To add another of my memories of Thaïs I recall two letters which must have touched me deeply.
August 1, 1892
...I brought a little doll Thaïs to the Institute for you, and as I was going to the country after the session and you were not there, I left it with Bonvalot and begged him to handle her carefully....
I return in a day or so, for on Saturday we receive Frémiet who wishes me to thank you for voting for him.
GEROME.
I wanted this colored statuette by my illustrious colleague to place on my table as I wrote Thaïs. I have always liked to have before my eyes an image or a symbol of the work on which I am engaged.
The second letter I received the day after the first performance of Thaïs at the Opéra.
Dear Master:
You have lifted my poor Thaïs to the first rank of operatic heroines. You are my sweetest glory. I am delighted. "Assieds-toi près de nous," the aria to Love, the final duet, is charmingly beautiful.
I am happy and proud at having furnished you with the theme on which you have developed the most inspiring phrases. I grasp your hand with joy.