Spring Auction 2014
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/27/2014
Amazing letter written to W. Colston Lee from the Lecture bureau. Pyle is a Pulitzer Prize–winning American journalist (1900–1945), best known for his wartime columns about ordinary GIs, who was killed in combat during the Okinawa Campaign. TLS signed “Ernie Pyle,” one page, 8.5 x 11, , April 3rd, 1941. Pyle writes, in full:
Dear Mr.Leigh:
Since I came directly out here after landing New York I didn't receive your two telegrams until yesterday. delay in acknowledgement hasn’t inconvenienced
As much as I would like to jingle a little lecture-coin in my pocket, it is completely out of the question.
There about 30 reasons why I can't, but the first one is enough -- I was simply born wholly devoid of any ability to speak before people. The mere thought of it turns me white with stage fright. I've never made but once speech in life, and years ago took an oath to myself that I would never attempt another. I even have to turn down invitations to speak at small luncheons among friends, because I simply can't do it.
And even if I could, the terrific pressure of keeping the column going; day in and day out would prevent me from taking on a lecture series. I guess that's enough, so we'll just skip the 28 other reasons. But many thanks for wiring me, and if the years to come should bring some miracle whereby I'd find my tongue, I will come running to you.
Most sincerely,Ernie Pyle"
Important Ernie Pyle Letter "turns me white with stage fright"
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