38 - CARVALHO (Caroline MIOLAN, wife) (1827–1895). Famous French opera singer, one of the great sopranos of the 19th century.

CARVALHO (Caroline MIOLAN, wife) (1827–1895). Famous French opera singer, one of the great sopranos of the 19th century. Autograph telegram addressed to Dr. Gilles de Grandmont. Paris, November 23, 1874. 2 pages, in-12 format, in brown ink, on a form from the Telegraph Service, with a 50-centime stamp and postmarks. An interesting autograph telegram, heavily crossed out and corrected, in which the famous singer discusses her personal difficulties, her health, and her professional obligations. “Ah, what a sad turn of events indeed—I so much wish I could have you all to myself to talk about the one who, alas, left so suddenly… I have to go out today from 2 to 4 for lessons—and from 4 to 6—so it’s quite late to ask you to come at that hour. ” She then thanks her correspondent for her concern about her situation and mentions her recovery: “I know you have taken an interest in my sad plight. Thank God, I have been feeling better for the past few days, but I still cannot go out. ” She concludes by sending her regards and asking for news of her correspondents. Caroline Miolan-Carvalho (1827–1895) was one of the most illustrious French sopranos of the 19th century. Admired for the flexibility, virtuosity, and purity of her voice, she premiered several major roles in the French operatic repertoire, notably Marguerite in Charles Gounod’s *Faust* (1859), Baucis in *Philémon et Baucis* (1860), and Juliette in *Roméo et Juliette* (1867). As the wife of theater director Léon Carvalho, she played a pivotal role in Parisian musical life during the Second Empire. An interesting personal account by this great performer, revealing her private thoughts and her work as a singing teacher, on a rare telegraphic document preserved with its original postmark. Old creases, numerous handwritten corrections, slight signs of handling. In good overall condition.