Letter by Wallace B. Harrison to Nancy C. Russell; states that he needs the identification of a painting which he believes is by Charles M. Russell. Typed with a handwritten note on the bottom of the letter.

[typed] Pasadena, California. November 7, 1939 Mrs. Charles M. Russell. 725 Michigan Blvd, Dear Mrs. Russell; - Pardon me for approaching you with this subject again, But to day[sic] I received a letter from a friend in Oklahoma City who has a painting which she thinks was made by your husband, she said that if the work was done by mr. Russell, and she can be assured that it was that such proff will add value to the painting which she has. I was at your home a few months ago in regard to this matter but am better acquainted with the subject after receiving the letter to day. I will coppy [sic] part of the letter which I receiving the letter to day, it states that if Mrs, Hart can furnish sufficient evidence to prove that the pain- ting which she has was painted by you husband it will mean just about $35.000.00. to $37.500.00. .to. her. Mrs, Hart is a widow with a small daughter[sic] to care for, she is not able to work, and is compelled to rent part of her house to support herself and child. Mrs. Harts painting is on very fine imported canvas, size 36 x 60 inches. The picture is a landscape with large trees, a stream, craggy cliffs, with a mountainous back ground, and is signed C. Russell. 35. Which we have found, by comparision[sic], to be the identical lettering which is on his authenticated works. An Attorney who is a friend of Mrs, Hart has several genuine Russell paintings, he has helped her to make investigation and they are unable to learn of another Russell who was a noted artist. Men from Art Galleries who have seen the painting say that it is a fery[sic] fine painting, and that it was painted by a good artist. I will be much pleased Mrs, Russell if you will inform me whether or not the above described painting is work done by your husband, such a statement from you may prove to be of value to Mrs, Hart, your reply will be very much appreciated by ^M^ rs, Hart and also by me. I thank you, [signed]Wallace B. Harrison I630 University Drive, [handwritten] Answered personally Mr. Harrison called on 725 michigan 12-8-39 picture was Mr. Russell NCR RH

[Transcribed by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2011-11-02]

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