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Beaton writes that he would be thrilled if Van Druten would direct the play for him. Aldrich and Myers would leave him carte blanche. Is going to do the decors for Quadrille, the best play Noel [Coward] has ever done, in his opinion, and a lovely opportunity for Alfred [Lunt] and Lynn [Fontanne].

Includes letters to many eminent persons.

32 autograph letters from Beaton to his family from abroad, 6 telegrams, 4 press cuttings, and 1 rough sketch of a dress.

Regrets not having been able to talk to Garbo before leaving New York. Examines his disappointment at what was said at their last meeting. Hopes that she will start to lead a fuller life.

Manuscript loose-leaf diary entry in Beaton's hand. Writes that he will spend ten minutes of his last evening on his voyage back to England recounting his recent trip to America. He arrived in New York very late in the winter, since the death of his brother Reggie in October 1933 had upset plans, and arrived for the first time without any feeling of expectancy. Felt that this year must surely be an anti-climax after the last one. But as he settled into a daily pattern, the enjoyment returned to him. The weeks passed in which he took photographs for 'Vogue'. Miss Bigger was a godsend and if for some reason she was unable to show in, the day was lost. He and his friends also attended many parties. The weeks rushed by and he was never alone, even while he was sleeping - there wasn't much time for sleep anyway. After David and Michael left, he felt very ill and run-down, without the health and energy for the arrival of Peter Watson (1908-1956), which was very exciting for him, since he and Peter had not been together in America for a long time. The doctor gave him injections, which left him feeling miserable. And in the midst of all of the headaches and upsets, he received a further shock from the terrible news that Lilyan Tashman (1896-1934) had died, which distressed him greatly. And when, after a rough crossing, Peter arrived a day late, Beaton was still a wreck when he went down to the docks to welcome him. Recounts the details of a trip with Peter, first to the southern states, then on to Haiti and Jamaica. On returning to New York, Beaton was very busy. During the last week, he did seventy-six costumes for a production of 'Romeo and Juliet', photographed madly and successfully, then attended the Open Ball. With two days of sleep on the boat, he has recovered from the strain. And so it is goodbye and good wishes and fond messages of farewell - he is satisfied that much has been achieved, but also conscious of Peter's criticism of him, namely that he is spiky with people whom he dislikes. And so he resolves to try to place a lighter price on himself when he returns to England, so that he does not lose Peter's respect.

Manuscript loose-leaf diary entry in Beaton's hand. Writes that he embarked for the country with joy and happiness. It was a relief to leave behind the complications of the city and the exhaustion that comes from too many people and too many parties. London has been very hot over the past week and on top of everything else, there has been some personal conflict to contend with as well. Recounts a difficult conversation with Peter Watson (1908-1956) and discusses his unrequited love and admiration for him.

Thanks him for the telegram. Hopes that he will "forgive an author's intransigence insisting upon painting in the background as well as the face".

Beaton writes that he has now a stage-worthy script of the Gainsborough Girls. Him, Aldrich and Myers want to put the play on in April. Glenville is not free before June as he has to stay for "Romeo and Juliet" with Olivia de Havilland so they asked Peter Brook instead, but he is busy too. They met Marianne Davis who promised they could have the Duke of York's Theatre for the opening if they are ready soon. Beaton feels Gainsborough should not be played by a star as "it is really a play about the two daughters and their love affair with Angus." He discusses potential actors (H. Griffith, H. Horden, Laurence Hardy) and directors (Glen Byam Shaw, Frith Banbury, Peter Potter, Ken Tynan). Beaton is very anxious not to delay the play any further and slightly worried about Aldrich and Myers. He decided to make the décor for the City Centre Ballet of Swan Lake.

Tells Garbo how 'delightful' the photo he took of her at their 'last luncheon' looks. Describes Spring in the countryside, including a picnic at Romsey College in a blue bell wood and gardens of azalea, rhododendron and camellia. Wishes Garbo was in England. News that the headmaster of Romsey College is appearing at the Winchester assizes. Mentions that the vicar and his wife came to tea. Writes that he is going to walk the dog with a young man who has been giving him advice about playwriting. Dislikes the prospect of returning to London the following day. Some pages missing?