Emblematic of a charm readily associated with only the principals of Tinseltown, Audrey Hepburn (1929–1993) was the very definition of “star power.” She was grace. She was elegance. And as evidenced by this handwritten note, she was humble even as she embarked on what was certain to become a sensational career. Here offered is a three-page “thank you” letter (on two adjoining sheets) that was written to screenwriter Anita Loos in 1954. Using the day’s vernacular, Hepburn indicates that it would be most prudent for her to reply to cablegrams with “cables.” Apparently, this novel idea was introduced to Hepburn by composer/songwriter Cole Porter, as the starlet writes, “I do not think I ever really thanked you for your opening night cables. Dear Cole [Porter], when we were sitting chatting, and I told him how I had scribbled endless notes as I hate to type thanks, told me I should always return all my cables with cables, such a great thought, then all you dear people would not have had to wait all this time. Nevertheless thank you very very much, they meant more, than words or cables can say.” The letter is charmingly closed, “Love, XXX Audrey,” and every bit of Hepburn’s blue ink inscription projects wonderful strength. The opening night to which the message refers was likely that of the musical Ondine, which opened on Broadway on February 18, 1954 (and ran for 157 successful performances!). The 3.75 x 5.25 memo is dated May 20, 1954 and bears the ink stamp of the estate of Anita Loos on its last page (which bleeds slightly through to the opposing side). This heirloom exhibits a fine and clean appearance. PSA/DNA pre-approval and RRAuction COA.
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