World War II-dated TLS signed "Margaret Mitchell Marsh," one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, April 16, 1941. Letter to Miss Woodall, referencing the screen version of her best-seller, in full: “I am sorry that I was not at home when you telephoned. As I am expecting momentarily to go out of town on business, I thought perhaps it would be best to write you instead of phoning you, because I might not find you at home, just as you found me away. I think you and the other girls are very sweet to want me to act as one of your sponsors. I feel sincerely flattered by this invitation, for such things mean more to me than you girls can ever know.
I am very sorry I cannot be your sponsor. If my situation were different, nothing could give me more pleasure. But my mail is heavy, my business affairs keep me constantly occupied and I am never certain when I will be in town. More than that, I have never made talks, even of an informal nature, except brief remarks on the occasion of the premiere of ‘Gone With the Wind.’ I must speak frankly, and I hope you girls will understand. I have been so busy in the past five years that I have been unable to accept any invitations to sponsor various classes in Atlanta schools. In some of these classes there were my own relatives, in others the children of my good friends. Of course I wanted to accept these invitations, but the pressure has been so heavy upon me that it was impossible. Now, having refused a number of invitations of this nature from friends, I cannot accept any, for I would not have those I had refused think I was slighting them. It was good of you to ask me and I thank you.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
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