Typed letter signed "Papa" : "The Finca" [Finca Vigía, Havana, Cuba], to Pete [Viertel], 1949 July 26[-27].

Describing a recent trip to Italy, mentioning he had a hunting accident that resulted in an eye infection, noting that Mary has recovered from her broken leg, and referencing his dislike of Irwin [Shaw]. Remarking that he has been productive in his work since the guests and children left for Europe. Responding to an apparent inquiry about where to stay for the winter, comparing Cuba to American skiing destinations. Noting the expense associated with maintaining Finca Vigía and referencing financial difficulties, listing people who owe him money, but also discussing at length the fine hunting, especially of duck, and mentioning hunting seasons and typical numbers of birds shot. Also noting that he ought to stay in Cuba as long as he is productive. Regretting that they have not been able to ski for the past two winters because there was no snow in Sun Valley or Cortina and complaining that there are no more wild places in America, remarking: "I miss the way it used to be in Montana, Wyoming and even Idaho like hell. But it isn't that way anymore. There are ever so damned many hunters; there are roads everywhere; where there aren't roads they fly in. I don't know any place left in the states where it's the kind of wild I like. The only place left where it's wild is the ocean and parts of the Bahamas."