Romain Gary tries to resume his diplomatic career. 1955.

Romain GARY (1914.1980)

Autograph letter signed to the consul of Venice, Gérard Gaussen.

One and a half pages in quarto

Roquebrune. October 15 [1955]

"I think you probably know where you stand better than I do."

Romain Gary wrote to the Venetian consul, Gérard Gaussen, in order to resume his diplomatic career.

______________________________________________

My dear old friend, I am writing to you to try, as they say, to get some direction – it has been a month since I last had any communication with the Department – ​​but [Jean de] Lagarde, from NY, just phoned me to tell me that they are "still thinking of you for Venice, provided they find something for Gaussen".

I think you might know where you stand better than I do – Do you intend to spend another season in Venice? (Goodness! How I would understand!) Or do you, or does anyone, have a position lined up for you? Could you tell me a little about it, because I've been in Roquebrune for three months now and it's time to think about getting my steak ready… If your departure seems very far off, tell me, and I will reluctantly agree to return to New York with Lagarde, who is, by the way, very kind.

I hope I'm not bothering you too much with my request. I intend to stay in Roquebrune for a while longer, and my plans will depend largely on your reply … Thank you for your kind welcome to my wife – who was very touched. Please give my regards to your beautiful and charming wife, and believe me, my dear Gaussen, your faithful friend. Romain Gary.

______________________________________________

After a period of uncertainty tinged with despair and several months spent in Roquebrune in the company of Lesley Blanch, Romain Gary was appointed to the post of consul in Los Angeles, from February 1956.