American artist and illustrator (1882–1971) known for his crisp modernist style. Fascinating TLS signed “Rockwell,” two pages, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, April 9, 1951. The artist writes to Ned. In part: “I wrote to Charlotte [and] … told her that you had informed me that she had kept my painting and assumed responsibility for completing the payments on it. And that the amount still due was $500…. Sally and I have just returned from New York, where I testified for the defense in the action against the IWO [International Workers’ Order]. The prosecution is just an unblushing witch-hunt. They had put several of the same stoolpigeons [sic] on the witness stand that you have become so familiar with in San Francisco….” After recounting some of the proceedings in detail, Kent continues: “AP asked me for a statement. I said [that the] testimony was a lie; that I had never been a member of the Party and never attended a Communist meeting…. I was treated with considerable courtesy by the prosecution and the judge, though they grew increasingly exasperated at my refusal to brand any of my associates in IWO as Party members…. They asked me if I believed in Communism. I told them that I didn’t think one person in a thousand could define Communism and that I wouldn’t answer that question but on the basis of a definition….” A hint of very subtle toning to top edge of each page, otherwise fine, clean condition. R&R COA.
