Sure Shot

For September’s second story, F. Brett Cox has uncovered exciting correspondence from Annie Oakley in an alternate universe. ~ Julian and Fran, September 8, 2024

This month, we are delighted to share with you another spectacular group of stories by Alaya Dawn Johnson, F. Brett Cox, Martin Cahill, and Alexander London. We are also grateful to discover ourselves World Fantasy finalists for The Sunday Morning Transport, which is both stunning, and utterly impossible without our immensely talented authors, dedicated editorial team, and you, our brilliant readers. Thank you all so much.

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Sure Shot

by F. Brett Cox

The Honorable Allyn K. Capron, President of the United States

Washington, D.C.

March 20, 1917

Dear President Capron:

I write to offer once again my services in anticipation of the coming conflict with Germany. The great success of the Fabulous Fifty during our last war I think speaks for itself. I am confident most if not all the women who offered such brave service to President McKinley before in defense of our homeland would be available and proud to do the same again for you. I am sure I could round them up quickly, and new ones besides. I await your response.

Respectfully,

Annie Oakley

#

Mrs. Frank Butler

c/o the Carolina Hotel

Pinehurst, North Carolina

March 25, 1917

Dear Mrs. Butler:

            I am in receipt of your letter of March 20 addressed to President Capron, in which you generously offer once again to serve your country in a time of crisis. It is understandable if you expected a personal reply from the president, and I hope this response from my lesser office does not too terribly disappoint. However, even as the youngest man since President Roosevelt to hold the highest office in the land, and in the full vigor of an energetic manhood, the president is consumed with the preparations for what looks to be the tragic necessity of war with Germany. Accordingly, it is impractical, if not impossible, that the president reply personally to every item of correspondence that crosses his desk, even when it comes from so distinguished a citizen as yourself.