Unsigned handwritten letter in French, one page both sides, 4 x 6, no date. Curious handwritten letter to Florimond Claude, Comte de Mercy-Argenteau, the Austrian ambassador to the court of France, appointed by Marie Antoinette's mother, Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. Mercy-Argenteau played a substantial role in strengthening the ties between the two kingdoms, and held great influence over Marie Antoinette upon her ascension to the French throne. In full (translated): "Stop, my dear count, in the proposition of Mr. J. and the continuation of Mr. De Gil project. I concede on first sight. If mad people want to lose themselves, wise people should not lose themselves because of them. I go back to your earlier opinion. Goodbye. Here is my letter for the King of Naples. It is not very long but I believe it says enough. As the commander cannot be recommended as one would recommend the Knight of Assas. I forgot to tell you that it would be advisable that the commander does not express his gratitude too clearly. This would excite a lot of curiosity and more requests." In fine condition, with writing showing through from opposing sides.
The King of Naples, later known as Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies, was the husband of Marie Antoinette's sister, Maria Carolina. In recommending a commander, she compares him to Nicolas-Louis d'Assas, known as the 'Knight of Assas,' who, during the Seven Years' War, was surrounded by enemy soldiers and heroically cried out: 'To me, Auvergne! Here is the enemy!' Though instantly slaughtered by bayonets, his defiant alarm saved his countrymen. This unsigned letter is typical of those that Marie Antoinette penned to people close to her; an extremely scarce format, we have offered only two other autograph letters by Marie Antoinette. A rare, superior example with fascinating content.
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