Charles Gounod, philosopher on divine virtues. 1877.

Charles GOUNOD (1818.1893).

Autographed letter signed to a lady.

Three octavo pages on paper bearing his monogram.

No place. February 1 ^, 1877

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Dear Madam,

Your letter brought me the greatest joy, the satisfaction of knowing I was fortunate enough to do you some good. Ultimately, that's the only thing that matters in life, and our legacy will consist only of what we give of ourselves. “Whoever saves their life will lose it, and whoever gives it up will find it.”

It is quite simple: giving is the only act by which we can resemble God; and to resemble him is infallibly to take the road that leads to him, since it is to follow the path he followed: it is to belong to him, since it is to be his instrument.

Yes, you are right; my time is very busy , especially at the moment, and I hardly have the freedom to see my dear friends: but good things always find their time and place, and the privilege of everything that is life and that makes life possible is to be able to give itself in an instant.

Have faith, then; for, however briefly I see you, I am deeply convinced that I will do you good. Remember, then, the admirable words of the woman who had been ill for years: “If I can only touch the hem of His Robe, I shall be healed!” How swift! The master immediately said, “Someone has touched me; for I felt a power flow from me.” We are all that hem of the divine robe, and there are moments when we feel ourselves to be absolutely carrying an electricity from above.

Farewell; I repeat what I told you; I am at your disposal with all my desire and all my hope of being of benefit to you. Ch. Gounod.