Gossip Friday: The Skilled Horseman

From September 1935:

When the entire world became Clark Gable-conscious the studio sent word to the newly-arrived  idol that they wanted some special portraits. Magazines were clamoring for art on the virile Gable in outdoor attire. They wanted Gable in riding clothes, Gable on a horse.

This was Clark’s first big sitting and he determined that nothing should stand in the way of making it a huge success.

Although he really couldn’t afford it, he chose the most exclusive tailor in town for his riding habit. The outfit, of imported English whipcord, was fashioned after the smartest English lines. Perfectly fitting boots, an imported turtleneck sweater and hand-knitted gloves completed his attire. Down in his heart, Clark wasn’t so keen about the way he looked but this was to be a big moment in his life and he was dressed for the occasion.

On the day of his appointment with the studio cameraman he arrived at the riding academy in sartorial splendor. Heretofore Clark had always used a western saddle. But western saddles were for cowboys and he was to represent the gentleman rider that day. So, although he had never tried one before, Clark determined to use a flat English saddle. He insisted on the most spirited horse, to present a dashing picture.

Out on the trail he galloped and immediately he realized that something was wrong. He and the horse couldn’t get together on a rhythm, and the horse was quick to sense the uncertainty of his rider. Down a narrow path they sped. Where the ground was smooth, Clark managed to hang on, but when they hit a patch of muddy ground, the horse began to slip.

Clark tried to draw in the reins but it was too late. The horse’s hind legs gave way and Clark slid off backwards, into the much. And to make matters worse, the horse landed on him, assuming a sitting position in the middle of Clark’s chest. Just at this moment the cameraman arrived. You can imagine how much Clark looked like the well-dressed matinee idol. The look of consternation on the cameraman’s face was sufficient to make Clark wish that the earth would suddenly open up and swallow him. There were no pictures that day. Clark ruefully walked back to the stable, soaked to the skin and caked with mire. It was many days before he could throw off the mortification he had suffered, but today tells it as a huge joke.

_____

New this week:

Two Chase and Sanborn radio shows and one from Silver Theater

New pics in the gallery, of Carole, Sylvia, Kay and more