(8vo) original cloth. 25th printing (same year as first).
An early printing of one of the great American novels of the 20th century. Includes a typed letter, signed, from Mitchell to Professor John W. Draper at West Virginia University, dated July 26, 1937 on her personal stationery, in full: "My dear Professor Draper: Thank you so very much for the many kind things you wrote about my novel. Thank you so very much for praising Melanie. So many of my readers overlook her because the flamboyance of Scarlett casts her in the shade. I am so glad you thought her "a great lady" indeed. I appreciate your interest in the matter of the French translation of "Gone With the Wind" and I am flattered that you took the trouble to write to Professor Dottin about it. I realize how much of the flavor of a book can be lost in translation and I sincerely hope that the French version of my book is an excellent one. However, I have no say in the matter, as I have put the sales of foreign rights and translations in the hands of an agent, Miss Marion Saunders, 27 East 35th Street, New York. I believe she is at present negotiating with a French publisher, so, may I suggest that you or Professor Dottin get into connection with her. Thanks again for your fine letter. Cordially, Margaret Mitchell Marsh (Mrs. John R. Marsh)." Also included is a typed letter signed, dated September 10, 1971, from Olivia de Haviland who portrayed Melanie Hamilton in the 1939 film. In full: "Dear Professor Draper, It has distressed me that my unusually heavy domestic obligations have made it difficult for me to write to you. Even though you have not heard from me, I am sure you understand how much I appreciated your kindness in sending me your perceptive article concerning Gone With the Wind, which, together with a copy of Margaret Mitchell's letter to you of July 26th, 1937, appeared in the University Bulletin. Your penetrating comments regarding the character of Melanie were of special interest to me, of course. This brings you my grateful good wishes, my kindest regards, Yours sincerely, Olivia de Haviland."