Highly influential Russian author (1818-1883) whose 1862 novel Fathers and Sons remains one of the pillars of 19th-century literature. ALS in French, signed “I. Tourgueneff,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 8, September 19, 1866. Handwritten letter to French socialite Valentine Delessert, referring to the forthcoming publication of his novel Smoke. In full (translated): "You are kindness incarnate and your letter was extremely touching. You can be sure that I am quite appreciative of the affection you hold for me. I hurry to inform you, as you asked of me, that my health is completely restored, that I have already gone hunting and hope to do so again tomorrow. The attack was rather acute—but it did not last long. I am, besides, in very good hands—we have an excellent doctor here—and taken care of as well as one may wish for. One must pay these debts every once in a while, otherwise life would be too sweet.
I have often thought of you this summer—I knew that you were not as well as your friends wished—and the cold you mentioned worries me. I would have been so happy to see you in Baden and I think that under different conditions the trip would have been very good for you—but we've had such a miserable season—weather that was so constantly terrible that I cannot in good conscience regret that you did not leave your comfortable home in Passy. Let us hope that this is merely temporary, and take care of yourself in the meantime.
I receive letters from Paulinette [his daughter]—she seems to be happy with how things are going at the glass factory—but she is somewhat bored. Otherwise, I think she is perfectly resigned to it—the little blunders of the past year have had quite a painful result for her. It is also about time that I become a grandfather. I would be very happy to know Mrs. Innis is at her side.
I have returned to work—and there everything is going well. My novel will be published in Russia early next year. Thank you for the news about your children; everything pertaining to you is dear to me—and as for Mrs. Nadaillac, I have sworn a true affection for her. Goodbye, dear Madam—and thank you yet again. I intend to go to Paris in late November and you will be, as always, the first person I call on." In fine condition.
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