MESRINE Jacques (1936-1979) nicknamed public enemy number on - Lot 73

MESRINE Jacques (1936-1979) nicknamed public enemy number one. 2 L.A.S. to Jeanne Schneider, Fleury-Merogis prison, November 1 and 2, 76. 8 pp. and 2 half-pages folio. Letters marked "F1". On November 1, he wishes to know her impressions as a free woman, tells her that he is suffering from heart pains again and jokes "too many feelings for my old heart you talk about an old one I make! [In a sentimental vein, he announces that he has written to the widow of "mémé Guerini" to offer his condolences. He also wrote "Me, since you've been out. I finally feel free of a weight. []"; The letter dated November 2 is a collection of letters written on November 4, 7 and 8. On Tuesday 2nd, he wrote angrily, "If you knew the hatred and revolt in my heart at this injustice, you'd be afraid of my reactions. [This blackmail of freedom disgusts me [] I've done everything for your freedom, and the result is worse than the evil []" he goes on to talk about his trials "but God, I can't wait for my trials! what a spectacle I have in store for all these _ _ _ !!!! [] I feel sorry for the magistrate who's going to get in my way (sic) []". On page 2, dated Thursday 4th, he is happy that Jeanne's situation is improving and is helping her to arrange their life. At the end of the page, he tells her "before the trial, you're going to take another trip to Fleury beach! let's hope the judgment doesn't leave you there for a few more months. [I've received my indictment for the hold-ups. I've got several "dismissals", only charges for small hold-ups remain, for a total of 90 million old francs stolen in two months [] One of the charges of attempted murder of a cop [] has been downgraded to "serious violence". [] the big piece is the escape [] I'm planning a very fine defense. I'm not giving up. []". On page 3, dated November 7, he wishes to have more news, and to rearrange the numbering of the letters. With a great deal of humor, he writes: "I'm in the shape of a boss, I've put in my provisional application! The answer won't arrive until 1999! [] ". On page 4, dated November 8, he gives her advice on how to furnish her studio, and says "You'll also need to have a 'security' door installed. Your phone will probably be on a listening device, but I'm not telling you anything [] you've got parking [] you've got to get your driver's license and I'll give you your car. You'll just have to find a bank account []". He changes the subject and tells her "I'm preparing a very solid defense prepared by 'my apple' [] I told her I don't accept defeatists []".