1952 Vincent Black Lightning

Oh, says Red Molly to James, “That’s a fine motorbike. A girl could feel special on any such like”. – Richard Thompson

This letter, kept private for decades, was discovered among the personal effects of the late Sergeant William McRae after his passing. For those who cherish Richard Thompson‘s iconic ballad “1952 Vincent Black Lightning,” the contents of this letter may shed new light on the tale we have come to know.

Says James to Red Molly, “My hat’s off to you. It’s a Vincent Black Lightning, 1952. And I’ve seen you at the corners and cafés it seems; Red hair and black leather, my favorite color scheme”. And he pulled her on behind, and down to Box Hill they did ride…