Folio 102: Wich to Carteret. Yesterday an officer in the French service arrived here...

Folio 102: Wich to Carteret. Yesterday an officer in the French service arrived here from Stockholm sent by Lamnary with the unexpected news that at a General meeting of the Diet the four States of Sweden had elected the young Duke of Holstein successor to that realm. A few hours later another dispatched by Pechlin arrived, reporting two senators as Deputies of the States coming to acquaint the Duke with this. If this news had arrived 10 days earlier before he had been declared successor to his Empire, and he could have chosen for himself, I believe he would have accepted. Now the Swedish Deputies will not come further as they cannot offer him Crown to one who has abjured the Protestant religion. French party having declined, is now re-established at this court, and this to get the Czarina to make peace, advantageously to Sweden. Curious to see what effect young Duke's succession to Russia and his change of religion will have on Sweden. Czarina's project in favour of Duke Administrator of Holstein for throne of Sweden may be pushed forward now, but think her ministers will not advise it. Account of Brevern and his qualities. General Lubra (Luberas) to go to Abo instead of Knez Golicyn. Dated Moscow, 15 Nov 1742.