A Bankruptcy Story
Wilfrid Hyde-White was one of those British actors, who did everything by being British. Most people of my age remember him in films and on television. I also remember him in the BBC radio series, The Men from the Ministry. David Ashcroft of the Racing Post, is writing a series on racing eccentrics. Yesterday, he wrote about Hyde-White and Robert Morley. This is an extract.
By the time Hyde-White appeared in the Jockey Club Stakes, which enjoyed a successful run on Broadway in 1973, he had moved to the USA. When Morley asked his friend why he was moving, Hyde-White replied, “I really cannot stand another winter in England with the income tax and Violetta [his girlfriend].” Then Hyde-White paused and apologised. “Sorry, that was a very caddish thing to say about the income tax.” In 1979, Hyde-White returned to face the wrath of the Inland Revenue, which entailed several bankruptcy hearings.
At one, the official receiver asked why Hyde-White was staying at the Savoy Hotel. “Two reasons, dear chap,” Hyde-White replied. “One, it is the finest hotel in London and two, it is the nearest to Carey Street.” “But how are you going to pay for it?” asked the incredulous receiver. “Well,” said Hyde-White, “You’re the financial expert. You tell me.”
I hope all these stories get published as a book.
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