Photoplay (Jan - Jun 1943)

sat on a plush-covered bench, rather to one side. He was as conspicuous in the gathering as a star actor in a spotlight. We followed General Clark and Mr. Robert Murphy into the foyer. Robert Murphy is a most engaging personality. Tall, clean-cut and rather young for such an important diplomatic assignment, he nevertheless impresses one with his straightforward manner and knowledge of his task. General Clark talked privately for a moment with General Giraud and then went on into the conference room, followed by Murphy. I learned that Darlan was already in the conference room. I stood aside with the other lesser American officers, discussing the event in low voices and wondering what the score was. The French officers remained apart. General Giraud came out of the conference room and resumed his seat on the bench. When he nodded to me in recognition, I joined him and we talked generalities. An aide came out and led the General back into the room. Hours passed. After awhile, Admiral Darlan came out of the room. This was my first look at him. He was all I anticipated — short and heavy-set, with a pasty face and dark, deep-set eyes which shift around the room. He seemed nervous and strained. He was conscious of his stature and wore extra high heels. I was introduced to him, and while he tried to be pleasant, it just didn't come off. As near as I can make out, the political situation is quite involved. I am positive that neither General Eisenhower nor General Clark will ever accept any substitute for Giraud as Chief of the Army. I am confident Giraud can take care of himself in this delicate situation, but if he can't, I am sure that Eisenhower and Clark will take care of matters for him. November 11th. Armistice Day. Things are moving quickly now. The "peace treaty" has been signed! Darlan is to be High Commissioner of North Africa, or something of the sort, and Giraud head of the Army. Three rousing cheers for Eisenhower and Clark! November 13th. Today General Clark was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General. General Eisenhower made the promotion. It is impossible not to be impressed by General Eisenhower's smile, warm and glowing as an Arizona sunset. November 16th. I am sick — a mild touch of dysentery. Pinned down to a bed at the St. George, I have time to realize fully how lonesome I am for Virginia and the babies. They seem millions of miles away, and Hollywood and the studios are something in another world. What wouldn't I give to have just one day at 546 Ocean Front! If I wrote down all the times I have thought of home since the start of this assignment, I am afraid it would consume more pages than the account itself. This is the most unpleasant phase of war — separation from those we love. Yet I have no right to complain. I am lucky to be alive. November 18th. I have collected eight of my best combat cameramen and we are headed for Tunisia. Lieutenant Klein is to drive the truck and I shall lead the way in my trusty Chevrolet. Arabs are a source of continual fascination for me. The women work: the DICK POWELL speaking Star of Paramount'! "HAPPY GO LUCKY" in Technicolor. calox ; ,(>OlH t*<fo 101* A dentist's dentifrice— Calox was created by a dentist for persons who want the utmost sparkle and brilliance consistent with utmost safety. Look for these professional features: Scrupulous cleansing. Your teeth have a notably clean feel after using Calox. 2. Unexcelled safety— even for problem teeth. Calox is a miracle of delicacy. 3. Especially lustrous polishing. 4. No mouth-puckering, medicine taste. Contains no strong ingredients. Kven children like the cool, clean flavor. 5. Made by McKesson & Robbins, Bridgeport, Conn.— a laboratory specializing in professional drugs. 83