Émile ZOLA. 2 L.A.S., Paris April 18 and 20, 1879, to Ivan Tourgueniev; 1 page and a half and 1 page in-8. Friendly letters to Tourgueniev. April 18. "My dear friend, I have just been asked in the Figaro if I knew anyone competent to make a complete and serious study of the nihilists of Russia. I thought you might be able to point out a competent man. [...] I thought it might be useful to Russia if the article in this widely read newspaper were well done and in a liberal sense"... April 20. "My dear friend, Before leaving for the country, we must dine together once. I have just arranged a dinner at my house with Goncourt and Daudet for next Thursday, April 24th. We're absolutely counting on you; I'd be very sad if you couldn't come. In case your evening is taken, we'll let you go after dessert"...