256-MERLIN (Maria de Las Mercedes, Countess). Souvenirs and memoirs. Published by herself. Paris, Charpentier, 1836, 4 vol. in-8, long-grained plum morocco, smooth spine decorated throughout, wide band of gilded fillets framing the covers, fleurons in the spandrels, gilded iron in the corners, monogram P. F. de P. in the center of the covers, gilded edges, interior roulette, white floral moire endpapers (Simier r. du Roi). Rare first edition. Wife of General Merlin, who distinguished herself in Spain, the Cuban-born Countess Merlin leaves here the "Souvenirs d'une créole" (Memories of a Creole), which particularly concern the Spanish court during Joseph's reign. An exceptional copy of Pierre IV F. de Portugal, Emperor of Brazil. Died in 1834, it is likely that his successor maintained his number. Very fine binding by Simier. Spine a little faded.