Hungarian traveler, translator, language professor, and spy (1832–1913) said to have introduced Bram Stoker to the legend of Dracula and served as the inspiration for Professor Van Helsing. Partial ALS signed “A. Vambery,” one page both sides, 5.75 x 9, no date. Final page of a letter to Professor William Wright of the University of Cambridge. In part: “I am glad to hear that my…friends appreciate my political writings against the Russian encroachments in Central Asia. I admit that national rivalries and petty strifes have no place in the republic of Sciences, but an exception is here fully justified, for nobody can remain indifferent on seeing the interests of a highly civilized society threatened by the unsatiable lust of conquest of an inferior society and of a despotic government.” Affixed at the left edge to a larger scrapbook page. Intersecting folds (one vertical fold passing through a single letter of the signature) and mild foxing, otherwise fine condition. In 2005 it was revealed that Vambery had been employed by the British Foreign Office as an agent and spy whose task it was to combat Russian attempts at gaining ground in Central Asia and threatening the British position on the Indian sub-continent. Remarkable content from a fascinating historical figure. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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