Mémoires de Monsieur de Gourville, concernant les affaires auxquelles il a été employé par la cour, depuis 1642 jusqu'en 1698

First edition.
Contemporary brown sheep binding. Spine with raised bands, ornamented. Tan morocco title and volume labels. Headcap of volume I worn. Upper joint of volume I cracked at head and foot. Corners slightly bumped. Rubbing.
Gourville's public activity spanned nearly half a century, from the eve of the Fronde to the end of the 17th century. Of modest origins, he was able through his qualities to become a servant of the Duke of La Rochefoucauld, then of the Prince of Condé, and even of Mazarin. The memoirs recount the world of finance and taxation; being close to superintendent Fouquet, he became very wealthy, but followed the latter in his disgrace; but far from being ruined in exile, Gourville took advantage of this period to become a diplomat and be very close to Louis XIV's ministers; he would finally long manage the house of Condé and attempt to restore its fortune.