This time the Empress was supposed to have asked the celebrated healer and pretender to miraculous powers, John Joseph Gassner: Will my daughter be happy? His reply was suitably gnomic: There are crosses for all shoulders. 3
In "Marie Antoinette: The Journey," author Antonia Fraser recounts an intriguing moment where Empress Maria Theresa consulted the well-known healer John Joseph Gassner about her daughter's future happiness. Gassner, known for his mystical reputation, gave a cryptic response suggesting that everyone must bear their own burdens, reflecting the complexities of life and personal struggles.
This exchange underscores the uncertainties surrounding Marie Antoinette's life and the challenges she would face. It highlights the Empress's deep concern for her daughter's well-being while also illustrating the enigmatic nature of seeking answers about fate and happiness.
