Gossip Friday: Looking for Jack

From October 1937:

Clark Gable’s one wish is to find Jack Bates, who probably does not know the screen star is looking for him. 

In a recent interview, Gable was asked what more he possibly could want after gaining fame, wealth, friends and every luxury.

Gable’s somewhat starting reply was: “I want to find Jack Bates. He saved my life once.”

Years ago, before anyone had heard of Clark Gable, he was hoboing across the country. On his way to the west coast, he stopped off at Butte, Mont. He was emaciated and his belt was taken up the extra few notches.

A stranger walked up to him and said, “You look hungry, buddy.”

“I am,” Gable admitted.

The stranger, without any more conversation, took Gable to the nearest restaurant and bought him a huge meal.

They both were on their way to Portland, Ore. Gable learned that the stranger’s name was Jack Bates and that he was from Texas.

Together they rode a freight train to Portland where they parted. As Bates told his companion farewell he pressed a $3 bill into Gable’s hand.

They never met again, although Gable has been seeking Bates ever since.

A few days ago, Gable received his first clue to Bates’ whereabouts. 

L.J. Salter of North Rose, N.Y. wrote the actor that he had a friend named Jack Bates who fits the description of Gable’s benefactor.

“You may be able to reach him at San Benito, Tex. I understand he is married and settled down,” Salter wrote the actor.