ALS in German, signed "Rilke," three pages on two adjoining sheets, 6.5 x 8, January 22, 1919. Letter to Grete Gulbransson, Austrian writer and the dedicatee of Rilke's 'Five Sonnets' and a poem. In full (translated): "According to the rich custom of Arab story tellers I must now be addressed as: 'Oh Father of Verse Giving!'; my life, in all its breath, is now burdened with so many delays! Hasn't it been months that I've been wanting to invite you to my place? Months. For the longest time my place wasn't good enough yet; later I went out most of the time because I couldn't stand it at home. Now it's the opposite: I live (finally) behind my closed door, don't often go out and rarely let anyone in. But I'd like to take you at your word-and I suggest the 27th [sic, 29th] to both of you, Saint Olafs Day: next Monday, for a little tea party (unfortunately without a fire in the fireplace). If you'll give me the pleasure of accepting, which I urgently hope, I'll also invite the Zechs [poet Paul Zech, who wrote several biographical essays on Rilke]; I haven't got enough cups, spoons and other accessories for more." In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Rilke's hand, which retains its original wax seal bearing the family crest, showing greyhounds surmounted by a rearing greyhound.
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