LOUIS XI, King of France. Letter signed ("Louis"), [to Amadeus IX, Duke of Savoy], Montil-les-Tours, 1 February [c. 1470]. 1 page, oblong, 165 x 308 mm. (6 x 12 in.), ON VELLUM, four small cut cancellations slightly affecting text, minor browning, in French. Louis XI, considered the founder of absolutist monarchy in France, was a master at pitting his enemies against one another and often took the side of the bourgeoisie to further his own ends. This is an early request for free trade, "...We ask you as a favor to us....that you will allow your subjects and all other artisans freely and peacefully to come and go to that portion of the country in which the fairs of county of Asti are held, without giving offence or suffering on their persons your displeasure. Also my son and cousin [the Duc d'Orleans] will do the like to his own subjects and to all others who wish to go for bartering in your country, lands and seignories".