He was destined for a career as a painter, but after meeting Victor Hugo, he turned to literature. He took part in the "Petit Cénacle", a meeting of artists and sculptors. In 1831, he published a fantastic tale, La Cafetière, which made him a household name. In 1836, he wrote his first article for the press, which was to become his main source of income. By the end of his career, he had almost become a poet laureate. In 1868, he was appointed librarian to Princess Mathilde. He provocatively privileged aesthetics over the other functions of his work. Autograph letter signed "Théophile Gautier" to a friend. S.l.n.d. 3/4 p. In-8°. Beautiful piece. He asks his correspondent, whom he describes as "Cher Maitre", to grant a hundred francs on assistance promised to Mrs. Key Blunt, their protégé; there is an emergency, she must wait for the return of Joseph Isidore Samson to organize her evening (for his benefit no doubt). Following are some details on half-English, half-French performances, with Joseph Taillade at the Théâtre Beaumarchais, which Gautier will talk about in the Moniteur.