Concerning the bi-literal cypher of Francis Bacon discovered in his works

by Elizabeth Wells Gallup

I repeat, the question is out of the realm of literary comparisons altogether. Literary probabilities or improbabilities have no longer any bearing, and their discussion has become purely agitations of the air: the sole question is—What are the facts? These cannot be determined by slight or imperfect examinations, preconceived ideas, abstract contemplation, or vigour of denunciation.

During a somewhat lengthy literary life, I have come to perceive the sharp distinction between convictions on any subject and the possession of knowledge. I know it is no light thing to say to those who love the literature ascribed to Shakespeare, “You have worshiped a true divinity at the wrong shrine,” and the iconoclast should come with knowledge before he assails a faith.

The limits of this article will not permit me to do more in the way of illustration; but I beg to assure the English public that I speak from knowledge obtained at a cost of time, money, and injury to eye-sight and health greater than I should care to mention.

I am satisfied that my work will not be disregarded; but instead, given a respectful, kindly and intelligent examination in Great Britain, the home of Shakespeare and Bacon.

I say nothing at this time of the validity of all the claims Bacon has made; but if they are accepted there will presently be accorded to one of the line of English kings the royal title of “the greatest literary genius of all time.”

BOOK REVIEWS

BACON-SHAKESPEARE.

Mrs. Elizabeth Wells Gallup Throws New Light Upon the Mystifying Question—The Bi-Literal Cipher.

Detroit Free Press.

It is always difficult to make headway against a well-established tradition. Hence argument going to prove that Shakespeare did not write the dramas that have come down to us in his name, is discredited largely because we have so long accepted his authorship as a matter of fact. But the literature of the anti-Shakespeareans is increasing, and the time is past when a contemptuous ejaculation or a shrug of the shoulders can dispose of the evidence they have so carefully and patiently constructed. In truth, the opponents of Shakespeare have been met so often by this sort of rebuttal that they are becoming stronger and more numerous every year.