In 1885 he became king of the independent state of the Congo, which was annexed to Belgium in 1908. He strengthened his country by military reforms, and under him Belgium flourished, developing commercially and industrially. LS in French, signed “Leopold,” one page, 7 x 9, October 4, 1900. Leopold proudly announces the marriage of Albert to Princess Elizabeth of Bavaria. In fine condition, with small holes to left edge from removal from binding. R&R COA.