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TLS signed “Winston S. Churchill,” three pages, 7.5 x 9.5, Chartwell letterhead, December 24, 1956. Letter to movie magnate Arthur M. Loew, in part: "I feel that you should know of the further developments connected with the film rights of My Early Life since I wrote to you in August. A letter was addressed to Mr. Jack Warner by Lord Bracken, who had acted for me in 1941 when the original rights were sold. He asked Mr. Warner if he would be willing to sell back to me the copyright, but without mentioning any other desire I had in mind. There followed a considerable delay. Finally I have been approached by Mr. Robert Clark, of the Associated British Picture Corporation, who are associated with Warner Brothers. Mr. Clark told me that his company had suggested to Warners that a film should be made of My Early Life at much the same time as Lord Bracken's letter had reached them. Following discussions, Mr. Clark had been asked to approach me and to tell me that Warners were most interested in making such a film. They recognized that the 1941 contract was not a realistic one under present conditions, and were prepared to revise it on generous terms…
At this point, I disclosed to Mr. Clark the story of my negotiations with M.G.M., of which he had already had some indication. I said that I would wish, if it were physically possible, to benefit M.G.M. in some way, since you had been so forthcoming in your dealings with me. Mr Clark entirely took this point, and is at present in touch with Mr. Warner. I expect to hear from them further after Christmas. As you will see, nothing is settled, but in view of my past relationship with your company, I feel it desirable to keep you, for your private information, in touch with developments." In fine condition, with staple and file holes to the top edge.
Winston Churchill’s My Early Life, published in 1930, is an autobiographical account covering his childhood, education, and military experiences up to the early 1900s. Written with humor and vivid detail, the book highlights his adventurous spirit, from his struggles at school to his time as a young cavalry officer and war correspondent. It offers not only a portrait of Churchill’s formative years but also a lively snapshot of the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. Interestingly, it was indeed adapted for the screen—but not until 1972, when Columbia Pictures released Young Winston, starring Simon Ward as the youthful Churchill.
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