MUSSOLINI, Benito (1883-1943). Autograph letter signed ("Mussolini"), in Italian, to Paolo Orano. Rome, [October 1917].

1 page, 4to, on Popolo d'Italia letterhead, some cello-tape repairs on verso with show-trhough affecting a few words, creased and nicked at edges, some separation at folds, tear on right edge. A rare early Mussolini letter to his early associate Paolo Orano, requesting various articles and proofs "as soon as the censor permitssend me a proof of yours" He goes on to report on the current political situation in Italy: "The secret committee was the apotheosis of defeatism. Canepa, Sandulli and particularly Alessio were in particular ignoble and Faelli assured me yesterday that Sonnino was finished. Giolitti already settled on a successor. Here the atmosphere is dull. But in northern Italy, the strong currents-even working class-are putting themselves on the line to save the country from extreme shame" Paolo Orano (1875-1945) was an Italian psychologist, politician and writer who began his political career as a revolutionary syndicalist in the Italian Socialist Party. He later became a leading figure within the National Fascist Party. During the March on Rome he served as Mussolini's chief of staff, while occupying a seat on the Grand Council of the party. He enjoyed a high-profile under the fascist government, serving in the parliament and holding the post of rector of the University of Perugia.Paolo Orano (1875-1945) was an Italian psychologist, politician and writer who began his political career as a revolutionary syndicalist in the Italian Socialist Party. He later became a leading figure within the National Fascist Party. During the March on Rome he served as Mussolini's chief of staff, while occupying a seat on the Grand Council of the party. He enjoyed a high-profile under the fascist government, serving in the parliament and holding the post of rector of the University of Perugia.

Property from the Robert L. McKay Collection, North Tustin, California