Typed letter from Nancy C. Russell to Mr. John B. Ritch dated 9 January 1933 provides a list of addresses that include Will Rogers, W.S. Hart, Tom Mix, H. Gibson, W.A. Clark II and two more friends who are owners of Charles M. Russell's work and who won't be influenced by a letter from the State of Montana.

Pasadena, California. January 9, 1933. Mr. John B. Ritch, Lewistown, Montana. Dear Mr. Ritch: Your letter of January 2nd, has been received and I was mighty glad to get it. I am more than sorry that your side partner, Mr. Lewis, will probably be unable to be of any assistance during this legislature as- sembly as I have had word that he is very ill with a heart attack and is being kept absolutely quiet. He is carrying a good deal of weight to have his heart act up. I do hope he will come out of it O. K. Now about the addresses you want: Will Rogers Beverly Hills, Calif. William S. Hart Newhall, California. Tom Mix Hoot Gibson W.A. Clark II, 2205 West Adams Street, Los Angeles, California. I am giving you the names of two more friends: F.M. Steiner, 1920 James Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota. George D. Sack, 350 East 57th St. New York. I have the feeling that there will be much more force if the communications you send come from the State to these people as though Montana knew they are owners of some of Charlie’s work and friends of his who would naturally be very much interested in a worth-while model representing him in Washington, in that way doing them credit for good judgment in purchasing his work. It will be best to leave my name out entirely. I want to help you in every way Mr. John B. Ritch -2- I can because I feel yours is the guiding hand in this whole thing. You started it and I believe you are going to finish it. If I can help you in any way, command me. The news that you are better this winter certainly pleases me and I hope you are going to keep on improv- ing until you reach that “colt class” that you speak of. Jack had a very bad cold but I don’t think I could call it the “Flu”. He is all right now. He was very wise- he waited until he had a vacation and in that way will not miss school. I really think he regrets that part – most kids do you know. I shall be sitting on the edge of my chair until I get news from you. My kindest wishes to the Ritch family. Sincerely, P.S. I had quite a talk with Philip Cole when he was here and if you can tell him that some one else is giving a certain amount, he will meet any amount that the other fellow gives but he doesn’t want to be the first to set the pace. N.C.R.

[Transcribed by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2012-11-20]

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