Williams (Helen Maria) Sketches of the State of Manners and Opinions in the French Republic towards the end of the Eighteenth Century, 2 vol., first edition, half-titles, browned, modern half green morocco, spines gilt, 8vo, 1801.

⁂ "The late 1790s seemed a time of renewed hopes for political progress, as shown by Williams's Tour in Switzerland of 1798, which anticipated the revolutionary activity in the Swiss cantons. Like many of her books, it was translated immediately into French. Optimistically calling the new century the 'age of rights', Williams lauded the rise to power of Napoleon Bonaparte in her next book, Sketches of the French Republic (1801), a work that became known for its critique of Nelson's actions in Naples. The peace of Amiens allowed visitors once more into France, and many famous guests attended her salon or conversazione...Catherine Wilmot wrote that Williams's 'Hotel is in the midst of a delightful garden and we spend the evening in her Library, which was particularly corresponding with her style of society, the latter being compos'd of Senators, Members of the National Institute (in their blue embroider'd coats) and every one in the literary line.' Williams became disillusioned with Bonaparte's policies, and her salon was for a time placed under police surveillance." [Deborah F. Kennedy in ODNB].