"After the Monza crime and the attempt of which you were the object yesterday and in view of the solemnities during which you might be too much exposed to danger, I consider it my duty to bring to your notice certain particulars which might be of the greatest use to you and those about your person.
"I refer to secret waistcoats of my own manufacture which I am able to offer to you and which are absolutely warranted.
"The waistcoat which I am offering is proof against a revolver-bullet and, of course, against a sword or dagger.
"As an absolute guarantee, I can assure you as follows by experiment: the fabric consists of a very close and solidly-riveted coat of steel mail; the shape of the links has been specially studied so as to allow of great suppleness, while preserving the greatest solidity.
"It resists the 12 mm. bullet of the regulation revolver, 1874 pattern.
"I have specimens at which bullets were fired at a distance of 4 yards; they give an exact idea of the resisting power.
"The coat of mail is lined with silk or satin, which gives the appearance of an ordinary garment and does not for a moment suggest its special object.
"The waistcoat covers and protects the back, the chest, the stomach and is continued down the abdomen.
"I must add that the waistcoat is very easy to wear and in no way inconvenient, on condition that I am supplied with the necessary measurements or, better still, with an ordinary day-waistcoat of the wearer's, fitted to his size.
"Hoping in the circumstances to be of some use to you, I beg Your Majesty to accept the expression of my most profound respect.