CHRISTIE ETHEL: (1898-1952) English wife of murderer John Reginald Halliday Christie, herself one of his victims who was later discovered strangled under the floorboards of their house at 10 Rillington Place. An extremely rare A.L.S., Ethel, four pages, 8vo, 10 Rillington Place, North Kensington, London, 12th -14th June 1952, to her sister, Lily Bartle. Christie thanks her sibling for their letter and states that she is sorry to learn that she is feeling ill, ´I suppose it is "middle age" not "old age" & I think you should rest more....You mention about a slight operation. Of course, you know what I think, which is to avoid one if you possibly can.....About the black spots, why not try "Beechams Pills". I do´, further expressing her regret at not living closer and being able to help, ´If you had persuaded Harry to let us have part of that corner house I should have been on the spot to help you at times like this as I do not think that Eddie or Harry realize that it is necessary for you to rest more than you do & I do, as I have had to take things easier lately or else I have sick headaches´. Christie concudes her letter on the 14th June, exactly six months before she would be strangled to death, making reference to her husband and their infamous residence, ´Reg is not better yet & he has to go into hospital again next week for another thorough examination & Xrays. I wish we could get out of here as I think we should both be better in health. You know, we are always expecting something to happen here´, further elaborating ´There is a "racket" here to charge a "lump sum" for "fittings" when a flat is empty & that is the only way to get one, & others leave furniture in & charge a high price for that, so it seems hopeless´. Accompanied by the original envelope hand addressed by Christie. VG