May 2025 Auction Ends Thursday, May 29th, 5pm Pacific
John Steinbeck autograph letter signed ''John Legree Steinbeck'', dated Sunday, June 15 (1958) on Dorchester Hotel stationery. Steinbeck writes a humorous letter to his typist Mary Morgan on a variety of subjects including the upcoming publication of ''Once There Was a War'', the compilation of articles Steinbeck wrote as a war correspondent during World War II. Letter reads in part,
''Your letter came in yesterday and caught us between gallop. You are very sweet to flush Tom out of the brush. Thank you. Will you please find out subtly what he wants for his birthday. He'll know what you are doing but he won't tell. You tell me.
We're coming in Wednesday. We've been in Somerset. Vinaver came in last night, we go to Essex and Winchester for three days in about an hour. Trip fabulous. I'm so excited. I can hardly stand it. Please don't go away. I'm going to need you dreadful on this work and it's pure magic.
I corrected the Labatt's spelling. Book is to be called 'Once There Was a War' - Viking in the early fall. And I do hope they don't embarrass me with ale. I'm very shy and easily startled.
Finally I have my form. Strange it was there all the time. I was the last to know. / I made a funny and wired it to Figaro but they are timid about it. Remembering Soustelle, Masser and Mallet my dry little yada goes - 'DeGaulle in tres partes divisa est.' Like it? I'll bet Bob Hope doesn't steal it.
In a rush now, honey, but take care of your fingers. I'm going to require them as well as your head. That I.B.M. is baited like a mouse trap, Mouse...John Legree Steinbeck...''
Two page letter on a blue sheet measures 8'' x 10''. Folds and minor discoloration, overall very good condition.
John Steinbeck Autograph Letter Signed -- ''Finally I have my form. Strange it was there all the time. I was the last to know...''
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