The following is Rose's last letter to his parents, written on October 15, 1891, the night before his execution:
Dearest Ones at Home,
It is with a sad heart that I pen these last few lines, realizing that the time is drawing near when I will be launched into eternity.
The thought of those that are dearer to me than life are my only regret, but the hope of the future sustains me. You cannot realize the feeling I have.
Oh God, if I could only prove to the world my innocence, what would I give. Ah, willingly would I lie down my life, dear though it may be, were it 10,000 times dearer to me than it is. Yes, would I gladly do it to wipe the terrible stigma from the path of my poor heartbroken parents. But we have a blessed truth that whosoever believeth on Him shall have everlasting life. In Him, and Him only, do I place my trust.
I am reconciled to my fate, and ask God's blessing to rest upon you all, and assist you in bearing the burden of your grief, and hope and trust that when the great reaper gathereth his harvest, I will meet you all in that bright home of love.
I had my picture taken today, and N.B. Anderson will send you one dozen, and I want to send one to the following address, John C. Geiger, New Ulm, Minn., as I promised him one. One also to this address, if she wishes it: Miss Alma, New Ulm, Minn. I wish also to enclose a letter to her with this last request.
Bidding all good-bye and asking you all to bear your trials bravely as you may believe I shall, again I will say good-bye, and God bless you all.
From your affectionate son and brother, William Rose.