Question: Crossfades in movie history

So, I am working on a paper about fade transitions throughout history. I am investigating the use and ways of crossfades or cross disolves.

I have got my paper pretty much mapped out and ready to be written.

However in my notes I have written that the first use of crossfade was done by Meliés in his short film The Mermaid in 1904.

Can anybody confirm this? It is the only fact I am not 100% certain of.

Many thanks! Sorry for the shitty formatting, I am on my phone.