South African writer and political activist (1903–1988) best known for the novel Cry, the Beloved Country. ALS signed “Alan Paton and Alan,” one page, 10.5 x 7.5, September 12, 1948. Two letters contained on the same page written to Mrs. Allen and Elizabeth, with Paton writing across the top, “Seeing you are sharing a flat, I hope you don’t mind sharing a letter.” To Mrs. Allen he writes, in part: “Well, I retired on June 30. We are living at P.O. Anerley, Natal, S. A., a small hamlet on the coast. I am writing some verse, but I think something more important will come out of it before long…I am a confirmed and unrepentant believer in emotions (plus I hope some intellect). And there are only two things for S. A., emotions or revolution. And being a kind of Christian, am against revolution.” To Elizabeth, Paton writes, in part: “I am ashamed hat I haven’t written to you for so long, especially when you wrote that ‘naught[?] but man is vile.’ Because I started off believing that the world was getting better & better, & men freer & freer, etc. etc. I don’t believe it anymore. I believe that life & suffering are inseparable…and for you & those like you who go on fighting to make men freer & freer, well I’d give the shirt off my back for you.” Light overall toning, some light creasing and wrinkles, expected folds, with one partial separation along vertical fold through a single letter of signature, otherwise fine condition. RRAuction COA.
