Dutch-born dancer (1876–1917), née Margaretha Geertruida Zelle, whose renown as a performer was permanently overshadowed by her activities as an Axis spy during World War I, which led to her execution by firing squad at the age of 41. ALS in French, signed “M. G. Zelle McLeod,” one page, 7.75 x 12.25, postmarked Paris, February 16, 1917. Letter to the military governor of Paris. In part (translated): “I suffer so much and I am so ill that I implore you to release me on bail. The shock has been too hard for me. I hope that Maitre Clunet, who has known me for twelve years and is quite familiar with the facts of my life, will agree to act as my guarantor with you." Addressed in Mata Hari's own hand on the reverse of the second integral sheet. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, overall toning, and significant fraying to edges.
Mata Hari had been arrested just three days earlier in her room at the Hotel Elysée Palace, accused of spying for Germany. She was held in Prison Saint-Lazare, where she penned this plea for release—her request for bail was never granted, and the trial took place in July. Edouard Clunet, a 74-year old lawyer and onetime lover of Mata Hari, served as her attorney and was the only person allowed to visit her in prison. In court, he explained her behavior resulting from her sexual attraction to senior military officers, denying any ulterior motives. She was summarily convicted after ten minutes of deliberation and sentenced to death. This is a remarkable letter in the context of the tale of Mata Hari, written in the immediate aftermath of her arrest as a futile plea for mercy. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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