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Lot #555
Dalton Trumbo Typed Letter Signed

Trumbo orchestrates a novel deal and jumps from RKO to Paramount

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Estimate: $300+
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Description

Trumbo orchestrates a novel deal and jumps from RKO to Paramount

TLS signed “Dalton,” two pages, 8.5 x 11, RKO Radio Pictures letterhead, July 24, 1940. Letter to his literary agent, H. N. Swanson, in part: "The book is going fine, and will be finished in two weeks. I think we can make a quick shift over to Paramount immediately, but naturally we dare not make any kind of an agreement with them until I have my release from RKO…As you know, I am making extensive improvements and additions at the ranch. The season during which stucco construction can be done at that altitude and in that climate is from June 15th to September 15th. Before or after these dates the stucco freezes and consequently is no good. Therefore it was imperative that I get the work started this summer…Here comes the rub. To put it in the simplest possible terms, I haven't the money to pay for it. I anticipated getting the book done earlier, and thereby collecting from Paramount the $7500 they owe upon publication. 'Kitty Foyle,' however, interfered with this plan. Here is what I want to do. You have the contract calling upon Paramount to pay me $7500 upon publication of the novel. Elsie McKeogh has the contract for publication with Lippincott. Publication date is October 31st. I would like you to have your attorneys draw up an assignment of my rights in the Paramount contract, and an authorization for Paramount to pay the money directly to you…I would like for you to endorse a 100-day note for me at your bank in the sum of $6500. This sum I would turn over to my contractors." In fine condition.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Featuring Royalty
  • Dates: #659 - Ended March 08, 2023





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