Lazare Carnot Signed Autograph Letter to the Directory, Naples Diplomacy, 1796

  

Lazare Carnot - Autograph letter signed to the Directory - Politics, diplomacy, and peace with Naples, King of the Two Sicilies - 1796. Autograph letter signed, dated 22 Fructidor, Year IV (8 September 1796), written while Carnot was at the height of his power in the Directory.

An influential member of the executive since October 1795, he played a central role in the military and diplomatic organization of revolutionary France. In this letter, he replies to a compatriot who was seeking a diplomatic post in Naples. Carnot explains that the Directory has not yet considered any appointment, since peace with the King of the Two Sicilies has not been concluded. He expresses his personal regard and support, while firmly recalling the principle of collegiality within the Directory.

“You have perfectly grasped the accuracy of this observation, that the Directory is one, that its members can have no opinion except as the Directory, and that it has decided that none of them may express it as an individual.” The letter concludes by directing the applicant to the Minister of Foreign Relations, the only official competent to consider his request, and by assuring that the Directory “will always strive to follow the path of justice.” This document is a valuable testimony to French foreign policy toward Naples and perfectly illustrates the institutional functioning of the Directory in 1796. Nicknamed “the Organizer of Victory,” he played a major role in the mobilization of the republican armies and in the military organization of revolutionary France. The letter is written on laid paper. Autograph letter signed “Carnot” 1 page, quarto Dated: 22 Fructidor, Year IV (8 September 1796) In very fine condition.

Lazare Nicolas Marguerite Carnot, born 13 May 1753 in Nolay and died 2 August 1823 in Magdeburg, was a French mathematician, physicist, officer, and statesman. Autograph letters, old papers, antique books, photographs, engravings, stamps... We appraise and/or buy throughout France your letters, letter collections, and old books. Please feel free to contact me. Careful shipping in rigid, waterproof packaging within three days.

Usual postal delays should be added. If you are not entirely satisfied, return shipping is at the seller’s expense within Europe. For the rest of the world, return shipping is at the buyer’s expense.