“My dear Mama, on Tuesday there was a festival that I shall never forget

“My dear Mama, on Tuesday there was a festival that I shall never forget. We made our solemn entry into Paris. As for honours, we received all the honours one could possibly imagine, but it was not these that touched me most. What truly impressed me were the poor people, who showed such zealous joy despite the taxes that are choking them… I cannot describe to you, my dear Mama, the affection and joy that everyone showed towards us. Before leaving, we allowed the people in the crowd to kiss our hands, which gave them enormous pleasure. What happiness it is that persons of our rank can so easily win the love of an entire nation. I cherish this love and shall never forget it.”

From a letter of Marie Antoinette to her mother, Empress Maria Theresa, of 14 June 1770

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September digest: archaeological finds, exhibitions, museums, theatre and the Church

In the finale of the Strugatskys' Roadside Picnic, the Golden Ball is told: "Happiness for everybody, free, and let nobody go away unsatisfied!" I do not promise to offend nobody, but the digest really does come free of charge. So, here is the main business of the

Frederic Leighton

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“My dear Mama, on Tuesday there was a festival that I shall never forget

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September digest: archaeological finds, exhibitions, museums, theatre and the Church

Frederic Leighton

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