Remarkable two-page typewritten and signed letter dated May 4, 1976 on Frank Sinatra stationary to Chicago Daily News writer Mike Royko. The historic letter came in response to Royko's criticism toward Sinatra and the Chicago police, whom he felt were paying more attention to the superstar than to the citizens of Chicago. Royko also accused Sinatra of punching a man outside a bar. Sinatra hearing about the criticism famously penned this letter, cc'ed Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley and others, as well as copyrighted it.
Let me start this not out by saying, I don't know you and you don't know me. I believe if you knew me:
First, you would find immediately that I do not have an array of flunkies.
Secondly, neither myself, nor my secretary, nor my security man put in the request for police protection. It is something that is far from necessary.
It's quite obvious that your source of information stinks, but that never surprises me about people who write in newspapers for a living. They rarely get their facts straight. If the police decided that they wanted to be generous to me, I appreciate it. If you have any beefs with the Chicago Police Force, why not take it out on them instead of me, or is that too big a job for you?
And thirdly, who the hell gives you the right to decide how disliked I am if you know nothing about me. The only honest thing I read in your piece is the fact that you admitted you are disliked, and by the way you write that I can understand that. Quite frankly, I don't understand why people don't spit in your eye three or four times a day.
Regarding my "tough reputation" you and no one else can prove that allegation. You and millions of other gullible Americans read that kind of crap written by the same female gossip columnists that you are so gallantly trying to protect; the garbage dealers I call hookers, and there's no doubt that is exactly what they are, which makes you a pimp, because you are using people to make money just as they are.
Lastly, certainly not the least, if you are a gambling man:
a) You prove, without a doubt, that I have ever punched an elderly drunk or elderly anybody, you can pick up $100,000.
b) I will allow you to pull my "hairpiece"; if it moves I will give you another $100,000; if it does not, I punch you in the mouth, How about it?
Sinatra
Upon receiving the letter, Royko announced he would auction it off, with all money going to the Salvation Army. The winning bid of $400 was submitted by Vie Carlson, and the letter was put on display at the Carlson's Western Town in Rockford, IL.
Framed with Royko's original newspaper clippings regarding the letter. A portion of the proceeds of this sale will be donated to the Salvation Army.
Framed, 20 1/2 x 30 in.

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Lot 52

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