September 26, 1928 PGC:EG Mrs. Charles M. Russell, 701 Michigan Boulevard, Pasadena, Calif. Dear Nancy: Enclosed are copies of two letters I have re- cently sent to Mr. H.E. Maule of Doubleday, Doran & Co. They are, I think, self explanatory. If there is any- thing that I can in any way do further to help you here, I am sure you know that I am more than anxious to do it. I had hoped to have heard from you before this stating definitely when you will arrive here and how long you expect to remain in the East. Also I am interested in knowing what you expect to place in the exhibit and how long it will last. I am naturally hoping that you are going to show up with something which may interest me, though I cannot imagine what you may have that I am not already familiar with. Did I tell you that this Summer George Vivian of Butte, sent me on approval one of Charley’s early works- showing the interior of a saloon, with a cow puncher making a chinaman dance? It was too crude for me to possibly use so I returned it. I just thought you might like to know about it. I think he wants to get a thousand dollars for it and I have offered to help him in any possible way. Personally I do not think that it will bring that, here in the East anyway. Since we last talked I have been in touch with the best man for such work that I can get track of here in the East (Mr. Henry R. Poore, 61 Ridge Street, Orange, N. J.) to touch up with water colors some of the rougher partly finished foreground of “Father de Smedt”. I have certainly given much careful thought to it and am beginning to feel that water colors added to this oil is almost out of the question and I may yet resort to oil. If I do so I feel (as I have already told you ) that Olaf is the only one I would trust. One of these days when I come across the right thing to take the place of “The Strenuous Life” I am go- 2nd Mrs. Charles M. Russell, September 26, 1928 ing to let it go in favor of a more recently and better painted picture. “The Strenuous Life” you will recall is the one that Mr. Mackay Likes. I have all the galleries here in New York as well as yourself looking out for the right thing for me by Charley. If I should come across one I will let you know about “The Strenuous Life”. We are all in the best of health and looking forward to seeing you when you come. Please let me know whether you anticipate any changes in your plans. Katharine joins me in best wishes as always, Sincerely your friend, [signed] Philip [Transcribed by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2012-05-30]