Collections de documents illustrant les relations entre la France et les Amériques (HNOC)

John Davis, proprietor of the Théâtre d'Orléans in New Orleans, writes to François Joseph Talma, an actor in Paris, inviting Talma to come to New Orleans for a series of performances from November 1821 through April 1822. Davis mentions the enthusiasm of New Orleanians who have seen Talma in Paris. He refers to the national pride of the French population of New Orleans who maintain French customs and tastes, and who desire French theatrical performances to rival the English and American performances. Davis offers payment of 100,000 francs and travel expenses, and also offers to hire a dramatic actress of Talma's choice to support him. Davis mentions the possibility of hiring the actress through his agent in France, Louis Raymond. Davis notes that the invitation is being issued through Antoine-Louis Gillet, a notary in Paris.