Italian cardinal; member of several Curial congregations; papal secretary of state; librarian and archivist of the Vatican Library.
 
LS - Letter Signed; one page, 28 May 1796. Addressed to the Marchese Costa di Montafia of Turin, brother of Cardinal Vittorio Baldassare Costa d'Arignano, archbishop of Turin. Letter reads: I learned with deep sorrow, from your courteous note, of the passing of your most esteemed brother, Cardinal Vittorio Maria Costa d’Arignano — a most zealous archbishop of his homeland and an honor to the Sacred College. I do not presume to offer consolation at so grievous a time, it would also be presumptuous and ill-suited to the constancy and greatness of spirit that are Yours. Allow me instead to share in Your grief, with the bitterness born of the attachment and service that bound me to the deceased. I take this occasion to assure You of my full readiness to comply with Your wishes and, with unaltered esteem, I pay You my most respectful homage. Your devoted servant, Giulio M. Cardinal Somaglia.To His Excellency, the Marquis Costa di Montafia, Turin.  Light toning and folds; overall very good.