Puccini, Giacomo.

describing his work on La fanciulla del West, explaining that composition is difficult and progress slow, reporting that Caruso had called on him at Torre del Lago in his car, but had gone away again on hearing that he was not at home, expressing surprise at her news about Caruso's wife (who had deserted him);  Puccini warns against Sybil against getting going to St Moritz (" ...Fosca è a Torre, mi scrive che jeri arrivo Caruso per vedermi ma saputo che non c'ero, riparti, era in auto, mi sorprende ciò che mi dite della sua moglie! ...lavoro così bene qui! La Girl è molto difficile..."),  1 page, 8vo, on a lettercard (c.25 x 15.5cms), integral autograph address panel, stamped, Chiatri (Lucca), 23 July 1908

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Caruso sang at the premiere of La fanciulla del West in 1911.  He had probably driven to visit Puccini, wishing to report that the singer's long-term mistress Ada Giachetti had run away with his chauffeur.  Caruso had two sons by Ada, although they never married, and was deeply affected by her desertion.