DIPLOMATIC MUSINGS
8vo (217 × 134 mm.), pp. [vi], 258. Minor dampstain to foremargin of one leaf only. Entirely uncut, with a few gatherings unopened, in original publisher’s pink publisher’s wrappers, remnants of printed spine label, shelf marks in early manuscript to upper cover and spine, extremities very slightly frayed. A lovely, crisp copy.
First edition of this collection of pieces by the historian and former statesman de Ségur. In the 5 years prior to the Revolution, de Ségur had acted as minister to Russia, having previously travelled widely in the Americas. His political career was ruined in 1789 and he was forced to live thereafter (until the Bourbon restoration) by his pen. Contes, Fables, Chansons et Vers contains several verses inspired by his political career, notably verses adressed to Catherine the Great and to Count Schouwalow, together with an epitaph composed on the death of Zémire, Empress Catherine’s lap dog.
£100.00
