I disagree with the assertions that it was "inevitable" or that FR was "not viable" due to low noble density. As others have stated, FR had a LOT of regions, ceding a few of these away could have brought density up considerably. Furthermore, density was no lower than other realms who have maintained such low levels for quite some time without ever talking about merging with a neighbor.
Just because the duchess lost hope doesn't mean the situation was truly hopeless.
