LS in French, signed “Bonaparte,” one page both sides, 7 x 9, engraved pictorial “Bonaparte 1r Consul de la République” letterhead, May 19, 1801. Napoleon writes to the minister of war. In part (translated): “I ask you … to give orders so that fortifications at Julliers and Noulou will begin. Would it be possible to occupy it as yet? Inform me of the opinion of the Genie Corp. on the work necessary to put these two places in the best possible state of defense. My intention is that funds be made available to the Genie for the work on these two places. Write to General Moncey and to the government of Cisalpine to let them know of the importance I attach to the fortifications…. It is necessary that all of the generals commanding in Italy and the general of the Genie send you the details of what has been done…. You will find attached a treaty [not present] that must be executed with the utmost exactitude….” Per light descriptive pencil notations, the body of the letter is in the hand of diplomat and Napoleon’s private secretary, Louis Bourrienne (1769–1834); the first page also bears a one-word endorsement in the hand of Marshal Berthier. One edge slightly irregular (not affecting any text), mild soiling, and very subtle show-through of ink, otherwise fine, clean condition. A lesser-seen form of Napoleon’s signature in an unusual visual format! R&R COA.
