Georges d'ESPARBÈS (1863-1944). L.A.S., Vaux (Seine-et-Oise), January 19, 1895, to Stuart Merrill; 8pages in-8, envelope. Magnificent letter of literary admiration, after reading Petits Poëmes d'automne... "I want to tell you what I admire above all: L'âme d'automne. I, who have long been gripped by the dream of writing - in wicked prose - about helmeted kings, marjoram landscapes, troubadours and spear-fighting, am speechless with admiration for your dreams. You have distant eyes, you have seen the pretty, the intoxicating, I had only conceived the rough"... Etc. And he quotes many verses (and stanzas) that he particularly liked... "You are a great poet, and I will say so one day. There's only one way to talk to artists, and that's to point out what you liked best about them, without reflection, without criticism, because you have to let those who have strength walk, and not point out any road. Well, the first poem is remarkable for its allure, its stiff and serious beauty: "The enchantress of Thule has ravished my soul on her island"... Etc. He adds: "Never have I written such a long letter!" Enclosed are 2 other letters addressed to Stuart Merrill by Nathalie Berry Boynton (Paris April 26, 1915) and her cousin Virginia Watson (New York January 26, 1914). Plus 2 letters to Claire Merrill from poets André Fontainas (December 23, 1915) and Georges Marlow (condolences).