TLS signed “Papa,” one page, 8.5 x 11, Finca Vigia letterhead, February 9, 1954. Letter to "Peter," probably the novelist and screenwriter Peter Viertel, in part: "Here our life she has been rugged. Miguel called up and turned up about ten days ago. He said you treated him wonderfully and has great admiration for B. He was only going to stay 6 or 8 days. But I think he got to like the simplicity of our life which could be combined with the long distance telephone to all continents plus le staying out all night. Last night for instance he was going to a simple little affair like the closing of the Binealle Art Exposition with the Conde de Foxa leading Spanish Franco man at the Embassy who he'd invited out to lunch. Had invited Batista too but he couldn't come on acct. of the elections and we have so much shrubbery…Maybe after write this swim in pool. Have to swim for conscience sake. I like Miguel very much and he is a hell of a nice guy. He is trying to help me get over my wanting to work which he considers sort of an obsession which in a man of my natural talents tastes and capabilities could be cured. Might be eminently possible. But I sort of doubt it. Pete come down any time you want. We won't talk the picture. Just give me the gen on when and how. I called the Africa deal off when there was an announcement put out that never mentioned documentary and said I was going to write an original script and 'act' in it. The true idea and proposition was an ok one. Gen on Africa very bad now…
If my pals, NOT YOU, you're welcome as I wrote, come around this joint much more I will be death house material too. Am going to learn to be ruthless. Actually Miguel has been a very good boy; he knows I am working and keeps out of the way and I treat him like Mr. Bumby. He's good company and the most articulate matador I've ever known. He is very fond of you and that makes me fond of him. I wish we could fix it so he could drive John crazy in a picture. That would be one for you to write about. Think he could do it too. You know when anything gets really bad and going to hell you just relax and ride it out and then start punching…Expect you any time. The moon is full and there should be fish running as it wanes. Only thing is hurricanes that bitch everything. Been four so far but all gone up the gulf stream. I shouldn't gamble with my back on a big fish this year. Swim a 440 every day and was in fine shape until the peoples came and killed me. Maybe all for the best. You asked where would go if couldn't take it here. Off the stern of the Pilar, slipped, and down 800 fathoms. Right now that is a nicer place." He adds a handwritten postscript about his wife, "Mary well and happy and exemplary in behavior. Sends love." In fine condition.
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