Maria I al Emperador

Richmond,

The more than paternal letter your Majesty was pleased to write to me by M. de Humbermont brought me at the same time great consolation and joy, and sadness. Joy, because of your affectionate remembrance of me shown by so many visits; melancholy, on account of the anxiety now brought to you by the war. The King, my lord and husband, would have desired to take part of this weight off your shoulders, had it not been for the considerations uttered on your behalf; remarks so prudent and just that they deserve all our attention. In them I see a proof of your Majesty's watchful care for the realm's and my own interests, for which, and above all for having so far spared the person of the King, my husband, I most humbly thank you.

I own that you are thereby imposing upon me an obligation so far surpassing all other benefits that I shall never be able to acquit myself; so I will only offer to your Majesty all that my small powers enable me to give, always praying God so to inspire my subjects that they may realise the affection you bear this kingdom, and the honour and advantages you have conferred upon it by this marriage and alliance, which renders me happier than I can say, as I daily discover in the King, my husband and your son, so many virtues and perfections that I constantly pray God to grant me grace to please him and behave in all things as befits one who is so deeply embounden to him.

For the rest, I will refer your Majesty to the account M. de Humbermont will give you of the state of affairs here.

Holograph. French.