DURRELL, Lawrence (1912-1990). Author.
Autograph Postcard Signed with initials ("L. D.") to P. Rodda.
Durrell writes about Mountolive: "there's a nibble for serial rights on this 3rd volume - hence the speed and jostle to finish it and deliver..."
Durrell writes regarding his recently completed novel, Mountolive, the third in the Alexandria Quartet, asking Rodda, the recipient, to send more “carbon” sheets for copying, with all haste: “Claude [Durrell’s third wife] is just finishing Mountolive - 140,000 words. 3 weeks night and day. Do you think you could send a whole box of Pelikan carbons largely marked SERVICE D’AUTEUR to avoid customs? French carbon is hell and comes off on everything.” He continues “there’s a nibble for serial rights on this 3rd volume - hence the speed and jostle to finish it and deliver…”
He also asks Rodda whether they can “trace” a book by Lord Frederick Hamilton (politician) titled “Vanished Pomps of Yesterday”, “or any other of his diplomatic memories”; and mentioning “Aldington” [likely Richard Aldington, poet and friend].
Durrell sent off proofs and carbons of Mountolive to a few people whose opinions he valued shortly after completion; it is to this frantic copying this letter doubtless refers.
In very good state.
