The King’s approval of the negociation.
Saint Germain, January 12th, 1678.
Sir,
You will see by the letter of the King which goes herewith, how much his Majesty approves ofthe negociation, which you have entered into with the Duke of Mantua, for an affair undoubtedly very important at all times, but especially so at this conjuncture: you could not also have conducted yourself in it with greater prudence, or greater secrecy than you have done.
I am very happy to see that you have taken advantage of this occasion, to testify your zeal for the service of his Majesty; and I hope that the success of the affair may assist you in procuring the sooner from his Majesty, the favour that you have asked of him.
We have not, at present, any news to send you from these parts; the King’s heavy baggage set off Monday morning, for St. Quentin, as I sent you word; but his Majesty has not, as yet, made any preparation to follow it.
I am, &c.Pomponne.167
167From the Archives of the Office for Foreign Affairs, at Paris.