it
well. We have to bear in mind the great number of unemployed and the
probable and not unnatural feeling against such a step. Anyway we must write
to Teubner about this book.
Gehrcke - Physik und Erkenntnis Theorie
I am bringing a copy of this book which they wanted me to pay for! (I declined)
________________
I have several of their catalogues which I’ll bring. There are many good books
but there is not time to give titles here and anyway I am sure you will be tired
of reading my hastily written notes. I have used pencil so that I can make a
carbon (in case of letters being lost).
FM
The Sander book could not identified clearly. It may be one by geologist Bruno Sander on the analysis of rock
formations.

30
Leipzig 2.XI.1921
S. Hirzel, Königstrasse 2
Prokurist – Otto Carlsohn
Planck’s Lectures are to be sent to us for consideration.
Planck’s 2 vols. on Mechanics and 1 on Magnetism & Electricity
are also to be sent to us.
Kopff’s Relativity Book (arranged for)
We are to make blocks ourselves – there are only 3 diagrams.
Some other books suggested:
Dr. Karl Girgensohn - Der Seelische Aufbau des Religiösen Erlebens
(Prof. at Greifswald) a psychological book
Bernhard Bavink - Ergebnisse und Probleme der Naturwissenschaft
2nd ed.
Prof. C. Runge - Vektoranalysis
Prof. Dr. Max Lehmann - Freiherr von Stein
a biography of a great statesman
Prof. Gustav Mie - Die Einsteinsche Gravitationstheorie
P. Lenard - Über Äther und Uräther
anti-Einstein
FM

31
Leipzig 2.XI.1921
Dr. Max Jänecke, Publisher, 10 Hospitalstrasse
Herrn Wilhelm Ehrenberg
F. Rinne - Gesteinskunde
- Crystallography
I wrote about these yesterday under Rinne. The publisher is sending copies.
________________
He publishes a number of interesting books: some may be a little out of our
usual track but if the technology is likely to be of use we might consider:
Both - Ribbon Weaving
Gräbner - Weaving
Worm - Wirkerei
- Knitting (i.e. by machinery)
Preger - Tools and Toolmaking machinery
- The use of metals in machine factories
Laudien - Machinery Elements
(Something along the lines of “Engineering Materials”)
All included in a list I am bringing
______
Laudien - Electrotechnics
7th edn. with 700 illustrations. I have a prospectus.
Hermann Wilda - Marine Engineering
This is a remarkable production in English published before the war. It consists
of a manual and (in a separate portfolio) 64 plates 18″ x 24″. The English is not
as good as it might be, but the plates seem excellent to me. We could purchase
copies for 200 marks each (carriage extra). At present rate of exchange that
would be less than 6/-. It would sell for 2 or 3 guineas, but it would be necessary
to get an expert opinion. We should have to provide or pay extra for our own
title page. We need not buy many copies.
FM
I am bringing a prospectus and specimen plate. Of course it may be out of date
but I don’t think there have been many changes lately.

32
Leipzig 2.XI.1921
German Books – General Note
I feel that there are so many books and authors with which and whom I have
got in touch that some more help will be needed this winter so far as my
department is concerned – that is if we are to touch even a quarter of them. I
hope you don’t mind my suggesting this, but the coming winter’s work looms
rather heavily before me.
FM
I believe we might do well with a lot of them. My gloominess is purely due to the
difficulty of carrying out my part.
The impressive new Leipzig railway station was completed in 1915 after about six years
construction. Postcard: artist's impression, about 1910.

33
Hotel Hauffe
Leipzig
2 Nov 1924
Dear Sir Algernon,
Many thanks for your letter of Oct. 28 which I received yesterday. I have written
for Spengler’s book to be sent direct to London – it certainly looks interesting.
Leipzig is proving far more useful than Berlin as you will see from the reports
enclosed, and I am staying 4 days instead of the two as I had originally
planned. Visits cannot be hurried unduly, for all business is a little slow here.
On the whole publishers are as useful as authors here – in the majority of cases
the former hold the rights.
I like this city with its spacious squares and buildings and its absolutely
wonderful railway station . There are 26 platforms and you could put some of
our smaller stations very easily into its entrance hall.
I note what you say about razors but I have already bought 12 – 4 ivory by
Noelle – but several that I know would be glad to have some (I would take 2
myself): to have more would have been a trouble at the customs, etc.
You will see from my report on the Akademische Verlagsgesellschaft that Dr.
Jolowicz made a good suggestion – it's that we should employ a university
student of experience to give advice. I am about to see his brother and a report
shall be enclosed.
I wired yesterday that I could not possibly get back next Monday and suggested
perhaps Friday next. I have cut out Jena from my programme as not being so
important. I go tomorrow to Munich which I shall reach in the evening.
I can perhaps do my business during the next day (Friday) and then get on to
see my relations for three days (calling on Prof. Kopff at Heidelberg).
I have just had a telegram from Einstein saying that he will be in Leiden 5 – 26
Nov. So I will look him up on the way back. I am sorry to be away so long but I
really believe I am doing good and Leipzig has been a very useful place. I have
only had time to see two of the sights this afternoon – otherwise all has been
business. It seems impossible to see more than 4 or 5 firms or professors in one
day. I think I am on the track of enough books (and many good men I believe)
to need even more room than the new building gives us!
I fear I can’t include all my reports tonight as there is not enough time to write
them out. I ought to have had a secretary here!
With kind regards
Yours sincerely
F. Muller
Please thank Mr Webster for his letters, no time to write to him now.
The Gustav Fischer Verlag, which published scientific books, had its offices in Jena. Max Wien, who worked on
electrical phenomena was professor of physics at the university.

34
Leipzig 3.XI. 1921
Herrn Geheimrat Max Le Blanc
Physikalisches Institut
Linné Strasse 2
Leipzig
His chief work Lehrbuch der Elektrochemie is being revised and the 10th
German edition will be ready at the end of the year. But the first and fourth
editions were translated into English and published:
1st Macmillan (London) 1896
4th Macmillan (New York) 1907
Le Blanc says Macmillan only have rights for the 4th edition but I expect it
would be unwise to trespass on Macmillan’s preserves. Of course we could ask
them if you cared for the idea. The book, I feel sure, is a good one. (Published
in Leipzig, Oskar Leiner, Königstrasse.) There are 32 illustrations. If we do
anything we are to correspond with the author.
______________
Prof. Le Blanc suggested for our consideration:
Dr. Wo. Ostwald - Die Welt der vernachlässigten Dimension
(The World [or Region or Sphere] of the neglected Dimension) which is an
introduction to modern colloid chemistry. It is in its 5th – 6th German edition
(this is a German habit – putting two editions out together). His publisher is
Theodor Steinkopff of Dresden and Leipzig. Ostwald is a good man, I believe.
FM

35
Leipzig 3.XI. 1921
Herrn Geheimrat Prof. Dr. Otto Wiener
Physikalisches Institut
Linné Strasse 4-5
Universität, Leipzig
______________
Das Grundgesetz der Natur und die Einhaltung der absoluten
Geschwindigkeiten in Äther
(The basic law of Nature and the maintenance of absolute speed in Ether).
Published 1921 (Teubner), 9 text figures.
Prof. Wiener thinks we may like to consider this and suggests we ask the opinion
of Oliver Heaviside in England whose address he has promised to send.
Heaviside is acquainted with Wiener’s work.
The professor was ready for me in a very friendly way. For he had written down
the names of several works which he recommends –
A.E. Haas - Einführung in die Theoretischen Physik Vols I and II
This we are already considering, I believe, but as I am writing this in the train
my papers are not handy.
Ernst Mach - Die Prinzipien der physikalischen Optik
(Barth 1921)
Marx - Handbuch der Radiologie
akad. Verlag Leipzig
The last named work is a collection of essays by well known writers including
some English ones
L. Graetz - Die Atomtheorie in ihren neuesten Entwickelung
(Stuttgart, Engelhorns Nachfolger)
We have one book by Graetz on offer – but I can’t be sure now.
FM

36
Leipzig 3.XI.1921
Dear Mr. Webster,
Many thanks for your various letters. I have just had one from Sir Algernon
dated 31.X.1921.
This is written in the G.P.O. and I have two visits to make before I catch the
11.45 train to Munich.
I have just managed to get 4 metal cases of green refills (the whole stock of the
4th shop I entered).
Weather dull.
A heap of reports with this.
Cold better, I’m glad to say, but I’m a little tired.
Yours sincerely
F. Muller

37
Leipzig 3.XI.1921
General Note
Speaking generally I think Leipzig has been well worth visiting, and I have an
idea that later on it might be useful. For having made contact with some of the
people here I could enlarge our sphere of action. Everyone has been kind, and
though feelings are a little strong (especially regarding Silesia) these feelings
have been tempered – to some extent because I bear a German name and my
knowledge of German has kept up better than I dared hope after so long a
period of disuse.
I am glad that you found my notes interesting and I am grateful for this
appreciation for, frankly, Berlin made me a little pessimistic as to the result of
my journey especially as it has lengthened out, or will do, to nearly three weeks.
But as I have written already getting about has been difficult and even as it is
I have not seen all the people I would have liked to see. My expenses so far have
not been heavy on the whole, though your estimate of 2/6 per day has been
exceeded. For instance, my bill for 4 nights at the Hotel Haufe amounts to 369
marks 50 (with breakfast), rather more than 10/-, and though tips are supposed
to be abolished they are still in vogue to a slight extent. At Munich I am told
expenses will be less. On other expenses (lunch, dinner, postages, cars,
telegrams) I spend between 100 and 150 marks a day, sometimes a little more.
Railway fares are cheap. For instance Leipzig – Munich 2nd class with Express
supplement (a saving of 11 hours): the cost is 183 marks – about 5/-. Travelling
is not bad: carriages are very much what they were before the war, except that
accessories such as soap, towels and lighting are very much reduced. In some of
the best restaurants paper table cloths are used, and always paper serviettes.
Tram fares are generally 1 M (about 1/3 d) except on Sundays and holidays
when they are 1 M 20.
There is a great outcry against the large amount of purchasing by foreigners!
The journey to Munich now in progress has given me the first glimpse of the
country for my other journeys have all taken place in the dark. What strikes me
is that if the future of the country depended only on its agriculture and in the
work of everyone concerned, that future would be assured. Everything is under
cultivation: factories seem to be in full swing. As one of the publishers said to
me, “With the will to work which exists we will not be crushed.”
There is of course a lack of some materials due to the fall of the mark, and a
widely expressed desire that some way out of the tangle shall be found. France is
generally considered to be the stumbling block – there are even suggestions that
in another 20 – 30 years another war may occur (with France). Lloyd George is
considered to be past his best efforts, though it is generally admitted that he
did well in the war.
We have just left Regensburg (Ratisbon) and in 2 – 3 hours the journey will be
over. It is dark now.
FM

38
Munich 4.XI.1921
Prof. Sommerfeld
received me in a friendly way, but on political matters he is the bitterest man I
have struck. He thinks Germany has been very badly treated and that England
ought not to have agreed to the recent partition of upper Silesia. He seems quite
hopeless as to the future.
In spite of this he was exceedingly kind and took a large amount of trouble in
giving me advice – I went over practically the whole of my list of books – i.e.
books we are considering and the notes on my conversations. I will try and get
this into shape before I return, though that may be difficult.
One thing I ought to mention, he considers Born’s book, the decision about
which is held up, one of the best that has appeared on the Einstein theory. This
opinion has been expressed by others too and I feel that we shall do well to
accept the book, always providing that a demand for such books exists, as it
undoubtedly does here.
As for Sommerfeld’s own book, he is at work on the proof sheets of the third
edition. Some of the sheets are already in Brose’s hands, the rest ought to be
ready in December. He wants to see Brose about the translation when the latter
goes to Germany in December.
FM
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Munich 4.XI.1921
Prof Dr. Graetz
This Gentleman wanted £100, as you may remember, for his book on Die Atom
Theorie. He still feels that this is not too much for the work but he might accept
£75. The position is that the book has had a remarkable success, not only in
Germany, but in France, Spain, Italy, Sweden and Russia, in each of which
countries more than one edition has been necessary. His other books – a long
one and a short one on Electricity – have also done very well. They deal with the
subjects in a semi-popular manner, i.e. without mathematics and it has been
found that students jump at the book. Apparently the Russian government is
about to print a very large edition to give to the students of that country. I am
bringing copies of the books with me.
Prof. Graetz was also very friendly and telephoned the hotel suggesting that I
should meet him in the evening for supper. This I did and we had a very
interesting chat on many things and of course about the many difficulties
which beset the present generation in Germany.
FM

39
Wertheim a. M.
8.XI.1921
Dear Mr. Webster and Sir Algernon
A few more notes enclosed – rather brief because I have been travelling a good
deal. But I can amplify on my return.
The various professors all desire to be remembered to the firm and I have
nothing but praise for the very pleasant manner in which I have been received
everywhere.
Weather cold and this morning snow has been falling.
All good wishes
F. Muller
I hope to see Einstein on Thursday and travel home on Thursday evening.
Wertheim, where Frederick Muller's parents were born and grew up, is a picturesque town on the
river Main. He kept in contact with his relations there in spite of the interruption due to the First
World War.

40
Heidelberg 9.XI.1921
Prof. Dr. A. Kopff, Sternwarte
This visit was the most picturesque one I paid., for the observatory is high above
the town and is reached by 2 funicular railways, each going half way up.
There are some more corrections to come for the book on the Einstein theory we
have agreed to publish and the author would like to be put into touch with the
translator (Prof. Lenz). I will see to this on my return.
A quite small booklet, a lecture on the theory delivered at Heidelberg, is also
available – I am bringing a copy with me.
Had there been time, Prof. Kopff would have shown us the observatory (I had a
cousin with me). Unfortunately time did not allow, but the visit was
nevertheless very interesting: the professor gave us coffee and we met his wife
and boy. They live in a very remote place for shopping and in the winter, when
the funicular is closed, they are dependent on a conveyance once a week for
their supplies.
A point referred to by Kopff deserves some consideration, though I admit it was
outside the object of my visit. Scientific men in Germany are debarred just now
from obtaining English scientific books because of the low valuta of the mark
and they are getting out of touch. I should like to take this matter up – because
I believe a little kindness shown just now from a national point of view will
have an invaluable effect.
FM

41
Leiden 11.XI.1921
Getting into touch with Prof. Einstein is something like finding a needle in a
haystack. Having spent a good deal of time travelling since the beginning of
the week, I continued my efforts by catching the 5.12 a.m. train from Cologne
this morning. The distance to Holland is not really very great but there are two
customs examinations – a fearful waste of time and, I suppose, more useful as a
preventive than productive of any financial return, considering the large staff
involved.
I reached Amsterdam at 12:30, and went to the bank to change a little more
money. However, they were closed and I tried the American Express where I
received both money and much civility. Then a welcome hot bath and on
(unfortunately without lunch as there was no time) to Leiden. At the university
I got the professor’s address (a wrong one as it happened for there was no home
with such a number). I asked of a Dutch woman where Prof. Ehrenfest
(Einstein’s friend) lived and had it pointed out to me. Upon gaining admission
and asking for Prof. Einstein, I was told he was out and would not be back
until between 6 and 7. When I returned at that hour an exceedingly pleasant
professor received me, but it was not Einstein. My knowledge of Dutch had
evidently proved of little value. The real professor lived next door, was having
dinner and was due at a lecture in half an hour. But I at last got 5 minutes
with him. He was very friendly but he is the most unusual man one can
imagine.
1 Princeton lecture. He hopes to finish in a few weeks but as his writing is not
good he proposes to have it set up in Germany (Vieweg) and send the German
proofs to Princeton for translation (this was the original arrangement). We
can hardly hope to get the copy until March at the very earliest.
Prof Einstein again said that he hated writing books, but I pointed out that,
financially at any rate, it must be of considerable benefit to him.
2 Energy and experience and Ether and relativity (I am not sure if the last is
quite correct in title – my bags are not available). He does not think these very
important but I said we hoped to publish them.
3 Re Teubner volume of collected essays, including one by Lorentz and one by
Minkowski. The Indian issue of a part of this is due to a misunderstanding.
When Einstein was approached he was quite under the impression that the book
was to be translated into Indian. He will not accept a lump sum and wants a
royalty. So we ought to draw up an agreement on the usual terms and send it
to him. Do you agree?
The Leiden lectures now being given are not to be published and do not cover
any new ground.
I told the professor we wanted to publish anything of his which he might write,
but nothing is on the way yet.
There was not time (moreover I had not a full list) to go over the many
suggested books which I have got on the track of. But I arranged what I am

42
sure you will approve, i.e. to send him a list of all these books which he can
return marked with his opinion i.e. very good, good and indifferent. Of some
books he will not be able to judge, i.e. where they are off his beat.
Prof. Einstein, to whom I gave your greetings, asked also to be kindly
remembered to you. He is very pleased with the sale of his book in England.
______________
And this is the end of an interesting and strenuous journey. I sincerely hope
good things result from it.
Very kind regards
FM
Written in the train from Harwich to London, 12.XI.1921
Postscript
My only mishap is the loss of a quantity of washing – sent for cleaning while at
Leipzig and which was not ready. I left full instructions and a little card for
sending it on, but I have no results!
FM

43
Germany post WWI
In Autumn 1918 the government realized that Germany and its allies could not win the war.
They hoped for a transition to a constitutional monarchy and a negotiated peace agreement.
This plan was thwarted by a mutiny, strikes and widespread civil unrest. Within a few days
the Kaiser abdicated, a social democrat was installed as chancellor and World War I ended
with an armistice hastily arranged on allied terms. From the start, the new democratic
republic was characterised by instability and attempts to overthrow it. Hundreds died as a
left-wing revolt was crushed in the first few weeks. The 1919 conference on a new
constitution was held in provincial Weimar because conditions in Berlin were considered too
unstable. In 1920 disaffected soldiers, together with paramilitary units and some
conservative politicians, attempted a putsch. The rest of the military did nothing to stop it
and the government fled, probably avoiding capture by only about 10 minutes. After a few
days the putsch failed but the threat to the democratic system remained.
Munich was a centre of opposition to the new political system. In 1919 a socialist state, the
Bavarian Soviet Republic, was declared. It was overthrown after a few weeks (with
considerable bloodshed) and the town then became a centre of right-wing opposition. These
opponents of the republic were a heterogeneous and divided group: ultra-conservatives,
monarchists, Bavarian separatists, and various radical nationalist groups. With hindsight, the
most notorious of these was, of course, Adolf Hitler. He outmanoeuvered rivals in July 1921
and gained control of the small National Socialist party, which then grew rapidly. In
November 1921, however, he was still on the fringe of German politics: a local figure known
for inflammatory speeches in beer-hall meetings.
Social conditions were poor. The allied blockade lasted until the Versailles treaty in 1919,
resulting in continued food shortages. The state could not provide adequate support for the
many war wounded. Artists such as George Grosz and Otto Dix showed beggars, cripples and
prostitutes in their biting caricatures.
For foreigners, Germany was cheap. Domestic prices had risen, but this was more than offset
by the fall in the value of the Reichsmark. For Germans, in particularly poorer people, the
increasing prices hurt. There had been a fairly stable period from February 1920, but
inflation returned in May 1921. By the end of 1921 prices of basic foods were about 50%
higher than two months previously. Hyperinflation started the following summer; it lasted
until the currency reform in November 1923. Unemployment was, in contrast to the early
thirties, fairly low. This was helped by the weak currency and various job-creating measures
introduced by the government.
Antisemitism is not mentioned in the letters, but it certainly played a role in German society
in the early 1920s [1]. Jews were a small minority in Germany – around 1% of the total
population, but unevenly distributed both geographically and socially. Many well-known
scientists of the period were Jewish. In the list of authors and personal contacts, a
surprisingly high number, 26 out of 80, were least partially of Jewish descent [2].
Under the Versailles treaty, Germany lost several territories. One of these was Upper Silesia,
an ethnically mixed Polish-German region that had become part of Prussia in the 18th
century. It included an industrial area with important coal mines. After the First World War a
plebiscite was held to determine whether it should be German or Polish. Tensions ran high,

44
with outbreaks of violence during the campaign. About 60% voted for Germany (more than
the proportion of ethnic Germans) though there were plenty of districts with a majority for
Poland. The Allies disagreed on how to handle this result, and eventually asked the League of
Nations to find a way out of the deadlock. A decision was announced on Oct. 20th 1921:
Upper Silesia would be partitioned; Germany obtained about two thirds of the territory and
half the population, but 80% of the heavy industry went to Poland.
German Science in 1921
Germany had had a strong scientific base for many years. This was due to the large number
of universities and the growth of new industries (e. g. synthetic dyes, electrical appliances)
with a science-based technology. A further factor was the Kaiser Wilhelm Society. Created in
1911, its main objective was to support scientific research which would benefit German
industry and help keep it competitive. It was a prestigious institution, with the Kaiser as
patron, which complemented research in universities.
In basic research Germany had a strong position in physics with Einstein, Planck and
Sommerfeld as the leading physicists in the country. Relativity and quantum theory were the
exciting topics of the day of interest to both professional scientists and the general public.
Scientific research was difficult during the 1914-18 war. Institutes had fewer staff as many
young men were on active military service. Remaining resources were increasingly used for
projects to support the war. Nevertheless, several leading scientists managed to continue
basic research. In Berlin, Einstein worked on theoretical physics throughout the war and
published the general theory of relativity in 1915. Sommerfeld, based in Munich, extended

45
Bohr's theory of the atom [3]. He used the military post for scientific discussions with several
students on active service.
During the war scientists had virtually no direct contact with colleagues on the opposing
side, though there was still some flow of information via neutral countries. After the
armistice scientists in the allied countries boycotted Germany and Austria [4]. International
conferences were organized without participants from these countries. The boycott created
a linguistic divide in the scientific world: English/French versus German, with German,
previously the leading language, declining in importance.
Einstein also suffered from the boycott. He was nominated by the Royal Astronomical
Society for the 1920 Gold Medal. Some members objected to honouring a scientist working
in Germany and campaigned to overturn this decision. At the meeting to confirm the award
(normally a formality) Einstein was rejected by a large majority. In the 1920s the boycott was
gradually applied less stringently and it was discontinued in 1926.
After the war, research institutes found they could not return to normal work. Budgets had
not been increased in spite of considerable inflation. There was hardly any money to replace
old instruments or to publish results. Some scientists delivered important work to university
libraries as manuscripts because there were no funds for printing them. However, scientific
research was seen as important from the perspectives of both economic development and
national reputation. In October 1920 an organisation for emergency funding (Notgemein-
schaft) was formed. It helped prevent a collapse of German scientific research in the early
years of the Weimar republic.
Einstein's popularity
Einstein published the special theory of relativity in 1905. At this point he did not have an
academic position, but was employed in the patent office in Bern. In the early years of the
20th century he also worked on several other topics: the quantum nature of light (photons),
diffusion and the quantum theory of specific heat. He was soon considered an important
physicist and in 1914 moved to Berlin where a new position had been created for him. The
Berlin scientific establishment considered his work on the quantum theory more important
than relativity. It was hoped that a better understanding of the interaction of electro-
magnetic waves (e. g. light) with matter would lead to interesting applications, especially in
chemistry. However, in his Berlin years Einstein's focus was on gravitation, the topic of the
general relativity theory.
In 1919 observations of a solar eclipse demonstrated that a gravitational field bends light in
accordance with the relativity theory. The eclipse took place at the end of May but the
complicated calculations to analyse the data, which had to be done by hand, took several
months. Official results were announced in November. Up to that point Einstein was well-
known only in the physics community and, to a certain extent, as a local Berlin figure.
Suddenly he was world-famous. The first phase of this popularity lasted several years. His
later scientific work was much less important, but he has remained an iconic figure ever
since.

46
In the early 1920s a press agency was asked to collect German newspaper and magazine
articles on Einstein and his theory; there were about 5000 [5]. An “Einstein Film” explaining
relativity was shown in German cinemas in 1922. It attracted a large public, including many
who would not normally be interested in scientific topics.
When Einstein visited Britain and America in 1921 his lectures attracted large audiences and
boosted his popularity. Officially, the main object of the visit to the USA, together with
Chaim Weizmann, was to promote Zionism, but this was of little interest outside the Jewish
community. American magazines were full of articles on Einstein and relativity.
Einstein and his theories did not meet with universal support. Several academic philosophers
objected that Einstein's ideas on space and time were incompatible with Kant's theory.
Other critics had idiosyncratic philosophies, not taken seriously by the establishment, and
saw relativity as a further attack on their ideas. Some conservative elements of the Weimar
republic also strongly disliked Einstein. Scientific and philosophical objections became mixed
with antisemitism, disapproval of Einstein's pacifism and personal antipathy. In August 1920,
Paul Weyland, a right-wing publicist, together with physicist Ernst Gehrcke, organised an
anti-Einstein meeting in Berlin. A few months later Einstein faced another opponent, Philipp
Lenard, at a scientific meeting in Bad Nauheim. The atmosphere at this event appears to
have been very civilised on the surface with everyone aware of the undercurrent of personal
dislike.
Einstein was regularly nominated for the Nobel prize from 1910 onwards. In 1921 he was
clearly a strong candidate, but he also had opponents. Fifteen other scientists were
nominated. The list of nominations included two of his most vociferous opponents: Ernst
Gehrcke was proposed by Philipp Lenard. The Nobel committee could not agree on the
award and postponed their decision until the following year, when they reached a
compromise; the 1921 prize would go to Einstein, but for his work on the photoelectric
effect, not the relativity theory.
Though born in Germany, Einstein had renounced his original nationality and subsequently
become a Swiss citizen. In 1921 he was considered to be a Swiss national resident in
Germany. When his Nobel prize was announced the next year, the government and scientific
establishment wanted it to be seen as a prize for Germany. The authorities changed their
view: Einstein had automatically acquired German nationality on becoming a professor in
Berlin.
It is not obvious why Einstein and the theory of relativity became so famous outside the
arcane world of theoretical physics. Quantum theory, developed about the same time, has
been of far more practical importance but attracted less popular attention. Unlike Darwin's
theory of evolution, relativity did not provoke any significant conflict with religion.
Two things helped the surge of interest after the announcement of the eclipse results. First,
confirmation of the theory could be portrayed as a dramatic event. Usually, scientific
theories are confirmed by the gradual accumulation of results. The second influence was the
aftermath of the war; the public wanted something that captured the imagination,
something far removed from earthly conflicts.

47
Several other factors contributed. The new ideas on space and time fitted revolutionary
developments in painting, such as cubism, where artists had departed from traditional
geometrical formats. This was part of a general revolutionary trend in the arts. Popular
accounts of the theory did not use technical terms but strange and intriguing combinations
of familiar words: “curved space”, “fourth dimension”. The name “relativity” probably
helped. An earlier suggestion, “theory of invariants”, might have been more appropriate
scientifically but less attractive to the general public. Strangely, the difficult mathematics of
general relativity may also have increased public interest. In the American press, which had a
tendency to sensationalism, it was claimed that only “twelve men” understood the theory
everyone was talking about. Small, exotic elite groups always seem interesting.
The first wave of news about relativity concentrated on the theory itself. Interest in Einstein
as a person came a couple of years later. Alexander Moszkowski, a Berlin publicist, wrote an
enthusiastic eulogy based on a series of conversations. First published in 1921, it was
translated into English as “Einstein the Searcher”. People wanted to see the great man in
person and flocked to his lectures, even if they were difficult to understand. Einstein's
combination of genius and eccentricity had tremendous appeal. Almost a hundred years
later he is still an iconic figure.
Books on relativity or Einstein in the British Library catalogue sorted by publication year. This
catalogue includes all books published in Britain and a good selection of foreign ones. Note that
this search is for books only. There were also numerous newspaper and magazine articles, which
were written and printed much faster than books.

48
Methuen
The firm was founded by Algernon Methuen, a teacher who started by publishing his own
textbooks as a sideline. In 1892 he left teaching and moved the firm to London. Methuen
managed to find many good authors and soon became a leading British publisher.
Well-known Methuen authors of the 1920s included A. A. Milne and Edgar Rice Burroughs
(creators of Winnie-the-Pooh and Tarzan). As well as novels, plays and childen's literature
there were non-fiction books on a wide variety of topics: sports, history, humour, popular
science and psychology. The British Library Catalogue lists 237 Methuen books for 1921.
Frederick Muller (1881 – 1960)
Frederick Muller's parents, who came from Wertheim in South Germany, moved to London
when he was a small child. He lived there for the rest of his life.
His publishing career started as an apprentice at Methuen and he rose through the ranks,
eventually becoming a director (probably on G. E. Webster's retirement in 1924). In 1933 he
left Methuen to start his own publishing firm, Frederick Muller Ltd.
For Methuen, he was the obvious choice for contacts with German scientists. Though he
considered himself thoroughly British, he spoke fluent German and had maintained contact
with relatives in Germany.

49
Authors and contacts: biographical details
This list gives brief details of most of the people mentioned in the letters. The information has been obtained
from a variety of online sources, in particular Wikipedia. I have not included the numerous references, but will
be happy to supply them on request. A few authors or contacts are not shown, as no information was found.
Abert, Hermann (1871 – 1927) German musicologist
Abert studied classics and wrote his doctoral thesis on ancient Greek music. He embarked on an
academic career in musicology and was professor at Leipzig from 1920 to 1923. His books include
biographies of Mozart and Schumann. A new English edition of the Mozart book was published in
2007.
Andrade, Edward (1887 – 1971) British physicist
After studying physics in London, Andrade went to Heidelberg to do his doctorate under Lenard. He
returned to Britain in 1914 for post-doctoral research with Rutherford on the nature and wavelength
of gamma rays. After the First World War he was professor at University College London and at the
Royal Institution. Andrade took part in the popular BBC program “The Brains Trust”, where the panel
tried to answer questions sent in by the public.
Arndt, Kurt (1873 – 1946) German chemist
Arndt taught electrochemistry at the Berlin Technical University. He was consultant for several
companies and developed a number of industrial processes.
Bavink, Bernhard (1879 – 1947) German philosopher
Bavink studied natural sciences before entering the teaching profession. He wrote on the philosophy
of science and the relationship of natural sciences to religion. His views were generally conservative
with a strong Christian and Protestant emphasis.
Belloc, Hilaire (1870 – 1953) British/French writer
He was prolific writer with books and pamphlets on historical, political and religious subjects as well
as comic verse for children. Belloc was a convinced Catholic with orthodox views. As a student at
Oxford he became known for his debating skills. From 1906 to 1910, he was a Member of Parliament.
Belloc was a powerfully built man with great stamina. As a leading Methuen author he would have
been well-known in the firm.
Born, Max (1882 – 1970) German physicist; Nobel Prize 1954
In 1905, he started research on special relativity together with Hermann Minkowski. Born's book on
the relativity theory (published 1920) was written at a level between popular science and a work for
professional physicists. After some years in Berlin and Frankfurt, Born was appointed professor at
Göttingen. During his time there (1921 – 1933) he developed, together with several other well-
known physicists, major parts of the modern quantum theory. He was a lifelong friend of Einstein.
Brose, Henry (1890 – 1965) Australian physicist
As a young man Brose left his native Australia to study mathematics at Oxford. In August 1914 he
was visiting relatives in Hamburg and was interned in Germany for the rest of the First World War.
During this time he read about relativity and started making English translations of the German
literature. Between 1920 and 1936 he translated sixteen books by leading authors; this was an
important contribution to the international understanding and acceptance of the relativity theory.
Brose held several academic positions in physics and was engaged in experimental research. He later
turned his attention to understanding and curing cancer. From 1939 he was a consulting biophysicist
in Sydney.
Buder, Johannes (1884 – 1966) German botanist
Buder held the chair of botany at Leipzig from 1917 to 1922. Afterwards he was professor at the
universities of Greifswald, Breslau and Halle.

50
Cassirer, Ernst (1874 – 1945) German philosopher
Cassirer's early work was largely on the theory of knowledge, in particular its application to the
natural sciences and mathematics. A book on the relativity theory appeared in 1921 (published by a
cousin, Bruno Cassirer). His later work dealt with a variety of topics including mythology, language
and political philosophy. In 1921 Cassirer was professor of philosophy at Hamburg.
Dieudonné, Adolf (1864 – 1944) German physician/bacteriologist
Dieudonné started his career as a military physician. He developed an interest in bacteriology and
travelled to India to research bubonic plague. Afterwards he held various posts in public service and
the military as well as being honorary professor at Munich university. His book “Immunity,
Vaccination and Serum Therapy” is still on sale as a reprint of the 1920 edition.
Dingler, Hugo (1881 – 1954) German physicist/philosopher
After studying physics and mathematics, Dingler focussed on the philosophy of physics. He criticised
the theory of relativity. During the 1930s this intellectual dispute with Einstein became increasingly
coloured by personal animosity.
Drucker, Carl (1876 – 1959) German chemist
Worked with Wilhelm Ostwald in Leipzig. In addition to teaching and research (electrochemistry,
thermodynamics) he helped edit the scientific journal founded by Ostwald.
Ehrenfest, Paul (1880 – 1933) Austrian/Dutch physicist
Ehrenfest grew up in Austria-Hungary and obtained his doctorate in Vienna under Ludwig Boltzmann.
After unsuccessful attempts to find an academic position in Germany he was appointed professor at
Leiden in 1912. His main contributions to physics were in the area of statistical mechanics and its
relations to the quantum theory. Ehrenfest, who became a close friend of Einstein, was one of the
early defenders of the special theory of relativity and encouraged the development of general
relativity. Ehrenfest suffered from depression and, like his mentor Boltzmann, died by suicide.
Einstein, Albert (1879 – 1955) German (naturalised Swiss) physicist; Nobel Prize 1921
Einstein is regarded as the most important scientist of modern times. He became well-known to the
general public shortly after the first world war and has remained so. Today, over 60 years after his
death, his image and the famous equation e = mc2
can be seen on numerous T-shirts, cups and other
ephemera. Einstein's popularity is based on his scientific achievements coupled with eccentricity, as
well as his support for pacifism and international cooperation.
In 1921 Einstein was based in Berlin, where he had taken up a special research position in 1914, and
was also guest professor in Leiden. He enjoyed visiting the Dutch town for several weeks every year.
In November 1921 he gave a lecture there on superconductivity.
The English translation of his 1921 Princeton lectures was published by Methuen in 1922.
Einstein, Elsa (1876 – 1936) German
Shortly after the divorce from his first wife, Einstein married his cousin Elsa. She had two daughters,
Ilse and Margot, from her first marriage. When Einstein became famous she acted as a shield to
protect him from unwelcome visitors and charlatans.
Einstein, Ilse (1897 – 1934) German
Einstein's stepdaughter Ilse became his private secretary when he was appointed director of the
Kaiser Wilhelm Institute for Physics in Berlin. Ilse Einstein married the journalist Rudolf Kayser in
1924. She died young of tuberculosis.
Freundlich, Herbert (1880 – 1941) German physical chemist
Freundlich did research on colloids for his doctoral thesis in Leipzig under the well-known physical
chemist Wilhelm Ostwald. He remained active in this area, working on a wide range of topics. As part
of his investigations of liquid flow phenomena he coined the term thixotropy. The Freundlich
isotherm, which describes the adsorption gases on solid surfaces, is named after him.
He was the brother of astrophysicist Erwin Finlay-Freundlich.

51
Gattermann, Ludwig (1860 – 1920) German chemist
Gattermann is best known as an organic chemist but he also did work in inorganic chemistry. He
became professor at Freiburg in 1900 after holding junior positions at the universities of Göttingen
and Heidelberg. His book on practical organic chemistry, published in 1894, became a standard work
in Germany; “Gattermann” was a common nickname for an organic chemistry course. The book had
run to 15 editions by 1920. After Gattermann's death it remained in print with regular revisions, the
last one in 1982 (reprinted 2010).
Gehrcke, Ernst (1878 – 1960) German physicist
Gehrcke was an experimental physicist. Based in Berlin, he worked at the Physical and Technical
Institute and at the same time taught at the university. His main contributions to physics were in
interference spectroscopy (interferometry), physiological optics and electrical discharges in gases.
Gehrcke did not accept the relativity theory and was among the physicists who actively opposed it.
Girgensohn, Karl (1875 – 1925) German theologian
Girgensohn, an ethnic German Protestant from Estonia, was appointed professor of theology at
Greifswald in 1919. Three years later he moved to Leipzig. He was particularly interested in the
psychology of religious belief. In a set of empirical studies he evaluated the reaction of subjects to
hearing religious texts and poems being read. This was the basis of a book which aroused
considerable interest but also strong criticism from some theologians.
Graetz, Leo (1856 – 1941) German physicist
Graetz, based at Munich from 1881, worked on magnetism, electricity and atomic structure. His book
on electricity and its applications (1st ed. 1883) was a standard work in the German-speaking world
for many years. “Die Atomtheorie in ihrer neuesten Entwickelung”, which described recent
developments in atomic theory, was based on a set of six lectures aimed at non-specialists with a
general scientific knowledge.
Haas, Arthur (1884 – 1941) Austrian physicist
After early work on the history of science, Haas turned to atomic physics. In 1910 he developed a
model of the hydrogen atom involving quantum effects – a forerunner of the well-known Bohr
model. Haas was professor at Vienna from 1924 until 1935 when he emigrated to the USA. His book
on theoretical physics has been described as the first modern textbook of the subject. His lectures for
a non-specialist audience were published as “The New Physics” by Methuen in 1923.
Heaviside, Oliver (1850 – 1925) British physicist/electrical engineer
Heaviside, who started work as telegraph operator and electrician was a self-taught mathematician
and physicist. His contributions to science include various mathematical techniques used in electrical
engineering and electromagnetic theory. Heaviside invented coaxial cable. He was an eccentric
character who worked outside academic or industrial organisations, but was regarded as an expert in
his field.
Heymans, Gerard (1857 – 1930) Dutch psychologist/philosopher
Heymans, regarded as founder of psychology in the Netherlands, was professor at Groningen from
1890 to 1927. He worked on experimental psychology and a classification of personality.
von Horvath, Klemens (b. 1884) Russian physicist
Descended from an upper class family that had emigrated from Austria-Hungary to Russia, von
Horvath worked as Privatdozent at the University of Kazan. He met Einstein in Berlin and was living
there in 1921.
Jäger, Gustav (1865 – 1938) Austrian physicist
Jäger worked with Ludwig Boltzmann at Vienna University where he later became professor and
wrote a five volume textbook on theoretical physics. His research topics included the flow of gases
around solid objects (important for aeroplanes) and acoustics.

52
Jakoby, Kurt (1892 – 1968) German publisher
Jakoby started his career in publishing first at Teubner and then moved to Springer. In 1922 he
married Leo Jolowicz's youngest daughter. The year after, he joined his father-in-law at the
Akademischer Verlag.
Jolowicz, Ernst (1882 – 1958) German psychiatrist
Ernst Jolowicz, half-brother of Leo Jolowicz, studied medicine in Leipzig and then practised
psychiatry.
Jolowicz, Leo (1868 – 1940) German publisher
Leo Jolowicz, who had worked in publishing and bookselling since the age of 19, founded the
Akademischer Verlagsgesellschaft in 1906. It soon became a leading scientific publisher and Jolowicz
attracted well-known authors, including several Nobel prizewinners.
Klemm, Otto (1884 – 1939) German psychologist
In 1923 he was appointed professor of applied psychology at Leipzig. His studies on human
movement are now considered to be his main scientific contribution. Klemm is one of the best
known members of the Leipzig school of Gestalt psychology. His “History of Psychology” was
published in English in 1914; several recent reprints are available.
Kopff, August (1882 – 1960) German astronomer
Kopff is known for his discovery of many asteroids. He delivered a series of lectures on relativity at
the University of Heidelberg in 1919–20 and wrote a book based on them. An English edition,
translated by Hyman Levy, was published by Methuen.
Kossel, Walther (1888 – 1956) German physicist
Kossel became professor of physics in Kiel in 1921. By this time he had developed a theory of the
absorption and emission of X-rays spectra and published a theory of chemical bonding (octet rule).
Later he worked on crystal growth and the interaction of crystals with X-rays.
Krueger, Felix (1874 – 1948) German psychologist/philosopher
After some early work was in philosophy, he turned his attention to experimental psychology. In
1917 he succeeded Wundt as director of the internationally well-known experimental psychology
institute in Leipzig. Krueger is one of the best known members of the Leipzig school of Gestalt
psychology.
Laudien, Karl (1875 – 1952) German engineer
Laudien taught at the technical university of Breslau and then at Stettin, where he was Vice-
Chancellor (Rektor). He gained a good reputation as both textbook author and administrator. In 1931
he emigrated to Chile to become principal of the new Technical University Federico Santa Maria.
When offered this position he was already in his 50s and had a good academic post but decided to
accept the opportunity and challenge of building up a new university on the other side of the world.
von Laue, Max (1879 – 1960) German physicist
Best known for his discovery of the diffraction of X-rays by crystals, von Laue also did work in optics,
crystallography, quantum theory, superconductivity and relativity. In 1919 he was appointed
professor at Berlin university in conjunction with a post at the Kaiser-Wilhelm Institute for Physics.
Lawson, Robert (1890 – 1960) British physicist
Lawson translated Einstein's “Relativity: the Special and General Theory” and Haas's “The New
Physics”, both published by Methuen. Shortly after finishing his degree in physics, he went to the
Radium Institute in Vienna as assistant lecturer. During the First World War he was at first interned
as an enemy alien, but later released on parole and allowed to continue working. On returning to
Britain in 1919 he was appointed lecturer at Sheffield University, where he remained until
retirement.

53
Le Blanc, Max (1865 – 1943) German electrochemist
After studying chemistry he embarked on a university career. This was interrupted by a few years at
the chemicals firm Farbwerke Hoechst as director of the new electrochemical laboratory. His return
to academia took him first to Karlsruhe and then to Leipzig, where he was professor from 1906 to
1933. Le Blanc made important contributions to understanding the processes occurring at electrodes
during electrolysis and invented the hydrogen electrode.
Lecher, Ernst (1856 – 1926) Austrian physicist
Lecher is best known for his experimental work on high frequency electromagnetic waves.
Lehmann, Max (1845 – 1929) German historian
Lehmann held chairs of history in Marburg, Leipzig and then Göttingen. For his book on Freiherr von
Stein he was awarded honorary doctorates by two universities.
Lenard, Philipp (1862 – 1947) German physicist; Nobel prize 1905
Lenard's main contribution to physics was his studies of cathode rays (electrons produced in vacuum
tubes). Born in Austria-Hungary, he considered himself at first predominantly Hungarian, but later
German. From 1907 he was professor at Heidelberg and continued to be closely associated with the
university after his official retirement in 1932. Lenard, one of the main proponents of the “German
Physics” movement, did not accept relativity or much of the quantum theory.
Lenz, Wilhelm (1888 – 1957) German physicist
Lenz was professor of theoretical physics at Hamburg. He worked on a variety of topics and is best
known for the development of the Ising model of ferromagnetism. Together with experimentalist
Otto Stern he made Hamburg an international centre for nuclear physics.
Levy, Hyman (1889 – 1975) British mathematician
Hyman Levy studied mathematics in his home town Edinburgh. On the outbreak of the First World
War he was at the University of Göttingen but managed to return to Britain. In 1916 he joined the
National Physical Laboratory in Teddington where he worked on aeronautics. He left this post in 1920
to become professor at Imperial College London. Levy was one the first British mathematicians to
recognize the importance of numerical methods. He was a left-wing political activist, writing books
on social topics and the role of science in society.
Lipsius, Friedrich (1873 – 1934) German philosopher/theologian
From 1920 Lipsius was assistant professor at the Leipzig philosophical faculty under Theodor Litt. His
previous work had been largely theological with liberal and critical positions. In the 1920s he
published a book criticising the relativity theory on philosophical grounds.
Litt, Theodor (1880 – 1962) German philosopher
Litt trained as a teacher with focus on classics, history and philosophy. After the First World War he
started a university career. In 1920 he was appointed professor of philosophy and pedagogy at
Leipzig as successor to Spranger. His work concentrated on philosophy of culture and philosophical
anthropology as well as pedagogical topics. In Germany a number of schools are named after him,
but he is largely unknown in the English-speaking world.
Lorentz, Hendrik Antoon (1853 – 1928) Dutch physicist; Nobel prize 1902
Lorentz, who was professor at Leiden University, developed the mathematical basis used in the
special relativity theory and had frequent discussions with Einstein. His Nobel prize, together with
Pieter Zeeman, was for the explanation of the splitting of spectral lines in a magnetic field (Zeeman
Effect).
Lucas, Edward Verral (1868 – 1938) British writer/publisher
A prolific English writer, he is best known for short essays, but also produced verses, novels, plays
and biography. Lucas worked as a reader for Methuen from 1908 and became the chairman in 1924.

54
Mach, Ernst (1838 – 1916) Austrian physicist/philosopher
Mach saw science from a biological and evolutionary perspective. It is an activity that helps us adapt
to the world. Consequently he emphasised the importance of sensations (direct or indirect via
measuring instruments) and rejected metaphysical constructions. He claimed that inertia and
centrifugal force should not be interpreted in terms of absolute space and time but instead be seen
as emerging from the large scale distribution of matter in the universe. This “Mach's principle” can
be viewed as a forerunner of the general theory of relativity. His best known experimental work was
on shock waves caused by fast moving objects. The Mach number (ratio of an object's speed to the
speed of sound) is named after him. Mach was also interested in psychological topics and wrote a
book on the psychology of research.
March, Arthur (1891 – 1957) Austrian physicist
March, a theoretical physicist, was professor at Innsbruck. His main research topic was the quantum
theory, but he also worked on X-ray spectra and thermodynamics. He wrote several books explaining
scientific topics to general readers.
Marx, Erich (1874 – 1956) German physicist
Marx studied X-rays, photoelectricity and the electrical conductivity of gases. He was professor at
Leipzig from 1907 to 1933 and then founded a private institute there which did work for industrial
clients. The six volume “Handbook of Radiology” which he edited is primarily a book on physics
rather than medical radiology.
Meiner, Arthur (1865 – 1952) German publisher
Meiner bought the Leipzig Johann Ambrosius Barth Verlag in 1890. Under his direction it expanded,
partly by acquiring other firms, and was an important scientific publisher in the 1920s. Meiner was a
respected member of Leipzig society – a successful businessman who was active in local culture and
politics.
Meisenheimer, Johannes (1873 – 1933) German zoologist
Meisenheimer's work focussed on the development of molluscs. He was professor at Marburg, Jena
and, from 1914, Leipzig.
Mie, Gustav (1868 – 1957) German physicist
Mie is best known for his theory of light scattering by small particles. Using modern computer
technology, this complicated mathematical theory is now widely used to measure particle sizes. His
experimental work included studies of molecular motion and the structure of polymers. Mie
criticised the general theory of relativity. He worked on an alternative approach which tried to unify
theories of electromagnetism, gravity and early aspects of the quantum theory.
Minkowski, Hermann (1864 – 1909) German mathematician
Minkowski was professor at Königsberg, Zürich (where he taught Einstein) and then Göttingen. His
treatment of the special relativity showed how it could be understood geometrically as a theory of
four-dimensional space-time. He died young from acute appendicitis.
Moszkowski, Alexander (1851 – 1934) German writer
A well-known personality in Berlin society, he became friendly with Einstein and wrote a book based
on a series of conversations with him. Einstein's comments are reported indirectly with considerable
elaboration by Moszkowski; the book was published without Einstein's consent.
Nernst, Walther (1864 – 1941) German physical chemist; Nobel prize 1920
Nernst is considered one of the founders of physical chemistry and an important figure in the
development of the quantum theory. He worked on a range of theoretical and experimental topics
including applied research. The Nernst equation, which relates electric potentials to concentrations
of ions, is taught in every course on electrochemistry. He is best known for developing the third law
of thermodynamics, which is important for low-temperature physics and for calculating absolute

At Last 5 Minutes with Einstein Himself (Engl. text + German summary)

At Last 5 Minutes with Einstein Himself (Engl. text + German summary)

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