A handwritten note was the key document associated with dismissal of charges against Ted Stevens. In his note, Stevens asked Bill Allen for a bill for Veco's services on his house, and said that a mutual friend, Bob Persons, would be in touch with him about it. "Torricelli" is a reference to New Jersey Sen. Robert Torricelli, who got into trouble that year for accepting gifts from a contributor.

Bill Allen testified that he indeed hear from Persons. But Persons said Stevens didn't really want a bill and was only "covering his ass" in sending the note, Allen said. But the notes of two Justice Department lawyers from an interview with Allen in April 2008 show that Allen didn't remember talking with Persons after getting the note. The prosecutors didn't turn over the notes of the interview with Allen despite an order from the trial judge to do so.

The text of the Stevens note isn't very legible. Here's what he wrote:

Dear Bill --

When I think of the many ways in which you make my life easier and more enjoyable, I lose count!

Thanks for all the work on the Chalet. You owe me a bill -- remember Torricelli, my friend. Friendship is one thing -- compliance with these ethics rules [is] entirely different. I asked Bob P to talk to you about his so don't get P.O'd at him -- it just has to be done right.

Hope to see you soon.

My best

Ted

-- Richard Mauer / rmauer@adn.com