French cookbook author and cooking teacher (1904-1991) who, along with colleagues Julia Child and Louisette Bertholle, played a significant role in the introduction of French cooking technique and recipes into American kitchens. Three TLSs, each one page, 5 x 3.25 and 8.25 x 11.75, dated between July and October 1979, each addressed to prospective student Linda Collins on Simca’s Cuisine School letterhead. The earliest letter, July 16, 1979, in part: “I teach only a five day course and to not more than five or six students at any one time. The students live in the Campanette which is a lovely villa built on the same property where I live. The classes are conducted in English in the teaching kitchen in the Campanette from nine in the morning until approximately twelve, from Monday to Friday…I do suggest that students rent a car, as we live in the country and there are many places of interest in the surrounding area”; the second letter, which Beck has dated in her own hand, “August 2nd 1979,” in full: “Thank you for your letter with the check deposit. If you prefer the second week of February, it is OK. You are enrolled for February 10-15; 1980. Sorry for June, but I am booked up since 6 months for this early summer”; and the third letter, dated October 16, 1979, in part: “Please send me the time of your arrival on the 10th. in Nice so that we can arrange to meet you at the airport and show you the way to Bramafam. If you are asking what type of clothes to bring; February is usually sunny during the day, but the evenings are chilly. And do not worry, the house is very comfortable.” Includes a letter from Beck’s assistant, Paul Grimes, addressed to Collins, writing that they are “sorry to hear you will not be able to join us in February, 1980.” In overall fine condition. Accompanied by the four original mailing envelopes, as well as a postcard with directions to Bramafam.
