A Sketch in the Lives of William Sidney Porter (O. Henry) and Al Jennings, the Bandit. Signed by Jennings, RARE. First Edition, The Pioneer Press, Hollywood, 5540 Melrose Ave. Copyright 1941. Soft cover, 32 pp. Inscribed and signed, Al Jennings boldly in dark pencil.
Al Jennings, was an attorney in the Oklahoma joining his practice with his two brother. A gun battle between a rival attorney resulted in one brother dead, one wounded. After the killer was released, Jennings and his brother resorted to robbing trains. Unfortunately not very good at it with their best netting them 30K. Long story short, Jennings was pardoned by President Teddy Roosevelt.
1904 Jennings became famous when William Sidney (O.Henry) published a short novel of his adventures. But they became friends while on the lam in Honduras for separate legal issues. The book is thought to be primarily by Jennings who then found himself very welcome in Hollywood to consult on films, bank robberies and the like. He ended up making 11 films. After attempting to run for various political positions in Oklahoma he returned to Hollywood to star and consult in Westerns. He died at 98 years of age.
This is an extremely rare publication and know it is in impeccable condition having been beautifully archived for 80+ years.
Estimated Value $200 - 400
American Authors
