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Astaire, Fred (1899-1987) dancer, singer, actor and choreographer
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Autograph letter to Beaton, from Beverly Hills, California

Discusses Beaton's article. Discusses changes to be made. Does not drink 'hard alcohol', only wine. Has not had a face-lift and is trying to 'grow old gracefully'. Discusses Beaton's liking for females who try to 'make it' in theatre and end up by being a 'flop'. Is staying with Fed (Astaire) and mother. Fred has finished filming "Finian's Rainbow" with Petula Clark and Tommy Steel and has been told it will be a 'wow'. Fred is going to do a film in Italy and Spain in the summer. Discusses Fred Astaire. Is returning to New York on 1 November and is going to Jamaica at the end of November. Does not like the litter and noise of New York.

Typscript letter to Beaton, from Lismore, Ireland.

Discusses experience of the blitz in London. Finds living in Ireland dull and fears for Charlie's ( Lord Charles Arthur Francis Cavendish's) health. Gives news of life in Ireland. Michael is happy with his job in the R.A.F. Gives news of Fred (Astaire). He has just finished the film "You'll Never Be Rich" with Rita Hayworth. His next film is with Bing Crosby, with Irving Berlin writing the music. Elsie Mendl, Charles and Johhny are staying in Fred's guest house for a year. Discusses Fred and his dislike of parties. Anita has been writing to give all the news. Tilly has been behaving very badly. Discusses Tilly or the 'Countess'. Currently has two R.A.F men staying under a scheme thought up by Commander Stephen King-Hall. Discusses various mutual aquaintances. Requests that Beaton visits for Christmas.