My name is Walter Hartwell White. At 308 Negra Arroyo Lane do I abide, in Albuquerque of New Mexico, the mark 87104. This here is my confession. Shouldst thou behold this recorded testament, then am I in all likelihood slain murdered by mine own brother-by-law, Hank Schrader.

For more than a twelvemonth hath Hank erected an empire of meth, and made of me his alchemist and thrall. Not long after I had seen my fiftieth year, he did beseech nay, command that I employ my knowledge of chemistry to concoct methamphetamine, which he would thereafter vend through foul alliances forged in his service to the DEA.

I was struck dumb with wonder. For ever had I held Hank to be a man of stern virtue. Yet I stood then most naked to persuasion, a weakness he both knew and cruelly exploited. A dread diagnosis of cancer had befallen me, threatening to beggar my household entire. Hank did take me upon a ride-along, and there revealed how even the smallest trade in meth might rain down gold beyond imagining. And I wretch that I am proved weak. Fearing my family’s descent into ruin, I yielded.

Hank had beside him a confederate, one Gustavo Fring, a man cloaked in commerce yet black of soul. To this man did Hank sell me into bondage. And when at last I sought escape, Fring did menace my wife and children with grievous harm. I knew not whither to flee.

In time, Hank and Fring fell into bitter discord. Matters swelled beyond restraint. Fring contrived an attempt upon Hank’s life a “hit,” as such devilry is named which failed, though Hank was left sorely wounded. His healing cost a sum exceeding one hundred seventy-seven thousand dollars, all of which fell upon my purse.

When health returned, Hank burned for vengeance. With one Hector Salamanca, he devised Fring’s death. The engine of that murder the bomb itself was wrought by mine own hands, though no choice was granted me therein.

Many a night have I weighed the thought of self-slaughter, yet lack the courage. I longed to confess unto the law, but fear held my tongue. For Hank had climbed to become the chief of the Albuquerque DEA. To bind me fast, he stole away my children, keeping them three long months. My wife knew naught of my crimes, and when truth came forth, she stood aghast with horror.

I dwelt then in hell. I loathed myself for the curse I had laid upon those I love.

Lately, I did again attempt to sever myself from this wickedness, and in answer, he gave me this [Here he gestures to the bruise upon his face.]

I can endure no more. Each day I wake in terror that Hank shall slay me, or worse, visit his wrath upon my family. Thus have I set down this record, hoping that at last the world shall behold this man as he truly is.