Scruples ...'By the Beautful Sea'...and a fork in the road...

Wib with #2 son Philip Lamont Evans

To my readers- I am driving back north to live with my son in New York (state) tomorrow morning (2/29/09) after a difficult injury. So for the next few days my postings will not be as extensive or maybe not at all.... until next week sometime. But with my trusty laptop I do hope to post at least 'something' every night. If there is anyone who has any questions they can email at MicahVita@Aol.com

In Rome Susanna resumes her voice study, working with Maestro Luigi Ricci, voice and musical coach for Tito Gobbi, Gigli and Maria Callas among others-

On Brighton Beach, England.

From Wib...

New Address: 22 Via Adelaide Ristori, Rome, Italy

4 Jan. 54

My Dear Dad;

We received your note this morning and I hasten to write you as I am leaving for New York on Jan. 14 via TWA to start rehearsals for my new show *(By the Beautiful Sea with Shirley Booth), Enclosed clipping tells details.

I had to fly to New York on Dec. 3^rd, stayed two weeks to sign contracts and returned here for Christmas. Suzy plans to stay here with the boys and get set with her new teacher Maestro Luigi Ricci. We’ve taken a lease on the apartment (above address) so she can finish her studies at least through the spring.

I have ordered, from our London photographer Angus Macbean 53 Endell St. London WC2, England pictures of us all to be sent to you. They should arrive sometime this month. So you can really see Philip L. and Michael D. I know you’ll agree they are handsome boys.

Suzy speaks of you all the time but never seems to sit down and write—that’s her way as of late—so I suggest you just write a note once a week and shame her into writing you.

My new address after Jan. 15^th will be Hotel Windsor, 100 west 58^th St.

NYC. Glad Kathleen is progressing so well, send her our love and to the rest of the family.

Always fondly, Wib

*This was to be a Rome holiday for the Evans family but Shirley Booth cut it short for Wib, requesting

that he become her leading man in “By the Beautiful Sea.”

From Kathleen...

Camarillo State Hospital T.C. “A”

January 19, 1954

Dear Dad:

I was very happy to hear from you and receive your letter. I received 3 letters in one day and it is so gratifying—I was anxious for mail. Vicki also wrote and Haskell too. I have started my first week since I have gone off the treatments. I see Mr. Marshall the psychologist, twice a week—on Tuesday and Friday at 10:45A.M.—in class. I saw Haskell last Sunday—he got here about 9:30 in the morning I guess. I went to Protestant church and met him afterwards—we went into town (Camarillo) and had some lunch. Then we went over to Marianne’s and Jack’s—her mother came later and brought her sister and guess who…… *Michael Francis!! I saw him and was very happy. I hadn’t for a while! He’s fine. I’m so anxious to be home—poor little Michael needs to be back home—he’s a little confused. He’s been so good, of course. He’s gotten wonderful care! But I still know he wonders why I am here. I am hoping to get into more activity here—there is occupational therapy, a chorus, music appreciation and other things. They are all good activity. I’m afraid I need a schedule in order to help myself in every way—I need many things which I hope I can work at. Haskell brought me a compact, a pair of shoes (not new, but polished) and a lipstick last Sunday. Well, I am in need of things spiritually in the future, I hope to make the improvement. Love Kathleen PS: If you see Mother and my baby Susan, I hope she knows that I would like to hear from them—of course I hope (I hope, I hope) to be coming home soon. Love Kathleen

From Kathleen....

Camarillo State Hospital On stage 'South Pacific' Drury Lane

Box “A” T.C. 8.

Camarillo, California

Thursday-

February 11, 1954

Dear Dad:

I haven’t heard from you yet this week and I’m wondering how you are.

As you know I’m back on shock treatments and I have had four since I went back on. I saw Vicki, & Dick & Stephan last Sunday in Camarillo—we all had lunch in a Restaurant in Camarillo. I hope to see the kids this weekend—I hope Haskell will bring them up—I hope I get to see Susan too. Michael Francis, of course is in Santa Barbara but I hope Haskell can get him and bring him up to the hospital. The days on which we are allowed no visitors are Tuesday and Thursday. However, I wish you would feel like coming on Sunday—Haskell is coming—he came last Sunday in the morning and brought me back at 4:00 P.M. You can come to visit me on Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Saturday, however any of these days are alright—but of course Sunday has been the day people have visited me generally in the past. I am very anxious to go home and hope it will be before long.—it seems to me it should be soon! The doctor—Dr. Whalen—I think that’s his name—he has talked to Haskell two or three times and he seems to think I’ll be going soon—he told Haskell before that I was doing very well! Haskell sent me a pair of stockings last Wednesday that I need badly.—they marked them in the office—I certainly am anxious to go home! Well I hope you can get something in the way of a job, if you want it—I mean something that suits you. Well, I am very restless and anxious—it’s difficult when you want to be able to be with your Kids and husband too! Do you know I’ve been here three months?—Hope to work things out soon. Love Kathleen PS: It seems a shame that Wib and Suzy are going to be separated—is Wib going back to Italy afterwards?—Hope to see you before long.

From Kathleen....

Camarillo State Hospital

Box “A” T.C. 8.

Camarillo, California

Monday

March 8, 1954

Dear Dad:

Received your letter and was very glad to hear from you. How are Vicki and Dick? I saw Haskell yesterday and Michael Francis too! They’re both well! We went to a restaurant and also to the drug store. We came back on the campus and went to the restaurant. Of course, Michael Francis was with us. Haskell had a good time and so did Michael Francis! I had a good time too.

I understand you are helping Vicki and Dick. And how is Stephan? I hope that I will be able to leave here before long. I am very anxious to leave here. It is something I am anxious to do. Michael Francis is going to a nursery and he likes it! Haskell brings him home in the daytime—that is—after he spends the day there—he goes home in the evening. I’m sure Susan is getting along fine! They’ve changed the doctor here. –he was Dr. Whalen and now he is Dr. Warwick! I’d like to leave here soon! I do sing to myself and I sang on a program. I have bitten my nails lately. How have you been getting along lately? Have you found a job? I hope to see you Sunday! Well, love to you, Kathleen.

From Susanna....

Via Adelaide Ristori, 22

Rome April 6, 1954

Dear Dad,

Sorry I haven’t written lately, particularly when you’ve all had so many troubles. I had written Vicki some time ago, haven’t heard back. However, she must have her hands full moving to another city and all.

I’ve been working a little here doing some dubbing in English for the Italian actresses. They say American TV is in need of films. So, they’re dubbing Italian films for the American market. It’s difficult work, as you have to watch their mouths as they speak Italian with you speaking English. I get paid about $24 for four hours which isn’t bad by Italian standards. I don’t need this money right now so I’ve sent it to you and Mother. I figure you both could use it right now. $60 for you and $60 for Mother. If I can send more later I will.

On the balcony-Via Adelaide Ristori.

I’m going to London April 22^nd to have my tonsils and adenoids removed on the 27^th. It’s become imperative. I much prefer having it done in London rather than the States as they are more conservative, the best specialists there cannot be beaten (America seems to get more fool hardy everyday—for example that H-Bomb that exploded three times the size they expected). I had such an easy time with Philip and the doctor was excellent. Although, Dr. O’Neill was excellent too—if it hadn’t been for his outstanding judgment, Michael might not be here.

I’ve been very happy studying here—my voice is becoming more like it used to sound, you have no idea the difference it has made in me. I’m becoming more and more like my old self—not full of that chronic depression. All of this has taught me one thing—I can’t be happy unless I’m singing and singing well. The Italians know how to bring it out in you. This man Ricci has been wonderful for me. I’ve learned “Rigoletto”, the other day he told me that I would sing a beautiful “Rigoletto”. If you knew what that meant to me! He has a wonderful back ground. He was the accompanist to Ruffo for years, and 17 years with Gigli—he knows good singing! He’s a wonderful musician. Toscannini recommends him to people who come to Italy. He hasn’t told me that—others have. He never says anything. Just sits and corrects and encourages. So the other day when he told me I would sing a beautiful “Rigoletto”, I knew he meant it. And these are lofty standards! Phone Gilda and tell her as I know this will make her happy. I know I’ll have a chance to sing here if I could stay. I just don’t see how I can manage it. Wib is crazy for me to come back, and I must tell you I don’t want to go. I love it in Italy, I know I could make the life I want here. However, I’m married and have obligations to my husband and I want to be with him too. But I’ll never be as happy and content in New York. It just isn’t the same. Well anyway God works in mysterious ways, so perhaps there is an answer somewhere. So much for me.

Wib opens in the show Thursday night—April 8^th. They have an advance sale of $400,000, so it looks like it will be a big hit, I’d bet on it. He’s very pleased of course.

I'm worried about Mother. What a horrible thing for her to go through. I’m writing her now along with the money, sending special delivery/ Air mail. She should get it in 7 to 10 days. Sending it off to both of you this morning. Please write soon and let me know how she is.

The kids are fine and growing like weeds. They’re going with me and Evy, our Norwegian girl when I go to London. We’ll be back in the middle of May. Incidentally, Maestro Ricci advocates this operation too. My singing voice is so inconsistent, it’s obvious something is physically wrong. I sing only on technique. Also, I can’t gain weight. Please don’t worry.

Well Dad, do write and let me know how Mother gets on. All my love to you and Haskell and my nieces and nephews. Suzy.

One month before boarding the ocean liner Andrea Doria back to America, Susanna is powerfully drawn to a handsome Neopolitan, Giuseppe Monti, a banker and an artist. An almost-affair. “We had wonderful conversations,” Susanna remembers, “He was so interesting and interested in everything…. like me. He kissed me one night and begged me to stay.”

“I had to get back to my husband…after all, I had you kids, I was married, I had scruples.”

From Wib....

100 West 58^th Street

New York City

Wed, April 14, ’54

Dear Dad:

I was glad to hear from you. Sorry I had to disappoint you about London but suggest you come on to New York after you get to Aurora, Illinois—by that time I’ll have found a house and your stay won’t cost you a penny. We’ll discuss it further

Now there is something on my mind about you loaning Suzy money during the past 3-4 years and I don’t know if we have ever repaid you—is this true and if so—how much? I’ll send you a check at once. If you’d like enjoy sending you $50 a month to help you get your spark back and have some fun. God knows it’s hell not to have enough money—don’t tell Addie or Suzy or anyone—for I won’t mention it.

I have always wanted to find some business to invest in that would give us some income when these shows close and can think of no one I’d trust than you as my partner—so If you come to New York perhaps we can look around for something—preferably in the country or locale where we’ll be living—how about that?

You can attend to Suzy’s furniture in Lyons—I want to have it all shipped East and surprise her—as soon as I can find a house! I’ll let you know more about this when I’m ready. I’ll write more later—Love always Wib.

New York Daily Mirror April 4 1954

An odd 10 month letter silence...then on to Rome

Philip (Angus Mcbean photo)

Susanna and Philip (Angus Mcbean photo)

Found on e-bay- Richard Rodgers autographed picture (broken glass and all).

Mary Martin leaves the show and is replaced by Julie Wilson.

Picture of the three in a mirror.

WILBUR EVANS.

STAGE DOOR,

DRURY LANE THEATRE,

London, W.C. 2.

Mr. Lester Lamont Larson

1616 Venice Blvd.

Venice, California USA

30 Dec. 1952

Dear Dad:

Suzy says everyday she must write you—but you know, she gets so busy with the two boys she goes to bed at 9:30 every night! So I have to take it upon me to tell you all our little things—believe me this town is MONOTONOUS—all we do is go to work and go to bed. Thank God for the boys—they keep us alive and interested.

We’re so sorry to hear about your blow-up with Ruby—the only way you can keep ‘em is to marry ‘em or by God they’ll leave you every time!!

Don’t worry—supposing you’ll find a good looking wealthy Blond widow—who’ll say “Les—I’m tired—all you have to do is count my money”!! “and pay the bills!” Now set your sights high and go hunting my boy!

The boys are getting along beautifully and are just as sharp and smart as can be. Suzy is a wonderful mother—I’m so proud of her—it hurts!

We think “So. Pac.” will be closing down around August 1^st—this is just a guess on my part! I could be wrong. I’ll be glad to get back to God’s country! Suzy wants to go sightseeing in Italy and we may if we can afford anything after these bloody taxes are paid!

This isn’t much but I hope it cheers you up some! Love to all and especially Cov for his sweet card to Michael!

Love to all, Wib

A disturbing 10 month letter gap, correspondence not found for this time. Maybe when the fires of sabotage began to stir.

On August 13, 1953 Kathleen gives birth to her second child; Susan Jane Laramie

In Sept .of 1953 South Pacific closes. Charles and Ham, gay couple/ London producers for Noel Coward, become good friends of Susanna. In the early days of her leaving Wib, Charles and Ham would come to our/Susanna's rescue many times on the upper Westside.

792 uninterrupted performances for Wib in South Pacific. A number he was proud of.

Along with Evie our Norwegian mother’s helper, we loaded up the brand new cream-colored (with the red leather interior) Jaguar Mark VII and headed off into the European Continent. The road leads to Rome where we take residence on Via Adelaide Ristori.

SUSANNA FOSTER EVANS

Lester L. Larson

3726 ½ Mckenzie St.

Los Angeles, Calif.

October 29- 1953

Dear Dad

I’m terribly concerned about Kathleen, I think you are handling this the best you can an under the circumstances. You, as her father have every right to raise hell. It’s utterly ridiculous that she became pregnant immediately after being so ill. And even more absurd that NOW we hear about it! My God, the baby’s two and a half months! But a beautiful baby girl she is. It’s hard to keep the anger. Oh, Haskell is young and so in love with Sister. Convince him that he needs your counsel. Please watch this thing as closely as possible. She must stay in the hospital until she is well next time! You must see that this is accomplished. I wish I could see and talk to you all. We are so concerned with our own welfare now, too. Wib is quite low and confused! I want to study and sing, I feel there’s a future in Italy for me, but Wib is so pessimistic about everything—I’m down too. I don’t know what’s going to happen.

I’ll try and write later in the week. Love to all—Suzy.

WILBUR EVANS.

STAGE DOOR,

DRURY LANE THEATRE

London, W. C. 2.

12 Nov. ‘53

Dear Dad:

I was glad to get your letter. This trip to Rome is a big gamble.

First: it wouldn’t be if my taxes in England had not been so crippling. We lived well there because it was a most important deductible item—living and taxes—WOW!

As you know, Suzy wants to continue studying—that’s OK with me—but I have just so much money and no more, so if something doesn’t happen here quickly—we’ll just have to leave. We’ve talked about Suzy staying here and me returning to N.Y. to get work as I could send money back to her—say for two or three months so she could continue her study.

Yesterday—a representative from Warner Bros. called Suzy to come down to his hotel so the director *Robert Wise could see her about a film “Helen of Troy” they start here in March.

Tomorrow (Friday the 13^th !) we have an appointment with one of Hollywood’s greatest producer/directors **Joe Mankiewicz (Julius Cesar—All About Eve). So we are not exactly standing still. Even I have a chance here because there are so few actors (American). I would rather not return to the mediocrity of operetta in the U.S. This is the one business that ends up NO WHERE. So the big gamble if we can get

started here—on the ground floor we will be much better off than returning home. Meanwhile—our singing is steadily improving.

That’s my summary and I know little Miss Suzy agrees. Love Wib. PS: This address until Nov. 30^th—then to less expensive quarters. Delighted to hear of Kathleen’s improvement. Residence Palace 69 Via Archimedes, Rome.

*Robert Wise directed over forty films including; The Body Snatcher (Karloff/ Lugosi), Curse of the Cat People, The House on Telegraph Hill, Helen of Troy, The Day the Earth Stood Still, Run Silent Run Deep, West Side Story, The Haunting, The Sound of Music, The Andromeda Strain, Star Trek: The Motion Picture.

**Joseph Mankiewicz: writer/producer/director of over 50 films, which included;

All About Eve (Betty Davis, Ann Baxter, George Sanders, Celeste Holm, Marilyn Monroe), Julius Cesar (Edmond O’Brien, Greer Garson, Deborah Kerr, Marlon Brando, James Mason, John Gielgud), Guys and Dolls (Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons, Frank Sinatra), Cleopatra (Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor).

Angus Mcbean photo

Intermission of 'exo- thought'....

As I have tried to explain in prior parts to this blog; putting together my family story was not initially ever intended. It all began simply, in the middle of the 1990s when I began to query my genealogy. Innocently sending off a letter to my grandfather's (my mother's father) hometown Mendotta, Illinois. Requesting from the county clerk any record; marriage, death or otherwise on my grandfather's mother 'Althena Garrison.' Surprisingly, I would receive a copy of Althena's marriage license dated November 28, 1878. This one event opened a fusillade of synchronistic happenings that would lead me on a very painful, but hugely exhilarating journey. Early on I began to sense the importance (?) of it all. I would record every telephone conversation that I had with my mother and video as much as possible. And importantly I began to write.....I didn't know how to 'write' as my educational esteem was not very high, but I persevered. As I persevered I would weep again and again, still do. I hold solace in many of the Bhuddist precepts on pain and suffering. As well as one of the many wonderful 12 step credos that have saved my life, "Pain is the touchstone of our spiritual growth."

Everything that you see here; the home movies, the thousands of photos, the newspaper clippings, THE LETTERS, my mother's films, my father's films, the audio clips were slowly and tediously put together by me and inexplicably with great help from the Universe. It became my calling, I literally had no other choice. I knew in my heart with the right help from a 'real' film maker or author it could make a sad but compelling tale of Shakespearean proportion.
But that would not be the case, so I have decided to put up all my work for all who who may be interested on this blog; the Susanna Foster Chronicles. I became the lone survivor, again the Universe gave me no choice.

The SF chronicles will eventually become 'uncomfortable' for some as the generational insanity only intensifies, I continue to struggle with what to tell and not to tell. I am inclined to tell the truth, although more will be revealed to you and.......me.

Also I have also chosen to begin the posting in a more consistent chronological pattern, as I believe for me, it less complicates a very difficult tale to tell. Bottom line, at the end of the day, I am reciting this for me, to heal.

"Sometimes men conjure stories for the thrill

Others tell them with pride and satisfaction

While other men anguish with the
ones they're given"-

Micah Evans

"Welcome to the world, healthy blonde baby boy..!"

Susanna Foster Evans

13, Chesterfield Hill. London, W.1.

July 31, 1952

London, W.1, England

Dear Dad,

I’m terribly sorry I haven’t written sooner, but these days I haven’t been up to sitting down (of all things) to do it. I’m pretty big now, nearly eight months along. Everything is going beautifully this time. An x-ray was made yesterday and the baby is in perfect condition. The doctor has stopped my medicine as the baby can be born anytime now and be OK. It’s officially due September 8^th but we’re all prepared for a slightly earlier arrival. All along I thought it was going to be a boy again, but when I saw the x-ray yesterday I thought it looked like a girl! Something about the little head looked like a little girl. But we'll know for sure in four or five weeks.

We’ve found a wonderful house at last, we move in August 25^th. I know it’s not a very good time for moving but I’m not lifting a finger. Wib is handling the whole thing. The house is ideal for us. It’s way up high overlooking the heath (like rough park, if you know what I mean), has a lovely yard. Only two stories and really in the country. It’s the kind of home we are used to. 20 minutes from London by car and 15 by the Underground. We’re not far from town and only half the rent of Chesterfield Hill. It will be wonderful for Michael. We’re so happy about it.

We bought a Hillman station wagon for $1500, a good little bus for the money. It gets 35 miles to the gallon. I’ll try and send you a picture of it. If we stay here for more than a year and don’t take it out of the country we’ll have to pay the Purchase Tax on it, which is something like $900. These taxes are terrible. The Brits, from what I understand, can’t buy these cars at all—they’re own cars, imagine! Some have been on waiting lists for years. So Americans who buy these cars, before they leave end up selling them for twice as much as they paid including the Purchase Tax1 Now that’s downright dreadful. It’s amazing the people don’t have a revolution. They’re really getting it in the neck. This lousy socialist government has certainly fixed them good.

I’m so happy about Kathleen, I can’t see straight. Haskell wrote me all about her improvement. I was on pins and needles not knowing what was happening. From what everybody had written me about that hospital, I thought she was doomed when they sent her there. I’m delighted they’ve been able to help her. I hope with all my heart she’s home soon with Haskell and her little baby. I’m writing her tonight with Haskell’s urging. I’m hoping to get her some Franz Lehar scores, she loves Lehar. I’m pretty sure I can get them here. This has been on my mind for ages. By God, I’ll get it done before I go in the hospital.

Michael is full of gingeraas, you can imagine, he really keeps me going! He’s awfully cute!

Do keep me informed about Sister. Her recovery really looks like it’s in sight. The relief I feel is tremendous. All year it’s been gnawing at the back of my mind. How wonderful for Kathleen not to be alone anymore and have this wonderful boy beside her.

I’m so happy you’ve made it right with Vicki and Dick. This is the way it should be. There’s enough misery in the world. It’s useless to quarrel over something so silly. Well, I got to go. My love to all, Suzy

WILBUR EVANS. STAGE DOOR,

DRURY LANE THEATRE

London, W.C. 2.

August 8, 1952

Dear Dad:

Received your letter this morning—checked with Suzy, she say’s you probably received a letter from her today—but in case—I’m sending you this note just to assure you that everything here is perfect!

Suzy is just fine—carrying the baby perfectly—due date is Sept. 8^th. Little Michael David is terrific—understands everything we say—but refuses to talk any language but his own—which we happen to understand! He gets cuter everyday and has a whole lists of tricks such as winking at the girls, attention-grabbing acrobatics while chasing me. He now has a rocking horse and a tricycle which he adores. Everyday is a new time for new discoveries—he notices everything and asks about it.—he loves to drive our new station wagon—a Hillman Minx (35 miles to the gallon).

We have taken a lovely new home—on the edge of a huge park—six bedrooms—lovely garden—garage, a real country house. After August 25^th our new address will be. #2 Turners Wood, Golders Green, London, N.W. 11. Sent some more South Pacific records today via air freight—hope they arrive safely.

Delighted with Kathleen’s quick recovery—God always comes through—doesn’t he? Back to work, so love to all, Wib

WILBUR EVANS.

STAGE DOOR,

DRURY LANE THEATRE,

London, W.C. 2.

August 28, 1952

Dear Dad:

We thought you might enjoy seeing this program.

Sorry you’re having such a tough time— I’m sure everything will work out alright. I think your doing a wonderful job. Let me know if you’ve received the money we sent you, will try to send more soon. Keep your chin up and fight!!

Love, Wib

PS: When Martin leaves this November, I’m raised to star billing!

Royal family doctor brings baby brother Philip Lamont Evans into world: Kings College Hospital, delivered by the Queen's obstetrician John Peel who brought Prince Charles and Princess Anne into the Monarchy.

WESTERN UNION

McElroy Cavanaugh

President

SAQ147 DL PD=CP LONDON 11:32AM 1952 SEPT 4 5:57PM

L Larson= ƒ6 1616 VENICE BLVD+=VENICE

CALIFORNIA USA YH=TR

DEAR DAD= YOU ARE AGAIN PROUD GRANDFATHER = WELCOME TO WORLD HEALTHY BLOND BABY BOY= PHILIP LAMONT EVANS= AFTER YOU AND PRINCE PHILIP

WILL WRITE SOON LOVE SUZY WIB MICHAEL

THE NEW YORK TIMES Sept. 4 1952

Son to Susanna Foster

London, Sept. 4 (Reuters)—Susanna Foster, Hollywood singer gave birth today

in a London hospital. The boy, her second, will be named Philip.

Susanna is the wife of Wilbur Evans, who is starring here in “South Pacific.”

Susanna Foster Evans

13, Chesterfield Hill.

London, W.1.

September 10, 1952

London

Dear Dad,

This is really the first chance I’ve been able to “relax” and concentrate on writing you a letter what with all the commotion and routine in this hospital! I hope you received our cable, I never heard back from you, I hope everything’s OK.

We have a fine son, and have named him *Philip Lamont (after you). He weighed 7lbs 4oz and is bright as a dollar. It’s truly amazing what difference in strength there is between a premature baby like Michael and a full term one like Philip. It was such an easy time. It was a comparatively quick birth.—2 hours of labor! Everything was as normal as could have possibly been this time! He has very similar coloring as Michael but he’s a “blondie”! Michael is crazy about him, he’s just thrilled when he sees him—laughs and chatters away at him! They’re going to be great pals—only twenty months apart. Michael is really a slow poke when it comes to talking—says only a few words but brother understands everything. Sometimes I wish he didn’t understand so much. He makes himself understood without having to talk, and I think that might be slowing down his development. But what can I do? He’s so expressive, I can’t deny him! Philip and I will be going home next week.

Please do me a favor as I’ve asked Vicki repeatedly and she never replies. I had birth announcements engraved at Saks in Beverly Hills after Michael was born and the two copies I had left were thrown out accidentally by the maid in New Hope. I know I gave one to Vicki and Gilda to keep as souvenirs. Will you ask either of them if I could have one to keep in Michael’s baby book. Make sure you send it to me in a box so it doesn’t get crushed. I’m sorry to trouble you with this but when I ask them it seems it never gets done. Secondly—one other favor: Would you take that card out to Saks and order fifty of the same for Philip? (the announcements I can get here are awful) PHILIP LAMONT EVANS!! Very impressive isn’t it? September 4, 1952. Have it engraved exactly the same. The only change is the name and date. Go to the maternity dept., I can’t remember the woman’s name who knows me there, it’s an odd name like Treadwater—something that means something else. She’s very nice. Tell her it’s for me.

I’m sorry to trouble you with this but if I ask anyone else it will never get done!

How is Kathleen and Haskell and the baby!! Please write and let me know how they are!

Lot’s of love, Suzy

*Philip Lamont Evans was named after Prince Philip the new Queen's

husband and 'Lamont' was "dad's" middle name (Lester Lamont Larson).

WILBUR EVANS.

STAGE DOOR,

DRURY LANE THEATRE

London, W.C. 2.

21 Sept. 52

Dear Dad:

Just a quickie to send you this front page pix of your newest Grandson Philip Lamont Evans—Suzy is perfectly well and happy and the new baby is wonderful—everything is great. Write us soon. Love to all, Wib

New Address: #2 Turners Wood, Hampstead Garden Suburb, London N,W. 11.

The Evening News- London. Saturday, September 20, 1952

Introducing Philip: Philip just two weeks old is the latest addition to the family of South Pacific’s singing star, Wilbur Evans and his wife Susanna Foster. Twenty-one month old Michael Evans completes the family group.

DAILY MAIL

Friday, November 14, 1952 THREE HALFPENCE

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

“…After South Pacific opened at Drury Lane it was said by those who had never seen Pinza that Wilbur Evans though good was nothing like Pinza—I state simply that Mr. Evans performance is superb…”

“…Mr. Evans has a beautiful singing voice, is a natural actor and brings to his part a dignity and sincerity that lift the entire play up by it’s roots….”