218 - DAURAT, Didier (1891–1969)

DAURAT, Didier (1891–1969) L.A.S., Toulouse, June 16, 1930, to Jean MERMOZ; 2 pages, in-4 (marginal tear at the bottom of the second leaf). [After breaking the record for crossing the South Atlantic, Mermoz faced a series of difficulties in getting his seaplane off the water from Natal, which he was not able to do until July 8… only to then crash into the ocean.] “I reaffirm my admiration for you and will not dwell on expressing my feelings toward you, for I wish to keep them intact in my heart. It is such a comfort, such a source of patience, to know that, in all truth, there are true men. Ah! If only you knew what a reward you gave me on May 13 and 14. Few men, I suspect, have experienced such satisfaction in their lives. Rest assured of my gratitude and my affectionate concern. I am eager to see you for many reasons. I am aware of the terrible blow my telegram must have dealt you regarding your departure on June 16. Alas! We were forced to stop you so as not to jeopardize the future of the St. Louis–Natal route, and here is why: During my absence, some peculiar incidents were observed involving the fasteners on the fuselage frames of the seaplanes undergoing testing at Marignane and on the floats; these incidents received such widespread publicity in Marseille that the technical department decided to deploy reinforcements—which, until now, I had hoped to exempt the illustrious 919. Yesterday, a peremptory, formal letter arrived that dashed that hope. Given our current situation, we cannot disregard this order. Furthermore, given the campaign waged by certain sections of the press regarding the value of the Zeppelin and the fragility of seaplanes, it is evident that your return by ship would be a disaster, as it would be interpreted as an admission that seaplane operations are impossible.I know better than anyone the sacrifice that your stranding in Natal represents for you and for us, and I promise to make up for this lost time. I am also confident that the observations you will make in Natal and the surrounding area during this forced stay will be very valuable”… Source: - Jean Mermoz (1901–1936); - Gabrielle Gillet-Mermoz (1880–1955); - Then passed down through the family