In the Courts of Memory, 1858-1875; from Contemporary Letters

"In the Courts of Memory, 1858-1875; from Contemporary Letters" by L. de Hegermann-Lindencrone is a compilation of private letters offering a personal look at life in the mid-1800s. These letters, written from the author to her mother and aunt, showcase the cultural and social atmosphere of the final years of the French imperial court, involving musical artists and important people. The book starts by introducing the author, Lillie Greenough, an American who marries and becomes Madame Charles Moulton, illuminating her history and social ties. Her early reflections cover her education and significant teachers like Louis Agassiz, leading to her rise as a singer. Her experiences vividly portray a life of privilege, engaging in Paris's lively cultural scene and connecting with powerful people, like composers and members of royalist society. These letters allow us access to her ambitions, social gatherings, and the historical events that shaped her world.