TLS, one page, 6 x 8.25, personal letterhead, February 5, 1976. Wayne writes to Bill Kelly. In full: “I am sorry I am so late in answering your request, but a picture location in Carson City made it impossible for me to keep up with my correspondence. I realize the date is too late; but I must say, that had it not been, I would have to see the galley before I would feel comfortable about writing an introduction to your encyclopedic effort.” The “picture location” Wayne alludes to was that for his final film, The Shootist, directed by Don Siegel and released in June 1976. The original recipient of the letter, Bill Kelly, was a prolific journalist and author who, after several attempts, was finally granted an interview with Wayne on November 28, 1978; Wayne died on June 11 of the following year. The interview, Wayne’s last, was published in South Bay magazine in July 1981 and in Kelly’s book/CD Empty Saddles (evidently the book for which Kelly had asked Wayne to write the introduction). Accompanied by several pieces of documentation, including copies of the interview as published in the magazine and book, a CD copy of Empty Saddles, and reprints of approximately 20 photos taken at Wayne’s home on the day of the interview. In very good condition, with four pieces of tape to margins (well away from text and signature) and a few small scattered stains. PSA/DNA Auction LOA and R&R COA.
