July 17, 1948.

Dear Mr. Hughes,

I've finally read your translation of Masters of The Dew-I had to wait for a copy of it-and found it most suggestive and helpful. Thanks for the recommendation; also for your good wishes on my play. I should like to say a few words about it.

I expect to have my revised version ready by the end of the month and submit it to my sponsor and backers. In its original form my script was read by John Latouche and Arnold Sundgaard. Their reaction comments sounded very much like those critics' quote plugs used in theatre box-ads. Pardon my immodesty, but I have an ulterior motive.

One of my principals is an American Negro. He sings some folk songs; also spirituals, but not of the conventional type, I hope. For example, in a prison cell-the entire play is largely the projection of his fantasies-he sings to the accompaniment of a guitar Claude McKay's poem"America". There are at least two or three other occasions for original lyrics suitable to your talents.

Should you be in the city by the end of the month I should like to forward you my revised script for your comments. Our subsequent association may be to our mutual profit.

Will you let me hear from you.

1 West 85th St.,
New York City.

Tr: 7-2674

Aug. 18, 1948.

Dear Mr. Hughes,

In accordance with your Secretary's letter of July 21st I'm mailing you my script of Skipper Noah. The prologue, as you will note, has several sequences relating to a Voudon ceremonial. In this connection I heard a few records of Harold Courlander, who wrote Haiti Singing. They were authentic, to be sure, as he recorded them himself. But they lacked dramatic effectiveness and volume, both in terms of choral voices and percussionals.

Possibly you know of other records, of French, African, or Spanish inspiration, that would serve these sequences to better advantage. It may be necessary, for the marts of Broadway, to use artistic renderings of such material, in the Primus and Dunham manner, and I'm not familiar with either of them. I should appreciate any suggestion you have to offer.

Please let me know your reaction to the play. Also, whether you'd like to write some of the lyrics. I have both a sponsor and backers. prospects of an early winter production are good.

Hoping to hear from you soon,

Tr: 7-2674.