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['Concerning paratext:\r\n{Dedication present} by the translator\r\n\r\nTo the Countess of Northumberland\r\nMadam,\r\nThe lady whose history I take the liberty to offer you, was a striking example of the power of fortune, when, for a long series of years, that power was exerted in her favour, till it raised her at last to a throne. This happy influence of her stars extends to her memory and name; and in no single instance is it more to be envied, than that to this translation of her memoirs, is prefixed the illustrious name of the COUNTESS OF NORTHUMBERLAND.\r\nAn exalted understanding, supriority of genius, universal benevolence, and unfeigned piety; such were the qualities by which madame de Maintenon was distinguished: such are the qualities, which, in you, madam, adorn the most eminent rank, /\r\nadd lustre to the noblest line of ancestors, and give dignity to wealth. To whom, therefore, can I, with so great propriety, dedicate these memoirs as to your ladyship?\r\n[...]\r\nix-xx The Preface [n.s. - probably by La Beaumelle]\r\nMadame de Maintenon had been often sollicited by mademoiselle d\'Aumale to write her own memoirs, which she constantly refused. "I will not write my life", said she, "because I must not say all; and what I might say, will not be believed". [.../...]\r\nx\r\nThe reasons which determined her to silence, no longer subsist [.../...]\r\nxi\r\nSuch were the motives that determined me to undertake this work [...]\r\nsvdjun10chawton']
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