James, Frank, 1844-1915 to Anna Ralston and Robert James
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01692 Author/Creator: James, Frank, 1844-1915 Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 15 August 1882 Pagination: 4 p. ; 64 x 17 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his wife Anna and son Robert (referred to as "My Precious Ones") while being pursued by state and federal authorities. References the Shakespearean character, Timon of Athens, who also spent time exiled in the forest. Reflects on his love for Anna by stating: "Did I not appreciate you I should feel as I was a disgrace to humanity and should be universally and deservedly detested as the most ungrateful being that ever lived." Refers to Charles and Bob Ford as "loathsome wretches" because they killed Jesse James, his brother, in April 1882. Expresses expectations that Missouri Governor Thomas Crittenden intends to aid his cause. At the top of page one is a facetious note by Jesse Edward Woodson ("J.E.W."), "Rob! I had Crow for dinner today, but don't 'hanker' after it." "Jesse Edward Woodson" appears to be a combination of Frank's alias "B.J. Woodson," and his brother Jesse's name.
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