Lucian FREUD (1922-2011)

Autograph letter signed to Ann Fleming. 

2 page 8 vo on a  Hôtel La Louisiane letterhead paper (Paris. 1953)

“ Life is cruel, my dear ! ”

Rare letter from young Freud preparing for his new wedding and humorously evoking James Bond's father, husband of his correspondant, Ian Fleming

“Darling Ann, In spite of Doc. Leadinghams warning “Life is cruel, my dear !” we are very well. Caroline is coming to London for two days on the 18^th, so could you please make a date for her with lead-face for the 19^th ? I think a Paris wedding would perhaps be best as one needs no documents except my divorce papers, but where-ever it takes place do please be my best man ! The main advantage of being married here is that it can be done at dusk so that one can emerge, spliced, into the Paris night. I am becoming rather like Ian in so much so that a number of subjects can not safely be mentioned in my presence. I hope Raymond is nightly leaping his five barred gate. Please write. Best love. L.”