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Many years ago I dutifully did the rounds sending query letters to agents. This was before they did submissions with email, and I came to the conclusion that the directions to include a self addressed stamped envelope was just a scam to get them free stamps. One just has to put a new label over my address.
I had an actual incident in which I emailed an agent who had requested a proposal for one of my nonfiction projects. After never hearing back about the requested materials, I sent an email and received the reply that she would send back my proposal if I sent postage. I angrily replied that I HAD sent a postage paid flat rate envelope with the proposal and what did you do with it? I think I busted her because she contritely mailed back my materials in her own envelope with new postage. That was the last time I bothered contacting an agent. Why bother?
I understand that agents are looking for material that they can sell, but it seems that most don't look very hard.
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