Beschreibung:

3 Autograph Letters Signed ("Harry"), before he changed his name to Howard, 12 pp, 8vo, New York and London, February 11, 1947 to February 28, 1948, to Norma Jeane Dougherty/Marilyn Monroe, on "Hotel Paramount / New York" stationery, with 1 original transmittal envelope. Until these letters, little was known about film star Howard Keel's relationship with Marilyn Monroe except that they had dated a few times. Keel had originally met Norma Jeane when she was 15 years old, as he relays in his letter: "I had quite a liking for you deep down inside but being a ripe old 22 or so I felt I was a little old for you." He is thrilled that they have reconnected and has a good laugh at seeing her crowned as "The Artichoke Queen" in a publicity stunt. He gives her advice on her career and laments the problems he is facing with his own. In his second letter, Keel explains that he is going to London to perform in the role of Curly in the stage production of Oklahoma, of which he is "not too excited." This opportunity would turn out to be a huge break for his career. At some point between letters, the two got together, and Keel expresses his disappointment at not being able to see more of Monroe: "When I come home in June we'll have to have some fun & find out what there is between us." Obviously, nothing came of the relationship, but Keel has sweet words about their reunion when he writes, "It was wonderful to find you the same sweet person I knew before." Largest: 7.25 x 10.5 in.