Paul ÉLUARD congratulates HUGNET on "La Chèvre-Feuille" illustrated by PICASSO.

Paul ÉLUARD (1895.1952)

Autograph letter signed to Georges Hugnet.

Two pages, 12mo. (Vézelay, January 19, 1942)

Canceled autograph envelope.

The letter is signed by Éluard with his resistance pseudonym, Lucien .

"Many thanks to Picasso for these beautiful illustrations."

Beautiful letter from Paul Éluard rejoicing in the future publication of Hugnet's work, illustrated by Picasso, La Chèvre-Feuille .

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« I am glad, very glad, my dear Georges, to know you are better. But I still feel the same sadness for Germaine, for the harmonious couple you were. My friendship never separated you, and I fear it will never separate you. Is it my fault that you were so well suited? In any case, all my best wishes to you both, and I dare say to all four of us: you two, Nusch, and me. We were one. I am heartbroken ! From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much to Picasso for these beautiful illustrations , for the joy they bring you, and for the joy they bring me. Naturally, I agree to the reprint, and since it's a way of settling our debt, please keep two, or even three, copies for me. In addition to the exceptional copy of the book, for exceptional service ( old servant of friendship ), save me a copy for 3000. Needless to say, I thank you for the effort you're making to give 5000 to my mother. She'll need it to pay off my most urgent debts. She also needs to reimburse Spirydakis. I've asked Cécile to take care of that. Now, some big news: we're leaving, most likely for good . It will be a while before I have a permanent address. Anyway, to reassure you, know that I'll be in touch in the last week of the month, most likely . A truly extraordinary copy of The Honeysuckle!! I dream of it. Perhaps it will include the 6 engravings, color proofs, an unpublished poem? You are an angel, and it's quite unnecessary, isn't it, my dear Georges, to tell you that I will repay you for this, as long as I can. I have a gift idea for you!! A truly unique gift, like nothing you've ever had before… Finally, tell Germaine that we love you both with all our hearts. Lucien.»

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La Chèvre-Feuille was published by Editions Robert Godet in 1943, with six full-page illustrations by Pablo Picasso.