Letter by Nancy C. Russell to Mr. Malcolm S. MacKay; informs MacKay that she has heard from Senator Walsh that the progress of the statue has been blocked. Typed on both front and back (TU2009.39.994.1-TU2009.39.994.2).

[1] Pasadena, California. May 20, 1931. Mr. Malcolm S. MacKay, T e n a f l y, New Jersey. Dear Malc and Helen: I am happy to tell you senator Walsh has, I hope, blocked the progress of that model although I still haven’t had a definite answer from the Governor as to whether or not the actual commission has been signed but I feel positive now that the model as it is will never reach the niche. A great deal of this satisfaction is due you because you knew to whom to turn. I have heard from Dr. Hagner but we must not allow this thing to sleep too soundly until we know posi- tively that the chosen model has been abandoned so that new things may be brought together and another choice made. You may quote, in talking, anything you like that I have sent you. Really, the finest of all letters or telegrams was a telegram from James Montgomery Flagg. I am sending you a copy which is not for publication but you may talk about it all you like. I know the Governor had a copy of this telegram sent to him by Bill Hart, I wonder what he thinks about it? I think Mr. Flagg wields a heavy pen. Many protests have come to me unsolicited which makes me very happy knowing that Charlie has friends who object to that unnatural looking model. I am sure there must be some one in this United States who can make a fine artistic thing that will be a credit to us all. I will be so glad to see you dear people in Montana and talk with you further about this model. I have simply been possessed ever since I saw the first cut and will not sleep soundly until I see in black and white over the names of those in authority that that model has Mr. Malcolm S. MacKay -2- been discarded. My very best love to you both. Sincerely, Encl.

[Transcribed by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2012-11-14]