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Lot #425
Victor Hugo Autograph Letter Signed, Recommending a Russian Translator to the Publisher of Les Misérables

Hugo recommends a Russian translator's work to his French publisher: "You will judge better than anyone the book and the success it may have"

Estimate: $1000+

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Description

Hugo recommends a Russian translator's work to his French publisher: "You will judge better than anyone the book and the success it may have"

ALS in French, one page, 5 x 8, January 19, 1863. Handwritten letter to Pagnerre, who had published Hugo’s masterpiece Les Misérables the year before, about a young woman translating Russian literature. In full (translated): "I do not have the honor of knowing Ms. Josèphe de Naverne personally; she has translated from Russian a novel of manners which is said to be interesting. I would be grateful should you read the translation. You are an excellent judge, and you will judge better than anyone the book and the success it may have. If your impression is favourable, I would be delighted to have put you in a position to help a respectable young person at the beginning of her career, and to do a good deed by publishing a good book. It is therefore to your most kind attention that I recommend Ms. de Naverne and her manuscript." In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Hugo's own hand to "Monsieur Pagnerre, libraire éditeur, r. de Seine," and initialed "V.H." in the lower right corner.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts Featuring Art and Literature
  • Dates: December 20, 2024 - January 08, 2025





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