What is the protocol for sending out new work to an agent who had already considered (over several months, one face-to-face meeting, and numerous emails) a novel that was, ultimately, shelved? Even though the first book was put on ice, she said that she'd like to see other pieces I've worked on in the meantime. I'm very grateful for the invitation, and intend to take her up on the offer in a few weeks.

The problem is, I know that these things take a long time, and I'm reluctant to sit and wait for months to receive another rejection without having any other agents/publishers considering it in the meanwhile. Do I owe the original agent the decency of letting her have first shot at the new ms, or can I send out submissions en masse?

Unless and until she specifically asks to see it exclusively, in which case she's duty bound to turn it round in very few weeks - Miss Snark would probably say three (after she pointed out that exclusive suck) - I don't think you're under any commitment to her, any more than she is to you. If it were me, my covering letter would just remind her that she asked to see these, and say no more.

Emma

Thanks, Emma - sounds fair enough to me, but I didn't want to risk my chances with this one. I suppose that if she asks if anyone else is looking at it, I'll have to come clean...

MF,
I gather she isn't formally representing you? In that case, I agree with Emma and think there is nothing stopping you. I would just let her know if someone else bites first. And good luck!

Nope, she's not formally representing me (yet!)

Had just wanted to be sure that there's not an unspoken code of conduct in these matters. And I'd definitely quite like to spread the net as widely as possible, this time.