TLS signed “W. F. Cody,” one page, 8.5 x 11, Offices of Holmes & Rogers Lawyers letterhead, February 29, 1908. Letter to the widow of circus founder James A. Bailey, now his partner in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West and Congress of Rough Riders of the World. In full: “In regard to our agreement of December 6th, 1906, I wish to say that it is my understanding, both with regard to last year and to the coming years, under that agreement, that the provision in the third clause for a weekly compensation to me of $500 is understood by me that that sum will be paid me weekly during the part of the year that the show is on the road and on a paying basis, out of my share of profits irrespective of any pledge of my share of the profits to you, and in computing any amounts of profits to be credited to me and applied by you on any indebtedness of mine, this $500 a week is to be charged to me as part of my profits. This sum, however, is not to be deemed a loan to me, but simply a preliminary payment of profits to me, not assigned to you. I correspondingly understand both for last year and for the coming years, under the contract, that the compensation of Mr. McCaddon or any other person appointed by you in his stead as your representative in financial management, is a charge against you and not against the firm.” The statement typed beneath Cody’s letter, “I understand the agreement in the same way,” is signed in Ruth Bailey’s name by her brother, James T. McCaddon, business manager of Barnum and Bailey, as attorney in fact.
Accompanied by a three page, 8.5 x 13, typed carbon listing headed “John D. Burgess in acct. with William F. Cody,” signed at the conclusion “A true copy from / Vouchers & books / John D. Burgess / Tucson A.T. Dec 14/10.” Labor expenses include “Locating Cody-Burgess Group $108…Work on pure Gold, $106…Work on Cody-Burgess 607…Assaying 22…”
In very good condition, with scattered creasing, a few lightly affecting signature, and several areas of irregular mild toning.
No doubt about it...in addition to being an entertainer, Cody was also a shrewd businessman. The famed rodeo owner and famed circus owner had been business partners, and here the surviving partner in that relationship seeks assurance that the referenced contract, following Bailey’s death, and which transferred assets to his widow, was correct and that he will continue to receive $500 a week as had been agreed. At the time he sent this letter, Cody and show had been on an extended tour of Europe. An interesting peek into the business mind of the legendary showman. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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