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an old document with a handwritten letter on it and a picture of a man in a hat
Ader

421 - Alexandre BARRILLON (1762–1817), banker and politician.
See original version (French)

Estimate €300 - €400
Sale commission
Description
Alexandre BARRILLON (1762–1817), banker and politician. Autograph letter, Paris, 26 Fructidor Year IX (13 September 1801), to Alexis Antoine Regny, banker in Lyon; 2¼ pages, quarto, with address. An interesting letter on the banks and the Treasury under the Consulate. Whilst Barrillon was travelling in Holland, ‘a major financial transaction took place […] this transaction, which is merely a modification of the one I had devised, was concluded without my involvement […] since my return, I had been offered the opportunity to act as a broker in this transaction. […] I had to refuse an offer which would have given me a reputation for greed, something I am far from wishing to tarnish my reputation with. [...] I could well claim my right of ownership over the invention of the system adopted, but I certainly do not wish to fall out with friends whom I hold in high esteem and love. And if, amongst the five Bankers of the Public Treasury, there were even one who might view my involvement with disfavour, I would not wish to enter Paradise, despite the Saints – and even less so despite God – if it is true, as has been reported, that the First Consul has shown prejudice against me. I have written to this First Magistrate to request an audience and to clarify the allegations made against him; after which I shall see what needs to be done with Messrs the Public Treasury Bankers; but I believe I can tell you that I shall refuse any share that does not associate my name with theirs. Fulchiron and Recamier have shown me in this matter that they are my true friends. They wished to transfer half of their share to me’… Etc.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale Letters and Autograph Manuscripts – Part II
Auction location
Auction time 10/14/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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