Lot 261
Bird Man of Alcatraz. Slightly yellowed but quite clean. (1890- 1963) American criminal, a convicted murderer who became a self-taught ornithologist during his 54 years in prison, 42 of them in solitary confinement, and made notable contributions to the study of birds.
Autograph Letter Signed. Two leaves, Three-sided, Quarto. Alcatraz, Ca. October 9, 1959. A beautifully hand printed personal letter written to Fred Daw of Coral Gables, Fl. Stroud goes into elaborate detail concerning a physical malady he is experiencing and then briefly discusses literature.
In part: "Dear Fred: / I am sorry that I have not been able to write sooner, Fred, but ever since my last letter to you I have been having a terrible go round… On Tuesday several times I had severe pain in my right chest on swallowing. I explained this to the nurse. On Wednesday the condition was worse… He said that he would chart it and he advised me to call it to the attention of the doctor. Well that night it burst. At the time we did not know whether it was an ulcer or an absess…"He goes on for some time, discussing his concern over the doctor's youth and lack of experience as a general practioner.
The "post-script" is quite interesting and is transcibed as follows: "P.S. You should read 'Scottsboro Boy', Fred. The difference between him and me is that he is telling a personal story while I am analyzing the prison situation as a whole in the light of my 42 years experience, with my personal story just running through it as a thread but not the main theme, but his book is authentic. / Milk is not good for old persons, Fred. It is natural food for babies but it hardens tissues which makes it harmful to adults. I don't use it either. / Other questions next time. Bob".
Fine.
Estimated Value $500 - 750.
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