Date: Mon, 16 Nov 1998 17:35:51 -0800
From: "Martin Katz" <Mcats@worldnet.att.net>
To: <VFF20242@nifty.ne.jp>


     I thought you might be interested in a personal story about Ms. 
Cotten.  About 15 years ago, I notice a tiny ad in a local paper 
announcing Ms. Cotten in concert that evening in a small coffee house. 
(So small and local, that even I have played there a few times at open 
mike night.)  I decided to go but was dissappointed to learn that the 
show was sold out.  The owner said that I would be welcome to sit 
outside on the porch where I would be able to hear but not see.  I sat 
down with my wife and waited for a miracle. Who should walk out the door 
but Elizabeth Cotten herself. I decided to say hello and ask her to 
autograph an old album I had brought with me. Her first reaction was to 
ask if we had already met before because she did not recognise me but 
did not want to be rude. I assured her that we had not met before. She 
autographed the album and asked me why we were sitting outside. I told 
her that the show was sold out and we could not get in. She told me that 
maybe our luck would change and gave us the sweetest most sincere hugs 
imaginable! Then she went back inside the coffee house.  Within minutes 
the owner came out and told us that there was room inside compliments of 
Elizabeth Cotten. The table was in the front by the stage. She gave a 
warm concert that was amazing considering her age. I'll never forget her 
sweet wave good bye directed to my wife and myself as she left the 
stage.
     I hope you enjoy this personal tale of someone you seem to like so 
much. May she rest in peace and walk with God.
                    Best wishes,
                    Marty