French poet (1671–1741) who was accused of writing obscene, defamatory poems and was exiled from France in 1712. ALS in French, signed “Rousseau,” three pages both sides, 6.5 x 9.5, May 24, 1719. Letter to a woman, identified on the docketing panel as Madame de Ferriol, one of Rousseau’s protectors. He apologizes for his silence but complains his letters have been seized. In part (translated): “Count Huyn and Marshal Flemming…assure me that they know of a sure way of getting my letter to you. What I write to my friends could be posted with no fear on the gate of Palais Royal but I’m really not at all inclined to provide amusement to the curious…I protest that I write to no one at the risk of finding myself suspected of irregularities or even worse.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical folds and scattered light toning. RR Auction COA.
