Papier à lettre bleu

Déjà imprimé au milieu en haut :

Dr Ralcy Hüsted Bell.

Atlanta, Ga.

À la main :

My dear Mr. Zola :

            The people of this nation as a class are fairminded _ they love truth, honor courage and worship real heros. They adore and worhip you. As a people they cannot honor you. You are too exalted. You could honor a nation, but only the centuries to come can honor you.

            I am still a young man ; at first opportunity I shall go to your beloved France for the splendid privilege of holding your hand. A hero's hand !

            Believe me when I say we love you by the tens and hundred of thousands. When we go to bed at night our last thought is “Long live Zola !”

            Again assuring you of love and highest possible esteem, I beg to be considered

            Faithfully yours,

Signature :      Ralcy H. Bell

Mch 7' 98

            For Emile Zola,