A note from half a year earlier shows how Bemelmans had changed the visual direction of the book when he came upon an abrupt realization.
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Bemelmans' editor on the Madeline books was May Massee,
to whom Madeline and the Gypsies is dedicated. In this sampling
of five notes Bemelmans sent to Massee leading up to the deadline for the
final complete Madeline book, Madeline in London, we can see how
the last details were hammered out, sometimes testily. A note from half a year earlier shows how Bemelmans had changed the visual direction of the book when he came upon an abrupt realization. |
13 at Table
| (Text of note:) Dear May, until the 15th- Don't worry too much about the text - as much of it is changing - for example- when they get back to Paris Madeline says = "AT LAST we are able - To sit down without being thirteen at Table" Love Ludwig |
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As the scene appeared in the book, fourteen
at table.
Children, not Idiots
We are writing for Children but not for Idiots. We see the little girls left behind in Paris crying - we see them arrive in London- so the lines about invited them all with a single telephone call is superflous - please strike out. |
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It's 4 a.m.
12-- page 49 leave the present text Over the rest we are in agreement and I hope this leaves everyone happy- excuse this writing but its 4 a.m. and it has to get off & I can't use a typewriter for people are sleeping Toujours Ludwig |
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Madeline in London: a 'sick child'
PARIS 22.VI.61 Dear Marshall Dear May I sat up with this sick child all night--It cannot go to press as is--It has to be good--now lets see what we can do-- |
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Draft completed, child feels 'better now'
