October 25, 1937. Mr. James B. Rankin 423 West 118th St. New York, N.Y. Dear Mr. Rankin: Some time ago I gave you a list of Russell pictures that I had in my possession. Since that time I have acquired three others and I am writing to thank you for putting me in touch with Miss Edith Ellis Morrison of Pittsfield, Illinois, from whom I purchased a Russell oil painting in gray tones, size 31 x 21, titled “Cowboy Sport – Roping a Wolf.” Mrs. Morrison recently moved to San Diego, California, and I obtained the picture from her. You may have a record of this particular picture. Some few weeks ago I bought two pictures from Mrs. Florence M.N. Russell, stepmother of Charles M. Russell. One is a watercolor, titled “The Warriors’ Return.” The other is a watercolor, called “Mexican Ruralles,” which brings my per- sonal collection to nine. I have several other contacts and if you are interested, I will be glad to let you know whenever I acquire any other Russell pictures. Again thanking you for putting me in touch with various owners of Russell’s work. I am Very truly yours, P.S. I would, of course, be interested in receiving notice of your book when it is published and I would further appre- ciate receiving from you a bibliography on Russell, or a list of books on Russell of which you may have information. The only books I have are “Trails Plowed Under” and “Good Medicine.” HEB:fmb
[Transcribed by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2011-10-31]