Lew Powell's Frostbitten Feet

[Natty]

(08-24-2012 07:44 PM)BettyO Wrote:  Powell mentioned the fainting and falling to stress, according to Gillette why he joined the cavalry; in other words he stated that the "long marches were hard for him" - much as Wild Bill stated. He was also, I think talking about all aspects of his life to Gillette. This kid had a crying need (literally) to talk to someone; guess it kept his mind off of the coming inevitable and made facing death easier. He was extremely vulnerable in the death cell - according to Gillette and the guards as well who reiterated it to the journalists - he wept constantly - alternately crying and praying while talking to Gillette and later Stryker for about an hour before he walked to the gallows.

Ah, thanks Betty. Are these conversations with Dr. Gillette anywhere online or in print? I have only found the appendix in Alias Paine where Gillette's son discusses a few elements of that night.

Poor Lewis. I've already poured my heart out on this subject many times, so I'll let it suffice to say that at least one person was there that night to hear what he had to say.