COLETTE mourns the death of her friend and protector.

Sidonie Gabrielle Colette , known as COLETTE (1873.1954)

Autograph letter signed to Hélène Berthelot.

A ½ in-4° page on blue paper

Slnd [late November 1934]

“I never believed in Philippe’s death! »

Colette, a lifelong friend of the Berthelot couple, mourns with emotion the death of Philippe to his widow Hélène.

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“My dear, dear Hélène, it was last night that I learned of the terrible event . I have only thought of you since that moment, dear Hélène. I knew like everyone else that his big heart was sick, but you put up with a wronged heart for a long time, and I never believed in Philippe's death!

Dear Hélène, I should only think of your pain, but don't blame me if I dare to tell you that I am very sad . I kiss you, I hope you will allow me to see you, I am with all my heart your sorry friend, Colette. »

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Philippe Berthelot (1866.1934), an eminent French diplomat, was close to the artistic and literary world. He participated fervently in the promotion of the Arts and helped many personalities such as Paul Claudel, Saint-John Perse, Paul Morand, Jean Cocteau, Raymond Radiguet, Coco Chanel and Colette.

At the end of the 19th century, he became friends with Victor Hugo (to whom his father, Marcellin, was close), Auguste Rodin, Gustave Flaubert, etc.