TLS, one page, 7.25 x 7.75, personal letterhead, June 3, 1943. Letter to Mr. Boardman, in full: “I just received your letter yesterday, June 2. It had been lying around probably, at the hotel where you addressed it, until now, when they finally sent it to the gym, and it was then given to me. I am sorry it took so long for it to reach me, you must think by this time that I paid no attention to it, not having an answer long ago. And I feel especially bad about it, since you were so kind as to enclose your check. In the course of a year, hundreds of people write to me, and usually ask for an eight by ten picture, no less, with the autograph, and never think to enclose even a stamp for its mailing. So I appreciate your thoughtfulness very much indeed, and I thank you. I am enclosing a small picture, thinking perhaps you might like to have it for your collection. If I had any larger ones, I would be glad to send one to you, but I am out of them at present. Thanking you again, and with best regards and good luck.” In fine condition, with lightly trimmed edges (barely nipping the bottom of the "J" in "Johnson"), and faint toning along the top edge from adhesive residue on the back. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder.
Johnson may have made a name for himself with his fists, but it is clear from this letter that he was a dignified and intelligent gentleman outside of the ring. As many former athletes past and present have done, Johnson tried to live off his fame, fighting in exhibition matches, speaking to audiences, and accepting a few movie roles. Three years after politely responding to Mr. Boardman's request and graciously thanking him for enclosing an autograph fee, Johnson was killed in an automobile accident after speeding away from a North Carolina diner that refused to serve him.
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