Agents showing a mss to editors before offering representation?

It doesn't.

There's been report about Bob Diforio doing this, which I've had confirmed by a reputable agent. Another report here (about two thirds of the way down the page). The agent who brought this up to me found it distasteful and completely unfair to the writers he rejects after sending out the ms w/out their consent or interests in mind.

I can't think of any reason for doing this, other than to make sure the agent can sell every book agrees to take on, and bully for the ones he doesn't.

Did someone do this with your book?

Oh good!

Legally? I assume so.

Ethically?

Um...