EUGÉNIE (née Montijo, 1826-1920, wife of Emperor Napoleon III)

Autograph letter signed to "Madame" in French with translation, saying that she has received her letter and wants "to thank you for having thought without knowing me that I would never hesitate to sacrifice our interests to those of France, in case the occasion should arise ...", and expressing her thanks for her appreciation and support, 3 sides 8vo, Camden Place, 13th November letter laid down on fourth side, envelope on blank part of third side, on verso are notices of Mme Livois' death in 1895

After the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian War in 1870, Eugenie remained in Paris as Regent while Napoleon III and the Prince Imperial travelled to join the troops at the German front. The army was ultimately defeated and Napoleon III gave himself up to the Prussians at the Battle of Sedan. From 5th September 1870 until 19th March 1871, Napoleon III and his entourage were held in comfortable captivity in a castle at Wilhelmshöhe, near Kassel. Eugénie travelled incognito to Germany to visit her husband.

Le 13 novembre 1870
Camden Place
Kent
J'ai reçu Madame la lettre que vous m'avez écrite, et je viens vous remercier d'avoir pensé sans me connaître que je n'hésiterai jamais à sacrifier nos intérêts à ceux de la France, s'il pouvait s'en présenter l'occasion. J'ai souvent entendu apprécier la droiture de vos sentiments par une de vos amies, c'est vous dire, Madame, le prix que j'attache à votre bonne opinion. Croyez à tous mes sentiments.
Eugénie
November 13, 1870
Camden Place
Kent
Madam, I have received the letter you wrote me, and I want to thank you for having thought without knowing me that I will never hesitate to sacrifice our interests to those of France, in case the occasion should arise. I have often heard the appreciation of your feelings by one of your friends, that is to say, Madam, the price I attach to your good opinion.
Believe in all my feelings.
Eugénie

Item Date:  1870

Stock No:  39997