Letter by Nancy C. Russell to Mr. E. C. Abbott; states that she is working on a book about Charles M. Russell and she would appreciate help from his old friends, and that she is enclosing a check for $100 for his letter. Typed on two pages (TU2009.39.1094.1-TU2009.39.1094.4).

725 Michigan Blvd., Pasadena, California. December 23rd, 1936. Mr. E. C. Abbott, Guilt Edge, Montana. Dear Mr. Abbott: Your letter of December 11th, enclosing a letter from Mr. Rankin has been received. I am always glad to hear from you. Your friendship for Charlie creeps out in every letter you write and it al- ways makes my heart glad. Old-time friends like you are getting scarce. I did not know Pat Tucker had passed on. His book wasn’t much like Charlie. Thank you for your kind words about the biographical notes in “Good Medicine”. It was taken from my knowledge of Charlie and was not exaggerated. That is the kind of a book I am trying to write right now and would be so happy to have Charlie’s old- time friends help me in any way they care to. I don’t wish to hinder any one else who is writing about Charlie because I feel there is plenty of/material for everybody but I am a little bit choice about the old-time friends and would be sorry not to use their appreciation of Charlie in my book. I don’t know when my book will be finished as I have been ill for a year. I am coming back gradually and am thinking of the book a great deal more. If you feel like writing something about Charlie and your knowledge of him that I may use in my book, I will sure appreciate it. You are in the book as one of Charlie’s friends- it would not be right otherwise. I would like what you have to say about him to go in my book which will be a simple, intimate story and I need some letters from you and Charlie’s other friends, to give it a little more dignity. I think as you do – that unless a person knew Charlie and knew something of the life he led, it would be pretty hard to make a convincing story. There are biographers who could do it I have no doubt. If you wish to write anything to Mr. Rankin, I cannot advise you. His book will in no way be a benefit to/me and I do not know what kind of material he will turn out. He is combing the country for material and if he is as able in putting it together as he is tracing down possibilities of getting material, he will have a great piece of work. Now, regarding your letter. I am enclosing my check for $100.00 for it. I had an offer for $50.00 for it and I wouldn’t take it. Then the man came up to $75.00 and I still wouldn’t take it. I had a -2- E.C. Abbott chance to sell it for $100.00 but haven’t heard from the man yet. He may send it back. If he does, do you went me to send it on to you in- stead of the $100.00? I am sorry it has been so long but as I said, I have been ill. If you want the letter instead of the $100.00, let me know right away and I will write the man that you would not accept the hundred dollars sent you and then I will get the letter and return it to you. I am so glad to hear about the pension and I know you will have cattle again, - that is your natural life. My best regards to Mary and to you for a happy holiday season. Sincerely, N.B. I am returning Mr. Rankin’s letter herewith

[Transcribed by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2013-01-02]