Louis XIII of France. Manuscript Letter, signed
No place, September 20, 1634. One sheet, 2pp, Manuscript letter in French, signed by King Louis XIII of France to his Secretary of State, Claude Bouthillier:
"I am sending you three of my musketeers, whom I have chosen to lead the companies at Philipsbourg...You can present them to my Cousin the Cardinal Richelieu. Speak to Messieurs de Bulion and Boutilier about giving '2 montres' to the Scotch Guard, which are due to them from last year, which is only just and right. Assure my Cousin the Cardinal Richelieu of the continuation of the great affection I feel for him...(P.S) Send me news of Brussels and Breda when there is any."
Creasing from old folds; scattered ink stains, remnants of wax seals; window-mounted to sheet, housed in brown straight-grain morocco folder, stamped in gilt, extremities worn and rubbed; green morocco book-plate of John L. Clawson mounted to front paste-down. Bound with: Anne of Austria, Manuscript Letter, signed September 9, 1650. 4 pp.; Gaston, Duc d'Orleans, Autograph Letter, signed. August 9, 1636. 1 p.; Philippe I, Duc d'Orleans, Manuscript Letter, signed. February 13, 1675. 4 pp. Each tipped-in, or window-mounted to sheets, with portrait engravings, English translations, or previous bookseller's descriptions. Condition varies.
Rare and possibly unique manuscript letter signed by King Louis XIII of France (1601-43) presenting three musketeers to his cousin and closest advisor, Cardinal Richelieu (1585-1642).