These Stars — and What They Wish For...

One of the American newspapers put the following question to the two famous stars Rita Hayworth and Linda Darnell:

If you were given the chance to make one wish that would be granted to you, what would you wish for? Rita Hayworth said:

— My wish is to make a tour around the world, the tour to take an entire year, during which my mind would be empty of every responsibility and I would be free in my doings — roaming the farthest ends of the world and its untrodden wilds, discovering new lands, studying the differing peoples, witnessing the wonders of nature and of man, forgetting that I am Rita Hayworth, and living in those countries as their own people live.

My mother used to tell me that I ought to become an adventuress or an explorer. But ever since I began dancing at the age of fourteen, one engagement after another has bound me, and my work has ruled over me. That is why I want freedom, to roam whatever countries I please.

And Linda Darnell said:

— To go to South America. I suppose every person has a place he prefers above all others when he wishes to travel — a place beyond the far horizon.

When I was with my family in Texas we had a servant who was born and raised in Brazil, and how often she told us marvelous, fanciful stories about the way of life in that country. And how often I have felt sorry that I have not yet visited that land.

And every time I hear Spanish music my soul stirs and tells me to throw everything aside and board the first ship sailing for the south.