Claude MONET. Autograph letter, Giverny, April 20, 1900, to Arsène Alexandre; 2 pages, in-8 (mourning), on Giverny letterhead by Vernon Eure, stamped envelope. A fine letter regarding Auguste Rodin. “I have the greatest admiration for Rodin’s talent. He is unique in our time, and among the greatest of all ages. He knows what I think of him, and no doubt you do as well. But to my great regret, I cannot grant your request, for several reasons: first, because I do not know how to write—it is not my profession—and because an artist of Rodin’s stature does not need the endorsement of his peers to achieve the success he deserves and will undoubtedly attain. It is only natural that you include at the beginning of his catalog excerpts from articles by writers who have defended and extolled him. Beyond that, however, it is my opinion that any other endorsements should be left to the peddlers of elixirs—to the Géraudels or Marianis”…