^Lot 238 King Leopold II of Belgium

King of the Belgians who reigned from 1865–1909. ALS in French, signed “Leopold,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, December 8, 1879. Letter to “My dear General,” translated in full: “The aim of the letter you have forwarded me is to inform that we have been victims of a theft and to ask for money. If these people insist, I ask you to answer that the question can only be resolved in the tribunals. I do not subsidize the return into their native countries of people I do not know and that are not especially recommended to me. Strangers in need should seek help from their Embassies. Please be assured, my dear General of my friendship and affection.” A thin area of paper loss to lower left of final page, some scattered light creasing and soiling, and a tape remnant along reverse of hinge, otherwise fine condition.