Excellent ALS, four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 6.5, illustrated personal letterhead, July 12. Grey writes to a young female fan. In part: “But what a tremendous request to make! When I finish a novel it is ended. I left Light of Western Stars for all my readers to end to their own heart’s content. I have had hundreds of letters asking me to write a sequel to it. I am devoted to the wishes of my readers, but have never even dreamed of reviving Stewart and Madeline. I’ll tell you what I will do. If you, or any or all of your kind friends whose names you sent, will find me a stunning California girl for my motion-picture company, I will promise to write a sequel to Light of Western Stars. That is no light promise! My company is photographing my own stories, and we are doing it in a bigger finer way than any company I know of. It took us nine months to do Desert Gold. I have been distracted because motion-picture actresses make me sick. I want a Mercal, a Allie Lee, a Lucy Bostic, or a Madeline Hammond. That is to say I want a girl of good education, refinement, some one I can take into my own family, some one I would care to devote myself to developing into a suitable actress. Of course a girl for the movies must be pretty, and in my case she must be more. I am absolutely sure the girl I need is right here in California. If I ever find her I will make her fortune. Now if you and your friends care to win my everlasting gratitude, plus the sequel to Western Stars, find that girl for me.” After signing, he adds a postscript, which he signs with his initials: “I would be pleased to hear what you consider the possibilities are. I must not forget to add that this girl will be carefully chaperoned and trained.” A few chips and light marginal stains (the latter touching a few words), otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
