Albert Einstein (1879-1955). Typed letter signed (‘A. Einstein’) to Michele Besso, Caputh, 8 June 1931.

In German, one page, 284 x 223mm, on paper with printed heading of ‘Albert Einstein / Caputh bei Potsdam’. Envelope.

Please note this lot is the property of a private consignor.

Published in Pierre Speziali (ed.) Albert Einstein. Michele Besso. Correspondance 1903-1955. Paris: Hermann, 1972. No. 109

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Lot Essay

An anguished response to the excessive demands on Einstein’s time and energy.

‘Everyone is pulling me this way and that (Alle ziehen mir die Haut herunter) and now here come my dearest friends and join the cast of my tormentors. If I cannot find the strength to withdraw completely, then I’ve had it. Say to your friend that with the best will in the world I can no longer undertake anything of this sort’.

Unfortunately there is no trace in Besso’s surviving letters of what request prompted this cri de coeur. It is notable that this letter is not only typed but also signed much more formally than usual in Einstein's letters to Besso.