French statesman. As foreign minister under the Directory, he helped to consolidate Napoleon’s position as consul and emperor. Alarmed by Napoleon’s ambitions, he resigned in 1807, becoming leader of the anti-Napoleonic faction. He became foreign minister under Louis XVIII, representing France with great skill at the Congress of Vienna. He then lived largely in retirement, but was Louis Philippe’s chief adviser at the July Revolution, and was appointed French ambassador to England. LS in French, signed “de Talleyrand,” one page, 6 x 7.75, July 7, 1833. Letter to an old friend. In part, “I am very touched that while your time is so well spent in your retirement, you can remember an old man like me. I would have been pleased to see you in Paris but I stopped there for a very short time only, and even, despite what the newspapers are saying, only for family reasons.” In fine condition, with expected folds, a light shade of toning and a few light creases. R&R COA.
