Autograph Manuscript Signed

This American playwright, director and stage manager began as a stage manager, then became the "New York World" drama critic, which he promptly quit upon the success of his first play ("A Flower of Yedda") in 1898; he directed and managed well-known theatres, but is remembered for "The Boomerang" (1915), "The New Henrietta" (1913) and "The Hottentot" (1920). AMS, 1p, 7 3/4" X 8½", n.p., n.y. Very good. Lightly age toned; two file holes at left, not affecting text. Full page of bold, neatly pencilled text on this cheap lined notebook paper, head "WN-59" and beginning: "It is no longer required of the chief or ruler to be a great fighter, himself. It is enough for him to see that his fighting men are properly organized and officered. What is especially required of him is intelligence, executive ability, foresight, justice, -- wisdom...." Not seemingly a working draft page from a drama, though further research required as we have not been able to identify the text. In a blank area at upper right, Mapes signed boldly in brown ink, dating it "March 4, 1923." From the collection of Professor Albert Johannsen, author of "The House of Beadle and Adams and Its Dime and Nickel Novels" (University of Oklahoma Press, 1950), the definitive reference work and bibliography on the subject. Johannsen requested working draft pages from authors, so it's possible this manuscript leaf predates its 1923 date by quite a bit. Also present is Johannsen's original 8½" X 11" file folder, bearing his printed "Collection of Albert Johannsen" label (partly filled in by Johannsen).