MI5

Crocker made his name in the 1930s investigating and prosecuting insurance fraud (and in particular the activities of the Leopold Harris arson gang, convicted mainly through his efforts in 1933). In 2000 it emerged that at the outbreak of the Second World War he served as Deputy Director of MI5, despite being a 'Nazi sympathiser opposed to war with Hitler [...] active in Truth, a journal openly supportive of Sir Oswald Mosley' (Independent, 30 July 2000). The folio scrapbook and its contents are lightly aged and in good condition.

The collection is in very good condition, on slightly aged and dusty paper. Several items bear the Society's stamp. An interesting and significant correspondence. The letters, in a variety of formats from 12mo to foolscap, are often long, and are written in an informal tone. Indicating Baines's deep involvement in the Society's affairs, they most significantly concern an appeal, organised by Baines on behalf of the Society, 'for the preservation of the cottage architecture of Great Britain', with the backing and involvement of Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin.

Fellow of the Royal Zoological Society (1900-68); fascist; writer of thrillers; intelligence officer for MI5 who recruited Ian Fleming, Tom Driberg and Anthony Blunt; jazz drummer; friend of Aleister Crowley; said to have been the individual on whom the M of the James Bond books is based. The forwarded letter is signed 'Angus' and is on letterhead Old Rectory Ashton Northampton. All five items are in good condition, all of one page, the letters 8vo and the cards 16mo. Knight's handwriting is difficult.