VERNE JULES: (1828-1905) French Author, a pioneer of the Science Fiction genre.

A.L.S., Jules Verne, one page, small 8vo, Amiens, 22nd February 1881, to [Marcus Mayer], in French. Verne states that he left Paris ten days ago and is therefore not aware of the publicity his correspondent has been receiving. The author adds that he notes the balance will be paid at the end of March and continues to comment 'My only reason in writing to you has been to finish with this dreadful Grant affair. I think, as you do, that it isn't much good: nonetheless, it is played in America (I have been sent programmes and posters)' Verne also states that he concludes his correspondent has 'at least been able to make money from the play in the United States' and closes by hoping he will be happier with Strogoff. With blank integral leaf. About VG

Marcus Mayer (1840-1918) American Impresario who had managed tours for Sarah Bernhardt, Lillie Langtry, Henry Irving, Adelina Patti and others. For a while Mayer served as manager of the Princess's Theatre, Oxford Street, and produced several of Verne's works.
Adolphe d'Ennery (1811-1899) French Playwright and Novelist who collaborated with Verne in adapting his novels for the stage, including Michael Strogoff (1876), considered one of Verne's best works. The present letter also mentions the 'Grant affair' undoubtedly a reference to Les Enfants du Captaine Grant, Verne's work of 1865.
A major literary figure in France and throughout Europe, Verne is remembered for his widely popular adventure novels, including Journey to the Centre of the Earth (1864), Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea (1870) and Around the World in Eighty Days (1873). He has had a wide influence on the literary avant-garde and surrealism and, with H. G. Wells, frequently shares the title of the 'Father of Science Fiction'.