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Typed Letter Signed, 1 page
Monday, December 16, 1918
West Point Pleasant
To Richard Madden

 

    Both Sheaffer and the Gelbs (in their respective biographies) state that Madden's first overtures to O'Neill came after a performance of THE MOON OF THE CARIBBEES. They describe Madden seeking out O'Neill to compliment him on his work, the two talking over dinner, and O'Neill asking Madden to become his agent. However, O'Neill's December 16th letter to Madden indicates that Madden had offered his services to O'Neill in writing prior to that occasion, and that the "after theatre" meeting had been prearranged.

Lock Box 18
West Point Pleasant,
New Jersey.

Mr Richard J. Madden,
American Play Company,
New York City.

My dear Mr Madden:

Through delay in forwarding your letter never reached me until this morning. The other letter you speak of never reached me at all. So much for the Provincetown Players as mail distributors!

I am not only not opposed to meeting an agent but extremely desirous of having a talk with one in a business way; and if I can add to this the pleasure of meeting you personally -- all the merrier!

I will arrive in New York Wednesday for a three day stay. Will call you up sometime that afternoon. In case you are out, will you leave word for me in your office what time on Thursday or Friday I can get in touch with you?

With kindest regards, I remain,

Very sincerely yours,

Eugene G. O'Neill.

December 16th
1918
 

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