Elsie Lindtner
Monte Carlo.
Dear Richard,
Thank you for the money, and forgive my audacious telegram. I am directing this letter to your office, as it has nothing to do with domestic affairs.
You really must help me. We, Jeanne and I, are stranded here like a pair of adventuresses, and don’t know what to do. I have wired to my lawyer, who has simply replied with an unconditional “No.” The creature seems to think he has the right to manage my fortune as well as myself. Naturally, I find it far from pleasant to be obliged to apply to you, but you are the only person I can think of to whom I can turn without risking a refusal.
I have been gambling, winning and losing, finally losing. I am overdrawn, and the last draft which Riise had the grace to send me is gone.
Your money kept me going for two hours, but now that is gone, too. I have pawned the few valuables I possessed, but I am determined to win everything back. So please don’t give me good advice; instead, go and talk to Riise. Explain to him that it is urgent, and I must have the money. I am quite indifferent as to what becomes of the capital. I don’t mind paying dearly for this spree—or whatever you like to call it—and being poor afterwards in consequence. If the matter goes awry, you’ll hear nothing more of Elsie Lindtner. I shall neither take poison nor shoot myself. There is a more comfortable way out of it. A Brazilian, whom I don’t like, has lent me a big sum of money. If I borrow any more of him, it’ll have to come to a bargain. Make Riise sell the stock, even at a heavy loss, I must have money. Meanwhile send me all you can spare at the moment by cheque. I hope you continue to be as happy as ever.
With many thanks in advance,
Yours,
Elsie.