UNIVERSITY of GLASGOW

The Corresponence of James McNeil Whistler
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Documents associated with: Child, Theodore
Record 11 of 55

System Number: 00613
Date: 31 December 1886
Author: Théodore Child[1]
Place: Paris
Recipient: JW
Place: [London?]
Repository: Glasgow University Library
Call Number: MS Whistler C114
Document Type: ALS


Entre gens civilisés il est d'usage au moins d'accuser réception des lettres qu'on nous adresse. J'ai donc l'honneur de vous accuser réception de votre épître[2] qui m'a profondément attristé. Pourquoi? Parce que je la trouve indigne d'un homme de votre esprit, - grossière, et surtout bêle [sic]. Quelle lourde patte! Décidément vous baissez, mon maître, et dans vos métaphores vous devenez, ma foi, "pompier".

Compliments de condoléance.

Theodore Child

36 Rue de Constantinople

31 Dec. 1886.


This document is protected by copyright.


Translation:

Between civilized people it is usual at least to acknowledge receipt of letters addressed to us. I have therefore the honour to acknowledge receipt of your epistle which deeply saddened me. Why? Because I found it unworthy of a man of your character, - coarse, and above all stupid. What a heavy hand! Decidedly you are lowering yourself, my master, and in your metaphors you will become, by my faith, "pompous".

My compliments and condolences.

Theodore Child

36 Rue de Constantinople

31st Dec. 1886


Notes:

1.  Théodore Child
Theodore Child (1846-1892), journalist and art critic [more]. See Child's letter to H. Labouchère, 15 December 1886, (# 13183).

2.  votre épître
See JW's letter to Child, #11015.