Guide to the Papers of Sir Ernest and Lady Scott
MS 703
National Library of Australia View Catalogue Record
Collection Summary
- Creator
- Sir Ernest and Lady Scott
- Title
- Papers of Sir Ernest and Lady Scott
- Date Range
- 1890-1956
- Collection Number
- MS 703
- Extent
- 0.75 metres (5 boxes?)
- Language of Materials
- English
- Repository
- National Library of Australia
Introduction
Scope and Contents
The collection consists of letters of both the Scotts, newspaper cuttings, handwritten draft of lectures and articles, journals and other printed items containing articles by Sir Ernest, photograph, the books. The letters include many from Lord and Lady Novar, and a large group from Sir Ernest to his wife. In addition, there are notes, lectures and articles by both Scotts, and a good collection of photographs relating to the Dyason family of Bendigo.
Conditions Governing Access
Please refer to the collection's catalogue record for the access conditions (http://nla.gov.au/nla.cat-vn461125).
Conditions Governing Use
Copying and publishing of unpublished manuscript material is subject to copyright restrictions. For such material, written permission to publish must be obtained from the copyright holder(s). Copying of unpublished material for research purposes is permissible 50 years after the death of the creator of the material.
Preferred Citation
Items from this collection should be cited as '[Title or description of manuscript item], Papers of Sir Ernest and Lady Scott, National Library of Australia, MS 703, [box number and series and/or file number]'.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
The papers of Sir Ernest and Lady Scott, together with a small number of books, were presented to the Library in 1958 by Miss Diana Dyason, Lady Scott's niece. They had been examined by Lady Scott in 1956, the year before her death, and many items carry her explanatory notes.
Arrangement
Note that there are two parts to the collection: the papers of Sir Ernest Scott (Series 1 to Series 8) and the papers of Lady Scott (Series 9 to Series 14).
Other Finding Aids
All correspondence in the collection has been name-indexed; please refer to the attached Correspondence Index (Appendix I) under the Related Documentation tab.
Bibliography
Major publications written or edited by Sir Ernest Scott. 1. Terre Napoleon: a history of French explorations and projects in Australia. London, Methuen, 1910. 2. Laperouse. Sydney, Angus and Robertson, 1912. 3. The life of Mathew Flinders, R.N. Sydney, Angus and Robertson, 1914. 4. A short history of Australia. London, Oxford University Press, 1916. 5. Men and though in modern history. Melbourne, Macmillan, 1920. 6. History and historical problems. London, Oxford University Press, 1925. 7. Australian discovery. 2 volumes. London, J. M. Dent, 1929. 8. The Cambridge history of the British Empire. Volume 7. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 1933. Chapters 3,4, 5 and 19, part 2 of Part 1 of volume 7 were written by Scott.. 9. Lord Robert Cecil's gold fields diary. Melbourne, Melbourne University Press, 1935. 10. Official history of Australia in the war of 1914-1918. Volume 11. Sydney, Angus and Robertson, 1936. 11. Historical memoir of the Melbourne Club. Melbourne, Special Press, 1936. 12. A history of University of Melbourne. Melbourne, Melbourne University Press, 1936.
Biographical Note
Sir Ernest Scott, 1867-1939
Ernest Scott was born in Northampton, England, in June 1867, and was educated at the local Church of England school where he was also a pupil teacher. In 1892 he migrated to Australia, and, drawing upon previous experience as a journalist with the London Globe, found employment with the Melbourne Herald. Between 1895 and 1901, Scott worked as a Hansard reporter with the Victorian Parliament, and for the next 13 years with the Commonwealth Parliament.
Despite his long career in journalism, Scott's chief interest was always history. During his Hansard years he wrote two books, one on French voyages in Australian waters, the other on French explorer La Perouse. It was largely on the Basis of these two works that in 1913 the University of Melbourne invited Scott to become its first Professor of History.
With the exception of two years absence between 1932 and 1934, Scott taught history for the next 23 years, retiring in 1936. In addition, he was Dean of the Faculty of Arts (1914-1924) and President of the Professorial Board (1927-1930). Scott taught many of the leading academic historians of the next generation, such as Sir Keith Hancock, R.M. Crawford, C.M.H. Clark, Sir Stephen Roberts and F. Alexander, and at the same time popularised Australian history through his many public lectures and articles for the daily press. Scott was a prolific writer: 'he saw the fault of his predecessors who published nothing and he made amends by publishing everything.' (G. Blainey). In 1913 his biography of Matthew Flinders appeared, and was followed two years later by A short history of Australia. Scott's many subsequent works are listed in Appendix III, and of these his contributions to the Office history of Australian in the war of 1914-1918 and the Cambridge history of the British Empire are probably his most important.
While at the University of Melbourne, Professor Scott made trips overseas in 1932-34, and sought historical material relating to Australia in Great Britain, Holland, France, Germany, Spain, Canada and the United States. He was also able to attend meetings of the British Commonwealth Relations Conference, the Royal Institute of International Affairs and the Institute of Pacific Relation in Canada in 1933.
Scott was associated with several societies and organizations, including the Boobook Society, the Wallaby Club, the Australian and New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science, and the Public Library, Museums and Art Galley of Victoria.
Professor Scott was married twice; firstly to a daughter of Mrs Annie Besant, and following a divorce, to Emily Dyason in 1915.
When he retired from teaching in March 1936, the University of Melbourne bestowed upon him the title Professor Emeritus, and in June 1939 he was knighted. Scott died on 6 December 1939. In 1956 the Ernest Scott Chair of History was established at the University of Melbourne.
Biographical Note
Lady Scott, 1882-1957
Emily Dyason was born in 1882, the daughter of JE. And Hariet Dyason, of Bendigo, and the sister of the engineer, economist and stockbroker Edward Dyason. She was educated at Girton College, Bendigo. She studied the piano, and won a Gold Medal at the Royal Academy of Music exams in 1902, and the year gained an entrance scholarship to a three-year course at the Marshall Hall Conservation of Music. In 1907, she became a piano-teacher at the Conservatorium. In 1908 she accompanied the violinist Jan Kubelik during his tour of Australia and New Zealand, and returned with the Kubeliks to Austria in 1909 to study the piano with Professor Leschctizky. She was again Conservatorium teacher in 1913, and in 1915 married Professor Scott.
After her marriage Lady Scott continued to write and lecture on piano techniques and composers, and composers, and to give recitals; she also assisted such groups as the Lady Permanent Orchestra Fund, and the Institute of Pacific Relations, and to further her musical studies. She continued to travel after her husband's death, and maintained her long association with the University of Melbourne. Lady Scott died on 25 June 1957.
See also Australian Encyclopaedia, volume 8; Kathleen Fitzpatrick. 'Ernest Scott and the Melbourne School of History.' Melbourne Historical Journal, Volume 7, 1968: 1-10.
Item Descriptions
Series 1. Novar letters, 1920-1939
Scott first met Sir Ronald Munro-Ferguson in 1914, when Sir Ronald took up office as Governor-General of Australia. After his return to England in 1920, Munro-Ferguson was raised to the peerage as Viscount Novar. Scott remained a friend of Novar until the letter's death in 1934. The series contains forty letters written by Lord and Lady Novar. They are arranged chronologically, and refer to Scott's publications, mutual friends, and British politics. (Novar had resumed his political career, and was Secretary of State for Scotland during 1922-1924). Many of the letters from Lady Novar refer to Scott's use of her husband's personal papers in his work Australia during the war (volume 11 of the Official history of Australia in the war of 1914-1918), and political events in which Novar had been involved. Other letters from Lady Novar, addressed to Lady Scott, are included in Series 9.
SIR RONALD MUNRO-FERGUSON to SCOTT, H.M.A.S. Sydney, Cairns, Queensland, 7 September 1920 (Item 1)
Refers to Scott's biography of Matthew Flinders; hopes that both the Barton and Griffith families will encourage biographers.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, Ross-shire, Scotland, 27 December 1921 (Item 2-4)
Comments on Scott's A short history of Australia; its appeal to 'old country and new'; books and libraries; failure of Albury (N.S.W.) short story writer to find a London publisher.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 23 March 1924 (Item 5)
Comments on a speech on Singapore, a copy of which was sent to Scott; refers to his 'Defence v Preference' arguments; the British Federal Election; the position of Singapore and Australia's interest.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 14 December 1924 (Item 6)
Visit from Kipling and his interest in Scott's work on Matthew Flinders; Lord Rosebury's gift on his Australiana library to Lord Novar; the state of British politics after three elections in two years, and the writer's political allegiance in the light of early associations.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, 105 Easton Place, London, 15 July 1925 (Item 7)
Accommodation for Scott at the Athenaeum Club whilst staying in London.
HANKEY to LORD NOVAR, Pall Mall, London, 17 July 1925 (Item 8(1))
Tells Lord Novar that arrangements have been made for Scott to be an Honorary Member of the Athenaeum Club.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, 105 Easton Place, London, 17 July 1925 (Item 8(2))
In a note added to the letter from Hankey, Novar tells Scott the wareabouts of [Sir Richard?] Lodge of arrangements for Lodge and Scott to meet.
HANKEY to SCOTT, Pall Mall, London, 17 July 1925 (Item 9)
Conveys the Athenaeum Club's invitation to be club member for one month.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, The Athenaeum Club, 30 October 1925 (Item 10)
Inquiries made at the Colonial Office on behalf of Scott's researches for volume XI of the Official history of Australia in the war of 1914-1918.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 1 November 1925 (Item 11)
Advises Scott as to the propriety of making public specific incidents involving Sir Samuel Griffith and Sir Edmund Barton; expresses personal view as to the virtues of British constitutional practice in providing for silence in so far as the work of Privy Councillors are concerned.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 18 November 1925 (Item 12-13)
Comments on Lord Salisbury; thanks Scott for sending his history of the Melbourne Club; talks of the British Labour Party; thanks Scott for the reproduction of Lord Salisbury's Diary, refers to international affairs, and to 'our little thoughts'.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, London, 11 March 1926 (Item 14-15)
Thanks Scott for a copy of History and Historical Problems. Comments on contemporary politics and events in Scotland.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 20 May 1926 (Item 16)
Local happenings arising out of General Strike. Adds personal note on the limits of his future usefulness for public service.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 15 April 1927 (Item 17-20)
Acknowledges Hardy Wilson's Old Colonial Architure from Scott; recollections of Sydney; Governor Macquarie's grave; details of current British Budget; mentions Churchill, Runciman, Lord Novar and Lord Oxford; the 'Flapper' vote; and the beginnings of Canberra.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 3 August 1927 (Item 21-23)
Comments on the 'success of the Yorks' visit' to Australia; the Royal visit to Edinburgh; current ceremonies and pageants; a visit by several Australians to 'one Agricultural Show'; and the conferring of and Honrary L.L.D. on writer by Edinburgh University.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 15 August 1927 (Item 24)
Safe arrival of Hardy Wilson's Old Colonial Architecture.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 30 January 1928 (Item 25)
Historical works of Emile Ludwig; the position of the U.S.A. in world affairs, and Lord Dufferin's view; and the current attitude of the British Government towards the farmers.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT. Raith, Kircaldy, Scotland, 15 October 1929 (Item 26)
Copy of Cecil Spring Rice sent to Scott; the British statesmen and diplomats of the pre World War I era; the election defeat for Bruce in Australia.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 22 January 1930 (Item 27)
House of Lord's Library. [Card] Acknowledges letter from Scott; proposes to send Lord Carmichael's Life to Scott.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, n.d (Item 28-29)
Acknowledges Scott's letter of sympathy on the occasion of the death of Lady Novar's brother; refers to Scott's pleasure reading Letters of Cecil Spring Rice; the proposal to send Scott the Life of Lord Carmichael; other references to books; the progress of Scott's war history; Australian news; the British Government and retrenchment; the Conservative Party and the question of Bladwin's leadership together with the supposed influence of Beaverbrook; Lord Novar's absence from Conservative Party meeting; and Mrs Scott's proposed visit to China.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, House of Lords, London, 24 February 1930 (Item 30)
(Private) Favours reforms for the office of the King's Representatives in Australia both at a Federal and state level; the state of 'my Australian files' at Raith; the repair of books; the question of correcting a reference the writer in the Official History of Australia in the War.
LADY NOVAR to Scott, Ross-shire, Scotland, 2 June 1933 (Item 31-32)
Acknowledges book from Scott; refers to details of Scott's work on the Official History of Australia in the war of 1914-1918; Hughes' stories of the Peace Conference; Harold Nicholson's work on the Peace Treaty and his lectures in America; British relations with America; the visit of Mrs Scott to China; and the impending visit of the Scotts to England.
LADY NOVAR to Scott, Evanton, Ross-shire, Scotland, 21 July 1933 (Item 33-34)
Letter on behalf of husband; acknowledges proofs from Scott with reference to Lord Novar's role as Governor-General in Australia during the First World War; Harold Nicholson's American lecture tour; views of General Smuts on possible 'crash in America; and England opinion of Roosevelt's domestic policies.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 31 July 1933 (Item 35-36)
Receipt of Scott's chapter proofs dealing with the Australian Red Cross [chapter from volume XI of the Official History of Australian in the War]. Scott's account of the Meeting of the British Association; hopes to see the Scotts in January 1934.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 14 August 1933 (Item 37)
Refers to Scott's account of Red Cross work; corrects a reference made by Scott: ads personal viewpoint on Sir James Barrett and Sir Adian Knox.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, n.d (Item 38)
Acknowledges letter from Scott; comments on sketch of proposed chapter for Scott's work on the Official History of Australia in the war of 1914-1918; recalls an incident involving W.M. Hughes and Lord Novar; gives Lord Novar's views on his decision regarding the question of a Double Dissolution; advises Scott that he many quote Lord Novar's remarks re State and Federal Expenditure.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 26 September 1933? (Item 39-40)
Advises Scott on the handling of Lord Novar's papers; passes an invitation from Lady Carmichael to meet in London; comments further on Novar-Hughes incident as its presentation for publication; recounts one of W.M. Hughes' personal admissions to Lord Novar; recounts Andrew Fisher's request for help from Lord Novar.
LORD NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 30 January 1934 (Item 41)
Acknowledges Scott's communication as to arrival and address in London; states that London club life 'is dead'; refers to his note on Scott's proofs re 'the cable which told the declaration of War' [in 1914].
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 14 February 1934 (Item 42-43)
Arrangements for a meeting with the Scotts in England, Harold Nicholson's references to Sir Joseph Cook at the Peace Conference; Hughes' 'bons mots' at the Conference; Scott's appreciation of Sir James Barrett; government 'experiments' in Great Britain and the reaction of farmers.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 21 May 1934 (Item 44)
Acknowledges letter and Scott's appreciation of Harold Nicholson's book; advises Scott as to vetting of Lord Novar's papers with the respective Secretaries of State; refers to quotation from Lord Brandbury; encloses Hughes' tribute to Lord Novar.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 31 May 1934 (Item 45-46)
Acknowledges return of papers from Scott; expresses gratification with Scott's chapter on Lord Novar; makes a number of suggestions on individual points; comments on the changes in the status of Governor-General.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Dunstan Castle, Custan, Somerset, n.d (Item 47)
Reference to various correspondents and the state of Lord Novar's Papers; hopes to arrange a meeting with Scott in London; Lord Buxton's request to see Scott; comments on the subject matter of Lord Novar's letter to the King.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 14 April 19? (Item 48)
Reference to enclosed letter [from Lord Novar's Papers?] and reference to Lord Buxton.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 18 August 1934 (Item 49)
Books received from Scott; details of the Scott's continental tour; and the pleasure of their company at Raith.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 29 October 19? (Item 50)
Acknowledges Scott's advice as to treatment of Lord Novar's Papers and the need to consult Sir Clive Wigram, the King's Secretary. Mentions receipt of letter from W.M. Hughes.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 4 December 1934 (Item 51-53)
Weather conditions in Victoria; the Scotts' homecoming; uniforms for the War Memorial [at Canberra]; despatch of Lord Novar's letters to the King with provisions as to publication; details the possibility of sending other correspondence serious after permission has been sought from Lord Novar's correspondents; refers to the first delivery of the ' Letters to the King and the Birdwood correspondence'; the Royal Wedding; the British in India; Baldwin; and English political questions.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 27 March 1935 (Item 54-55)
Comments on Scott's work; the current despatch of Lord Novar's papers to Canberra etc; British and European politics; the threat of Germany.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 23 April 1935 (Item 56-57)
Acknowledges Scott's letter; comments on the conclusion of Scott's work for the Official History of Australia in the war of 1914-1918; the Jubilee Year in England; prospective trip to London for celebrations; Australian wool prices; Lord Novar's private despatches; the trade discussions of the Australian Prime Minister, J.A. Lyons
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 23 May 1935 (Item 58-60)
Uniforms and papers sent to Canberra; reports steady progress with the sorting of Lord Novar's letters to the Colonial Secretary; suspects that Scott's treatment of Lord Novar in his war history may be criticised; comments on the Jubilee festivities; passing references to Australian and English politics.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Evanton, Ross-shire, Scotland, 28 May 1936 (Item 61-62)
Thanks Scott for copy of the Historical Memoir of the Melbourne Club, (Melbourne 1936); adds comments thereon; refers to current British politics, and several contemporary books.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Evanton, Ross-shire, Scotland, 4 January 1937 (Item 63-64)
The publication of Scott's volume of the war history series; relieved that W.M. Hughes in appreciative of the work; refers to Abdication crisis and loss of 'ex-King Edward'; commends the reliability of John Gunther's estimates of various 'great men' in his Inside Europe.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Raith, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 25 January 1937 (Item 65-67)
Scott's war history; and the writer's visit to the Berrima P.O.W. camp; family and general political affairs; the President's Inaugural Address in the U.S.A. and the America disasters.
LADY NOVAR to SCOTT, Evanton, Ross-shire, Scotland, 7 July 1939 (Item 68-69)
Congratulates the Scotts on the occasion of Sir Ernest Scott's knighthood; German expansion in Europe; English preparations; success of Royal Visit to Canada and the U.S.A.; comments on new Prime Minister for Australia, R.G. Menzies.
Series 2. Knighthood: letters and telegrams of congratulation, 1939
A group of congratulatory messages including letters from Scott's former students and academic colleagues, parliamentarians, judges, journalists, and several associations. The letters have been arranged alphabetically by author. Items 1-71
Series 3. Miscellaneous letters, 1920-1938
The series contains letters to Scott relating mainly to such subjects as the arrangement for his trips overseas, his offer to resign from the University in 1932, and the personal help that he gave the many of his students. The letters are arranged chronologically, with undated letters placed last.
MONASH to SCOTT, 673 Bourke Street, Melbourne, 23 December 1920 (Item 1)
Requests Scott to supply an autographed slip of paper to enclose with copy of Men and thought in modern history, previously received from Scott.
Acknowledges letter confirming Scott's authorship of a review of Murdoch's Alfred Deakin. (Item 2-3)
A Sketch, discusses points raised by Scott in the review, stresses limited objects of the work; criticizes one of the Melbourne University examination reports of the work submitted for Litt. D., but sees no reason why Scott should worry about it.
LORD CASTLEREAGH to SCOTT, British Embassy, Rome, 1 April 1925 (Item 4)
States that although Holman has gone England, he has a card from Dorma to be forwarded.
LORD CASTLEREAGH to SCOTT, British Embassy, Rome, 3 April 1925 (Item 5)
Gives name of book which Holman mentioned and refers to a brief article that the writer's grandmother wrote with help of Arthur Hassell.
CONDE DE TORRALA to SCOTT, Sevilla, 17 May 1925 (Item 6)
[In Spanish] Tells Scott he hopes to meet him, but that he will have difficulty speaking English. Gives two Madrid addresses.
CONDE DE TORRALA to SCOTT, Gran Pena, 28 May 1925 (Item 7)
[In Spanish] Makes arrangements to meet the Scotts and to have lunch at the casino.
HOLLAND to SCOTT, London, 23 September 1925 (Item 8)
Acknowledges letters from Scott; asks him to write article on Australian literature for Encyclopaedia Britannica, while he is in England.
SIR JOHN MacFARLAND to SCOTT, University of Melbourne, 7 June 1930 (Item 9)
Regrets Scott's absence from the Law Chair Committee; refers to 'the new chair' for which Bailey is to be a candidate, mentions salaries for this chair the Jurisprudence Chair; states that Scott will be able to give views 'at the Council on the 16th'.
ADDISON to SCOTT, Mont Park, Melbourne, 26 December 1931 (Item 10)
Acknowledges letter; speaks of the University Press; thanks Scott for his help: 'you were one of those who did most to help me when I was alive...'.
GARRAN to SCOTT, Canberra, 29 December 1931 (Item 11)
Invites Scott to accept nomination as a Council Member of the Royal Society of Australia.
SCOTT to SIR JOHN MacFARLAND. University of Melbourne, 15 October 1931 (Item 12-13)
Offers his resignation as Professor so as to attend two conferences in Canada the following year.
SIR JOHN MacFARLAND to SCOTT, University of Melbourne, 17 October 1932 (Item 15)
Regrets Scott's intention to resign from the Chair of History because of proposed period of absence from Melbourne; pays tribute to Scott's work on behalf of his students and the University
JOSEPH BAINBRIDGE to SCOTT, University of Melbourne, 13 December 1932 (Item 16)
As Registrar forwards decision of Council Committee granting Scott leave of absence until the end of 1934, requesting him to remain in the History Chair until 1936.
ANGELA THIRKELL to SCOTT, London, 3 April 1933 (Item 17)
Thanks Scott for helping Graham [McInnes?] while at Melbourne University. Looks forward to seeing the Scotts when they visit England.
SIR ARTHUR STREETON to SCOTT, Toorak, Melbourne, 7 April 1933 (Item 18-19)
Refers to enclosed letter from son Oliver [not with Papers]; requests Scott's opinion as to the future of son's geology course at the University; mentions trouble with stiffening finger of left band.
SIR ARTHUR STREETON to SCOTT, Toorak, Melbourne, 8 April 1933 (Item 20-21)
Acknowledges letter; expresses gratitude for advice re his son's future; invites the Scotts to the writer's new home, 'Longacares', in Olinda. Sketches map giving location from Olinda P.O.
SIR COLIN MacKENZIE to SCOTT, Canberra, 23 May 1933 (Item 22)
Refers to enclosure [not with Papers]; speaks of Lectureship in Medical History recently founded by writer's sister; requests Scott to deliver Inaugural Lecture at the Australia Institute of Anatomy' and so set the standard for future orators'.
A.C.C HOTZ to SCOTT, Head Office, The Argus and Australasian, Melbourne, 30 May 1933 (Item 23)
Thanks Scott for past services, regrets that Scott's absence overseas will mean a break in his journalistic work for both papers.
SIR JOHN MacFARLAND to SCOTT, University of Melbourne, 31 May 1933 (Item 24)
Suggests date for a farewell by Scott's colleagues before he leaves for Canada.
ROY L. CURTHOYS to SCOTT, The Argus, Melbourne, 6 June 1933 (Item 25)
Acknowledges biographical article on Lord Carson and article on Marco Polo; hopes Scott will continue to write for the Argus while he is in Canada.
A.C.C HOTZ to SCOTT, Head Office, The Argus and Australasian, Melbourne, 19 June 1933 (Item 26)
Acknowledges letter from Scott dated 17 June; comments on details of Argus Index for January - June 1910.
POULTNEY BIGELOW to SCOTT, Malden on Henderson, New York, 12 December 1933 (Item 27-28)
Refers to his trip to 'soak my soul in symphonic rhythm'.
POULTNEY BIGELOW to SCOTT, Malden on Henderson, New York, 18 December 1933 (Item 29-30)
Note on top by Emily Scott reads 'Poultney Bigelow's reflections on music'.
ARTHUR BEAUCHESNE to SCOTT, House of Commons, Ottawa, 19 March 1934 (Item 31)
Acknowledges Scott's comments on the writer's, Ecrivains d'Autrefois: Discusses Scott's criticism of the writer's essay on Stendhal.
LORD SOMERS to SCOTT, Stockbridge, England, 19 October 1934 (Item 32)
Thanks Scott for list of Victorian Rhodes Scholars; describes homeward bound trip from Victoria; discusses British political scene; and Scott's appreciation of his stay in Victoria.
KEITH HANCOCK to SCOTT, Birmingham, England, 27 December 1935 (Item 33-37)
Acknowledges receipt of book; recalls student days under Scott; comments on qualities of Scott's teaching. Mentions that work commitment will prevent a return to Australian and is therefore forced to decline Scott's proposal regarding the future of the History Chair at the University of Melbourne.
BAINBRIDGE to SCOTT, University of Melbourne, 29 December 1936 (Item 38-39)
Forwards Council resolution containing an appreciation of Scott's services to the University upon his retirement; refers to Mrs Scott's services; adds personal note of appreciation.
FREDERICK LISTER to SCOTT, Hanford House, Blandford, Dorset, 11 January 1937 (Item 40-41)
Acknowledges letter together with copy of Scott's Australia during the War, comments on European politics; English reactions to the abdication crisis; adds personal and family details; encloses photographs [not with Scott papers].
J.F. JAMESON to SCOTT, Library of Congress, Washington, U.S.A., 29 January 1937 (Item 42-43)
Writes concerning the ship Shenandoah, and the location of the Confederate papers.
MARGARET LOWE to SCOTT, East Malvern, Melbourne, 19 April 1937 (Item 44)
Encloses photographs of Captain. Waddell and the Shenandoah, tells Scott he many keep them if he wishes.
KEITH HANCOCK to SCOTT, Birmingham, England, 25 September 1937 (Item 45-46)
Writes of stay in Paris; acknowledges Scott's letters commenting on the writer's Survey of British Commonwealth Affairs, volume 1, 1937.
LORD HUNTINGFIELD to SCOTT, Government House, Melbourne, 28 December 1937 (Item 47)
Thanks Scott for plan of speech; hesitates 'to suggest that the N.S.W. Corps was notorious, ... ‘Safety first' must be my motto'. Thanks Scott on behalf of wife for letter on the Earl of Sandwich.
LORD HUNTINGFIELD to SCOTT, Government House, Melbourne, 20 January 1938 (Item 48)
Thanks Scott for ideas for Victorian Section of his speech to be delivered on January 31; 'hopes the Deputy Speaker of the Canadian Parliament will not steal [his] thunder'.
E.H. BORNE to SCOTT, Treasury Gardens, Melbourne, 14 June 1939 (Item 49)
The writer, Chief Inspector, P.M.G., explains the circumstances concerning a partly mutilated telegram.
LORD GOWRIE to SCOTT, Government House, Canberra, 6 December 1939 (Item 50)
Wishes Scott a speedy recovery; regrets that he will not be able to receive his knighthood at the Investiture ceremony next Thursday, 14 December.
Series 4. Papers concerning Professor Scott's publication, 1914-1939
The series consists of letters of congratulation and commentary on Scott's many published works. The principal correspondents are C.E.W. Bean and Clive Wigram (concerning Scott's work Australia during the War), E.A. Benians and S.H. Roberts (concerning Scott's editorial work and research for the Cambridge History of the British Empire volume on Australia), and Lady Gwendolen Cecil (concerning Scott's work on her father's goldfield diary). The letters are arranged chronologically. Comprising Items 1-66 Cuttings, handwritten, and post cards found in books which accompanying Scott's papers complete the series (Comprising Items 67-85).
ELLIEN TERRY to SCOTT, R.M.S. Makura, Auckland, 12 November 1914 (Item 1-6)
Thanks Scott for sending the writer his book on Matthew Finders; mentions her method of reading, her preference for historical works; and speaks of her prospective tour of America.
WINNIE FAIRWEATHER to SCOTT, Norwood, South Australia, 30 March 1916 (Item 8-10)
Expresses pleasure at having read Scott's Laperouse; refers to page 73 and a possible meeting between on the possibility.
ARTHUR JOSE to SCOTT, Navy Office, Melbourne, 16 August 1917 (Item 11)
Tells Scott of La Perouse's activities in the American Revolutionary Wars, and in particular of his work with Ternay in transporting Rochambeau's troops to Rhode Island.
FITZGERALD SNOWBALL to SCOTT, York Chambers, Melbourne, 9 July 1918 (Item 12)
Refers to Scott's Life of Captain Matthew Flinders and to the book's treatment of the Frenchman Deacen compared with the writer's and with that of a 'Mr Panton'.
F.S. SHENSTONE to SCOTT, Sydney, 1 February 1919 (Item 13)
Encloses a copy of a letter sent to Angus & Robertson from Professor W.M. Finders Petrie (the grandson of Matthew Flinders), requesting a copy of Scott's biography of Flinders.
PROF W.M. FLINDERS PETRIE to ANGUS ROBERTSON, Hampstead, London, 2 December 1918 (Item 14)
Enclosure to Item 13. Requests copy of Scott's biography of Matthew Finders.
HERBERT HEATON to SCOTT, University of Adelaide, 7 April 1920 (Item 15-16)
The writer, General Editor of the Workers Educational Association, discusses various points arising from the proposed publication of Scott's book Men and thought in modern history.
HENRY G. TURNER to SCOTT, St. Kilda, Melbourne, 2 September 1920 (Item 17)
An appreciation of Scott's Men and thought in model history, referring specifically to the chapters on Rousseau, Marx and H.G. Wells.
E.A. HARBER to SCOTT, Russell St., Melbourne, 23 November 1920 (Item 18)
AS a representative of Macmillan and Company Ltd, the writer informs Scott that it is doubtful whether a separate edition of Men and thought in modern history can be published in the United States of America, and appends a list of printer's errors from the current edition.
HERBERT BROOKES to SCOTT, South Yarra, Melbourne, 17 October 1920 (Item 20)
An appreciation of Scott's 'stupendous magnitude of ... mental sweeps' as revealed in Men and though in modern history; refers to Scott's articles in the 'Brown Society papers'; and seeks Scott's opinion of Colvin's Safety of a nation.
AUGUSTA Z. FRASER to SCOTT, Kirkhill, Invernesshire, Scotland, 22 July 1921 (Item 21-22)
An appreciation of Men and though in modern history from 'a stranger'. States that she will give a copy to her son who is about to commence History at Oxford, and invites Scott to visit Newstead Abbey, Nottingham, when he visits England.
PROF ARTHUR NEWTON to SCOTT, Hamstead Health, London, 29 July 1925 (Item 23)
Expresses pleasure at Scott's visit; suggests arrangements for meeting in London.
E.A. BENIANS to SCOTT, St. John's College, Cambridge, 30 September 1925 (Item 24)
Hopes that the editors of the Cambridge history of the British Empire can meet Scott during his visit to England.
E.A. BENIANS to SCOTT, St. John's College, Cambridge, 11 October 1925 (Item 25)
Acknowledges letter; arranges times to meet Scott; expresses hopes to have further discussions 'before ... a final settlement of the plan', and tells Scott that volumes I and IV are to be started 'at once'.
E.A. BENIANS to SCOTT, St. John's College, Cambridge, 13 October 1925 (Item 26)
Acknowledges letter; states that the editors are to meet on the 24th, and thanks Scott for his frank comments on the Cambridge history.
E.A. BENIANS to SCOTT, St. John's College, Cambridge, 28 October 1925 (Item 27)
Acknowledges letter; discusses contributions and finances for the Cambridge history project; refers to an enclosed copy of a synopsis of volume V, part 1, and requests comments. [Reminder of letter, and enclosure, not with Papers].
STANLEY BALDWIN to SCOTT, Downing Street, London, 22 May 1926 (Item 28)
Expresses delight with Scott's History and history problems and appreciation that historical study 'amongst the people of a young continent should be in such hands as yours'.
GRAHAM BOTHA to SCOTT, Archives Department, House of Parliament, Capetown, South Africa, 22 October 1926 (Item 29)
An appreciation of Scott's History and historical problems, together with the writer's thoughts on the work of an srchivist vis-à-vis the historian, and a request for details of archives in Australia.
C.E.W. BEAN to SCOTT, Victoria Barracks, Sydney, 29 January 1930 (Item 30)
Writes of the Australian delegation to the Paris Peace Conference, and comments on Hughes' attitude to Clemeneau and Wilson. Asks how the work on the war history is proceeding.
C.E.W. BEAN to SCOTT, Victoria Barracks, Sydney, 30 July 1930 (Item 31)
Thanks Scott for his efforts to obtain a degree for the writer, and suggests anti-conscription posters as illustrations for Scott's war history.
E.A. BENIANS to SCOTT, St John's College, Cambridge. 23 July 1932. (Item 31a)
Thanks Scott for the draft Preface of the Cambridge history of the British Empire, and tells him that the Secretary of the Cambridge University press insists that volume VII be issued in two parts.
C.E.W. BEAN to SCOTT, Victoria Barracks, Sydney, 16 February 1933 (Item 32)
Tells Scott that he is writing to Sir Joseph Cook, and that Sir Robert Garran wishes to vet references to metals, shipping, and aliens in the war history. Asks Scott for details on illustrations. Encloses a copy of the letter to Cook.
C.E.W. BEAN to SIR JOSEPH COOK, 16 February 1933 (Item 33)
Asks Cook, on behalf of Scott, whether he has any documents relating to the Czecho-Slovak Commission of the Paris Peace Conference, and if not, requests Cook to 'jot down your recollections'.
SIR NICHOLAS LOCKYER to SCOTT, Toorak, Melbourne, 9 June 1933 (Item 34)
Apologises to Scott for the writer's inability to check drafts of the war history.
C.E.W. BEAN to SCOTT, 16 June 1933 (Item 35)
Suggests that Scott find out whether the Department of Defence had evidence that Germany was preparing to take over Australia during World War I.
SIR CLIVE WIGRAM to SCOTT, Windsor Castle, 23 April 1934 (Item 36)
Acknowledges letter; confirms lunch engagement; explains that Lord Novar's official despatches come under Royal Copyright.
SIR CLIVE WIGRAM to SCOTT, Windsor Castle, 2 June 1934 (Item 37-38)
Thanks Scott for draft of his chapter on Lord Novar in the war history, and advises him to get permission to quote from Hughes' letters and those of the Secretaries of State for the Colonies.
LADY GWEDOLEN CECIL to SCOTT, Hatfield, Hertsfordshire, 22 June 1934 (Item 39)
Refers to Scott's inquiry about her father's goldfields diary, and agrees that it would be a 'good thing to put that absurd mining story to rest if it can be done'.
LADY GWEDOLEN CECIL to SCOTT, Hatfield, Hertsfordshire, 25 June 1934 (Item 40-41)
Relates that the diary has been found, explains her brother's wishes concerning Scott's access to it, describes the diary's content, and suggests proposals for copying.
LADY GWEDOLEN CECIL to SCOTT, Hatfield, Hertsfordshire, 2 July 1934 (Item 42)
Refers to the Librarian's return to Hatfield House, and the copying of the diary; mentions her feeling that Scott will be disappointed with the results.
PROF STEPHEN ROBERTS to SCOTT, Sydney, 12 August 1935 (Item 43)
Requests Scott to see the Sydney Sun for details of Hughes' attack on Scott and Eggleston concerning their account of the Marshall Islands negotiations in the Cambridge history of the British Empire volume on Australia.
PROF STEPHEN ROBERTS to SCOTT, University of Sydney, 14 August 1935 (Item 44-56)
Encloses cuttings and again refers to Hughes' attack mentioned in item 43, describing it as 'typical piece of Hughes blundering and wriggling'. Apologises for involving Scott in the controversy.
PROF STEPHEN ROBERTS to SCOTT, Sydney, 14 August 1935 (Item 57)
Suggests that the Hughes matter be dropped because 'opinion here is that our critic has wriggled out of it'.
LORD CECIL to SCOTT, London, 28 October 1935 (Item 58)
Thanks Scott for sending him a copy of the goldfields diary.
LORD SALISBURY to SCOTT, Hatfield, Hertsfordshire, 28 October 1935 (Item 59)
Thanks Scott for sending him a copy of Lord Robert Cecil's Goldfields Diary.
LADY GWEDOLEN CECIL to SCOTT, Hatfield, Hertsfordshire, 7 November 1935 (Item 60)
Thanks Scott for sending her a copy of Lord Robert Cecil's Goldfields Diary
LORD STRADBROKE to SCOTT, Wangford, England, 22 June 1936 (Item 61)
Thanks Scott for a copy of Historical memoir of the Melbourne Club; remarks on his days as Governor of Victoria.
PROF WILLIAM OSBORNE to SCOTT, University of Melbourne, 6 December 1936 (Item 62)
Comments on Scott's history of the University of Melbourne, and his treatment of Agar, Wilkinson, and the writer.
PROF WILFRED AGAR to SCOTT, University of Melbourne, 8 December 1936 (Item 63)
Refers to Scott's omission of the writer in his history of the university, and expresses his gratitude that the history has been written.
E.A. BENIANS to SCOTT, Cambridge, 1 October 1938 (Item 64)
Sends proofs of Scott's writings on transportation for the Cambridge history of the British Empire.
ROY BRIDGES to SCOTT, Sorell, Tasmania, 20 June 1939 (Item 65)
Congratulates Scott on his knighthood; comments on Scott's books, and a relative who sailed in the Greyhound, a brigantine in Scott's Life of Captain Matthew Flinders.
Series 5. Printed material, cuttings, books
The pamphlets, journals and cuttings which constitute Series 5 are evidence of Scott's attempts to popularise Australian history. For example, there is a large group of articles and reviews that Scott wrote for the Argus (1918-19, 1922-24, 1927, 1933, 1937) and the Australian (1923-24) as well as letters to the editor and articles in the Lone Hand, Pals, Speculum, Newman, and the Australian National Review.
At the same time Scott's work appeared in historical journals and the series includes issue of the Victorian Historical Magazine and the Journal and Proceedings of the Royal Australian Historical Society. Several newspaper articles by Sir Isaac Isaacs, and a scrapbook of cuttings from the Bulletin for 1890-1894 have also been placed with Series 5.
Comprises Items 1-352.
Series 6. Papers relating to the retirement and death of Scott
Scott retired from the Chair of History at the University of Melbourne in 1936, and died on 6 December 1939. Cuttings from various Australian newspaper reporting and commenting upon these two events, as well as a funeral records, obituary notices, drafts of entries for Who's Who and obituaries from Historical Studies, The Austral-Asiatic Bulletin, The Australian Journal of Science, and D.H. Rankin's The Spirit that lives: Australians all make up the series.
Comprises Items 1-41.
Series 7. Notebooks, lectures, broadcasts
The series consists of handwritten drafts of lectures given to the Shakespeare Society (items 1-161) and the English Association (items 162-173), together with typescripts of four talks for the Australian Broadcasting Commission (items 174-203). Most of the papers are lectures given to students at the University of Melbourne, public meetings, and Worker Educational Association classes. There are also five notebooks of lectures, only one of which is dated, viz 4 November 1889.
Comprises Items 1-651.
Series 8. Photographs
In addition to several portrait photographs of Scott, the series contains two group photographs of delegates to the British Commonwealth Relations Conference held in Toronto, Canada, in 1933; a newspaper cutting showing the Scotts at the ANZAAS conference held in Canberra in 1939; the Scott's joint passport photographs; and several of the Scotts 'watching some student Freaks on Commencement' [Lady Scott's marginal note].
Comprises Items 1-32.
Series 9. Miscellaneous letters, 1906-1955
The letters, most of which were written to Lady Scott, refer to her piano recitals, notes for music programmes, arrangements following her husband's death, and several requests to either translate or quote from her husband's writings. Items 1-40
J. M. S. ABBOTT to EMILY DYSON, Bendigo, 13 January 1906 (Item 1)
Thanks Miss Dyason on behalf of the Executive Committee of the Bendigo Art Gallery for her recital at the fund-raising concert, and informs her that she has been appointed a Life Governor of Galley.
M. P. FOX to MRS SCOTT, Melbourne, 4 November 1915 (Item 2)
Requests, on behalf of Henri Verbrugghen, permission to use Mrs Scott's notes for his Chamber Music Concerts given by Verbrugghen and Goll.
M. P. FOX to MRS SCOTT, Melbourne, 26 April 1916 (Item 3)
Asks for notes on the quartets to be presented at a forthcoming Chamber Music Concert.
MERRDITH ATKINSON to MRS SCOTT, Florence, 3 December 1927 (Item 4)
[Card] Mentions a meeting with Miss Kyle, and that 'J. C. W.' is ‘relearning Europe' and that 'even the prospect of English excites him'.
LADY NOVAR to MRS SCOTT, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 24 December 1934 (Item 5)
Expresses disappointment at missing her in London; states that the writer has working on General Birdwood's letters to Lord Novar 'which are to go to the War Memorial'.
E. C. DYASON to CAPTAIN BRACEGIRDLE, 21 December 1939 (Item 6)
[Copy] Asks the Private Secretary to Lord Gowrie to say Whether or not Lady Scott must wait until the next Investiture of Honours for the conferral of the insignia of honours.
CAPT. L. S. BRACEGIRDLE to E. C. DYASON, Canberra, 28 December 1939. (Item 7)
Acknowledges Dyason's letter, and states that because Sir Ernest Scott died before the Investiture of Honours, 'there is now unfortunately no official action for the Governor-General to take'.
EDMUND G. BONNEY to E. C. DYASON, Melbourne, 16 January 1940 (Item 8)
Apologises to Dyason for a printer's error.
LADY NOVAR to LADY SCOTT, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, 27 February 1940 (Item 9)
Acknowledges letter from Lady Scott concerning the death of Sir Ernest Scott. Invites Lady Scott to visit England.
JEANNE and AMY CHORRAUD to LADY SCOTT, 1942? (Item 10)
[Card] Congratulate Lady Scott on her article on Ravel, and convey their best wishes for 1943.
SIR FREDERIC EGGLESTON to LADY SCOTT, Australian Legation Chugking, 26 January 1943 (Item 11-12)
Forwards a note from Dr Yuan - 'the Librarian from Peking' - requesting permission to translate Scott's [A short] History of Australia.
E. L. PIESSE to LADY SCOTT, Melbourne, 1 May 1943 (Item 13)
Acknowledges Lady Scott's giving permission to Dr Yuan to translate her husband's [A short] History of Australia.
DAVIES, CAMPBELL and PIESSE to LADY SCOTT, Melbourne, 20 September 1943 (Item 14)
Quotes an extract from a letter from Sir Humphrey Milford of Oxford University Press, concerning Dr Yuan's request to translate [A short] History of Australia.
KEITH HANCOCK to LADY SCOTT, South Kensington, London, 24 May 1944 (Item 15-16)
Gives reasons why the writer cannot accept Lady Scott's request that he write her husband's biography. Suggests that she should ask Kenneth Bailey.
CLARENCE DYASON to LADY SCOTT, Buenos Aires, 4 December 1945 (Item 17)
[Card] Sends greetings from Elizabeth and Edward, comments on Buenos Aires, and mentions a meeting with the Tippies.
E. E. BATHOLOMEW to LADY SCOTT, Oxford University Press, London, 29 May 1946 (Item 18)
Seeks Lady Scott's permission, on behalf of Alfred Cavion, to quote from her husband's A short history of Australia. Encloses two letters from Cavion.
ALFRED CAVION to ERNEST SCOTT, Hawthorne, 6 May 1946 (Item 19)
Asks for Scott's permission to quote from A short history of Australia and states his intention to use the question in a grammar book for Italians called The English Grammar.
ALFRED CAVION to OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS, Hawthorn, 27 May 1946 (Item 20)
Gives details of the way in which quotation from A short history of Australia would be used in writer's grammar book for Italians.
PIERRE AUGE to LADY SCOTT, Legation de France, Canberra, 11 March 1947 (Item 21)
[In French] thanks Lady Scott for sending a copy of Laperouse, and praises her husband's ability to evoke the landscape and character of the country around Albi and Toulouse.
Series 10. Letters from Ernest Scott, 1914-1938
These 156 letters cover almost every year of the Scotts' courtship and marriage. The earlier letters (1914-1915) refer to arrangements for meetings and Scott's divorce, and reveal their common love of music and the theatre. The bulk of the letters were written while Scott was out of Melbourne lecturing to Workers Educational Association meetings, and while they were separated during their trips overseas. They deal with political events, Scott's research work, mutual friends, such as F.W. Eggleston, and university colleagues. Two important groups of letters to overseas trips in 1926 and 1934.
The letters which are arranged chronologically, include explanatory notes added by Lady Scott in 1956 shortly before the collection came to the National Library.
Comprises Items 1-405.
Series 11. Sympathy messages, 1939
The series contains letters and telegrams, expressing sympathy and admiration, which were received by Lady Scott following her husband's death on 6 December 1939. They include notes from Scott's academic colleagues, parliamentarians, friends in England and the United States, the Melbourne University Council, associations and clubs. The letters are arranged alphabetically by author.
Comprises Items 1-103.
Series 12. Music and travel
Papers covering all aspects of Emily Dyason's career as a pianist, including teaching, lecturing, performing, and reviewing, make up the bulk of the series. A cutting album contains items from Melbourne and Bendigo newspapers and magazines which report on her concert recitals, her 1908 tour of Australia and New Zealand with Keith Kubelik, her public lectures on piano teaching, her impressions of music and society in Australia (1908-1912), London (1925), and China (1958), and her Conservatorium music reports for 1903 to 1906. A further group of cuttings consists of Lady Scott's music column, 'Melbourne Music' which was published by The Tried, 1919-1920. Manuscript items include handwritten drafts of articles and lectures on music, composers, and piano-playing, for such journals as Stead's Annual, the Melba Conservatorium Magazine and the Australian Quarterly, and texts of the talks based on her trips to Java in 1929, China in 1933 and the United States and South America in 1940-41.
Comprises Items 1-502.
Series 13. Miscellaneous Papers
The series contains printed items on the University of Melbourne, including the founding of a second chair of history in honour of Scott, and the opening of Wilson Hall; cuttings; unused postcards; envelopes; a handwritten draft of a mythological story, in German, written by Lady Scott in 1912; and Lady Scott's Royal Warrant of Precedence.
Comprises Items 1-75.
Series 14. Photographs
The photographs relate to the years before Lady Scott was married in 1915, and to the years following her husband's death in 1939. The former group contains many family group photographs of the Dyasons, photographs of Lady Scott's sister Amy, her brother Edward, and her father, as well as photographs from her student days at the Conservatorium. The remainder consists of photographs taken during her trips to Bendigo, London, and the United States, and driving visits from friends at her home Vermont, Melbourne. Her passport photograph for 1940 is also included. Many of the photographs carry explanatory notes added by Lady Scott before the collection was transferred to the Library.
Comprises Items 1-129.