Gustave Flaubert, in despair over the Franco-Prussian War.

Gustave Flaubert (1821.1880)

Autograph letter signed to Jeanne de Tourbey, future Countess of Loynes.  

Two and a half pages in-8° on cream paper. Fragile at the central fold.

[Croisset. October 29, 1870]. , 11 p.m.

Flaubert, Correspondence IV , Pléiade edition, page 259

"I don't believe there is a man in France who suffers more than I do […] It seems to me that I am witnessing the end of the world."

Flaubert was in despair over the Franco-Prussian War and the siege of Paris.

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“My dear friend, I am still alive, since one does not die of grief! – On top of the sorrows of my country, I have those of my home. – Consider that I live alone with my mother, who is 77 years old, and that these events are bringing her to an end, in the midst of a stupid population, besieged by the poor. – We have up to 400 of them a day!”

It all depends on people's sensitivity. And I don't believe there's a man in France who suffers more than I do. How have I not gone mad yet!

The surrender of Metz (which isn't yet official) is inexplicable to me. Did Bazaine betray us? And to what end? This catastrophe will demoralize the provinces. But Paris will hold firm. Before the Prussians enter, there will be terrible slaughter . What a war! Never have we seen such horrors. It's systematic . Their dream is to annihilate us. It seems to me that I'm witnessing the end of the world.

I have no news of any of our friends. The Seine-Inférieure is well defended so far. But if the Prussians show up there in large numbers, it will be like everywhere else. Ah! If we had a real success on the Loire, if Trochu made some formidable sorties, things would change. But will they?

Poor Paris! Poor France! Never have they been so loved, have they not! How are you living in London? Who do you see? I would very much like to keep you company. Write to me. I kiss both your hands tightly. Your old friend – not very cheerful! Gve .