Mistress and second wife of Louis XIV. ALS in French, signed “Maintenon,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 6.5 x 8.75, February 14, 1701. Letter to her daughter. In part (translated): “I have indicated to the King…the difficulty with regard to Mademoiselle de Cury and argued against St. Cyr, requesting that a decision not be made until all the arguments have been heard. The King has decided that the young ladies…are entitled to the monies that have been given them, but only when they leave the institution. However, since this poor girl was not able to leave St. Cyr, the sum which was given to her reverts back to the general fund…I am putting my official signature on this so that it might be useful to you whenever and wherever necessary.” Affixed to the reverse of the first page is a note in French explaining the dilema discussed in the letter. Letter is tipped in to an elaborate silk-lined blue leather case. In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical folds, one passing through signature, and scattered light toning and foxing. RRAuction COA.
