Justice Blackmun

* Re “Blackmun, Author of Roe Vs. Wade, Dies,” March 5: In June 1986, I sent to Justice Harry Blackmun a very short handwritten note in which I thanked him for understanding at a deep level what a woman was, and saying how sorry I was at the abuse heaped on him. I believe it was shortly after his home had been fired on.

To my great surprise, I received a note on Supreme Court stationery, dated July 22, 1986, in which he said: “Dear Mrs. Roberts, I very much appreciate your recent letter with its supportive comments about the recent abortion cases. It means much to me that you have written just at this time. Sincerely, Harry A. Blackmun.” As I write this, I am staring at and cherishing this note.

JANE ROBERTS

Redlands