Baby, It’s Cold Inside

New York: Simon & Schuster, 1970. First Edition. Signed presentation copy, inscribed by the author S.J. Perelman to silent film star Louise Brooks. Inscribed on the title page: “For Louise, who inspired not only the superlative on p. 105 of this book but lifelong admiration from millions of moviegoers. With affection, Sid.” Also signed by Louise Brooks above Perelman’s inscription: “Louise Brooks - p. 105.” And again by her on the front pastedown: “From S.J. Perelman, 17 Aug. 1970. Louise Brooks, Rochester.” The reference in both of their notes regarding page 105 is an underlined and checked-in-the-margin description in the chapter entitled “She Walks in Beauty - Single File, Eyes Front, and No Hanky-Panky” about his experiences attending a Miss Globe beauty pageant in Atlantic City. Perelman describes Miss Greece: “...A bewitching creature, whose trim black bob awoke memories of the immortal Louise Brooks...” On the rear free endpaper, Miss Brooks has written: “In ‘Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em’ Marcia Harris - stolen money, Jack Egan - Store. Doris Hill in Tillie’s P.R.” Both Marcia Harris & Jack Egan co-starred with Brooks in the 1926 film ‘Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em’ and actress Dorris Hill co-starred in the 1928 film ‘Tillie’s Punctured Romance’ starring W.C. Fields. Fine copy in a near fine bright dust jacket with a couple of tiny tears. A collection of humorous pieces by S.J. Perelman most of which originally appeared in ‘The New Yorker.’ A interesting association of Louise Brooks inspiring another artist.