Rica to the same

Here is a great example of conjugal affection, not only in a woman, but in a queen. The queen of Sweden, determined to associate her husband the prince to the crown, in order to smooth out all the difficulties sent to the Estates a declaration by which she withdraws from the regency should he be elected. [1]

Sixty-some years ago another queen named Christina abdicated the throne to devote herself wholly to philosophy. [2] I do not know which of these two examples should cause us the most wonder.

Although I rather approve that everyone should hold fast to the position in which nature has placed him, [3] and cannot praise the weakness of those who, finding themselves beneath their station, abandon it like a sort of desertion, I am nevertheless struck by the generosity of spirit of these two princesses, and to see the mind of the one and the heart of the other loftier than their fortune. Christina sought knowledge at a time when others seek only enjoyment ; and the other wanted to enjoy only to place all her happiness in the hands of her august spouse.

Paris this 27th day of the moon of Maharram 1720