1886-10 to Théodore Duret

Autograph letter signed, New York Public Library, 336 words

[Edited for paragraph breaks, capitalization, spelling and punctuation.]

The Green, Southwick, Near Brighton

October 1886

My dear Duret

Will you kindly forward the enclosed. I have forgotten our friend's number.

And now let me thank you for all you have done for me. I say now because I really could not write before... I was trying to get my book on Ireland off my hands and I was at the same time overwhelmed with correspondence.

And now tell me, have you heard of the new review — La Revue indépendante? Of course you have. Here is a chance for your study of Jane Austen — now do write it. The editor wrote to me for a contribution. May I write to him about your Jane Austen? Perhaps you know him; if so write yourself, but do write.

And how is your history? Is it finished? Write and tell me everything.

I have spent the summer here — a real English village grouped round a village green — a green with a horse pond at one end and the beautiful undulating line of the Sussex Downs at the other. How picturesque is English comfort, the labourers’ cottage with quaint windows wreathed with ivy and Virginia creeper; the old village well carefully preserved; the tiny gardens blazing with great sunflowers; and the never ending cricket on the green — Last night it was as bright as day and I watched a score of boys playing football in the moon-light. A nation brought up so must be great.

I do not say that my book on Ireland is a work of art but I do not think you will dislike it. I dedicate it to Manet and through Manet to you all.

I hope Zola is well — Have you seen him lately? I have not written for some time but will do so in a few days. If you see him, remember me kindly.

Very sincerely yours

George Moore