Cr12-Signed Autograph Letter-Paul Margueritte-Chauchard Prize-1898

  
Important signed autograph letter from Paul Margueritte, dated 1898, written on 4 pages and addressed to a “dear colleague.” A particularly interesting literary correspondence in which Margueritte at length discusses the Chauchard Prize, worth 3,000 francs, and the conditions for its award by the Society of Men of Letters. He notably defends Le Dilettante and writes: “The Chauchard Prize of 3,000 francs does not apply only to the body of an author’s work; it may honor a single work.” The letter also mentions Henry Houssaye, Alfred Duquet, Edmond de Goncourt, the French Academy, as well as another prize of 5,000 francs. Margueritte specifies that he does not wish to submit his candidacy for his entire body of work, but that the candidacy concerns Le Dilettante and the “two brothers.” He ends by offering his correspondent “to accept a copy of Le Dilettante, in which the dedication will convey to you the expression of our most cordial sympathy.” Very clear autograph signature: Paul Margueritte. CONDITION: old folded letter, with mailing folds, some foxing, small stains, and traces of age. Handwriting and signature very well preserved.