To Archibald Ogden [Letter 345]

June 26, 1948

Dear Archie:

This is to tell you in person that our child—THE FOUNTAINHEAD—is going on the screen at last. You have probably read about it in the papers, but I thought I should tell you myself. I have just finished writing the final screenplay for Warner Bros., and it has been completed in a blaze of glory. Everyone is very happy about it, both the studio and myself. If all goes well, as it has so far, the picture will be great.

The actual shooting is scheduled to start on July 8th. The director is King Vidor, one of the best in the business. The star is Gary Cooper who, as you may remember, has always been my ideal for the part. Dominique is to be played by Patricia Neal, a new young actress from the stage. I will know about the rest of the cast in a few days. Wynand will probably be Raymond Massey, but that is not completely official yet.

Do you remember that you promised me a letter? But I said I would forgive you anything, and I shall always be running after you, if you want me to. (I ought to say that with a smile, but I don’t know how to convey a smile on paper.) Do let me hear from you, and if you want the details about our child’s screen incarnation, I will keep you informed. It’s going to be very exciting.

With best regards from both of us to both of you—and all my love as always,

P. S. Would you please give me your home address and phone number, if you have one. I can see no better way to spend my Hollywood income than by indulging myself in the luxury of an occasional long-distance call to you.