August 2017 Auction Ends Thursday, August 24th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/24/2017
Albert Einstein autograph letter signed to his friend Michele Besso, one of Einstein's closest confidantes. In this letter, dated ''Friday'', known to be 6 August 1926 from the postmarked envelope, Einstein offers condolences to Besso's sister-in-law Rosa, whose son committed suicide. Written from Switzerland in German, letter reads in part, ''...I can well understand that, in view of these sad circumstances, you are not able to leave. I believe that this is what I must deduce from your telegram, which arrived here slightly truncated. We decided that we should go directly to Zurich now, since the weather is always uncertain. At best, we might still hike the Furka. We gave up on the Rawil [Furka and Rawil are alpine passes that connect the Bernese and Valais Alps]. We are not yet certain about it, though. I will stay in Zurich at least until the 14th. If you like, we could meet somewhere between Zurich and Bern, maybe in Aarau or Burgdorf...At any rate, it would be nice if we could still see each other one more time. I am so terribly sorry for Rosa; she is such an admirable person, and she must suffer so much. / Affectionate regards to you and Anna from your / Albert''. Two page letter on lined card-style stationery, composed in pencil. Measures 5.25'' x 8.5''. Near fine condition. With original transmittal envelope postmarked from Montana-Vermala, Switzerland. A poignant letter, especially given the tragedy that would befall Einstein's own son several years later. Accompanied by a complete translation.
Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed -- Einstein Writes to His Closest Friend, Michele Besso, Offering Condolences to Besso's Family, Who Suffered a Tragic Death
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