“We must always live in hope; without that consolation there would be no living.” - Madame de Sévigné, 1671
 
"Choix de lettres de Sevigné" ("Selection of letters from Sevigné") is a lovely little book with letters, written in french, by the formerly and in literary circles still famous Madame de Sevigné. It was published in Paris by Duprat-Duverger in 1810.

Marie de Rabutin-Chantal, known as the Marquise or, more simply, Madame de Sévigné, is a french letter writer. Immerse yourself in the intimate and captivating correspondence of Madame de Sévigné with this collection of selected letters to her daughter, Madame de Grignan, where she gives advice and motherly help on social matters. Discover the epistolary talent of Madame de Sevigné through this selected collection, where she shows details of the relationship to her daughter and her perception of the noble society at the time. These letters give a unique insight into the daily life, intrigues and emotions of 17th century France, in short, into the enchanting world of one of the greatest letter writers in literary history.
 
The book was made in In-12 format, clothed in full leather, decorated with gilded boxes and lovingly made gilt accents. The frontispieces of Madame de Sevigné & Madame de Grignan are still present, but due to its age, the book suffers severely from rubbing on the covers and edges and heavy scuffing on the covers. The inner book is in a good condition, a few kinks and crinkles, but still nice to read. 
Nevertheless a personal witness of a time, lived long ago.