211 - HÉDOUIN (Pierre) (1789–1868).

HÉDOUIN (Pierre) (1789–1868). Born in Boulogne-sur-Mer. Lawyer, civil servant at the Ministry of Public Works, man of letters, and musician. Author of historical works and books on art and music. Autograph letter signed “P. Hédouin” to Georges Soulié [Soulié Sr.]. Boulogne-sur-Mer, March 3, 1841. 4 pages, in-8. INTERESTING AUTOGRAPH LETTER DISCUSSING HIS DIFFICULTIES AT THE MINISTRY, HIS HISTORICAL RESEARCH, AND HIS PASSION FOR ANTIQUE BOOKS. Pierre Hédouin confides to his correspondent about his concerning state of health and the professional difficulties he is facing. He explains that he is suffering from a catarrhal condition, compounded by deep anxieties regarding his administrative future. “Add to this physical ailment a moral anxiety that haunts me night and day, giving you a sad but true picture of my frail and suffering self at this moment.” In particular, he fears a forced transfer to another government agency, mentioning the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, or the Court of Auditors. The letter is also of historical and literary interest, as Hédouin shares information he has gathered about the chronicler and poet Molinet. On this occasion, he mentions a lecture he gave before the Société des antiquaires de la Morinie in Saint-Omer, whose proceedings might be a suitable venue for the publication of his research. Finally, he expresses his passion for bibliophilia by seeking an old copy of Bussy-Rabutin’s *Histoire amoureuse des Gaules*, in a small in-18 edition, which he hopes to acquire for no more than six francs. A VARIED CORRESPONDENCE, REFLECTING BOTH ADMINISTRATIVE LIFE UNDER THE JULY MONARCHY, THE ACTIVITIES OF PROVINCIAL SCHOLARLY SOCIETIES, AND THE AUTHOR’S BIBLIOPHILIC TASTES. Some creases and slight foxing.