Friend Joe: Received a letter from Gov. Erickson yesterday appointing me to a position on the Russell Memorial committee which is to carry out the plans foo [sic] placing a statue of Russell in the National hall of fame as Montana’s most distinguished citizen. The other members of the committee are John Lewis, and John Ritch. Governor Erickson is also a member. Do not know just what the expects of me in detail so that is about all there is to announce so far. I did ^[handwritten] not^ ask for a place and I know that Conway did ask to be placed on the committee so I guess it will sort of serve as a rebuke to the outfit that put on the show this year. Of course I would have stuck for Russell anyhow but this sort of proves that the other layout didn’t get by very good. In fact I do not believe that they succeeded in putting me very far out of the way. Syd says I may be sent to Washington. As for me - - - well, I haven’t gone yet. If Charley is there tell him the honor Iv’e [sic] had handed to me, for me, will you? Also tell Mrs. Russell and further say that I am going to do my best to be of service to my state and the memory of Charlie Russell xxxxxx at whatever he >[handwritten (the Gov.)> requests me to do. Sincerely, [signed] Vesta Robbins Bell May 18, ’29. [Transcript by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2012-09-10]