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To M. Lesseps
(@99KingHigh)


SIR—It is considerable interest that I write to you with respect to studies conducted some years ago by a certain M. Paul-Adrien Bourdaloue concerning the Isthmus of Suez. These surveys, having been brought recently to my attention have, in my cursory assessment, not received the consideration which I feel they merit. It is with a view to advancing the scientific proposals arising from these preliminary studies that I am given cause to write to you in order to solicit your interest and support with respect to the piercing of the said isthmus.

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Napoleon's Campaigns in Egypt

Although the prospect of piecing the isthmus once generated great curiosity, notably when Napoleon Bonaparte campaigned in the Levant, I fear that the matter has waned in the intervening years and, with the Société d’Études de l’Isthme de Suez suspending its studies of the area, the research hitherto conducted may be lost. Whereas rail transportation seems decidedly to have captured the imagination of innovators and scholars alike – and, to be sure, the novelty of speeding across the landscape on roads of steel no doubt has a certain charm in comparison to the well-known feat of sailing upon the waves – the importance of seafaring ought not to be diminished.

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Sir Frederick Wright-Bruce in Cathay
Indeed, so far has interest ebbed in the matter that a fellow veteran of the campaign against the Chinese, Sir Frederick Wright-Bruce, – whose acquaintance I had the pleasure of making on the journey to Cathay – now British Consul in Egypt, flatly rejected the notion of further studies in the region, citing a general lack of interest in the prospect and the slim chances of effecting a piecing of the isthmus in our lifetime.

Despite emphasizing my disagreement with his assessment, Sir Frederick was unmoved by force of reason, and held to his initial, intransigent position. It is on account of your diplomatic experience as French Consul in Cairo that I seek your particular advice and ask whether, in your assessment, the political situation in Egypt may permit the further exploration of the isthmus such that preliminary studies may be followed by thorough surveys and, should these prove favourable, by the securing of certain rights to pierce the isthmus by means of a canal.

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Elsewhere in Egypt

In order that you may know my mind in this matter, I feel it appropriate to disclose that my interest in the isthmus stems from a scientific curiosity as well as from commercial considerations. It is no secret that the
Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company engages in brisk business with the East. Expeditious passage to these markets has been the subject of much discussion by the Board of Directors, which is prepared to finance a professional assessment of the feasibility of a canal between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. I am further authorized to disburse such funds as may be required to facilitate the permits and approvals which will need to be secured from the relevant authorities to advance this feasibility study. Entrusting the selection of excavators, researchers and scholars to your discretion, the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company is prepared to fund their research and comfortable accommodation in Egypt on the understanding that should they discover a feasible means for the piercing of the isthmus, that the firm will be apportioned a commensurate share of any future body incorporated for the purpose of the piercing.

Notwithstanding the general dearth of interest in the matter, as made plain to me by Sir Frederick, I maintain that the study of the isthmus of Suez remains of importance, and that through study a viable means of a piercing may be yet discovered. Moreover, I hope to benefit from your advice and to find in you a partner for advancing the proposal outlined above. Veuillez agréer, Monsieur, mes salutations distinguées.



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Claude Desmarais publishes an anonymous pamphlet, to be circulated in Northern France and Paris.

THE BUDGET OF THE COUNCIL OF SEVEN
As Published by the Provisional Council of Knowledge
A CROWN for DEFLANDRE
10,000,000
RELATED EXPENSES for REPLACEMENT of FURNITURE, PAINTINGS, WALL DECORATIONS, WINDOWS, SECRETARIES, and ETC. in the WAR MINISTRY OFFICES
₣ 7,500,000
THE MASKS of JANUS, for DEFLANDRE
₣ 3,800,000
THE DREAMS of JOB for DISNEY
₣ 3,250,300
A PTOLEMAIC MODEL OF THE SPHERES for ARAGO
₣ 2,600,000
CHARISMA for CLEMENTE
₣ 1,800,000
A CALM TONGUE for SAINT-GEORGES
₣ 1,200,00
A PAPIER-MÂCHÉ MASK for GILLET
₣ 250
 
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A new political poster starts circulating around major cities in France
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To the Duc de Polignac (@m.equitum)

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Monsieur le Duc de Polignac,

Mon cher ami, distance has always obstructed the happy continuation of our friendship. I reminisce about the old country, before its perversions, and our acquaintance when the drapeau blanc flew above the Tuileries. Perhaps such reflections are injurious to my health, but I cannot avoid these introspections; they are quite necessary. When revolution first came, I entertained the considerations of the defeated class. Général de Montholon, the Duc de Cars, the Duc de Fitz-James, and my father submerged themselves in the cause of the
branche ainée. Monsieur le Duc de la Cars showed persistence and loyalty to Henri V, and like the Victomte de Chateaubriand, spent all his wealth in the cause. I remember le Duc, a silent but rash man of action, who despised the salons and repudiated any idea of parliamentary participation. I watched him pass the last years of his life in expensive and fruitless conspiracy. There was no dearth of pessimism. I remember the reception of the Duc de Luxembourg-Montmorency. Discovering that our noble class was becoming anomalous, Monsieur le Duc congratulated himself on being the last of his line, and rejoice whenever he saw an ancient family extinguished; no longer a place for our brood, the continuation of the lines only besmirched the glory of our ancestors.

The product of such reflections was a severe despondency. I feared my hopelessness might invite baser temptations, and so I resolved to make a quick revolution. I still contend that my friend, the Comte Louis de Kergorlay, made a terrible mistake, on account of his legitimism, when he cut himself from the world in which his talents would have shone brilliantly. His life ended in July 1830, although perhaps it will now be reborn. Although I should not have wished to abdicate my proficiencies, I was even less eager to grovel in the Tuileries to the philippistes enragés. Thus I hastened out of France with the credentials and patronage of estimable gentlemen in the ranks of the ralliés légitimistes. It has been an uninterrupted—barring my wedding—adjournment from France. Never has such an absence proved so encumbersome; no one should endure such a severance from the land of their birth. That is precisely the matter of my renewed introductions, mon ami. For you, no doubt, accounting for the not inconsiderable duration of exile, you have become an Englishman. Perhaps France is but another foreign nation of exotic curiosities. You must hasten to dispel those notions. History is unpredictable, and the premonitions of the Duc de Luxembourg-Montmorency have been proven inadequate. Suddenly, we are fortunate! Inheritors of volatility, it is once again the possible to show great courage and vitality, and reconcile our heritage with great deeds. The legitimate King of France calls for you, mon ami. It is quite necessary that you heed his call.

Veuillez agréer l'expression de ma très haute considération
Charlus



 
DECREE BY THE PROVISIONAL COUNCIL OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC
(Regarding Debts, Tariffs, Taxes, and the Circulation of Currency)

Preamble:

As a result of the substantial budgetary deficits left as a remnant of the June Monarchy and the sustained efforts conducted by the Provisional Council to address the issues facing the nation, it has become necessary to adjust the financial circumstances of the Republic. The following provisions are intended to be kept in place as long as they are vital to the well being of the French Republic, such that there may be a more sustainable economic foundation for the government's activities.

I. The "Loan of the 350 Million" implemented previously, as well as its bond obligations, shall be honored.

II. Tariffs shall be extended on the importation of coal, iron, and steel. Seven percent of the imported quantity's value shall be added to the current duties paid.

III. An additional sixty centimes shall be added to the all current direct taxes, such that the enormous remnant deficit of the June Monarchy might be addressed and French affairs improved.

IV. The Bank of France shall be ordered to focus on the continued circulation of banknotes and the printing thereof, such that it may fulfill the tasks set out for it.

a. All current banknotes issued by other authorities will be eligible to be exchanged for government banknotes by the Bank of France, and shall continue to be considered legal tender until January 1, 1852.
i. Individuals with substantial amounts of banknotes which are located abroad may petition the Ministry of Finance for an extension.
b. Individuals will not be allowed to exchange banknotes for their equivalent sums of specie for an indefinite period, to be concluded only by the government of the French Republic.
Passed by the Provisional Council of the French Republic by the following vote:
5 For (Gillet, Deflandre, Saint-Georges, Arago, Clement)
0 Against
2 Abstentions (Nadeau, Disney)
 
Decree on Public Holidays and National Symbols

Recognizing the celebration of certain important dates by the French Republic and the necessity of establishing national symbols to which the French people can rally, the Provisional Council henceforth enacts the following:

I. The following shall be recognized as public holidays by the government of the French Republic:
a. Republic Day (February 15), Good Friday, Easter Monday, Ascension Day, Whit Monday, Bastille Day (July 14), Abolition of Serfdom (August 4), Assumption of Mary (August 15), All Saints'Day (November 1), Christmas Day (December 25)
II. The national motto of the French Republic shall be "Liberté, égalité, fraternité."
III. The national anthem shall be La Marseillaise.
IV. The national flag will be the tricolor.

Passed. 5-0-2
For - 5 (Deflandre, Clement, Gillet, Arago, Saint-Georges)
Against - 0
Abstaining - 2 (Nadeau, Disney)
 
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Le Reform

The State of the Republic:
Louis-Alexandre Clement

I once again put pen to paper to address the great people of France. Much has changed since the last time I had this honor. The King passed away. Then, the people of France rose up, and brought an end to the corrupt monarchy! A new Republic was declared! And I was offered the greatest honor to take a position in it’s government. I feel it is my duty as a member of the Provisional Government to address you, the People of France, and speak about the situation it is in.

It is important that a government is honest with the people. As such, I shall be plain, the situation the Provisional Government found France in was, to be quite frank, catastrophic. The previous government left the nation in a near bankrupt state. An enormous deficit, towering debt, and rampant joblessness. It was very intimidating taking the reins of government faced by such challenges. Yet, it was the duty of the Provisional Government to do so

Fortunately, I can tell you about the work the Provisional Government has taken address these issues. We have cut spending where we can. Furthermore, we established workhouses to help the poor. These workshops give work to those who could not otherwise find it. It allows them to provide for them and their families when times are tough. When circumstances are better, they then can return to a longer term profession. This government cares for those who are struggling for reasons beyond their own control.

Further proof of the commitment of the Provisional Government to the people of France is the establishment of the Ministry of Public Welfare. It was clear the people of France desired such a ministry, and we felt it was our duty to oblige. Furthermore, the man in charge of this new ministry, Monsieur Disney, is an excellent choice. As many know, he is someone who truly cares for the people. Furthermore, in my time working with him I have found him to be exceptionally intelligent and competent. He always knows what to do, and how to do it. He is the finest man possible for such an important role!

While the Republic, and her government, is faced by a great many challenges, I have little doubt that it will be capable of meeting them. It may be hard, tough decisions must be made, but together, we shall succeed! Vive le France! Vive le Revolution!
 
La Presse

Are Monsieur Disney and Nadeau already tired?

By Auguste de la Pléiade

One can only wonder why, so early in a government which accomplishments shall dwarf all others, what happened to the genuine contribution of Monsieur Nadeau and Monsieur Disney.

As of late, and really as of early too, it appears that both men have fallen into a deep mutism, abstaining on all affairs of state, content on collecting their salaries without showing up for work.

Or is it more that they have been silenced, under the iron heel of the little walloon?

The question is genuine. From seven, they are now five. Give or take a few months, there shall be only one to rule. So much for the abolition of the monarchy.
 
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Le Désolé Journal
On the Continued Moral Degredation of the Republic’s Leadership
M. Gullet and M. DeFoliage continue to engage in their most anti-democratic agenda, to the despair of the entire Republique. Without stopping or slowing their rise to Ministerialist heights, they continue to engage in activities and actions that are hitherto unimaginable within the Republique and within the Council of Seven. This being the singularly illegitimate banning of the good citizen Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte from active democracy.

Citizen Bonaparte is a man who is being unfairly and unabashedly discriminated against by those increasingly reactionary individuals who truly hold the reins of power within the Council of Seven. This good citizen, a devout democratic, fighter for worker values, and member of the socialist belief, has been banned from the most basic political process by the fact of his birth. This innocent man has no ties to the former regime which had him exiled to the dreary isle of Britain. This man, who by the name of his father, is feared and reviled behind closed doors for no reason.

This nation, so idealistically formed, is already being corrupted. This nation, who is on the precipice, nears failure every day as the progressively conservative policies are implemented. No more is the Republique truly universal, as there is an innocent man who holds no vote when he clearly deserves one.

~ M. Nay Moné
 
Hôtel de Lassay, 1850

Madame Amélie was in discussion with the principal administrator of her estate, a plump and portly man called Sainct-Just.

Amélie: My dear Monsieur Sainct-Just, I will have much need of your industry in the months to come. With the extension of the suffrage, I am finally given a voice for my political hopes.

Sainct-Just: Madame, unless I have misunderstood the last decrees, the suffrage has not been extended to your ladyship.

Amélie: Oh, not directly no, but as a matter of fact, while before it was restricted to the landed gentry and petit-bourgeois, it has now been extended to the penniless multitude. So many voices...

Sainct-Just: Indeed, but not yours Madame.

Amélie: But the poor people, what do they have in common?

Sainct-Just: They are poor.

Amélie: But they have the vote.

Sainct-Just: Yes.

Amélie: Now, what do I have that they dont?

Sainct-Just : You are rich.

Amélie: But I don’t have the vote.

Sainct-Just: Are you implying what I believe you mean?

Amélie: A simple transaction. How about a franc per vote?
 
A letter is penned to one of the managers of Descombes and Company:

"Sir

You are to establish a new branch of Descombes and Company in Madrid Spain called Crédit Madrid. 800,000 francs shall be given to start the bank off, with the hopes that you capitalize on the growing industrialization of the Spanish nation. I hope you succeed sir."

-Alexandre Descombes
 
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PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE MINISTRY OF THE INTERIOR ON THE COMPOSITION OF THE CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY

It is of vital importance that the Constituent Assembly represents an accurate composition of the people of France. As such it has been decided that the elections will be for 900 seats per the voting method that has already been approved by the Provisional Council. This body should be large enough to take into account the views of the people of France.

On behalf of the French Republic,

Louis-Alexandre Clement
Minister of the Interior
 
The Aranjuez, Excerpts from the Diary of the Infante

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It seems a lifetime ago since we left France for Spain. The last three years of the previous decade were among the most taxing and humilating of my short life. Yet, they were a school of sorts, for the same nonsense can happen here. The characters are named different, the language has changed, the stakes on the European-scale are smaller, but the nonsense is still the same. When I think that a twist of fate would leave my young Maria as heir presumptive to this land, as a father I cannot stomach her suffering what I as an adult witnessed in February. The disaster could have been prevented by a common show of unity and when considering the rivalry between the Moderados and Progresistas would easily allow some fool wreck it all.

Thankfully the Spaniard is inclined towards aristocracy and to tolerate the imposition of order from above. It is a good thing because Her Majesty and her husband are not Arthur and Guinevere. One my noble aides who followed from France had the most unflattering portrait to paint upon seeing Spain's monarchs for the first time, "The Queen is large in stature, but rather what might be called bulky than stately. There is no dignity either in her face or figure, and the graces of majesty are altogether wanting. The countenance is cold and expressionless, with traces of an unchastened, unrefined, and impulsive character, and the indifference it betrays is not redeemed by any regularity or beauty of feature. The King Consort is much smaller in figure than his royal two-thirds, and certainly is not a type that could be admired for its manly qualifications; but we have to remember that in Spain aristocratic birth is designated rather by a diminutive stature and sickly complexion than by those attributes of height, muscular power, open expression, and florid hue, which in France constitute the ideal of ‘race.'"

I have higher hopes for my in-laws for I do not wish to see the same of the late unpleasantness happen here as it did in France. While this nation has had its fair share of trials, such as those inflicted by Don Carlos, I would hope the memory of the glories of our Habsburg ancestors--not the same as these false Lorrainers role-playing as dynasts in Vienna--in bringing civilization to the New World and other triumphs can one day animate the soul of this nation to once again contribute to the European fabric. For the moment I watch and learn, there is much to gather about goings on in this country before I can put my position to the best use.

Our supporters in France are also going about industriously. The Baron Descombes proves his use to us once more by providing a modern bank here in Spain with which we can focus our assets. Catalonia and Asutrias seem fruitful areas for raw materials and with enough rivers to power factories. Spain is also blessed with colonies in the New World and Asia with which I am sure our friends can gain useful monopolies to benefit our exchequer and the development of this nation. Engaging in this activities will be a useful diversion. We must befriend the people here, contribute our share, and lead by example. It is the way of our late King and a good way to live ones' life in general.

Which does remind me, I must seek out Don Bravo Murillo to see if the Prime Minister would be amenable to investment in the Canal de Isabel II--aimed at bringing a greater and cleaner supply of water to Madrid--and other assorted items of economic importance...
 
Finances of the French Military; 1850

WHEREIN the French armed forces are grossly underpaid;
WHEREAS the common soldier requires a greater income in order to buy bread;

THE following will be enacted forthwith:

I) All rank-and-file will have an increase in their pay by 35%, effective immediately.
II) All non-commissioned officers will have an increase in their pay by 35%, effective immediately.




Nadeau
 
The Dismal Aftermath of Brotherly Love
Joint IC with @Eid3r
Philippe threw his jacket half across the room as he adjusted his dark brown waistcoat and white shirt underneath, almost just collapsing on one of the couches as he let himself fall down, now in private. “You must forgive Joseph, I did not expect him to stay, to even think of staying.” Philippe sighed with a clear annoyance on him, “We will need to find purpose for him in the countryside.”

Amélie lowered the newspaper she was casually reading, just enough for her playful glance to be visible for her brother. “Do not worry, worst things have happened to me over the years. This being said, any other brothers I should know about?”

Philippe sat in thought for half a moment, “Not that I know of.” Before sighing again, “But no, it is not only for imposing on you that we need him away. I do not know him, not his politics or personality, I want him out in the country before anything serious happens here.”

She chuckled softly. “Maybe we should learn more about his politics, for he could be of use. If he is a liability, I am certain you will find ways to cut him loose. After all, my beloved Louis is still looking for someone to oversee his estate of Pisany. Surely the Poitou is far enough from Paris.”

“Mayhaps, but until such a time, I worry more about what he may do, especially as he was happy to confide that it found joy in the overthrow of our dear cousin.” Philippe sighed as he sat up on the couch, before standing fully and going over to the side, filling a glass with wine. “I have received response from most of the men invited, save Louis-Napoleon and Larousse.” Going back ot the couch and sitting down, “Do we have a battleplan?”

She smiled again. “You mean other than your status-given right to rule? I would dare to venture that the affair is quite simple. For many years, the right thrived on the division of the left. Now, you must make sure it is not the reverse. For the rest, simply find what the people want and dangle it in front of them.”

“You make it sound so easy.” Philippe laughed, sipping the wine as the warmth ran over his tongue and down his throat as he laid back on the couch once more. “Five different allegiances, many more interests, it is a mess. Not to mention the headless chickens running this city. I won’t get much sleep.” He let the glass rest down on the floor as he looked towards Amélie, “Have you received word from Louis or Charlotte?”

Her face illuminated at the mention of her children. “Well, Louis is still in Madrid, he hasn’t been recalled yet, but that shall not be long given the pettiness of the little men leading this Republic. As for Charlotte, she is at Armentières and quite fond of the place from what I gather through her letters.” She folded the paper before continuing. “I very much enjoyed your article, dear brother.”

“Oh?” Philippe chuckled at the comment, “I was wondering if anyone read my squibbles, but thank you, I’m glad to know that you do not disapprove.” He smiled briefly, “I was worried that I may have been too harsh, or that the use of my name would come back and haunt us both.”

She chuckled softly: “But my dear brother, they say that la fortune sourit aux audacieux. And have you heard the news? It appears that taxes are to go up 60% and that soldiers will be paid 35% more. I believe you might have missed your calling.”

“Yes, my good old ambitions.” Slowly beginning to rise up in the couch, “It's not too late for Louis, it seems that the army is the future. But it is truly disgusting, such a massive tax increase, the theft of coin from every Frenchman, to pay for such a massive pay increase at once. Thoroughly disgusting.”

“Well, those who cannot command loyalty must buy it. It is the way of the world, isn’t it?”
 
Official business closed; update writing time.
 
Name: Jean Francois Domadeaux
Born: 14 June 1800
Political Affiliation: Bonapartist
Profession: Vigneron, Former Soldier
Department: Hérault
Bio: Jean Francois Domadeaux descends from a long line of winemakers in southern France. His father, Henry Louis, was an captain in the Imperial Guard who served his emperor faithfully up until his disappearance in the Russian snows during the infamous retreat. Jean grew up idolizing the father he barely knew and the cause he barely understood but sadly for him he would never get to fight his emperor's battles. Instead, Jean joined the Restoration army and participated in the great royal crusade in Spain. Though he fought valiantly Jean's idealistic view of war was soon shattered by the many difficult battles he fought in Spain and quit the army at the conclusion of the war.

Domadeaux spent most of the next twenty-plus years tending to his family's ancient, though small, vineyards. He enthusiastically supported the June Monarchy but his hopes were quickly squashed by the new regime's conduct. Jean had essentially given up on politics until the most recent revolution ignited a long-dormant flame in him. Jean Francois Domadeaux now intends to use this newest rupture to enter the French political scene and perhaps nurture an old boyhood allegiance...

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Jean Francois Domadeaux
 
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INTERNAL DIRECTIVES FROM THE MINISTRY OF NAVY

- Vice-Admiral Charles Baudin shall be named Commander-in-Chief of the Mediterranean Fleet, thus empowered to take necessary action to ensure its continued service and well-being.

- Commodore Armand Joseph Bruat shall be promoted to the rank of vice-admiral and named Commander-in-Chief of the Channel Fleet, thus empowered to take necessary action to ensure its continued service and well-being.

- The Channel Fleet shall hereafter be formally referred to as the Atlantic Fleet.

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______________________________________________________________________________________

INTERNAL DIRECTIVES FROM THE MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WELFARE

- Organize a provisional office in which to arrange the ministry post-haste.

- Arrange communications with the notable industrial and labour leaders of Paris.

- Circulate pamphlets acknowledging the concerns of the working class; affirm the republic's support behind their causes.

- Establish a labour commission with the immediate aim of reviewing the state of industrial work within Paris.

- Probe support behind a convocation of popularly-backed labour leaders and myself in a conference.

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A pamphlet is circulated in the cafés of Paris.

"The government raise the taxes to take away your hard work for their own depleted coffers.

The Seven Dwarfes believe in fairytale economics; the hungry people of Paris will be fed by depriving them of income.

Say the June Monarchy created budget deficits. Lies! The June Monarchy held balanced and responsible budgets.

Socialist and Radical experiments are to be blamed!"
 
A letter is sent to M. Gillet @Somberg and M. Deflandre @Firehound15

Dearest Messieurs,

As you may, or may not, have noticed in between your busy workdays directing and decreeing how the new France will look, the appeal of my sentence I sent some time ago. I do understand that being as busy as you are, it would be terribly hard to focus on such a small thing, when the lack of oversight is clearly apparent and considering the internal squabbles it is no wonder that such a lack exist.
I will however, reapply my appeal and state my reasons why. You get nothing out of keeping Marshal soon to sixty in jail for the next twenty years as I am surely no threat to your newly established Provisional Council, that has gained its right to rule from the anarchistic map that helped put it into power.

My loyalties as a respected general and marshal, do not lie with any monarch or but with France and the French people alone. Therefore there will remain no ill will or hatred on my side on the country that is France, and the French people that I will continue to serve if allowed to, or serve later if need be. As my father, Bon-Adrien de Moncey, I serve France first and foremost, whoever and whatever is leading it is of little importance.

Some might call me a murderer, I do however dispute these claims as I only attempted to provide law and order when none such was present in Paris at the time. I do my duty when I am called for to defend the integrity of France.

Due to these reasons, I hope that you will reevaluate the sentence given.

Best Regards,
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Maréchal de France