Author who wrote only one novel—the classic and immensely popular Gone With the Wind—a best-seller which won her the 1937 Pulitzer Prize and became one of the most popular films of all time. She was killed prematurely by a speeding car which struck her as she was crossing a street with her husband. TLS signed “Margaret,” two pages, 7.25 x 11, personal letterhead, March 19, 1938. Letter to a friend. In full, “We are leaving for Florida tonight and probably will be away until at least the middle of April, when, worse luck, I must return. In a weak moment I promised to do something for the Dane who won my Danish publisher's 'Gone With The Wind' contest. The prize was a trip to New York and Atlanta, so I will have to return and take him to Jonesboro and Kennesaw Mountain. He has been studying English for several months but confesses he cannot understand American at all. This will make things very jolly for everyone. There is a Viking Society here in Atlanta composed of Scandinavians. Pray God there is a Dane amongst them! So, picture me with the Dane, local historians, an assortment of Swedes and Norwegians and probably photographer sand reporters from the local papers, trying to explain troop movements around Jonesboro. Misery loves company and that is why I cannot feel too dreadfully sorry about the jump in your mail since the Holland's article. I really do feel sorry, for I know how hopeless and maddening such correspondence is. But, as I remarked above, it is pleasant to have company, and such good company! In the beginning I put my foot down flat on manuscripts. If an envelope is suspiciously thick I do not open it. John or my secretary opens it and we try to have witnesses to prove that I never read it and that it was returned immediately. While I do not imagine I will be doing any more writing, I do not want to give anyone the chance to hold me up on a plagiarism charge. What these writers do not understand or do not care to understand is that to do a conscientious job on a novel manuscript takes about six months. When you have finished the novel doesn't belong to a writer, as it has been practically rewritten. Sometimes I feel guilty at my conduct in this matter, for I have been so fortunate. However, I steel myself with the memory that I not only did not ask anyone to assist me but fought violently against letting even close friends read as much as a line. No, I hadn't heard the good news about Marjorie Rawlings' new novel, but I am very happy to know that the Book-of-the-Month Club has chosen it, and I will buy it as soon as it comes out. If it's even half as good as 'South Moon Under' I know I will like it a lot. Best to you, (signed) Margaret." The postscript reads: "P. S. You can expect your Holland's mail to go on for at least forty years. The magazine will be in public libraries and attics and would-be writers will stumble upon it and write to you. Sometimes I ponder on whither civilization is drifting." Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. In fine condition. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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