Typed onto a piece of paper attached to the image: "Contemplative smile. Here, Howard Hughes seems in rapt thought during one of the numerous speeches extolling his feat. Probably thinking of the "men who designed and perfected to its present remarkable state of efficiency, the modern American flying machine and equipment." (The quote is from his own official statement to the press.) Credit Lines (ACME) 7/15/38."
The marquee of the Palace Theater in New York, New York. Grace Hayes' name is on the marquee. "Henry Deloval Green Photography Merchandise Mart" stamp on back of photo.