Christopher Morley, born in Haverford, Pennsylvania, studied at Vienna University and later at New College, Oxford on scholarship. A Ronald Knox lecture at Trinity College in 1911 rekindled his interest in Sherlock Holmes.
He became a columnist, editor, and novelist, known for works including:
In June 1914, he was working for Doubleday and married Helen Fairchild in Philadelphia. He later wrote for the Evening Post in the 20's.
His Three-Hours for Lunch Club brought together writers and intellectuals informally, leading to the formation of The Baker Street Irregulars.