DUCHESNE (Mgr Charles-Émile) (probably attributed to him). - Lot 99

DUCHESNE (Mgr Charles-Émile) (probably attributed to him). French prelate, Archbishop of Besançon in the second half of the 19th century. Autograph signed letter to a correspondent (“Dear and revered”) Besançon, October 24, 1883 4 pages in-8 (2 leaves), on letterhead printed “Archdiocese of Besançon,” folded. A long and interesting letter with a personal and pastoral tone, in which the archbishop thanks his correspondent for “your kind letter and the good wishes it conveys,” while mentioning the demands of his “official duties” that keep him busy. The tone, marked by affection and trust, gives way to a more intimate reflection: he speaks of his correspondent’s faithful friendship, which he acknowledges as long-standing, and allows himself to reflect on the human condition, the “trials” and “concerns” weighing on contemporary society. The author emphasizes the need not to be blinded by appearances and stresses the persistence of moral and social difficulties, while expressing a measured sense of hope: “despite everything, something is working…”. The second part of the letter expands on these considerations in a free and spontaneous style, blending personal observations, religious concerns, and words of encouragement, revealing a prelate engaged in the debates of his time and attentive to developments in the modern world. In good overall condition, with normal creases.