Charles Louis de LORRAINE (1696-1755) Prince de PONS, then C - Lot 134

Charles Louis de LORRAINE (1696-1755) Prince de PONS, then Comte de MARSAN in 1708. Lieutenant General of the King's Armies. Autograph letter signed Paris January 18, 1737, to Mr de la Motte Commandant du Second Bataillon du Régiment de BOURBONNAIS at PONS en Saintonge (Address, wax seal at opening), concerning his retirement. 1 page in-4°: "You give me great pleasure, my dear LA MOTTE, to inform me of the answer Mr. le Duc de BOUFFLERS has given you concerning your retirement, and the offer of an increase in pension to continue your services; You could not have responded to this proposal with more dignity, nor more nobly, by showing that it was not a pecuniary interest that formed the motive for your request, but solely that of your health, which no longer allowed you to serve. You must wait for the reply to your letter, and consult your health and strength. I hope you won't let me ignore your decision. Your way of thinking will increase the esteem I have had for you for a long time..."