Famous Letter from 83 Year Old Legend William T. Innes

A famous letter from 83 year old legend William T. Innes about his train ride with aquarist Frank Barrett, who was caught by the customs agent drinking whiskey! Al Klee spoke of this letter in his book, “The Toy Fishes”. See the typed transcription of the letter below.

12/25/56

Dear Mr. Bagliss –

It was a pleasant surprise hearing from you. Thanks! You seem to continue vigorous.

Frank Barrett is living but in a nursing home. I think he is about 87. I am nearly 83. I will never forget coming back from Toronto with him. The conductor had passed and Frank thought the coast clear, so he pulled out a bottle of whiskey and took a swig. Right in back of the conductor was the customs officer. He arrested Barrett, took him off the train at Niagara where he was fined $20 and the rest of the whiskey confiscated. Besides he had to stay another day at Niagara in a hotel!!

I had a quart under the seat which they didn’t find!

Sincerely Innes