173 - BARBEY d'AUREVILLY (Jules), 1808–1889.

BARBEY d'AUREVILLY (Jules), 1808–1889. Autograph letter: “Jules Barbey d’Aurevilly,” undated, 1 p., in-8, in red ink: “No matter what time it is, come to my house; I need to speak with you about your matter with Feuillet. I’ve seen Mr. Feuillet, and I’m waiting for you. If I’m not at home, they’ll tell you where I am.” An interesting letter, most certainly related to his feud with Octave Feuillet (1821–1890). In 1863, Barbey d’Aurevilly had sparked a sensational controversy against the best-selling author—who had recently been elected to the Académie française—whose views were diametrically opposed to his own conception of literature, against a backdrop of regional rivalry; Since both writers were natives of the Manche department, Feuillet embodied official and academic success, while Barbey willingly cultivated his status as a marginal and unyielding writer. His attacks on Feuillet and the *Revue des Deux Mondes* led to a defamation lawsuit against Barbey. Defended by Léon Gambetta, Barbey was nevertheless convicted and is said to have rewarded his young lawyer with this famous remark: “You compared me to Voiture, but you argued like… a horse-drawn carriage!” Stamp from the Henri Ledoux collection (red HL heart).