THE SECRET MEMOIRS OF THE DUC DE ROQUELAURE - WRITTEN BY HIMSELF NOW FOR THE FIRST TIME COMPLETELY TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH IN FOUR VOLUMES
Book Details + Condition: (Leonard Smithers) Privately Printed (London). First, Limited and Numbered Edition, 1896/7. This particular set has two copies which are numbered (#422 and #404), and two copies that remain blank. They are part of a limited edition of 1000 copies, 500 of which were intended for America. Decorated hardcovers with full leather boards with gilt to front and spine, and "1896" stamped to bottom. Pagination: 383pp; 376pp; 373pp; 369pp. The set is a memoir providing a detailed account of the life of the Duc de Roquelaure, a French nobleman and military officer during the 17th and 18th centuries. It presents a rare glimpse into the life of a French aristocrat, and the world in which he lived. De Roquelaure was well known for his wit, charm, and close relationship with France's King Louis XIV. The work is divided into several chapters that cover different periods of Roquelaure's life - his childhood, his education, his military career, and his adventures and travels. He also provides fascinating insights into the French court and the political intrigues of the time.
For all volumes: firm binding; rubbed corners and edges; wear to full leather boards, with some darkening and rubbing present; chafed spine ends; bookplate to inside front board, with small bookseller stickers also present; toning to pages; interior is clean and free of markings.
