As Ever, Scott Fitz——
(Correspondence of F. Scott Fitzgerald and Harold Ober)
1924-1929
Boom and Europe
120. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d., n.p.—received 5 February 1924. Great Neck. (AO)
Dear Mr. Hovey:*
I'm delighted about the story**—I never intrinsicly lost faith in it but I began to feel that if no one wanted it my days of popular writing were about over.
I think when we get The Reasonable Thing back from Hovey it ought to go to Wheeler.*** I had a letter from him yesterday asking me for a story and if he's buying Willa Cather he's evidently in the market for a little serious stuff. Besides its his length.
If “Our Own Movie Queen” comes back from the Tribune will you send it to me? I guess its a complete flop****
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerad
Notes:
* Harold Ober wrote in the top margin: “He means Ober”.
** This is probably “Gretchen's Forty Winks,” The Saturday Evening Post, 15 March 1924.
*** John N. Wheeler, editor of Liberty. On 11 January Fitzgerald wrote to Hovey about his contract with Hearst's International Magazine: “I am to take back 'Rags Martin-Jones' . . . and I am also to buy back from you ' “The Sensible Thing” ' for the sum of $1,500, which was paid for it.”
**** “Our Own Movie Queen,” Chicago Sunday Tribune, 7 June 1925. Fitzgerald's ledger notes: “Two thirds written by Zelda. Only my climax and revision.”
121. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d.—17/18 March 1924. (AO)
Great Neck, L.I
Dear Mr. Ober:
Here's the revised story.* I don't know what to think of it but I'd rather not offer it to the Post. The ending is effective but a little sensational.
Here also is the Movie Outline.** When you get it typed please send a copy back to me. Thanks for that deposit this moring
As Ever. F Scott Fitzgerald.
Notes:
* “One of My Oldest Friends,” Woman's Home Companion, September 1925.
** Original story, “Grit,” for the Film Guild, produced in 1924.
122. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 12 April 1924. (AO)
Great Neck,
Dear Mr. Ober:
This acknowledges the account + encloses the enclosure.
In haste F Scott Fitzgerald
P. S. The College Humor publication idea doesn't appeal to me—since for 1000 words more I could do one for Wheeler. Don't you agree?
123. To Ober
ALS, 3 pp. n.d.—received 5 May 1924. Hotel Pennsylvania, New York, stationery. (AO)
Dear Mr. Ober:
The two stories are returned under separate cover.* I only made a few changes in The Unspeakable Egg (that is I made many [)] but only a few on the line they suggested.) They are welcome to make more but they ought to be careful.
I was too tired last night to do Zoebel's story (for Screenland)** I will do it on the boat + mail it from Paris on May 14th so it should reach here on the 21st. I regret this because he may have announced it and all, and I'm delaying him three weeks.
Also I'm mailing another story from Paris done on the boat.
Thank you for all your courtesy's of the past six months. As soon as I have a better adress than Guarantee Trust I will [wire] write you.
By the way, of course [today] yesterday was an exception. I mean ordinarily any money owed me ought just to be deposited in my name and not sent c/o Mr. Burnam. That was just so they'd hold the ms.
Most Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* A note in the bottom margin of page three, in Ober's hand, lists three stories: “The Pusher-in-the-Face” {Woman's Home Companion, February 1925), “The Unspeakable Egg” (The Saturday Evening Post, 12 July 1924), “John Jackson's Arcady” (The Saturday Evening Post, 26 July 1924).
** Myron Zobel, editor of Screenland Magazine, had written Fitzgerald on 15 April 1924 requesting a critical article on some aspect of film production for the July 1924 issue. Fitzgerald forwarded the letter to Ober with this notation: “I told him I wanted a minimum of $200.00 for 1000 wds + referred him to you to order it. F Scott Fitzgerald”. The article may have been “Why Only Ten Percent of Movies Succeed” or “The Most Pampered Men in the World,” an article about directors. This article was never published.
In May 1924 the Fitzgeralds embarked on their second trip to Europe. In late May they were on the Riviera, where they lived at the Villa Marie, Valescure, St. Raphael, France. During this stay they met Gerald and Sara Murphy.
124. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. (AO)
Hyeres, France
May 24th
Dear Mr. Ober;
We are living at a hotel here trying to [sublet] rent a villa. Living is cheap but travelling was expensive. As a weeks search hasn't produced a typist I am sending hereweth the ms. for Screenland. You'd better ask him first whether he still wants it—I'm a month and a half, or almost, behind my promise.
I hope that by this time John Jackson's Arcady is sold. I have your letter as to The Unspeakable Egg—many thanks. If we can't find a villa here we may move on so Paris is the best adress.
On second thoughts I am sending ms, under a separate cover so you can notify me if it goes astray.
As Ever Scott F.
125. To Ober
ALS, 2pp. n.d.—received 10 June 1924. (AO)
Park Hotel, Hyeres, France
Dear Mr. Ober:
I hope the ms. of the article reaches you all right. If not I have a copy of it. We expect to take a villa here in a day or so if we can decide between two. Here in a hotel it has been difficult to do much work on my novel. So far I've only done one chapter and I've been gone from America almost four weeks.
Would the Sat. Eve. Post like an article on “How to live on $100.00 (or $50.00) a Month,” a sort of companion piece to the other* telling about how we came to France to econemize and what luck, good + bad, we had at it? And would they pay $1200? It would seem scarcely worth while to do it for less than that because it takes almost as long if not longer than a story by my new one or two day method.
I'm glad they liked John Jackson—I now have
1 story to appear in Hearsts**
1 ” + 1 old article ” McCalls***
2 ” + 1 article ” Woman's Home****
3 ” in Sat. Eve. Post*****
1 Article in Screenland
I hope to Christ I get at least one movie right out of those [seven] eight stories (I forgot one in Jack Wheeler's Weekly) Could you tear one copy of each out of the magazines as they appear + mail them to me in envelopes. Otherwise I'll miss them. Also that story “Our Own Movie Queen” in The “Chicago Tribune”. (Including the ones already published that makes exactly 19 [20] things sold in [four] five months. My God! Thats well over $20,000 worth of stuff. If only the movies liked “The Third Casket.”
Scribners has pictures of me. If you phone Maxwell Perkins he'll send you some. Thanking you again for your many courtesies to me last winter and this Spring I am
As Ever Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
P. S. Your letter recieved announcing John Jackson deposit..
Notes:
* “How to Live on $36,000 a Year,” The Saturday Evening Post, 5 April 1924; “How to Live on Practically Nothing a Year,” The Saturday Evening Post, 20 September 1924.
** Possibly “The Baby Party,” Hearst's International Magazine, February 1925.
*** “Rags Martin-Jones and the Pr-nce of W-les,” McCall's, July 1924. The article was “Does a Moment of Revolt Come Sometime to Every Married Man?”
**** “One of My Oldest Friends” and “The Pusher-in-the-Face”; the article was probably “Wait Till You Have Children of Your Own,” Woman's Home Companion, July 1924.
***** “The Third Casket” (The Saturday Evening Post, 30 May 1924), “The Unspeakable Egg,” and “John Jackson's Arcady.”
126. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d.—received 20 June 1924. (AO)
Villa Marie, Valescure, St. Raphael, France
Dear Mr. Ober:
If Hayward * offers $5000.00 I'd take it right away—if less use your own judgement.
I have your letter asking for a picture. As I wrote you a few days ago Scribners has some of which they'll give you as many as you want.
With Best Wishes As Ever F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* Independent producer Leland Hayward was interested in buying the film rights to “Diamond Dick and the First Law of Woman.”
127. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. (AO)
Villa Marie, Valescure, St. Raphael, France
June 30th, 1924
Dear Mr. Ober:
Thanks for the deposit (I refer to the $24.75 from the syndicate). I am working now on the Post Article.
Another thing. We havn't tried the Beautiful + Damned movie bonus for over a year—Perhaps it would be worth it. If it is ever going to gross that it should do so now for it has been exhibited in England according to a clipping I recieved.
The Womans Home Companion certainly seem to like the article. I hope they get results on it. I'm flattered at the full page in the Times.* Any news of Hayward?
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* Woman's Home Companion ran an advertisement on “Wait Till You Have Children of Your Own” in The New York Times, 20 June 1924.
128. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 7 July 1924. (AO)
Villa Marie, Valescure St. Raphael, France
Dear Mr. Ober:
I will have the Post Article to you on the 25th of July or thereabouts. This is allowing time to have it typed in Nice as there's no competent typist here.
This is to ask you to let me count on having the money from Screenland on July 15th—that is to ask you to deposit it for me then. This is to save an exchange of letters. Otherwise if say they paid on the 15th I would not perhaps hear about it until Aug. 5th or so. Can I count on that? In case my card went astray the above is a permanent address. “The Designer” gave Sinclair Lewis $50,000.00 for the serial rights to his new book!!!* My God!
Any news from Heyward as to Diamond Dick?
As Ever F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* Arrowsmitb was serialized in The Designer and the Woman's Magazine, June 1924— April 1925.
129. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 28 July 1924. (AO)
Villa Marie, Valescure, St. Raphael, France
Dear Mr. Ober:
Thank you for depositing the Screenland money + for the various magazines which have safetly arrived. The article for the Post “How to Live on Practically Nothing a Year” is at the typists in Nice and will positively be mailed to you on Monday, the 21st of July.
Meanwhile the novel is almost done. Though we are living very cheaply here the getting settled is expensive and my funds are running low. I'm going to ask you if you will deposit $500.00 of the Post money (for the article) when you get this letter, or on, say, the 1st of August. The article will almost surely have reached you by then. After last winter I hate to ask you again and I am not absolutely strapped but being abroad I get nervous when the account gets low at the bank. Thanks for the news about Hayward. I hope he buys.
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
130. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. (AO)
Villa Marie Valescure St Raphael France
July 24th 1924
Dear Mr. Ober:
I am sending you today under a separate cover my article for The S. E. P. entitled
“How to Live on Practically Nothing a Year”.
If it doesn't reach you by, say, the 15th of Aug. wire me the word “Missing” and I will send another copy. This is just as a precaution
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
131. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d., n.p.—received 7 August 1924. St. Raphael. (AO)
Dear Mr. Ober:
In case the Post likes the article. The enclosed will give [him so] the illustrator some idea of the actual size of the car, Also—the other pictures are a plea to Mr. Blumenthal* if he illustrates it not to make my wife so utterly impossible looking.
I have no copies so could I have them back
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* M. L. Blumenthal, illustrator for The Saturday Evening Post. Fitzgerald is referring to “How to Live on Practically Nothing a Year.”
132. To Ober
AL, 1 p. n.d.—received 13 August 1924. From Fitzgerald. (AO)
Villa Marie St Raphael, France
Dear Mr. Ober:
I cabled you today to get in touch with the Ed. Small Play Co. + wrote asking the price for movie of Unspeakable Egg. I'd be glad to get a $1000.
John Jackson's Arcady seemed pretty good to me. Hope the movies buy it. I havn't sold a movie in so long that I don't know what it feels like. Hope Post liked Article
Sincerely
P. S. Thanks for Screenland deposit. Hope you have your money. I wrote asking you to deposit $500 of Post money if possible.
133. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 2 September 1924.
Villa Marie, Valescure, St. Raphael, France
Dear Mr. Ober:
I'm glad you got so much for the “3d Casket.”* I mean so much for England Some German Magazine wrote me and asked my price and I told them $10.00. They havn't answered so I guess its too high for them. The novel will reach you this month
Sincerely
Scott Fitzg—
P. S. I hope Screenland came across. I think that Editor was a nervy bitch.**
Notes:
* $95 from Pearson's magazine.
** See letter received 5 May 1924. Screenland had commissioned an article on the movies and was holding back payment because it arrived late.
134. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. (AO)
Villa Marie, Valescure St Raphael, France
Sept 20th, 1924
Dear Mr. Ober:
The situation is as follows. I have finished my novel and will send it to you within 10 days or two weeks. It may or may not serialize —certainly it'd never get in the Post. Artisticly its head + shoulders over everything I've done. When I send it I'll send a letter about terms ect.
I'm about broke and as soon as the novel gets off I will write a story immediately, either for the Post or for Wheeler who has been dunning me for one violently. That story will be followed within a month by two more. The first one should reach you by October 20th or a little over two weeks after you recieve this letter—and as you have no doubt already guessed I'm going to ask you for an advance on it.
Now as I understand it I'm about $90.00 in your debt—$180.00 advanced on the Screenland article that got in too late [and] as against $90 or so due me from the English rights of the “3d casket.” Here's what I fondly hope you can do:
deposit $600.00 for me on Oct 5th
“ 800.00 for me on Reciept of the Story which will be about the 20th of the month. However I will write you again about the 2nd deposit when I mail the story. If this is inconvenient please drop me a cable.
Considering the fact that of the eleven stories I've written this year 4 of the 7 that have been published were run 1st in their issues I think I've had hard luck with the movies. I must try some love stories with more action this time. I'm going to try to write three that'll do for Famous-Players as well as for the Post. We are leaving for Rome about the 1st of November to spend the winter.
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
135. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d. — received 27 October 1924. (AO)
St Raphael
Dear Mr. Ober:
Glad you got so much for the Sensible Thing in Englad.* Did you get my letter asking you to deposit $500.00 on Sept 6th?**
Sincerely F Scott Fitz—
P. S. I hope you had your “daughter by preference” but I suppose by this time whichever it was you're glad
Notes:
* $83 from The Woman's Pictorial.
** Ober noted here, “Told him twice.”
136. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. (AO)
Villa Marie, Valescure St Raphael,
Oct 19th
Dear Mr. Ober:
I'm glad to hear about the good English price for Rags Martin Jones.* Also thanks for the two deposits. I am in the middle of the story.** The last of the last revision of the novel is being typed.
You'd better adress me c/o Guaranty Trust Co. Paris (1 Rue des Italiens) as we leave here the day I send off the [stoo] story. I enclose a letter from Wheeler. He seems so keen that perhaps the 1st story had better go to him. This is letter number 1260 from him. I don't care about the order but my story is more of a [Post] love story than a Post story anyhow.
I will try the article on Rome as soon as I get there for the Post.*** Intend writing at least four pieces immediately to keep me for the [wal] winter.
As Ever F. Scott Fitzg—
Notes:
* $90 from The Woman's Pictorial.
** Probably “Love in the Night,” The Saturday Evening Post, 14 March 1925.
*** “The High Cost of Macaroni,” Interim, Nos. 1 & 2, 1954. The Saturday Evening Post rejected the article, which was intended as a companion piece to “How to Live on $36,000 a Year” and “How to Live on Practically Nothing a Year.”
137. To Ober
ALS, 2pp. (AO)
St. Raphael,
Oct 25th
(After Nov. 3d, Care of the American Express Co. Rome Italy)
Dear Mr. Ober:
I am sending you today under separate cover the manuscript of my new novel The Great Gatsby for serialization. Whether it will serialize you will be a better judge than I. There is some pretty frank stuff in it [I] and I wouldn't want it to be chopped as Hovey chopped the Beautiful + Damned. Now here are my ideas:
(1.) I think the best bet by all odds is Liberty. It is a love story and it is sensational. Also it is only 50,000 words long which would give them ten installments of 5000 words each, just what they're looking for. And moreover if they started it by February 1st it could be over in time for spring publication. I havn't had a book for almost three years now and I want Scribners to bring this out in April. I wish you would specify to John Wheeler that it must be run through by then.
(2.) Of course Ray Long will have to have first look at it according to our contract of 1923.* But I don't want him to have it (small chance of his wanting it) because in his magazines it would drag on forever + book publication would be postponed. So I'd like to ask him $25,000 for it—a prohibitive price. But it wouldn't be worth my while to give it to him for less. For Liberty I would take $15,000 + I'm against asking more because of a peculiar situation between John + me. He told me he'd never bargain for a thing of mine again —he'd take it at the price offered or refuse it. Ring Lardner told him I was annoyed at him—anyhow its a sort of personal question as you see. So I don't think I'd want to ask him more than $15,000. When I was getting $900 a story I got $7000 or a serial, so now that I'm getting $1750, $15000 for a serial seems a fair price. Especially as its very short.
(3.) The Post I don't want to offer it to. Its not their kind of thing + I don't want to have it in there anyhow as it kills the book sale at one blow. So that's out.
(4.) In fact I think Liberty is far and away the best bet—I don't see who else could squeeze it in before April. The third chapter bars it from the womens magazines and that leaves nothing except the Red Book which would drag it out till Fall.
(5.) I've sent Scribners their copy. When you get a definate decision from Hearsts and Jack Wheeler will you phone Max Perkins and tell him as he'll be anxious to know and letters take so long. Also will you cable me.
(6.) Needless to say whether it serializes or not I will refer any and all moving picture bids on the book to you and will tell Scribners to let you know about any moving picture bids that come through them. Of course this is looking pretty far ahead.
(7.) In any case I would much appreciate your own frank opinion of the novel.
(8.) My story is now at the typist. It should reach you within the week.
As Ever F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* Details of contract are in Fitzgerald's letter of 29 December 1922.
In November 1924 the Fitzgeralds traveled to Rome, where they stayed at the Hotel des Princes.
138. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 3 November 1924. St. Raphael. (AO)
NOVEL AND STORY SENT IF YOU HAVE NOT MADE SECOND DEPOSIT CAN YOU DEPOSIT ELEVEN HUNDRED IMMEDIATELY OR THREE HUNDRED OTHER MASTE SCOTT
139. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 26 November 1924. (AO)
c/o American Express Co. Rome, Italy
Dear Mr. Ober:
A word about the story. After reading it over very carefully I've come to the conclusion that its not one of my best. However, the one I'm working on now ought to be a wonder. The point is that I don't want to offer Wheeler “Love in the Night” as an order:
(1) because it isn't quite first rate
(2) “ the novel will be offered him immediately [g] after I enclose, by the way, a letter which should go with the novel to Wheeler (if you think best, after reading it).
Now as to the all devastating question of money. I owe you somewhere around $200.00, [I think] (counting on Love in the Night being sold for $1750.00). As I told you before I am very broke and well have to rehabilitate myself with three or four short stories, written one after the other. [This includes the one I'm working on now.] As soon as I finish the one I'm working on now [that] I'm afraid I'll have to wire you for some more money but I won't do it until the story is in the Post office. When the second story is sold I'll be more than square + the two or three to follow should put me ahead for the whole winter as life is very cheap, of course here in Rome. Then I'm starting another novel. My loafing days are [obliterated] over—I feel now as though I wasted 1922 + 1923.
What became of the Screenland Article + the Beautiful + Dammed movie bonus? Many congratulations on having a boy—though I know you wanted a girl I'm sure you're just as pleased now.
As Ever
Scott Fitzgerald
If Wheeler happens to buy novel will you kindly cable me the news.* [I'm not sure] My letter to Wheeler is not comprehensive. You'd better write him all the data anyhow, besides.**
Notes:
* Written at the bottom of the page.
** Along the left margin. Another insert along the right margin is obliterated.
140. To Jack Wheeler (through Harold Ober)
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—November 1924. (AO)
American Express Co. Rome, Italy
Dear Jack: *
Reynolds is offering you my new novel for possible serialization. It goes to Ray Long first because of a previous contract but he and I agree very little + I doubt if he'll want it.**
Naturally, I'm mad about the book. Whether you like it or not would you drop me a line telling me your honest opinion of it. I'd be most interested to hear.
Mr. Ober will give you all the details about publication ect.
Sincerely Scott Fitz—
Notes:
* This appears to be the letter Fitzgerald sent to Ober to be forwarded to Wheeler with the manuscript of The Great Gatsby. Ober must have decided against sending it to Wheeler.
** Long refused The Great Gatsby on 4 December, writing Reynolds, “… I don't think it quite fits in.” Wheeler refused it on 16 December, writing Reynolds, “It is too ripe for us. Running only one serial as we do, we could not publish this story with as many mistresses and as much adultery as there is in it.”
141. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 25 November 1924. From Fitzgerald. Rome. (AO)
WAIT FOR REVISED VERSION OF LOVE IN NIGHT TO OFFER POST SENDING STORY FOR RED BOOK
142. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. (AO)
American Express Co. Rome
November 25th, 1924
Dear Mr. Ober:
Your telegam came today + I've answered it, telling you that I'm sending a revised version of Love in the Night to be offered to the Post. In its present form I suspect it of being no good. As to Wheeler —the only thing to do is to offer him [Wheeler's fir] the first thing Lorimer turns down. I can't risk my stand with Lorimer now + I Think you are right. Also I'm sending a story which I think is a peach, called the Adjuster for the Red Book order you wrote me of.*
I should think the novel (if he wants it) would be enough for Wheeler now—anyhow tell him I wanted him to see that first. I feel I want to offer him that even if it makes Lorimer mad because I'm quite sure Lorimer wouldn't consider it. Of course you'll cable me if theres good news. I scarcely dare to hope.
We're trying to get settled + its hard as hell to write in a hotel —hence the delay on the second story. This is the “holy year” or something + appartments are hard to find
As Ever. Scott Fitz
P. S. Tell Wheeler the only story you got was rotten + I cabled after it not to send it anywhere till novel was decided
Notes:
* Red Book, September 1925.
143. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 7 December 1924. Rome. (AO)
OFFER NOVEL TO POST AS MATTER OF FORM THEN TO WHEELER TWO STORIES SENT DEPOSIT TWOHUNDRED SNEOTT
144. To Ober
ALS, 2pp. n.d.—received 22 December 1924. (AO)
Our adress for Several Months: Hotel des Princes, Piazza di Spagna, Rome, Italy
Dear Mr. Ober:
First thank you a thousand times for your telegram of congratulations + your letter about my book. It made me feel very good indeed. The book has some bad flaws in chapters VI + VII which I hope to remedy in proof but on the whole I am very proud of it. And many thanks for liking it too.
I agree with you about offering short stories to Wheeler—I don't want to be the goat of an inter-editorial row as, to a certain extent, I was in the Hovey-Ray Long race riot. As to the novel, why not offer it to the Post as per telegram. They will certainly refuse it + then can't kick if you give it to Wheeler.
Now as to money. I've sent you—a new story for the red book and am sending today a revised version of Love in the Night. Also I have a third story which goes to the typist tomorrow. * I know I owe you quite a bit + am wiring you this afternoon to deposit, if possible, two hundred. When the new story arrives will you deposit $300 more? The story is excellent so you should get the Red Book money right away + get me out of the hole. In all three stories will reach you before Xmas and one or two as soon after that as I can do them and I'm starting a new one today.
With many thanks and a prayer that this novel will put me on a financial footing where I won't be such a beggar Always I am
Most Gratefully Scott Fitzg—
Notes:
* “Not in the Guidebook,” Woman's Home Companion, November 1925.
Fitzgerald's total earnings for 1924 were $20,310. He sold eleven stories ($15,868). His book royalties were $1,200.
145. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 3 January 1925. (AO)
Hotel des Princes, Rome, Italy.
Dear Mr. Ober:
By now you've got the Adjuster, and what is less pleasant I suppose you got that wire last week begging another two hundred. That makes about $350.00 over the Red Book story money that I owe you but the revised version of Love in the Night should clear it all up + leave me a balance. The third story wasn't good but I'm trying to fix it up. If I can't I'll start a new one tonight.
I'm not going to ask you for anymore until the first of the year
—By that time I ought to be ahead. Eagerly awaiting bad news from the serial. I hope Wheeler takes it.
Scott Fitz—
146. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 12 January 1925. (AO)
Hotel des Princes, Rome, Italy.
Dear Mr. Ober;
Tomorrow I am wiring you for three hundred more—and I hope to God that all three stories are Saleable because I owe more than I have for almost year and I'm humiliated to have to call on you again like this. As I havn't heard from I judge that Wheeler didn't want the novel which is very sad news tho it isn't really a surprise.
If two out of these three stories sell I should have a slight balance with you and if the third one does I shall be out of danger. I am beginning another one the day after Xmas.
Thank for your exceeding trust and good will in making this advance.
Sincerely Scott Fitz—
147. To Ober
ALS, 2 pp. n.d.—received 23 January 1925. (AO)
I'd rather use this for an adress: American Express Co., Rome, Italy
Dear Ober:
(After all these years I agree with you that it is high time to drop honorifics) 1st Thanks very much for the money, which eats well into the second story. [That takes the] I'm sure that the third story (“Not in The Guide Book”) will sell much easier than the other two. The Adjuster may seem too gloomy. However, time will tell.
I am starting a fourth story (really a sixth, for one I tore up and Love in the Night I rewrote completely, as you see. I'm a little disappointed about the novel but I suppose it did seem raw to Wheeler. He immediately wrote me the inevitable letter asking for a story.
If the novel is a big success I'm hoping my price will go up to $2000 regular. It's a neat sum and while I don't feel my stuff is worth anything like that its as good as a lot that gets much more.
I feel very old this winter. I'm twenty eight. I was twenty-two when I came to New York and found that you'd sold Head and Shoulders to the Post. I'd like to get a thrill like that again but I suppose its only once in a lifetime.
You've been awfully kind about this money. I don't know what I could have done without it. I've owed Scribner the advance on this novel for almost two years. Did Warner Bros. ever render a definate account on the B. + D. movie?
I hate Italy and the Italiens so violently that I can't bring myself to write about them for the Post.—unless they'd like an article called “Pope Siphilis the Sixth and his Morons” or something like that. But we're resolutely trying to econemize, so we [wouldn'tmo] wouldn't move back to France till March even if we could afford it.
Scott Fitz.
148. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 9 January 1925. Rome. (AO)
COULDNT DEFER PUBLICATION FOR LESS THAN TWENTY-THOUSAND SORRY * SCOTT
Notes:
* Refers to College Humor offer for serialization of The Great Gatsby.
149. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 15 January 1925. From Fitzgerald. Rome. (AO)
MUST DECLINE X SURE WOULD RUIN BOOK SALE.
150. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 26 January 1925. Rome. (AO)
American Express Co.
Dear Ober:
I wired you today declining College Humor's offer. Of course with the contributors you mention it couldn't be, at present, the lowsy sheet I saw a copy of last summer, but it will take it several years to live down its name. However the two chief objections were this.
(1.) That most people who saw it advertised in College Humor would be sure that Gatsby was a great halfback and that would kill it in book form.
(2.) While $10,000.00 is no sum to throw away lightly it postpones a turnover from book royaties and probable movie for five months, with the chance of materially decreasing the sale. I dread the gaudy and ill-advised advertising they'd give it.
I'm sure you'll agree that it would have been a foolish move. I have a strong hunch that I'm going to get about twenty five thousand for the movie rights if the book comes out now. If it waits till next fall the movie taste may change.
Regrettfully Scott Fitzg—
151. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d.—received 5 February 1925. (AO)
Hotel des Princes, Rome
Dear Ober:
Thanks for the latest deposit many times. I'm delighted that the two stories sold. The third hasn't reached you + thereby hangs a tale.* It was mailed and I went to bed for ten days with grippe. When I came too + went into the Am. Express Co. where I'd had it registered it was still there because the clerk noticed that I'd adressed it
70 5th Ave, Paris. France.
I opened it to have a last look + thought it was rotten so as I'd just recieved your cable about the Post story I decided to do it over. I'm working on it now.
When the Red Book pays will you [obliterated] please send me a statement so I can see how I stand with you. I'm all mixed up but I think I'm ahead a little over $500.00 And if meanwhile I wire you to make a small deposit + you have already [made] put in the rest of the Red Book money just wire me that data. I think I am out of the hole now—thanks to you. I wish I could do the Post a crackerjack story.
Scott Fitz.
Notes:
* Probably “Not in the Guidebook.”
152. To Ober
ALS (pencil and ink), 1 p. n.d.—received 18 February 1925. (AO)
American Express Co. Rome
Dear Ober:
Thanks for all you did about the novel. I'll try to do something for [Screenland] College Humor but 3000 words is pretty hard. Will send along a Post story—I think it'll be easier to raise my price with them (Rotten pen) after the novel is the big success I think its going to be. I've spent three extra weeks on it, clearing up that bum Plaza Hotel scene and now its really almost perfect of its kind.
God! How I hated to turn down that $10,000. If I'd been one month sooner with it I could have gathered it in. It makes me weep. But maybe [III] .I'll get $25,000, for the serial.
By the way I'm writing College Humor a nice letter. Please forward it to them. Thanks for the deposits and I'm tickled that I'm straight at last. For the first time since last summer.
As Ever Scott Fitz—
153. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 20 February 1925. Rome. (AO)
SENDING TWO STORIES MONDAY CAN YOU DEPOSIT THREE HUNDRED MORE SCOTT.
154. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 2pp. n.d.—received 2 March 1925. (AO)
Rome
Dear Ober:
The Vegetable rights were controlled by Sam Harris but have now reverted to me. The second act was the biggest flop of all on the [obliterated] Atlantic City try out—and the whole thing has already cost me about a year + a half of work so I'd rather let it drop. Its honestly no good. From Feb 1922 until Nov. 1923 I was almost constantly working + patching the damn think + I don't think I could bear to look at anymore. If I ever change I'll let you know, I've never tinkered with the last act at all—oh, yes, I have + the Harris office may have it but it was flat as a pancake. I'd rather thank Mr. Goodman + let it die.
If you'll get an offer from College Humor for 3000 words one thousand dollars I'll try it but if the story does go over that I'd rather try someone else with it + then try again at the short length for them.
No news. Have one story at the typist + am trying the revise the one that wasn't good.
Thank you for all deposits
As Ever Scott Fitzg—
155. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 5 March 1925. (AO)
Newadress Hotel Tiberius, Capri
Dear Ober:
Will be glad to do Red Book Story. I'm delighted they liked the other.
Scott Fitz
156. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—March 1925. (AO)
Hotel Tiberio, Capri
Dear Ober:
We've had a hell of a time here. My wifes been sick in bed three weeks + there isn't a typist nearer than Naples—the farmer who did this* kept it for 10 days at the other end of the Island. I have another ready too if he ever brings it back.
Good stories write themselves—bad ones have to be written so this took up about three weeks. And look at it. I'd rather not offer it to the Post [and] because everybody sees the Post but I know its saleable and I need the money. I leave it to you.
The Red Book story will be along shortly. For God's sake don't give them this. Thank you for the deposits. I don't know whats the matter with me. I can't seem to keep out of debt. Whenever I get ahead things like this sickness happen. Such is life. However two other stories will follow this thick and fast
As Ever F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* “Not in the Guidebook.”
157. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 13 April 1925. (AO)
Dear Ober:
The enclosed might do for Vanity Fair.* They once paid me a hundred + now might do the same. I think its about their top price. Hope the story about Paris reached you. I am stretching the other into a three parter called The Rich Boy which might bring $5000.00 or so from College Humor or the Red Book.** I hope to send it on in a week.
Sincerely Scott Fitzg
Notes:
* Probably “My Old New England Farmhouse on the Erie,” College Humor, August
** Published in two parts by Redbook (January and February 1926), which paid $3,500.
158. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 April 1925. From Fitzgerald. Naples. (AO)
MOVED ADRESSE ANY MOVIE OFFERS GATSBY HOTEL REGINA MARSEILLE CAN YOU DEPOSIT FIVE HUNDRED
Fitzgerald's third novel, The Great Gatsby, was published by Scribners on 10 April 1925. In May the Fitzgeralds moved to Paris, where they took an apartment at 14 rue de Tilsitt. Fitzgerald first met Ernest Hemingway at this time.
159. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 2 May 1925. (AO)
Guaranty Trust Co of New York, 1-3 Rue des Italiennes, Paris, France (Really Marsielle. en route to above)
Dear Ober:
Well, in my usual way, just as I had got approximately on my feet Ive succeeded in plunging into debt to you again. It must be something over 2000.00 and as I havn't heard to the contrary I gather that my suspicions were correct and Not in The Guide Book is unsaleable in the big markets. Also I sent you a little skit that might be worth a hundred somewhere if you care to fool with it.
We left Capri after two months of dangerous illness during which I was able to do little work. I have the three part story The Rich Boy finished and with a little revision I will send it to you from Paris. It is a good piece of work I think and I believe College Humor is the market for it.
About Gatsby. I have heard nothing from Scribner until today when he wired “Reviews Excellent. No data yet on Sales”—from which I gather it didn't get off to a flying start. By this time next week (when this arrives) it'll be obvious both whether I was a fool not to sell it serially and also whether the movies are interested. The minimum price would be $5000.00. If it goes to say fifty thousand copies I should want at least $10,000. and for anything over that, in the best-seller class I think I should get $25,000.00 which is what they seem to be getting nothing less than. However the latter situation seems unlikely at present due to two popular defects in the book—one that the title is bad and, two, that there is no important woman character and women move the fiction market outside the S. E. P.
I'd like Von Strohiem* to do it in the movies. Do you think a wire mentioning the fact to him and asking him to read it would be of any use?
At any rate thank you for the last advance of $500.00. I'll try to get The Rich Boy to you on next Monday. My adress is as above
As Ever Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* Director Erich Von Stroheim.
160. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 19 May 1925. Paris. (AO)
CALL WILLIAM A BRADY * FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* Brady became the producer of The Great Gatsby play.
161. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 28 May 1925. (AO)
14 Rue de Tilsitt,Paris, France (Permanent Adress)
Dear Ober:
Thank you for selling those two stories* and for the deposits and for the extra five hundred—it came in handy. We have decided that travelling saves no money, and taken an appartment here for eight months.
“What Price Macaroni?” and “The Rich Boy” (second and third versions respectively) are at the typist. Commercially the book has fallen so flat that I'm afraid there'll be no movie rights. However a book always has a chance value as a movie property. I imagine that if one movie makes a strike they buy the rights of all the other books you've written. However I'm not depressed and intend to do about five short stories this summer.
As Ever, Yours F Scott Fitz—
Notes:
* Probably “Not in the Guidebook,” “The Adjuster,” or “Love in the Night.”
162. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 1 June 1925. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
IF DAVIS * MAKES DRAMATIZATION AND PLAY IS PRODUCED WITHIN YEAR ACCEPT TERMS OFFERED BUT SINCE NOVEL ALREADY HAS MOVIE VALUE WHICH WILL BE HELD UP INDEFINATELY I WANT ONE THIRD OF ALL APICTURE RIGHTS** CAN YOU DEPOSIT THREE HUNDRED
Notes:
* Owen Davis, playwright who adapted The Great Gatsby for the stage.
** The contract between Fitzgerald and William A. Brady gave Fitzgerald 40 per cent of 5 per cent of the first $5,000; 40 per cent of 7'/z per cent of the next $2,000; 40 per cent of 10 per cent in excess of $7,000; and one third of the motion picture rights.
163. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 10 June 1925. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
IF BRADY HESITATES CLINCH CONTRACT AT SIXTY FORTY.
164. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 June 1925. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
CONTRACT AND ARTICLE * SENT CAN YOU DEPOSIT FIVEHUNDRED
Notes:
* Probably “The High Cost of Macaroni.”
165. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 22 July 1925. Paris. (AO)
IF STORY * AND ARTICLE HAVE ARRIVED WILL YOU DEPOSIT 300 TODAY FITZOERALD
Notes:
* Probably “The Rich Boy.”
166. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 24 July 1925. Paris. (AO)
NO WIRE RECEIVED WORRIED FITZGERALD.
167. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 7 August 1925. (AO)
14 Rue de Tilsitt Paris, France
Dear Ober: First thanks for the hundredth time for all your courtesy about advances. I must owe you nearly $2000.00 + I may have to wire again next week. If you don't think the article is saleable don't give it to the Post but tear it up. I have a carbon. I've worked on it so long that it's one big mess. In any case if the Post doesn't want it let it go.
The enclosed should be an excellent Post story.*
The Rich Boy has been a scource of much trouble but its in shape at last. I'm rewriting the 3d part this week. If its worth anything it should be worth [$4000.00] 3500.00 or at least $3000.00. If the Red Book doesn't want it why not try College Humor.
What's the dope on the Liberty-Post quarrel? Are they still refusing to admit each other's contributors. Had a nice letter from Owen Davis who says he'll be ready to rehearse in October.
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* “A Penny Spent,” The Saturday Evening Post, 10 October 1925. Fitzgerald added here in pencil: “It'll have to be retyped.”
168. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 3 August 1925. Paris. (AO)
THREE MANUSCRIPTS NOW SENT WILL YOU DEPOSIT TWO HUNDRED
FITZGERALD
169. Memo by Ober
H.O. Typed Ober memo, 1 p. (AO)
Memo.
Aug. 21, 1925.
Mr. Aley called up and said that he had to cut out about two hundred words in Scott Fitzgerald's story. * They changed the type of the magazine to larger type and they cut all their stories. He said he would do it very carefully. I don't think we need to say anything to Fitzgerald about it because I don't think he ever reads his stories.
Notes:
* Probably “Not in the Guidebook.”
170. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 2 September 1925. Antibes. (AO)
PHONE MCCALLS RE OPTION NEW NOVEL FINISHED ONE YEAR PLEASE DEPOSIT THREE HUNDRED SCOTT
171. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 8 September 1925. Antibes. (AO)
WHAT PRICE RICH BOY REQUEST PROMPT PUBLICATION SENDING STORY PLEASE DEPOSIT TWO HUNDRED SCOTT
172. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 1 October 1925. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
PLEASE CUT AS FOWLER REQUESTS.*
Notes:
* Ludlow Fowler, the model for Anson Hunter of “The Rich Boy,” made cuts in the story. In an undated letter during the spring of this year, Fitzgerald had written to Fowler: “I have written a fifteen thousand word story about you called The Rich Boy—it is so disguised that no one except you and me and maybe two of the girls concerned would recognize, unless you give it away, but it is in a large measure the story of your life, toned down here and there and symplified. Also many gaps had to come out of my imagination. It is frank, unsparing but sympathetic and I think you will like it—it is one of the best things I have ever one. Where it will appear and when, I don't as yet know.” (PU)
173. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 3 October 1925. (AO)
14 Rue de Tilsitt Paris, France
Dear Ober:
Thank you a million times for all the kind advances + for selling The Rich Boy—I was afraid too it would be difficult. From this time onward I'm going to keep ahead. My plans are as follows.
4 short stories to be written before the middle of November.
I think fate must have decided about the article What Price Macaroni? I told you when I sent it that it was the lousiest thing I'd ever written—and Im glad its lost. I have a copy and I read it over but with discouragment. Maybe after another story—the first one goes off tomorrow I'll have the courage to tinker with it once more. Have you an approximate date for the out-of-town opening of the play?*
Sincerely F. Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* The Great Gatsby.
174. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 14 October 1925. (PU)
14 Rue de Tilsitt, Paris Dear Ober:
This is in re of several matters of which the first is to thank you for those last two advances. I hope the Rich Boy money has come in + also that you have no trouble in disposing of the 1st story.
Too bad about the Fowler changes—still the Red Book shouldn't mind making them as they're both rather realistic, crude statements for a popular magazine. It is the story of his life—he's an old friend —we went to Princeton together + he told me those things in confidence. Incidently he's a brilliant young lawyer + an awfully nice fellow.
I'd rather not tell about the new novel yet—as part of it isn't clear in my mine and I don't want it to chrystalize too soon. Did McCall want an option so far ahead?
About the play—will you keep me posted? Also I'd like first night tickets mailed to the following (that is if it reaches N.Y.)
J. V. Forrestal—28 Nassau St.*
and six tickets to the Scribner Co. for Max Perkins to distribute as he sees fit. Will you take care of that for me.
I am hard at work on the second story but it has been snarling me for a week.
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* James V. Forrestal, Princeton '15—the future Secretary of the Navy and of Defense.
175. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 12 October 1925. Paris. (AO)
TWO STORIES SENT WILL YOU DEPOSIT TWOHUNDRED FITZGERALD.
176. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 4 November 1925. Paris. (AO)
FOUR STORIES SENT CAN YOU DEPOSIT TWOHUNDRED POSITIVELY LAST FITZGERALD
177. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 30 November 1925. (AO)
14 Rue de Tilsitt Paris, France
Dear Ober: Havn't written for ages but as you see have been working like a dog for six weeks. This morning comes a cable from one Basil Moon* in London wanting to see me here about the “Cosmopolitan”. It would cost that damn Ray Long $2500. to see any more stories of mine—maybe more. If that's what this fellow wants I'll of course wire you.
I wrote Wheeler a letter that evaded every question he asked me —a vague mention of “after my new novel was finished.”
Scribners have no interest in Two for a Cent. I don't think its a good story and am never going to republish it and since its four years old now + has well yielded up its syndicate milk I told Boas + Hahn they could reprint it for nothing (tho of course I reserved all rights).**
As far as The Vegetable is concerned anyone can use it who wants it in an amateur way but I advise strongly against their trying it. Some misguided amateurs in Baltimore came to grief on it last winter.
Magazines all arrived and thank you. Also the letter from the Women's Home Companion. Those things I leave to you—perhaps now they'd give [2500] 2,250 or McCalls might. However I'm content with the Post at 2000 while the Red Book seems most hospitipal to my more serious work.
Thanks a million times for all your kindnesses about deposits I hope these stories will clear them up forever.
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
P. S. I don't want to annoy Davis but I'd love to have a copy of the play The Great Gatsby as written, both to read + for my files. I suppose the date is now January.
Notes:
* Probably Basil Woon, English newspaper editor.
** Short Stories for Class Reading, ed. Ralph P. Boas and Barbara M. Hahn (New York: Holt, 1925).
178. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 23 November 1925. London. (AO)
IF STORIES SOLD CAN YOU DEPOSIT FIVE FITZGERALD
179. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 24 November 1925. Paris. (AO)
LENGEL * OFFERS EIGHT THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED FIFTY THREE STORIES DELIVERED BEFORE JANUARY ADVISE ACCEPTANCE ANSWER RUSH FITZGERALD
Notes:
* William C. Lengel of Hearst's International Magazine Co. This offer may have been from Cosmopolitan.
180. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 25 November 1925. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
RE PREVIOUS TELEGRAM PLEASE WIRE ME SAYING PRICE RISE JUSTIFIES THREE THOUSAND COSMOPOLITAN.
181. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 25 November 1925. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
THIRD WIRE SUPPLANTING OTHERS STRONGLY ADVISE THREE AT TWENTY SEVEN FIFTY IF LONG AGREES
182. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 26 November 1925. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
I AGREE WITH YOUR DECISION*
Notes:
* Ober's decision in the Cosmopolitan negotiations is not known.
183. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 21 December 1925. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
ADOLESCENT MARRIAGE SENT TWO DAYS BEFORE PRESUMPTION OTHER WEEK LATER SENDING DUPLICATE*
Notes:
* “The Adolescent Marriage.” 6 March 1926, and “Presumption,” 9 January 1926, The Saturday Evening Post.
Fitzgerald's total earnings for 1925 were $18,333.61. He sold five stories ($11,025), and his Saturday Evening Post price was raised to $2,500. His book royalties were $4,906.61—including $1,981.85 from The Great Gatsby, above the Scribners advance.
184. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 14 January 1926. (AO)
As I remember, the corrections on the other copy were better than these in several places, so if it comes in send out the other, please.
Dear Ober:
I was good and scared when I found this story hadn't arrived because I thought at first I didn't have a copy. I had given the original to a man returning to Seattle who was to mail it to you on his arrival in New York—that was to have been the quickest way! Then mucilage was spilled on the carbon copy—and then I got word from you that Presumption had arrived first. What saved me from the total loss of the story (for by wire and letter I havn't yet got a satisfactory answer from Seattle—the original seems to have been left in care of a stranger in New York who was to “wait instructions from me,” whatever that means) was that the woman at the Meurice here who does my typing has the pencilled ms. It is a copy of that, corrected which is here enclosed.
I havn't any idea how much I owe you. Will you wire me any [sails] sales. It must be over $3000. I'm terribly sorry and very very grateful
Scott Fitzgerald
From nowon best adress for everything is Care Guaranty Trust Co, 1 Rue des Italiens Paris [Written along the left margin.]
185. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 21 January 1926. From Fitzgerald. Salies-de-Bearn. (AO)
RUMOR UNFOUNDED * DONT TRY DANCE POST THANKS
Notes:
* A 16 January 1926 dispatch from Paris in the Chicago Tribune was headlined: “Scott Fitzgerald III In France.”
186. To Ober
ALS, 2pp. n.d.—received 4 February 1926. (AO)
c/o Guaranty Trust Co. 1 Rue des Italiens
Dear Ober:
We have come to a lost little village called Salies-de-Bearn in the Pyrenes where my wife is to take a special treatment of baths for eleven months for an illness that has run now for almost a year.* Here they have the strongest salt springs in the world—and out of season nothing much else—we are two of seven guests in the only open hotel.
We'll be here until March 1st but you'd better adress any letters to me at Paris—that's just as quick for letters. Cables about the play had better come to Fitzgerald, Bellevue, Salies-de-Bearn [One Word], France.
About the story The Dance,** the first detective story I've ever tried, I'm afraid its no good—(if it ever reaches you—I'm beginning to think that nothing I send ever does. That one I had registered. Did both copies of Adolescent Marrige come—or either) to continue —please don't offer the dance to the Post or Red Book. Why not College Humor for $1500. or Women's Home Companion (?). Tell me what you think?
I must owe you thousands—three at least—maybe more. I am forever under obligations to you for your kindness. [obliterated] From now till March 1st will be a steady stream of $2500. stories— five more of them. And I hope by then the play will begin to yield something on the side. I honestly think I cause you more trouble and bring you less business than any of your clients. How you tolerate it I don't know—but thank God you do. And 1926 is going to be a different story.
Did I tell you McCalls wrote again asking me about the novel. Will you talk to them? Its begun but I'm putting it aside for a month or so like I did Gatsby and it won't be done before the end of the year.
Someone told me Mr. Reynolds had been sick. Is that so? I hope not.
Thank you for the thousandth thousand for the thousandth time.
Scott Fitzg—
Story sent yesterday which was to have been 4th of series but was so much revised that I didn't send it from Paris after all. Have sent in all seven manuscripts of four different stories.***
Notes:
* Zelda Fitzgerald had colitis.
** “The Dance,” Redbook, June 1926.
*** Probably included “Presumption,” “The Adolescent Marriage,” “The Dance.”
187. To Ober
Wire to Fitzgerald 4 February 1926. Fitzgerald pasted this telegram in his scrap-book.
AUDIENCE ENTHUSIASTIC OVER GATSBY PREDICT REAL SUCCESS PLAY CARRIED GLAMOR OF STORY EXCELLENTLY CAST AND ACTED REVIEWS ALL VERY FAVORABLE WRITING HAROLD OBER NEWYORK
The Owen Davis play version of The Great Gatsby opened at the Ambassador Theatre in New York 2 February 1926. It starred James Rennie as Gatsby, Florence Eldridge as Daisy, and Edward H. Wever as Nick. The reviews were good, and the play ran for the season before making a road tour. Fitzgeralds share of the receipts was $7,630—plus $16,666 for the movie rights.
Fitzgerald's third collection of short stories, All the Sad Young Men, was published by Scribners in February 1926.
188. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d.—received 15 February 1926. Salies-de-Bearn. (AO)
Dear Ober:
This won't make any money—maybe $50 or a bit more but I'm awfully anxious to get it published. Its little more than a review.*
Will you try The American Mercury—I especially want [them] Mencken to see it first
Then The Bookman
“ “ [Dial N.Y.] Literary Review
“ “ International Book Review
I think one of these [three] four will take it.
Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* “How to Waste Material A Note on My Generation,” The Bookman, May 1926. Fitzgerald received $100 for this essay-review of Hemingway's In Our Time.
189. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 17 February 1926. From Fitzgerald. Salies-de-Bearn. (AO)
PLEASE WIRE PREDICTING RUN
190. To Ober
ALS, 2pp. n.d.—17 February 1926. (AO)
Guaranty Trust Co. 1 Rue des Italiens
Dear Ober:
Thank you for all the dope—believe me it was most welcome. I enjoyed the clippings and your wires and the detailed accounts of everything Today I wired asking a prediction as to its run. Perhaps its already in the warehouse. Did the snow-storm hurt it?
Did you get my wire asking that the title The Dance be changed into In a Little Town? Of course its up to the Red Book.
Will you send me an account on how I stand with you? I need it for my income tax and am all mixed up in own accounts.
Please thank Mr. Reynolds, too, for writing me that dope. I thought the Davis version read pretty badly but altogether I'm delighted—the production must have been great—especially Rennie. What was the “intense heat” effect they all spoke of?
If you hear that its going to be taken off wire me so I'll be prepared.
Again many thanks for keeping me so well posted
As Ever Scott Fitzgerald
191. Inscription For Anne Ober
For Anne Ober
Hoping that none of her descendents will be sad young men
F Scott Fitzgerald
Inscription in All the Sad Young Men. (AO)
192. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d.—received 15 March 1926. (AO); Turnbull.
Salies-de-Bearn
God knows where
Dear Ober:
This * is one of the lowsiest stories I've ever written. Just terrible! I lost interest in the middle (by the way the last part is typed triple space because I thought I could fix it—but I couldn't)
Please—and I mean this—don't offer it to the Post. I think that as things are now it would be wretched policy. Nor to the Red Book. It hasn't one redeeming touch of my usual spirit in it. I was desperate to begin a story + invented a business plot—the kind I can't handle. I'd rather have $1000, for it from some obscure place than twice that + have it seen. I feel very strongly about this! Am writing two of the best stories I've ever done in my life.
As Ever—Scott Fitz—
Notes:
* “Your Way and Mine,” Woman's Home Companion, May 1927, for which Fitzgerald received $1,750.
193. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d., n.p.—March 1926. (AO)
Dear Ober:
If my father from Washington, phones you in the next month or so will you have two seats to the play (best seats) left in box office for him + placed to my account?
Hope the play isn't in Joe Leblancs yet.*
The Post made me furious by some silly cutting in The Adolescent Marriage. They have a right to be silly at 2500. a story but when two very clever paragraphes disappear of which I have no duplicate or record it makes me angry. Could you get me the ms. or an uncut proof of it so I can clip the pps. for my files? Especially the one about a church with car-cards in the pews or something.
Wasn't your way + mine terrible! Thanks for the deposits.
Always Sincerely F Scott Fitzgerald
Glad you've moved uptown! [Written along the left margin. The Reynolds agency had moved from 70 Fifth Avenue to the Scribner Building at 597 Fifth Avenue.]
Notes:
* Leblang, a theatre agent who handled cut-rate tickets for failing shows.
From March to December 1926 the Fitzgeralds were on the Riviera, at Juan-les-Pins.
194. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 3 April 1926. (AO)
Adress till June 15th :Villa Paquita, Juan-les-Pins, Alpes Maritime [Not Nessessary], FRANCE
Dear Ober:
If a man called Holger Lundberg * phones you will you see that he has two seats for Gatsby?
Did you ever get a lousy story called Your Way and Mine?
Whats my average weekly return from Gatsby? I see its dropped from 15,500 to 14,000.** Warn me if its about to quit.
As Ever Cordially Scott Fitzg—
Notes:
* A poet.
** These are gross weekly receipts for the play.
195. To Fitzgerald
Wire to Fitzgerald c. 16 April 1926. Fitzgerald pasted this wire in his scrapbook.
GATSBY PICTURE POSSIBLE OFFER FORTY FIVE THOUSAND ADVISE ACCEPTANCE CABLE QUINCK OBER.
196. To Reynolds office
Wire (cc) to Reynolds office 16 April 1926. Juan-les-Pins. (AO)
ACCEPT OFFER FITZGERALD
197. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 19 April 1926. From Fitzgerald. Antibes. (AO)
LIBERTY SITUATION COMPLICATED WAIT LETTER PLEASE DEPOSIT SIX HUNDRED
198. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d., n.p.—received 22 April 1926. (AO)
Dear Ober:
Thanks for tax blank
“ “ statement
“ “ story news
“ “ $1000 deposit
“ “ mysterious telegram.
Did the article (sent many months ago) on What Price Macaroni? ever drift in. Not that it matters now, but I notice you didn't mention it in your list.
As to the pictures—I've been meaning for three years to have some taken—and next week I really will
As Ever
F Scott Fitzg—
P. S. Ms. of Adolescent Marriage arrived
P. S. Thanks for getting father tickets. Were all those 1st night seats free?
P. S. And many thanks for the clippings.
199. To Ober
ALS, 3pp. n.d.—received 3 May 1926. (AO)
Villa Paquita Juan-les-Pins Alpes Maritime (After May 3d adress me Villa St. Louis Juan-les-Pins Alpes Maritime
Dear Ober:
Naturally I was very excited about the movie opportunity. As I've heard no more I fear its fallen through—I'm anxiously awaiting news.
I have your two letters in regard to Liberty. Now as to the short story business alone I would rather, without qualification, stay with the Post at $2500. than go to Liberty at $3500. Not only that but I shall probably write no short stories of any kind until next autumn. But there is another element which might force me to leave the Post and that is the novel serialization. The novel is about one fourth done and will be delivered for possible serialization about January 1st. It will be about 75,000 words long, divided into 12 chapters, concerning tho this is absolutely confidential such a case as that girl who shot her mother on the Pacific coast last year.* In other words, like Gatsby it is highly sensational. Not only would this bar it from the Post but also they are hostile, as you know, to the general cast of thought that permeates my serious work.
On the other hand Liberty is evidently very much in my favor at the moment. And if they would give between $25,000 and $40,000 for the serial I'd be an idiot to throw it away. In other words with say about 30,000 for the serial + assurance that Liberty will have a stable editorial policy at least till Jan 1st 1927, I'd better swing over there. Frankly I'm at sea. Perhaps it had better depend on whether they would really contract [with] for the novel in advance. I hope to bring it home completed next December.
Wire me your advice. The trouble is that if McCalls or Red Book ran it it would take a solid year and I hate that while Liberty would run it in 3 mos.
Oh, hell—I hate to leave the Post. What is Liberty like anyhow? Prosperous or just subsidized?
Anxiously F Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* In January 1925 Dorothy Ellingson murdered her mother in San Francisco.
200. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 8 May 1926. (AO)
New Adress Villa St. Louis, Juan-les-Pins
Dear Ober—
That's great news about the movies. I hope the play runs through May.
If the World Syndicate want to republish One of My Oldest Friends its O. K with me. Scribners have no jurisdiction over anything unless they've published it in a book.
With Best Wishes Scott Fitzgerald
201. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 6 May 1926. From Fitzgerald. Juan-les-Pins. (AO)
GATSBY *
Notes:
* Ober added a note which reads: “Means Contracts signed and mailed”.
202. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 18 May 1926. (AO)
Villa St. Louis Juan les Pins
Dear Ober: Hereweth the contracts.
Swanson* is imploring more stories.
“What Price Macaroni” has been destroyed and best pieces are in my note book.
What does Liberty say?
Needless to say I'm delighted about the movie news.
I didn't send Power of Attorney because I'll be home in a few months + nothing is liable to come up before that time.
Will you send me a sample copy of McNaught's [Weekly] Monthly?
I'd like to see one.
I cabled you the word “Gatsby” as you suggested.
Working hard as hell.
Best Wishes, as always Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* H. N. Swanson, editor of College Humor—later Fitzgerald's Hollywood agent.
203. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 3 June 1926. (AO); Turnbull.
Adress till Oct 1st: Villa St.Louis, Juan-les-Pins, Alpes Maritime France
Dear Ober—
Well, its rather melancholy to hear that the run was over. [1] However as it was something of a succes d'estime and put in my pocket seventeen or eighteen thousand without a stroke of work on my part I should be, and am, well content.
A thousand thanks for your courtesy to my father. You went [way] out of your way to be nice to him and he wrote me a most pleased and entheusiastic letter. He misses me, I think, and at his age such an outing as that was an exceptional pleasure. I am, as usual, deeply in your debt, and now for a most pleasant + personal reason. His own life after a rather brilliant start back in the seventies has been a “failure”—he's lived always in mother's shadow and he takes an immense vicarious pleasure in any success of mine. Thank you.
Yours Always Scott Fitzgerald
No stories sent since your way and mine.
Notes:
[1] The Broadway production of Gatsby which Ober had gone to with Fitzgerald's father.
204. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. (AO)
Paris,
July 1st 1926
Dear Ober:
I am in a lowsy little hotel near the American Hospital here where my wife's just been delivered of an unwelcome appendix. When I get back to Juan-les-Pins next week I'll write you at length. This is just to say
(1.) I think the Liberty offer* is fine. If the “end of the year” is taken to mean perhaps as late as March. I'll even consent to certain cuts but don't tell them that till they ask or they'll demand more.
(2) Have seen a lot of James Rennie here. I hope it works out so that he opens in Chicago this fall.
(3) Oh God! Mr. Swanson.
(4) Thank you for all deposits
More Later Faithfully Scott Fitzg—
Notes:
* For serial rights to the new novel.
205. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—July 1926. (AO)
Villa St. Louis Juan-les-Pins
Dear Ober:
Home again. Many thanks for McNaughts. I understand Rennie opens in Chicago in [Paris] Gatsby. Saw a lot of him in Paris.
Will you let me know for my files what English magazines those last two stories were sold to?* The last ones you mentioned. Operation a great success. Working like hell
Faithfully Scott Fitzgerald
P.S. Hope you have luck with Hemmingways work. I think he's got a great future.
P.S. ** Confirming my previous letter I am all for the Liberty arrangement. Accounts Recieved
Notes:
* “Presumption” and “The Adolescent Marriage” were sold to Woman's Pictorial.
** Added in pencil.
206. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 2 October 1926. (AO)
Villa St. Louis Juan-les-Pins A—M France
Dear Ober:
Thanks for the wire about the deposit. Thats great news about the play.* Maybe I'll see it in Washington Christmas. We sail for home on the Conte Biancamo from Genoa December 10th + spend Xmas in Alabama. Returning to New York early in January I hope to hand you the novel ms.
I never heard of the gal who claims in the Telegraf to be my heroine. No news.
Faithfully Scott Fitzg—
Notes:
* Probably refers to the success of the road company.
207. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 14 October 1926. (AO)
Villa St. Louis Juan-les-Pins
Dear Ober:
Hold the book for me. * Thanks for wire about deposits. How much do those people pay for Detroit performance of Gatsby? I forwarded yr. note to Hemminway
In Haste Scott Fitz
Notes:
* Probably The World's Best Short Stories of 1926, ed. William Johnston (New York: Doran, 1926), which included “One of My Oldest Friends.”
Fitzgerald's total earnings for 1926 were $25,686.05. He sold only two stories ($3,375). His book royalties were $2,033.20. The movie and play income from The Great Gatsby was $19,464.21.
In December 1926 the Fitzgeralds returned to the United States and visited the Sayres in Montgomery. In January 1927 they went to Hollywood, where Fitzgerald worked at United Artists on a film called “Lipstick” for Constance Talmadge.
208. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 2 January 1927. Montgomery. (AO)
I CAN FINISH NOVEL BY MAY FIRST BUT WOULD LIKE UNTIL JUNE FIRST IF POSSIBLE PLEASE CONSULT LIBERTY AND WIRE REPLY IMMEDIATELY CARE JUDGE SAYRE SIX PLEASANT AVENUE MONTGOMERY ALA HAPPY NEW YEAR. SCOTT FITZGERALD.
209. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 24 January 1927. Ambassador Hotel, Los Angeles, stationery. (AO)
Dear Ober:
Will see you in 3 weeks. Am here trying to write an original story for Constance Talmadge. Was only 12 hrs in New York. Expect to finish novel before April 1st.
As Ever Scott Fitzg—
210. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 15 March 1927. (AO)
Dear Ober:
Will be in New York on or about a week from today or maybe 10 days + will phone immediately.
Father still talks of your kindness to him
Sincerely Scott Fitzg.
Roosevelt Hotel Washington, D.C.
211. To Mr. Paul Revere Reynolds
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 7 April 1927. Hotel du Pont, Wilmington, Delaware, stationery. (AO)
Dear Mr. Reynolds:
When I was in Hollywood Lanes Quirk of Photoplay wired me asking for 500 wd editorial + offering $250.* His representative there stood over me in person until I handed it to him, whereapon Quirk wired that he was entheusiastic, had sent check ect. In New York he told me the same personally. But the check never arrived.
It was so small + so simple a matter that I didn't refer it to you —This is to ask you now to take up the matter with him + see why he doesn't come across. I believed its scheduled for an early issue.
Hope Ober is much better.
As Ever Scott Fitzgerald
Notes:
* “Editorial on Youth” by Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald was sold to Photoplay in April 1927 for $500, but it was not published. Smart Set published it as “Paint and Powder” in May 1929.
In April 1927 the Fitzgeralds leased “Ellerslie” near Wilmington, Delaware, and he tried to work on his new novel, which eventually became Tender Is the Night.
212. To Mr. Paul Revere Reynolds
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 21 April 1927. (AO)
Dear Mr. Reynolds:
Is Ober no better? Not a line from him.* I hope he's progressing.
How about that story I outlined to you? Do you think that it is saleable? The cigarette story, I mean.
The novel progresses fast. Finished in 2 mos. I hope.
As Ever Scott Fitzg—
P.S. I meant, of course, to ask you to collect from Quirk on your usual terms. If his agent hadn't stood over me + snatched it out of my hands I'd have sent it through you. FSF
Ellerslie Edge Moor Delaware
Notes:
* In top margin: “Ive written him thanking him for his present etc. HO”.
213. Memo by Ober
Typed office memo, 2pp. Almost certainly by Ober. (AO)
MEMO.
April 27, 1927.
F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald told me about the difficulty he has been having over the moving picture deal he made. When he arrived from Europe he received wireless and telegrams from John W. Consadine, Jr., who is now with the United Artists. This is an organization with Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Constance Talmadge, and one or two other stars—I think Charlie Chaplin. Fitzgerald said he was in New York only two or three hours. He came in to see Max Perkinsand he didn't remember that we were not still at 70 Fifth Avenue. He tried to get down there but couldn't make it, and finally decided to go ahead and make the deal with the picture people, not asking our advice. He says he is now very sorry he did.
Consadine had met him before and he at first proposed to give Fitzgerald $2500. down and give him $10,000 when his work on the picture was finished. Fitzgerald refused and finally they agreed to give him $3,500. down and $12,500. whn the picture was finished. He said, however, they did not give him all the money at once, but gave him a drawing account of $500.00 every two weeks, or something like that.
They wanted a picture of college life. His idea was for the story to be called LIPSTICK, in which a college girl is unjustly imprisoned. While she is there, she meets somebody who gives her a mysterious recipe for lipstick, which when she puts on her lips makes every man who meets her want to kiss her.
He says they were all enthusiastic about the idea, and told him to go ahead and work it out. He did so, and turned in the manuscript which he thinks is about 8,000 words in length. Consadine said that he liked it very much and when Fitzgerald asked him if it was necessary for him to stay around any longer, he said “no.”
A few days ago, which is about two months after turning in the manuscript, Fitzgerald received a long telegram which he showed me saying that they had decided not to produce the picture, and that in case he sold the story to another company they would expect him to pay back the $3,500. they had advanced him. I do not think that Fitzgerald is bound to pay any of this money back, but he says he would rather do so. He says he got into a row with Constance Talmadge for whom the story was written, and he thinks that is the reason they didn't want to do it. He says also it is a very small organization, having only five or six stars, and a bigger company would be able to do it better.
He says he spent considerably more than $3,500. while he was in Hollywood, so the thing is a complete loss to him so far. Fitzgerald says that he would like to have this offered to only two companies—Famous Players, where Consadine has suggested that Bebe Daniels would be interested, and Metro Goldwyn Mayer. He has wired to Consadine to send the manuscript to us at once.
He thinks it had better be offered on the Coast, and I told him (thinking of Landeau) we knew a man who was going out next week, and we would have him take it up. He says that if these two companies turned it down he would fix it up for College Humor. He says it is a crazy kind of story that nobody else will buy.
214. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d., n.p.— received 2 May 1927. “Ellerslie.” (AO)
Dear Harold: *
Tell the agent the whole situation. The matter of the returned money he should refuse to discuss with Consedine as that is entirely unofficial and between Consedine and me.
The story is suggested for Bebe Daniels. [throu]
If for any reason Consedine refuses to hand over story ask [him] the agent to wire East.
Nobody to see story except Famous.
Don't mention Consedine's name to Famous as suggesting Schulberg,** though it is no secret that it was written for Constance Talmadge.
Working hard. It was good to see you Wedensday.
As Ever Scott Fitzg
Notes:
* This is the first Fitzgerald letter addressing Ober by his first name. They knew and corresponded with one another for over seven years before arriving at this informality.
** B. P. Schulberg, head of production at Paramount.
215. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 6 June 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
ARTICLE SENT * CAN YOU DEPOSIT FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY. FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* “Princeton,” College Humor, December 1927.
216. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 9 June 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
LIVE IN TERROR LEST AGENT WILL OFFER LIPSTICK IN OTHER QUARTERS ESPECIALLY FOX WHICH WOULD BE TERRIBLE FOR REASONS OF UTMOST PERSONAL IMPORTANCE.* SCOTT FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* The reason for Fitzgerald's anxiety is not known.
217. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d., n.p.—received 14 June 1927. “Ellerslie.” (AO)
Dear Ober:
Thanks for deposit. Story along in several days.* Will you tell Swanson
(1) No changes in ms.** without permission
(2) Hold it, if he can, till October issue + he ought to sell out at Princeton.
Ever Yours Scott Fitzg
I'll be even less popular at Harvard, Yale + Williams than at Princeton when this is published
Notes:
* Probably “Jacob's Ladder,” The Saturday Evening Post, 20 August 1927.
** “Princeton.”
218. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 15 June 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
STORY SENT TOMORROW CAN YOU DEPOSIT ONE THOUSAND. FITZGERALD.
219. From Mr. Paul Revere Reynolds To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
July 2, 1927.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Ellerslie, Edgemoor, Delaware,
Dear Fitzgerald:
We have sold your story entitled JACOB'S LADDER to the Post for Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000.00). They say they like the story tremendously, and are going to be very much disappointed if you don't do a lot more for them just as good.
Yours sincerely, [Paul Revere Reynolds]
220. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 14 July 1927. Virginia Beach. (AO)
WOULD POST BE INTERESTED IN ARTICLE TITLE QUOTE SISSY AMERICA UNQUOTE EMBODYING IDEA OF TOO MUCH WOMAN EDUCATION AND GENERAL INEFFECTUALLY OF MALE IN ANY LINE EXCEPT BUSINESS STOP NOT PROPOSING ANY REMEDY NOR PUTTING ANY BLAME ANYWHERE BUT ON THE MAN FOR LETTING CONTROL SLIP FROM HIS HANDS YET A BITTER AND SENSATIONAL ARRAINMENT OF CONTEMPORARY MALE STOP PLEASE WIRE CAVALIER HOTEL VIRGINIABEACH VIRGINIA* IMMEDIATELY FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* The Fitzgeralds were vacationing at Virginia Beach.
221. To Fitzgerald
Wire draft (cc) to Fitzgerald 14 July 1927. (PU)
POST INTERESTED BUT WANT TO KNOW A LITTLE MORE ABOUT ARTICLE CAN YOU SEND ME TWO OR THREE PARAGRAPH DESCRIPTION SURE IT CAN BE SOLD. HAROLD OBER.
222. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 16 July 1927. Virginia Beach. (AO)
AM SO ABSORBED IN IDEA THAT THINK I WILL WRITE IT ANYWAY AND TRYTO CONVERT POST INTO GIVING IT A HEARING EVEN THO IT IS AT VARIANCE WITH THEIR CURRENT POLICY STOP UNLESS YOU WIRE ME THAT ON THEIR REFUSAL IT WOULD BRING LESS THAN ONE THOUSAND IN OTHER AVAILABLE MARKETS. FITZGERALD.
223. To Fitzgerald
Wire draft (cc) to Fitzgerald 16 July 1927. (PU)
HAVE TELEGRAM FROM POST SAYING FURTHER CONSIDERATION MAKES THEM AFRAID OF ARTICLE WILL TRY COLLIERS UNLESS YOU WIRE NO. HAROLD OBER.
224. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
July 18, 1927.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Cavalier Hotel, Virginia Beach, Va.
Dear Scott:
I think you are wise to go ahead and write the article. I am sure the article will not scare the Post as much as the idea did. If they should decline it when they see it, I don't think there is ny doubt but what we could get a thousand dollars or more for it elsewhere.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
225. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 21 July 1927. Norfolk, Va. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT EIGHT HUNDRED ARTICLE FINISHED. FITZGERALD.
Although the Fitzgeralds had hoped to bring some order into their lives with the move to “Ellerslie,” the ensuing wires reflect the disjointed state of Fitzgerald's work at the time.
226. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 24 July 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT FOUR HUNDRED MORE BRING UP ARTICLE TUESDAY
FITZGERALD.
227. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 3 August 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
WILL BE UP WITH STORY FRIDAY.* FITZGERALD.
Notes:
$ Probably “The Love Boat,” The Saturday Evening Post, 8 October 1927. An Ober note reads: “He didn't come!”
228. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 11 August 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
TERRIBLY SORRY ABOUT DELAY BOTH STORY AND ARTICLE ARE FINISHED AND AT TYPISTS WILL BRING THEM UP SURELY THURSDAY CAN YOU POSSIBLY DEPOSIT THREE HUNDRED.*SCOTT FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* An Ober note reads: “he telephoned on Wensday saying he had sent the telegram on Teusday He raised it to 400 which I deposited HO”.
229. To Fitzgerald
Wire draft (cc) to Fitzgerald 12 August 1927. (PU)
Please rush article Costain leaving soon and I have another place for it if he declines. * Harold Ober.
Notes:
* Apparently the article on “Sissy America” was never finished. Thomas B. Cos-tain was an editor at The Saturday Evening Post.
230. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 1 September 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
ARTICLE ROTTEN WORKING ON A TWO PART SOPHISTICATED FOOTBALL STORY * ASK POST IF IT IS FINISHED IN ONE WEEK WILL IT BE TOO LATE FOR SCHEDULE THIS FALL CAN YOU DEPOSIT FIVE HUNDRED. SCOTT FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* This story was not published, but was rewritten as “The Bowl,” The Saturday Evening Post, 21 January 1928.
231. From Mr. Paul Revere Reynolds To Fitzgerald
Wire draft (cc) to Fitzgerald 1 September 1927. (PU)
NOT TOO LATE POST SAYS TO GO AHEAD AND FINISH IT DEPOSITING FIVE HUNDRED.
PAUL R. REYNOLDS.
232. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 9 September 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
STORY ALMOST FINISHED CALL YOU DEPOSIT FIVE HUNDRED. FITZGERALD.
233. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 14 September 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
STORY FINISHED CAN YOU DEPOSIT FIVE HUNDRED MORE. FITZGERALD
234. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 22 September 1927. Philadelphia, Pa. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT 300 THIS MORNING SOMEWHAT URGENT WILL BE IN TO SEE YOU AT 215. FITZGERALD.
235. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
September 23, 1927.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Ellerslie, Edgemoor, Delaware.
Dear Scott:
I called you up this afternoon, but was told you were in Philadelphia. If you saw Costain or Mr. Lorimer this letter will be unnecessary.
I spoke to Costain about the football story in order to get them to get a place for it and Costain wants very much to see at least part of the story. He says that if they had half the story they could start an artist illustrating it, and in that way they might get it into the Post towards the end of November, so if you have part of the story done, no matter if it is not in finished form, could you send it along to me and I will have a copy made of it and send the original back to you to work from?
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
236. To Ober
Wire draft (cc) to Fitzgerald 26 September 1927. (AO)
CAN YOU SEND PART OF FOOTBALL STORY PLEASE WIRE. HAROLD OBER.
237. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 30 September 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
WAS CALLED UNAVOIDABLE TO NEWYORK AND STOPPED OFF IN PRINCETON TWO DAYS TO WATCH FOOTBALL PRACTICE AND SEE IF I COULD GET A LITTLE LIFE INTO THAT WHICH IS THE WEAK PART OF MY STORY SO I JUST GOT YOUR TELEGRAM AND LETTER LAST NIGHT WORKING AS FAST AS I CAN BUT HATE IDEA OF SENDING PRT IS IT ESSENTIAL HOPE TO BE THROUGH MON OR TUES TERRIBLY SORRY SCOTT FITZGERALD.
238. To Fitzgerald
Wire draft (cc) to Fitzgerald 30 September 1927. (AO)
ALL RIGHT DO BEST YOU CAN POST SAY MONDAY DEAD LINE FOR A FOOTBALL STORY BUT WE WILL TRY TO STRETCH IT TO TUESDAY. HAROLD OBER.
239. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 3 October 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
THE STORY IS JUST AN AWFUL MESS AND I CANT FINISH IT BY TOMMORROW FEEL TERRIBLY AT LETTING YOU AND POST DOWN ABOUT IT BUT ALSO FEEL THAT I HAVE DONE MY BEST PERHAPS I HAD BETTER TACKLE SOMETHING ELSE FOR IMMEDIATE PROFIT THAT IS DO A STORY THIS WEEK AND THEN RETURN TO THE FOOTBALL STORY WITH HOPES THAT THEY WILL BUY IT FOR PUBLICATION NEXT SEPTEMBER. SCOTT FITZGERLA.
240. To Fitzgerald
Wire draft (cc) to Fitzgerald 4 October 1927. (PU)
SAW COSTAIN TODAY HE HOPES YOU WILL FINISH EVEN IF IT TAKES A WEEK OR MORE STOP KNOWING THE FOOTBALL STORY IS COMING THEY ARE KEEN FOR IT STOP IF YOU FEEL MORE LIKE STARTING A NEW STORY DO THAT WHATEVER YOU DO ALLRIGHT WITH US. HAROLD OBER.
241. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 October 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
AM GOING TO TAKE ONE MORE DAY WILL BE UP TOMORROW INSTEAD CAN YOU STILL HAVE LUNCH WITH ME PLEASE FORGIVE ME. *
SCOTT FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* An Ober note reads: “I lunched with Fitzgerald H.O. Oct 19th 1927”.
242. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—late October 1927. “Ellerslie” stationery. (AO)
Dear Harold:
Here's the first real ghost story I ever wrote.* Perhaps if not the Post. College Humor.
It was fine seeing you
Scott
The latter pages, from 21 on better be retyped.
Notes:
* “A Short Trip Home,” The Saturday Evening Post, 17 December 1927.
243. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
October 26, 1927.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Ellerslie, Edgemoor, Delaware.
Dear Scott:
Swanson of College Humor is in town and has been talking to me for some time about you. He wants to know if you could not do him a short story if you won't do him a two-part story. He says he will pay Seven Thousand Dollars ($7,000.00) for a two-part story.
Of course, two-part stories are hard to sell, and if you should get an idea for a two-part story, I suppose you could put an end to Swanson's agony by doing one for him. He says he is going to call you up, and if he does, I think it would be better not to tell him that you have just finished a story. If the Post declines the ghost story, we may want to offer it to Swanson, and in that case I had rather he didn't know that we had offered it to the Post first.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
244. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 3pp. n.d., n.p—late October 1927. “Ellerslie.” (AO)
Dear Harold:
Please have these made very carefully.* I think they will cover any confusion and ambiguity.
Starting another story, or else back at the football story tomorrow
Scott
Notes:
* Fitzgerald enclosed six revisions for “A Short Trip Home.”
245. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 27 October 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT ONE HUNDRED EMERGENCY BRINGING NEW STORY MONDAY. FITZGERALD.
246. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
October 29, 1927.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Ellerslie, Edgemoor, Del.
Dear Scott:
Here is what the Post said about A SHORT TRIP HOME:
“Dear Ober:
Frankly, we did not find it easy to reach our decision with reference to “A Short Trip Home” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Ghosts are rather difficult to handle in the Post, but the story is so well done that we have not been able to resist it. We have decided to publish it, and the check will be forwarded on Tuesday as usual.”
and today I have another note which reads as follows:
“I neglected to mention yesterday that we may want Mr. Fitzgerald to make a change or two in the galley proofs. We felt that the scene on the train where he confronts the spook and discovers the ebbing of the force which has kept him going is perhaps a little too literal and unpleasant. However, if we feel that it is going to be absolutely necessary to do this, we will send something more definite with the galley proofs.” The change doesn't sound very difficult.
Sincerely yours, [Harold Ober]
247. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 9 November 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT ONE HUNDRED STOP I WILL BE UP WITH THE STORY THURSDAY SURE AND PERHAPS WEDNESDAY. SCOTT FITZGERALD.
248. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 12 November 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT FOUR HUNDRED THIS MORNING THAT MAKES ALMOST TWO THOUSAND AND MY STORY HAS COLLAPSED BUT I HAVE ANOTHER ALMOST FINISHED AND WILL BRING IT UP MONDAY. SCOTT FITZGERALD
249. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 November 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT TWO HUNDRED TODAY COMING IN TOMORROW MORNING BUT WITHOUT STORY. SCOTT FITZGERALD.
250. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 2 December 1927. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY I WILL BE IN TOMORROW MORNING WITH FOOTBALL STORY WITHOUT FAIL. *
FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* “The Bowl.”
251. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
December 8, 1927.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Ellerslie, Edgemoor, Delaware.
Dear Scott:
I have deposited today in your account in the Guaranty Trust Company a check for $200.00.
In Costain's letter to me he says that they feel that you have got the real spirit of the game as it has perhaps never been done before. That is very high praise.
Sincerely yours, [Harold Ober]
252. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d., n.p.—received 17 December 1927. “Ellerslie.” (AO)
Dear Harold:
I should think the Woman's Home Companion might give three or four hundred for this—it isn't worth more.* If you send it to anyone else let me know first.
I have another story finished.** Am sending it tomorrow. Many thanks for the $1500.00
Scott Fitzg
Notes:
* “Outside the Cabinet Maker's,” Century Magazine, December 1928; sold for $150.
** “Magnetism,” The Saturday Evening Post, 3 March 1928.
253. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (AO)
December 31, 1927.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Ellerslie, Edgemoor, Del.
Dear Scott:
Thank you for sending me the letter from McKenzie. It is certainly an extraordinary letter for an editor to write. As I think you probably know, McKenzie is no longer with Hearst. *
What is the story of the de-educated girl that he speaks about? It sounds interesting and how is the new story for the Post coming along?
I am sorry to tell you that McCall's finally decided against the little sketch you sent me.** One of the editors told me that she thought it delightful and tried very hard to get it accepted. Costain asked me to let the Ladies Home Journal see it next and I therefore sent it on to Schuler, the new editor. I'll let you know what he decides about it.
Sincerely yours, [Harold Ober]
Notes:
* Vernon McKenzie, associate editor in chief of the International Magazine Company, had written Fitzgerald on 9 December suggesting that he be sent the MS of Fitzgerald's novel if Liberty rejected it. This new novel was the work in progress that became Tender Is the Night.
** “Outside the Cabinet Maker's.”
Fitzgerald's total earnings for 1927 were $29,737.81. He sold five stories, all to The Saturday Evening Post ($15,300). His Post price was raised to $3,500. Book earnings were $5,911.64, of which $5,752.06 was an advance against his next novel.
254. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 4 January 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT TWO HUNDRED TODAY AND WIRE ME AMOUNT I OWE YOU SENDING STORY TODAY. FITZGERALD.
255. From Mr. Paul Revere Reynolds To Fitzgerald
Wire draft (cc) to Fitzgerald 4 January 1928. (PU)
Depositing two hundred you owe two thousand one hundred seventyfive dollars.* Paul R. Reynolds.
Notes:
* An Ober note reads: “including the 200”.
256. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
January 13, 1928.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Ellerslie, Edgemoor, Del.
Dear Scott:
Costain writes me as follows about your story MAGNETISM:
“Dear Ober:
As I told you over the phone today, we are taking “Magnetism” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It is a splendidly handled story. We like it so much in fact that we hope Mr. Fitzgerald will decide to do at least one more short story before settling down to the final grind on the serial”.
Sincerely yours, [Harold Ober]
257. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 22 January 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU PLEASE POSSIBLY MAKE A DEPOSIT MONDAY MORNING SO THAT WITH WHATEVER DEPOSIT YOU HAVE MADE FROM POST RESIDUE TOTAL WILL AMOUNT TO SIX HUNDRED FITZGERALD.
258. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 23 January 1928. Montreal, Quebec* (AO)
KINDLY DISREGARD OTHER TELEGRAM AND MAKE NEWYORK DEPOSIT OF ONLY TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY AND TELEGRAPH THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY TO MY ACCOUNT IN THE EQUITABLE TRUST COMPANY OF WILMINGTON DELAWARE THIS MORNING VERY URGENT. SCOTT FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* In “Show Mr. and Mrs. F. to Number—” by F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, published in Esquire (May and June 1934), this trip is mentioned: “Next time we went, lost and driven now like the rest, it was a free trip north to Quebec. They thought maybe we'd write about it.”
259. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d., n.p.—January 1928. “Ellerslie” stationery. (AO)
Dear Harold:
Enclosed find story.* Perhaps if Post doesn't want it College Humor would give 3000.00
“De-educated girl” is an idea that happened to strike me in Mckenzies presense. I'll probably never begin it.
About Cream of the Jug.** From Carl Brandt*** I recieved a check for $25.00.1 supposed it was some small thing that he had arranged, that he had taken commission, + I thought no more about it. From what you say I gather it came thru him by accident + he took no commission. So please debit me with the 10%
Many thanks for all the advances. I hope this story will cover them
Scott Fitzg—
Notes:
* “The Scandal Detectives,” The Saturday Evening Post, 28 April 1928. The first Basil Duke Lee story.
** The Cream of the Jug, ed. Grant Overton (New York: Harper, 1927), in which “The Pusher-in-the-Face” was reprinted.
*** Literary agent.
260. Account Statement by Ober
Typed Account, 1 p. From Reynolds office. (PU)
January 27, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq. In account with Paul R. Reynolds
1927 |
|
|
|
|
|
Aug. 25 |
Deposited in Guaranty Trust Co. of N. Y. |
500.00 |
500.00 |
|
|
Sept. 1 |
|
500.00 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
500.00 |
|
|
|
15 |
|
500.00 |
|
|
|
22 |
|
300.00 |
1800.00 |
|
|
Oct. 13 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
17 |
|
600.00 |
|
|
|
25 |
|
400.00 |
|
|
|
25 |
|
150.00 |
|
|
|
27 |
|
100.00 |
1450.00 |
|
|
Nov. 2 |
|
700.00 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
100.00 |
|
|
|
9 |
|
100.00 |
|
|
|
12 |
|
400.00 |
|
|
|
18 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
21 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
25 |
|
500.00 |
2200.00 |
|
|
Dec. 2 |
|
250.00 |
|
|
|
6 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
15 |
|
1500.00 |
|
|
|
21 |
|
300.00 |
|
|
|
28 |
|
200.00 |
2650.00 |
|
|
1928 |
|
|
|
|
|
Jan. 5 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
6 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
12 |
|
100.00 |
|
|
|
16 |
|
700.00 |
|
|
|
23 |
|
250.00 |
|
|
|
23 |
Telegraphed to Equitable Trust Co. Wilmington |
350.00 |
|
|
|
27 |
“ |
300.00 |
2100.00 |
|
|
|
Miscellaneous charges |
|
|
|
|
Typing |
The Love Boat |
8.08 |
|
|
|
“ |
The Bowl |
9.24 |
|
|
|
“ |
Outside Cab. Makers |
1.52 |
|
|
|
“ |
Magnetism |
9.24 |
|
|
|
Registering Assignment of copyright |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jacob's Ladder |
|
|
|
|
|
The Love Boat |
1.02 |
|
|
|
|
A Short Trip Home |
|
29.10 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
10729.10 |
|
CREDITS |
|
|
|
|
|
Received from Saturday Evening Post |
|
|
|
|
|
|
A Short Trip Home |
3500.00 |
|
|
|
|
The Bowl |
3500.00 |
|
|
|
|
Magnetism |
3500.00 |
|
|
|
Received from Metropolitan |
|
|
|
|
|
Newspaper Service |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Your Way and Mine |
153.82 |
|
|
|
Received from Golden Book |
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Pusher in the Face |
110.00 |
10763.82 |
|
|
|
Commission 10% |
|
1076.38 |
9687.44 |
|
|
|
|
Balance due |
|
1041.66 |
261. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d., n.p.—January/February 1928. “Eilerslie.” (AO)
Dear Harold:
Will you
(1.) Notice how I fixed Scandal Bk. (P. 3) (2.) Tell them about “sequel”
(3) Tell them I want proof
(4) Have last four pages [24 + 27] 24,25 + 27 retyped *
Ever Yrs. Scott Fitzg
Notes:
* Fitzgerald's revised pages of “The Scandal Detectives” are in the Anne Ober papers.
262. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 2 February 1928. “Ellerslie” stationery. (AO)
Dear Harold.
Many things.
(1st) I will immediately do another Post story
(2nd) Thanks for deposits
(3d) Can you deposit $1000 more on reciept of this letter. That will make $2000 I owe you but I have an idea + will finish story in a week
(4th) Please debit me with $2.50 in that Brandt business. You made the sale.
(5th) My wife got $300. apiece for articles she wrote entirely herself for College Humor + Harpers Bazarre. The editors knew this but insisted my name go on them with her. This is to explain why they weren't sent to you. She dealt with Towne + Swanson herself.
(6th) The man who wrote Coquette had obviously studied The Jellybean which was the first story to really recreate the modern southern belle. [Y] Do you think some live movie agent like Packard for instance, on the spot, could horn in on some of the success of Coquette by trying to sell The Jellybean?
Yrs F. Scott Fitzgerald
263. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 10 February 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
STARTED STORY TODAY CAN YOU POSSIBLY DEPOSIT SEVEN HUNDRED
SCOTT FITZGERALD.
264. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 24 February 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
WILL TRY TO GET STORY TO YOU BY MONDAY NIGHT SORRY ABOUT DELAY
SCOTT FITZGERALD.
265. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
February 24, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq. Ellerslie Edgemoor, Delaware
Dear Scott:
I have your telegram and I am glad there is a chance of the story getting in by Monday night. If it does, we can get it ready to give to Costain on Tuesday. They are anxious to get the story, as they have a place for a lead story in one of their early numbers.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
266. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 28 February 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT THREE HUNDRED TODAY OR TOMORROW STORY UP WEDNESDAY SURE SCOTT FITZGERALD *
Notes:
* An Ober note reads: “How much now?”
267. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 10 March 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
BRINGING MANUSCRIPT UP TODAY CAN YOU LUNCH WITH ME
SCOTT FITZGERALD
268. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 11 March 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
SENDING STORY OFF THIS MORNING CONSIDERABLY IMPROVED IN FACT I THINK IT IS NOW VERY GOOD CAN YOU POSSIBLY DEPOSIT CASH INSTEAD OF A CHECK THIS MORNING F SCOTT FITZGERALD.
269. To Ober
Wire to Ober 18 March 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
DEAR HAROLD MY INCOME TAX CHECK IS DUE IN NEWYORK TOMORROW MONDAY CAN YOU POSSIBLY DEPOSIT THREE. HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS TO KEEP ME OUT OF JAIL STOP ALSO COULD I COUNT ON ABOUT TWELVE HUNDRED BEING DEPOSITED SAY WEDNESDAY OR HAD I BETTER SAY THURSDAY STOP WORKING ON STORY AND WILL TRY TO GET IT TO YOU THIS WEEK STOP YOURS IMPROVIDENTLY AS USUAL F SCOTT FITZGERALD.
270. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 March 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
THIS SUPPLEMENTS PREVIOUS NIGHTLETTER CAN YOU POSSIBLY DEPOSIT FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY INSTEAD OF THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY TODAY SCOTT FITZGERALD.
271. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 8 April 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
HAVE DECIDED TO GO TO FRANCE FOR THREE MONTHS AS I TOLD YOU IN OUR TALK FRIDAY CAN YOU DEPOSIT FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS CASH MONDAY MORNING HAVE THE FIRST STORY* AT THE TYPISTS NOW AND SHOULD BE OFF BY TUESDAY AFTERNOON AND I SHALL DO AT LEAST ONE MORE BEFORE WE SAIL WHICH ACCORDING TO PRESENT PLANS WILL BE THE TWENTY FIRST THIS MONTH SCOTT FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* Probably “The Freshest Boy,” The Saturday Evening Post, 28 July 1928—the third Basil story.
272. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 12 April 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
SEND FIRST STORY THIS AFTERNOON CAN YOU DEPOSIT ONE HUNDRED FIFTY AND WIRE ME WHAT TOTAL THAT MAKES SCOTT FITZGERALD.
273. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 13 April 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
NO ANSWER WAS DEPOSIT ALL RIGHT AM BRINGING STORY PERSONALLY TOMORROW SCOTT FITZGERALD.
274. Account Statement by Ober
Typed account, 1 p. From Reynolds office. (PU)
April 17, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald In Account with Paul R. Reynolds
|
Balance due as per statement January 27, 1928 |
|
1041.66 |
February 3 |
Guaranty Trust Co. |
1000.00 |
|
10 |
“ “ “ |
700.00 |
|
18 |
“ “ “ |
200.00 |
|
|
|
|
1900.00 |
March 1 |
“ “ “ |
300.00 |
|
3 |
“ “ “ |
100.00 |
|
10 |
“ “ “ |
200.00 |
|
15 |
“ “ “ |
100.00 |
|
20 |
“ “ “ |
450.00 |
|
21 |
“ “ “ |
1200.00 |
|
30 |
“ “ “ |
550.00 |
|
|
|
|
2900.00 |
April 6 |
|
200.00 |
|
9 |
|
400.00 |
|
12 |
|
150.00 |
|
17 |
|
300.00 |
|
|
|
|
1050.00 |
|
Typing The Scandal Detective |
8.10 |
8.10 |
|
|
|
6899.76 |
|
CREDITS |
|
|
|
Received from Saturday Evening Post For |
|
|
|
The Scandal Detective |
3500.00 |
|
|
Received from Metropolitan News Service |
|
|
|
Additional Collections |
|
|
|
Rags-Martin Jones |
1.50 |
|
|
|
3501.50 |
|
|
Less commission 10% |
350.15 |
3151.35 |
|
Due Paul R. Reynolds |
|
3748.41 |
In April 1928 the Fitzgeralds sailed for Europe, where they rented an apartment in the rue Vaugirard, Paris. Seeking an outlet for her own creativity, Zelda began studying ballet with Madame Lubov Egorova.
275. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 2 May 1928. Paris. (AO)
STORY FINISHED PLEASE CANCEL PREARRANGMENT AND DEPOSIT THREEHUNDRED FITZGERALD.
276. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 3 May 1928. Paris. (AO)
STORY PRECEEDS FRESHEST BOY. *
Notes:
* “A Night at the Fair,” The Saturday Evening Post, 21 July 1928—the second Basil story.
277. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d.,n.p.—c. May 1928. Paris. (AO)
Dear Harold:
I hope to God the Post waited for this before scheduling The Fresh Boy. If they didn't they might add a note:
This adventure of Basil Lee's chronologically preceeds The Fresh Boy which because of a delay in the mails was printed several weeks ago.
If they didn't wait + you sell it to College Humor change
[Basil Duke Lee] Hubert Blair to Dudly Kimball
[Hubert Blair] Basil Duke Lee “ Howard Choate Coy
Elwood Learning “ Bill Cary
Riply–Buckner “ Fletcher Monroe
***
Sorry I've been such a beggar. Will write more fully tomorrow as I'm trying to catch a boat with this
Yours Ever Scott F.—
278. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 May 1928. Paris. (AO)
FINE STORY MAILED WEDNESDAY CAN YOU DEPOSIT ONEHUNDREDFIFTY HOPE YOU GAVE INFORMATION POST. FITZGERALD.
279. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 28 May 1928. Paris. (AO)
IF YOU RECEIVED STORY CAN YOU DEPOSIT ONEFIFTY MONDAY AND THREEHUNDRED MORE JUNE FIRST. FITZGERALD.
280. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
June 1, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq. c/o Guaranty Trust Co. Paris, France
Dear Scott:
I have the new story, A NIGHT AT THE FAIR, and I have had it typed and it is going on to Costain tonight.
It is all right about THE FRESHEST BOY. They are holding it up and they understand that this new story is to be published first. I liked the story very much indeed and I think the Post will like it.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
281. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 3 June 1928. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
TWO MORE CHAPTERS FINISHED ALL COMPLETED AUGUST * CAN YOU DEPOSIT ONEFIFTY AT ONCE AND ONETHOUSAND WHEN STORY IS PAID.
Notes:
* Refers to progress on the novel that became Tender Is the Might.
282. To Ober
ALS (pencil), 1 p. n.d., n.p.—received 4 June 1928. Paris. (AO)
Dear Harold
Zelda wrote this * for a [sydi] syndicate feature of Wheelers but it got to Wheeler a month too late, after he'd got someone else.
Could you get a few hundred for it, do you think?
Let me know.
Scott
Notes:
* “Who Can Fall in Love After Thirty?” College Humor, October 1928.
283. To Fitzgerald
Wire (cc) to Fitzgerald 5 June 1928. From Ober. (PU)
DEPOSITING ONEFIFTY TODAY THOUSAND THIRTEENTH STORY ACCEPTED.
284. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
June 5, 1928 F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq. c/o Guaranty Trust Co. Paris, France
Dear Scott:
The Post are taking A NIGHT AT THE FAIR. Costain says they would like to have another story in this series, if you decide to write another one.
I am glad you are getting along so well with the novel.
You might let me know when you have a permanent address. In the meantime I will continue to address you at the bank.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
285. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 June 1928. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
PIRATE FINE * PLEASE DEPOSIT FIVEHUNDRED SATURDAY.
Notes:
* Wallace Dickson and Gordon M. Leland were interested in doing a musical comedy version of “The Offshore Pirate.” The show was not produced.
286. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc) 1 p. (AO)
June 26, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., c/o Guaranty Trust Company, Paris, France.
Dear Scott:
I am enclosing a copy of the option on the musical comedy rights to THE OFF SHORE PIRATE. If this is all right, will you sign this copy and return it to me? I signed one copy for you so that the authors-could get to work on the story.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
287. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 26 June 1928. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
WRITING STORY CAN YOU DEPOSIT TWO HUNDRED IMMEDIATELY.
288. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 1 July 1928. Paris. (AO)
STORY FINISHED * WILL TRY CATCH MONDAY BOAT WITH IT CAN YOU POSSIBLY DEPOSIT FIVE HUNDRED IMMEDIATELY FITZGERALD
Notes:
* Probably “He Thinks He's Wonderful,” The Saturday Evening Post, 29 September 1928.
289. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 7 July 1928. Paris. (AO)
STORY SENT CAN YOU POSSIBLY DEPOSIT THREE HUNDRED IMMEDIATELY. FITZGERALD.
290. To Ober
ALS, 1 p. n.d.—received 4 August 1928. (AO)
58 Rue de Vangirard, Paris
Dear Harold:
Terrible catastrophe—I tore up the contract + put the envelope in my pocket.* I'm awfully sorry I pieced it together—here it is. God help me. Sorry the story was delayed. With it ready to mail + wiring you that it was mailed I began to tinker with it + finally rewrote it. It is a wee bit disjointed, but a nessessary part of the series. Have no idea of what I owe you. Please tell me.
Novel nearly finished. Working like mad. Back in Sept.
As Ever Scott Fitzg—
Couldn't I do some of the lyrics if I'm back in September? Better not suggest it on 2nd thot as they're all jealous as hell.
Notes:
* Contract for musical version of “The Offshore Pirate.”
291. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 6 August 1928. Paris. (AO)
IF STORY RECEIVED CAN YOU DEPOSIT FOUR HUNDRED IMMEDIATELY IF NOT WILL YOU WIRE FITZGERALD
292. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (AO)
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., c/o Guaranty Trust Company, Paris, France
August 8, 1928
Dear Scott:
Thank you for your note and for your story, HE THINKS HE'S WONDERFUL. It is a very attractive story and I am sure The Post will want it. I think you will have to write two or three more of these stories for I shall never be satisfied until I hear more about Basil, and I think everyone who reads the stories feels the same way. They will make an exceedingly interesting book, I think.
Thank you for the signed contracts of THE OFF SHORE PIRATE. I hope something will come of this, but you have had enough experience with the theatre to know that it is not safe to count too much on a play until it is actually on Broadway and earning money.
When you have any of the novel to send on, I hope you will do so as I know you will be keen to get it out as soon as possible in book form. The sooner we get some of the manuscript the quicker we can arrange serialization.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
I'll have the bookkeeper make out an account to send you. This is in response to your request to know just how you stand. Maxwell Perkins is back from his vacation [The postscript was added in pencil.]
293. Account statement by Ober
Typed account, 1 p. From Reynolds office. (PU)
August 6, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald In account with Paul R. Reynolds
1928 |
|
|
|
|
|
Jan. |
27 |
Balance due Paul R. Reynolds (last statement sent) |
|
1041.66 |
|
Feb. |
3 |
Guaranty Trust Company |
1000.00 |
|
|
|
10 |
|
700.00 |
|
|
|
18 |
|
200.00 |
1900.00 |
|
Mar. |
1 |
|
300.00 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
100.00 |
|
|
|
10 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
15 |
|
100.00 |
|
|
|
21 |
|
1200.00 |
|
|
|
20 |
|
450.00 |
|
|
|
30 |
|
550.00 |
2900.00 |
|
Apr. |
6 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
|
9 |
|
400.00 |
|
|
|
12 |
|
150.00 |
|
|
|
17 |
|
300.00 |
|
|
|
20 |
|
2000.00 |
|
|
|
20 |
|
350.00 |
3400.00 |
|
May |
2 |
|
300.00 |
|
|
|
18 |
|
150.00 |
|
|
|
22 |
|
50.00 |
|
|
|
23 |
|
50.00 |
550.00 |
|
June |
1 |
|
450.00 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
150.00 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
150.00 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
350.00 |
|
|
|
23 |
|
500.00 |
|
|
|
26 |
|
200.00 |
2300.00 |
|
July |
2 |
|
500.00 |
|
|
|
9 |
|
300.00 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
100.00 |
|
|
|
30 |
|
200.00 |
|
|
Aug. |
6 |
|
400.00 |
1500.00 |
12550.00 |
|
|
Typing |
|
|
|
|
|
The Scandal Detective |
8.10 |
|
|
|
|
The Freshest Boy |
8.40 |
|
|
|
|
A Night at the Fair |
6.40 |
|
|
|
|
Falling in Love After 30 |
1.00 |
|
|
|
|
Register Assign. Copyr. |
|
|
|
|
|
The Bowl - Magnetism |
1.05 |
24.95 |
13616.61 |
CREDITS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rec'd from Sat. Eve. Post For |
|
|
|
|
|
The Scandal Detective |
3500.00 |
|
|
|
|
Less Commission |
|
3150.00 |
|
|
|
The Freshest Boy |
3500.00 |
|
|
|
|
“ “ |
|
3150.00 |
|
|
|
A Night at the Fair |
3 500.00 |
|
|
|
|
“ “ |
|
3150.00 |
|
|
|
Met. News. Serv. |
|
|
|
|
|
Your Way & Mine |
15.00 |
|
|
|
|
“ “ |
|
13.50 |
9463.50 |
|
|
|
|
|
4153.11 |
|
|
Less English sale for |
|
|
|
|
|
Magnetism |
|
|
86.94 |
|
|
Balance due Paul R. Reynolds |
|
|
4066.17 |
294. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 10 August 1928. Paris. (AO)
DOING NEW BASEL LEE STORY IMMEDIATELY * CAN YOU DEPOSIT THREE HUNDRED MORE ON WEDNESDAY
FITZGERALD
MM QY BASIL.
Notes:
* “The Captured Shadow,” The Saturday Evening Post, 29 December 1928.
295. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
August 13, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., c/o Guaranty Trust Company, Paris, France
Dear Scott:
I am sorry I haven't had better luck with the two short things you sent us. Failing better prices elsewhere, I have had to sell OUTSIDE THE CABINET MAKER'S to The Century for $150.00, and that article entitled WHO CAN FALL IN LOVE AFTER THIRTY to College Humor for $200.00. The Century will publish your article in their December number. We haven't as yet received the money for either of these.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
296. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 1 September 1928. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
CAN YOU DEPOSIT FIVE STORY FINISHED.
297. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 5 September 1928. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
PLEASE DEPOSIT TWO IMMEDIATELY URGENT STORY SENT.
298. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 6 September 1928. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
PLEASE DEPOSIT TWO MORE STORY SENT.
299. To Fitzgerald
Wire (cc) to Fitzgerald 18 September 1928. From Ober. (PU)
DEPOSITING ONE HUNDRED FIFTY STORY UNRECEIVED DID YOU MAIL.
300. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 24 September 1928. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
VICCISITUDES DELAYED STORY AT LAST MOMENT WAS FINALLY MAILED THIS MORNING MARKED FOR LEVIATHAN SORRY SAILING TWENTYNINTH
In October 1928 the Fitzgeralds returned to “Ellerslie” to finish out their lease.
301. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 1 October 1928. From Fitzgerald. Paris. (AO)
ARRIVING OCTOBER SEVENTH WITH SIXTH BASIL STORY * CAN YOU DEPOSIT EIGHT HUNDRED ON RECEIPT OF FIFTH STORY OCTOBER FIRST OBLIGATIONS FOR SEVENTEEN HUNDRED ADDITIONAL WILL COME DUE OCTOBER FIFTH CAN YOU MAKE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH POST TO HANDLE THIS WIRE ME STEAMSHIP CARMANIA
Notes:
* “The Perfect Life,” The Saturday Evening Post, 5 January 1929.
302. From Mr. Paul Revere Reynolds To Fitzgerald
TL(cc), 2 pp. (PU)
October 10, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq., Ellerslie, Edgemoor, Del.
Dear Mr. Fitzgerald:
Ober is home with an attack of the grippe, so I am writing you a line. Harry Burton, who used to be the editor of McCall's Magazine and is now editing the Hearst newspapers, told me that he wanted to get you to write a story which he would call HIP POCKETS, dealing with the flasks which young people often carry about. He would want a story not longer than fifty thousand words, and he said he would pay fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000.) for it, and he said he would want an option on the motion picture rights at fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.).
I agreed that I would lay this before you because I feel bound to lay any such thing before you, as you would probably want to know about it, and also because I am doing business with Burton.
Burton said, also, that he would like to have a synopsis, or know something about the story, before confirming this offer.
There are two or three considerations. In the first place, you might possibly not want to write such a story, anyway. Secondly, it is a question of whether we couldn't get more money from some other magazine. A full length serial by you would be worth thirty-five thousand dollars ($35,000.). I believe that is what Liberty was willing to pay for the serial you are at present writing, and I suppose for a story like this, for them or somebody else, they might be willing to pay twenty thousand dollars ($20,000.) for, so I am not in the least urging this, I am only laying this before you as I promised Burton I would.
You might let me know your reply. *
Yours sincerely, [Paul Revere Reynolds]
Notes:
* Nothing came of this proposition.
303. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 15 October 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
STORY AT TYPIST BRINGING IT UP WEDNESDAY FITZGERALD.
304. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 October 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
PLEASE DEPOSIT ONE FIFTY BRINGING STORY TOMORROW OR SATURDAY
FITZGERALD.
305. Account Statement by Ober
Typed account, 1 p. From Reynolds office. (PU)
October 23, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald In Account with Paul R. Reynolds
Statement August 6, 1928 |
|
|
||
|
|
Balance due Paul R. Reynolds |
|
4066.17 |
CHARGES |
|
|
|
|
August |
11 |
Guaranty Trust Co. |
300.00 |
|
|
16 |
“ “ |
500.00 |
|
|
20 |
“ “ |
300.00 |
|
|
25 |
“ “ |
400.00 |
1500.00 |
Sept. |
4 |
“ “ |
500.00 |
|
|
5 |
“ “ |
200.00 |
|
|
5 |
“ “ |
200.00 |
|
|
18 |
“ “ |
600.00 |
1500.00 |
Oct. |
2 |
“ “ |
800.00 |
|
|
5 |
“ “ |
1700.00 |
|
|
11 |
“ “ |
150.00 |
|
|
16 |
“ “ |
100.00 |
|
|
18 |
“ “ |
150.00 |
2900.00 |
|
|
Typing |
|
|
|
|
He Thinks He's Wonderful |
7.98 |
|
|
|
The Captured Shadow |
9.57 |
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|
|
Registering Assignment of Copyright |
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|
|
|
The Scandal Detective |
2.05 |
19.60 |
Oct. |
9 |
Cash advanced |
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55.00 |
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|
|
|
10040.77 |
CREDITS |
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|
|
|
|
|
Century Magazine |
|
|
|
|
Outside the Cabinet Makers |
150.00 |
|
|
|
Saturday Evening Post |
|
|
|
|
He Thinks He's Wonderful |
3500.00 |
|
|
|
The Captured Shadow |
3500.00 |
|
|
|
College Humor |
|
|
|
|
Who Can Fall in Love After Thirty |
200.00 |
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|
|
|
7350.00 |
|
|
|
Commission 10% |
735.00 |
6615.00 |
|
|
Balance due. |
|
3425.77 |
|
|
10/23 |
|
200- |
|
|
|
|
3625.77 |
306. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 24 October 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
MISSED TRAIN ARRIVE ABOUT THREE THIRTY TERRIBLY SORRY FITZGERALD *
Notes:
* An Ober note reads: “he came in at 4.30 HO”.
307. To Fitzgerald
TL (cc), 1 p. (PU)
November 9, 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Esq. Ellerslie Edgemoor, Delaware
Dear Scott:
The Post are delighted that you are working on another Basil Lee story and Mr. Lorimer says that he hopes you will finish the Basil stories before you go on with other stories. If you feel like writing another story in the series after you have finished the one you are working on, I would go ahead and do it. If, however, you feel tired of the series, I would drop it.
Yours sincerely, [Harold Ober]
308. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 11 November 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
STORY ALMOST FINISHED * CAN YOU DEPOSIT ONE THOUSAND
FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* Probably “The Last of the Belles,” The Saturday Evening Post, 2 March 1929.
309. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 22 November 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
SORRY ABOUT DELAY IN STORY IT HAS STRETCHED INTO WHAT MAY SELL FOR A TWO PARTER AND SHOULD BE IN NEW-YORK MONDAY OR AT THE LATEST TUESDAY CAN YOU POSSIBLE DEPOSIT FIVE HUNDRED FITZGERALD.
310. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 29 November 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
WILL BE IN WITH NEW STORY EARLY THIS AFTERNOON * FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* An Ober note reads: “He came in HO”.
311. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 9 December 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
I HAVE ACCIDENTALLY OVERDRAWN MY ACCOUNT DOWN HERE I HATE TO BOTHER YOU BUT CAN YOU WIRE FIVE HUNDRED TO MY ACCOUNT AT THE EQUITABLE TRUST WILMINGTON DEL
F SCOTT FITZGERALD.
312. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 18 December 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
STARTING STORY * CAN YOU DEPOSIT THREE FIFTY FITZGERALD.
Notes:
* Possibly “Forging Ahead,” The Saturday Evening Post, 30 March 1929.
313. To Reynolds office
Wire to Reynolds office 30 December 1928. Wilmington, Del. (AO)
STORY UNDER WAY CAN YOU DEPOSIT THREE FITZGERALD.
Fitzgerald's total earnings for 1928 were $25,732.96. He sold seven stories to The Saturday Evening Post ($22,050). His income from books was $2,272.96—of which $2,129.03 was a further advance against his next novel.
WHO'S WHO
Harold Ober (1881–1959) was Fitzgerald’s agent for magazine writings. Most of Fitzgerald’s income came from the magazines, and through Ober’s efforts The Saturday Evening Post paid Fitzgerald his peak price of $4,000 per story in 1929. Ober received a ten-percent fee. The Ober-Fitzgerald financial relationship was complex with Ober acting as Fitzgerald’s banker, making interest-free loans against unsold and even unwritten stories. The Obers became Scottie’s surrogate parents during her prep-school and Vassar years. Fitzgerald broke with Ober in 1939 over the agent’s refusal to commence a new cycle of loans after Fitzgerald had paid his debts.
Published as book in 1973.