Italian patriot who dedicated his life, much of which was spent in exile, to uniting his country under a republic. Archive of nine ALS, seven in Italian (untranslated, signed “Giu. Mazzini”) and two in English (signed “Joseph Mazzini” and “Jos. Mazzini”), various lengths and formats (most approximately 3.5 x 4.5), circa 1840s–1860s. Most of the letters are to a Signor Mongini; the two letters in English, to an unspecified gentleman, are related to Mazzini’s writings. In part: “I should like to have … accounting concerning my ill-fated Pamphlet settled. Should you, therefore, find it convenient, you might settle with the bearer…. I had promised to give the article on modern Italian painting at the end of the month. The article is finished; but a slight illness, which has been protracted for some days, has kept back the translating-business; and he, the translator, writing to me just now, apologizing, and saying that he will not be able to deliver this article completed in our hands till the Wednesday or, at latest, the Thursday of next week. I hasten to make you aware of this incident, hoping that it will not be too late for this forthcoming Number. It is in fact but a week’s delay, and you have more than a month before you.” Two of the letters bear dates in 1846 and 1849. The untranslated letters include references to La Forza del Destino, (apparently the opera by Giuseppe Verdi, which premiered in 1862) and several names, including Buonamici, Garibaldi, Ugonotti, and others. An intriguing opportunity for further research! In fine condition, with mild toning, usual folds (not affecting signatures), light collector’s pencil notations, and the very occasional minor chip or spot. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
