Partly-printed DS, signed “T. Roosevelt,” one page both sides, 9 x 15, March 13, 1908. Interesting warrant authorizing the extradition of an alleged murderer. In part: “Whereas, it appears by information in due form by me received, that Paul Emile Roy, charged with the crime of murder, is a fugitive from the justice of the United States, supposed to have taken refuge in France…application has been made to the French authorities for extradition of the fugitive.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by President Roosevelt and countersigned by Acting Secretary of State Robert Bacon. The white paper seal affixed to the upper left remains crisp and fully intact. Includes a copy of the typed letter from Bacon to the governor of New Hampshire transmitting the extradition document, matted and framed together to an overall size of 24.5 x 21.5, with a glass backing for viewing the signed reverse. In fine condition, with intersecting folds and expected document wear.
This document concerns a highly unusual case of murder and international intrigue. Paul Emile Roy was the husband of American heiress and opera singer Glacia Calla. On January 2, 1908, an altercation erupted between Roy and Calla’s brother, George A. Carkins, over a hat that Calla planned to wear on their evening outing. Roy objected to the size of his wife’s hat and refused to go to the concert if she wore it. Carkins insulted Roy; Roy insulted Carkins. Both drew and emptied their revolvers, leaving Carkins dead on the kitchen floor. The husband and wife first told authorities it was a suicide, and Roy quickly left for his homeland of France. Over a month later, Glacia Calla came out with the truth and this warrant was issued for Roy’s arrest and extradition. Though they refused to extradite him, French authorities did agree to try him in their courts, but when Calla refused to go to France to testify against him, the court dismissed the charges in August 1909. The sensational case was closed, and Roy had gotten away with murder. A rare document with a truly fascinating backstory. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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