Memoirs of the Courts of Louis XV and XVI. — Volume 2: Being Secret Memoirs of Madame Du Hausset, Lady's Maid to Madame De Pompadour, and of the Princess Lamballe

A historical account written during the mid-18th century. This volume serves as a continuation of the personal reflections and observations of Madame du Hausset, a lady's maid to Madame de Pompadour, as well as insights from Princess Lamballe, offering readers a unique glimpse into the opulence, intrigues, and political dynamics of the French court during a tumultuous era marked by the reigns of Louis XV and XVI. The narrative likely explores various personal anecdotes, social interactions, and the intricate relationships between the court's prominent figures. At the start of the memoir, readers are introduced to the daily life at the court through the eyes of Madame du Hausset. She recounts a tense evening when Madame de Pompadour receives troubling news from her brother regarding an arranged marriage, leading to tension in the family dynamics. Conversations unfold about political enemies, social stratification, and the presence of figures such as the influential Abbe de Bernis and the enigmatic Comte de St. Germain, who captivates the court with his claims of remarkable talents and secrets. The opening sets the tone for a rich tapestry of court life characterized by personal conundrums, social intrigues, and glimpses into the fears and aspirations of the ruling classes.