STUART JAMES: (1688-1766) Prince of Wales, son of the deposed King James II and VII. Known as The Old Pretender. L.S., Votre affectione Cousin, Jacques R, two pages, 4to, Rome, 31^st December 1743, to Cardinal Paulucci, in French. Stuart proclaims 'I do not consider your very kind letter concerning the recent Christmas festivities as a mere expression of custom or ceremony' and continues 'I know the passion and sincerity of your enthusiasm for everything that concerns me, and have convincing proof of it', further reciprocating the testimony of their friendship 'by the truest sentiments of the heart'. Stuart has also added a lengthy postscript in his hand, in Italian, and signed with his initials G R, explaining to Paulucci that he will receive a packet of papers for the councillor, along with a letter thanking him for his of the 10^th December, and remarking 'I have nothing in particular to bother him with at the moment, and am just assuring him of my most cordial friendship. I must also add, on this the 4^th January, 1744, that I have received your letter of 21^st December; to which I have nothing to respond other than my sincere thanks.' With integral address leaf bearing two red wax seals (small area of paper loss at the base where originally opened). VG.