The Bridge of San Luis Rey - with letter from Wilder discussing the novel

A first edition, first printing of 'The Bridge of San Luis Rey' published by Longmans in 1927. A very good book without inscriptions in a very good unclipped wrapper with a chip to the head of the spine and to the edges - the spine is browned. Within, a page long hand-written letter SIGNED by Wilder is affixed and unfurls from the front pastedown and is dated October 9th 1934 (originating from The University of Chicago). The letter discusses the letters of Marquesa de Montemayor and states her character is based on 'that of Mme de Sevigne'. A marvellous association to the novel. A bridge in Peru collapses, killing five people. Brother Juniper investigates, seeking divine meaning in the tragedy. One victim is the Marquesa de Montemayor, a wealthy, lonely woman estranged from her daughter. Known for her eloquent letters, she transforms from bitterness to compassion through her unrequited love. Her death, along with the others, forms part of Wilder's meditation on fate, love, and human connection. The novel ultimately suggests that love endures beyond life's seeming randomness, giving meaning where reason fails.…