ZOLA Émile (1840-1902). L.A.S. " Emile Zola ", Paris December 4, 1869, to the journalist Edmond TEXIER; 2 pages and a half in-8. Unpublished letter about the publication of the first volume of Les Rougon-Macquart, La Fortune des Rougon. [Zola, in the grip of great financial difficulties, struggles to see his work published as soon as possible. La Fortune des Rougon was first published in serial form in the newspaper Le Siècle in 1870, before finally being published at the end of 1871 by Charpentier]. He saw CHAMPFLEURY last night, who frightened me greatly by telling me that the council was absolutely determined to pass Dumas' novel. So I went today to ask you if you didn't think that an approach by me to Mr. Terré was necessary. Not having met you, I thought I would take a chance. I found Mr. Terré very benevolent", as well as Mr. Durier: "Both of them promised me to support you strongly, if you would make a small report on my particular situation. I don't think, dear Sir and Master, that my steps can displease you. I simply wanted to make your campaign in my favor easier. It is better that the council decides. Your responsibility will be less, your extreme benevolence for me will cause you less trouble. [Please point out my intolerable position with regard to Lacroix; say above all that my novel, having as its setting the insurrection of 1851, has today the topicality that it may no longer have in a few months, at the rate at which events are moving. I am quite certain, moreover, that you will do your best to remove a favorable vote from the council. Champfleury's novel will end. The matter must be decided on Wednesday. Forgive me my impatience, for I am really in a situation that is getting worse every day." He gives his address as "14, rue la Condamine (Batignolles).