TLS: Thursday, July 24, 1919

Provincetown, Mass.
July 24, 1919.

My dear Madden:

Bennett sounds good to me. He is a splendid actor when given the chance, and seems like the best bet now that J.B. is barred. How if Williams gets an honest-to-God actress for Ruth and a he-man for Andrew -- what ho! All's well!

It's a grand and glorious feeling to know the play will go on so soon. I've written Williams on the subject of my presence at rehearsals. They will come at an awkward time. To be quite frank, an heir to this branch of the O'Neills is expected at about that period, and you can understand my desire to remain at home as much as possible. I've always had every confidence in Williams as a producer of plays he really likes, so I'm not afraid anything would be sneaked over if I were absent a good part of the rehearsals. What do you think?

You want to handle the book end of my plays, don't you? Or do you? If you do, what arrangement would be made between us regarding the existing contract? Liveright wants to publish both "B.T.H." and Chris", I believe, simultaneously with their production. He has been waiting for dope from me as to which would be produced first before going ahead. Will you phone or write him and get him down to cases? Also, will you get the script of the play from him -- (B.T.H.) -- and send it to me so I can go over it carefully with its book form in view?

I can't understand the action of the Theatre Guild bunch. There must be some mistake. Or perhaps they are sore? But at what? I've certainly fulfilled the letter of my promise to submit the play to them for a reading. If you or I don't hear from them in explanation of their discourtesy, I shall certainly take pen in hand on this which would clear up matters. They may have heard that Williams had decided to take it. Some of that crowd know him pretty well.

So Williams mentioned Adams? If she gave it out cold and clammy that she would do the play as soon as well enough, it might be worth while waiting. Or would it? What other prospect, if W. can't make it, have you in view?

With very best regards,

Very sincerely yours,

Eugene G. O'Neill.

P.S. I don't owe you no good cigar! Those manuscript covers never arrived, and -- business of hinting -- they would be a help.