Hotel Breteuil, October 30, 1858
Breslau Chess Club
Dr. Shutze
Dear Sir,
You have heard without a
doubt, with regret that the fine American chess player Mr. Paul Morphy is
ready at this time to leave Europe in about fifteen days and also that he
is not likely to return for several years. Nothing could be worse for all
true chess amateurs; but although several strong players are willing to
come to Paris to measure with him their strength, the early departure of
Mr. Morphy will deprive us of great games that would be played between him
and those illustrious champions. Mr. Morphy is the first to truly regret
the obligations calling him to return to the United States and would
prefer I am sure, to pass the winter in Europe. But he fears the
dissatisfaction of his family with too long a prolongation of his sojourn
with us.
In this matter all chess
amateurs of Paris have decided to write to him a letter to get him to stay
in the interest of chess. Also several clubs in London and Paris are
themselves following the same example and are themselves writing to him in
the same way. And if your circle would address him during this week (!)
it would no doubt show Mr. Morphy that it is the unanimous wish that he
stay longer and serve to present to his family the reason why Mr. Morphy
should delay his departure. I have had the pleasure of traveling with Mr.
Morphy since his arrival in Europe and I am convinced that he would yield
to such an important and unanimous wish.
With high regards, &c.
Fred. M. Edge
