The friend's letter

 

Paris, May 12th 1951

 

My very dear Oskar,

 

After fifty years of hard work and disappointments,
I have not managed to publish any of my most important texts.
Should I despair of not being read?
I am telling you, the only person to defend me come what may: I am going to burn all of my writings.
Have no regrets, my friendship will remain the most precious thing I have had to offer you.
With fraternal regards,

 

Victor

Please burn this letter after reading it.