Description:

PAUL I
(1754-1801) Emperor of Russia, assassinated by a band of corrupt, dismissed officers. Rare A.L. (unsigned), 1p. 8vo., Gatchina, Sept. 23, 1797, in French to an unnamed recipient, possibly Russian Infantry General Count Alexander Christoforovich von Benckendorff. In full: "I have just received information concerning the entry of Polish and French emissaries who have crossed my borders. You will have to undertake the most scrupulous research and at the same time you will henceforth be watchful that no foreigner crosses the border without your full knowledge". Paul was notoriously suspicious of all things foreign, particularly those from Western Europe. In 1797, he closed down private printing presses and cracked down on the modern dress favored by the Continent by ordering troops in St. Petersburg to attack those who did not comply! Fine condition, and a good example of the Czar's xenophobia.

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January 21, 2010 10:00 AM EST
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