LOUIS XIV (1638-1715). L.A.S., Versailles May 23, 1697, to his son the Count of Toulouse; 2 pages small in-4, autograph envelope "a mon fils le conte de Toulouse" with red wax seal with arms (framed). Beautiful letter from the king to his son during the nine years war. [Louis-Alexandre de Bourbon, Count of Toulouse and Duke of Penthièvre (1678-1737), the last legitimate son of Louis XIV, appointed Admiral of France at age five]. "I received your letter of the 19th with the cards that were attached to it. You continue to send me to all the camps that the army where you are is marked and worked as much as you can to instruct us so that one day we will be able to serve the state. Please tell me everything that will happen that will be worthwhile. It only remains for me to assure you of my friendship which will last as long as you deserve it by your friendship and by your actions"... [On August 3, 1697, the Count of Toulouse will be named lieutenant general of the King's armies].