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Hôtel des Ventes de Monte-Carlo

1 - LAMARTINE (2nd), Alphonse (1790–1869) A set of two signed au…
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Estimate €200 - €300
Sale commission
Description
LAMARTINE (2nd), Alphonse (1790–1869) A set of two signed autograph letters addressed to creditors, dated 4 January 1863 and 1 December 1865. Creases, a few stains, generally in good condition. Transcription (original spelling retained): ‘Paris, 4 January 1863 Sir! In the arduous task I have undertaken to pay in full to my legitimate and devoted creditors my debt, which is disproportionate to the means of a private individual, using my assets—whether sold or pledged—and my labour, my subscribers have been my providence and the foundation of my confidence. I am in crisis; I shall achieve success if you do not abandon me, and face ruin if you do; do not abandon me, and thanks to you, in less than two years I shall have fulfilled my duty and you your affection. Al de Lamartine PS: The forthcoming issue contains three articles on Victor Hugo’s *Les Misérables*. It will be posted to you before 20 January. The two volumes from 1862 will thus be complete The February issue on North America and on the Mexican question viewed from a different perspective than hitherto will begin the year 1863.” “Paris, 1 December 1865. Sir, I was on the verge of my full release when two painful setbacks have once again put it on hold. England, whilst acknowledging the legitimacy of its debt to me, is postponing its repayment. The government of my country had never seemed hostile to me. I had appreciated its obliging neutrality in my financial dealings with the public. The new developments now appear to be subject to conditions hardly compatible with the delicacy of my position. All I have left to pay off my creditors is my work; I commend it to your friendship and would ask you to kindly sign and return the enclosed subscription form. Alph. De Lamartine”
See original version (French)
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About the sale Antique and 19th-century paintings, Drawings, Furniture, Works of art, Silverware, Books
Auction location
Auction time 06/24/2026 at 2:30 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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