LS in French, signed “Nap,” one page, 7.25 x 9, April 20, 1811. Letter regarding the fortification of the strategic island of Walcheren, and supplying ammunition and food for the troops. Starting on July 30, 1809, a British armed force of 39,000 men landed on Walcheren to assist the Austrians in their war against Napoleon, and attacking the French fleet moored at Flushing. The expedition was a disaster - the Austrians had already been defeated at the Battle of Wagram and were suing for peace, the French fleet had moved to Antwerp, and the British lost over 4,000 men to a disease called "Walcheren Fever", thought to be a combination of malaria and typhus. The force was withdrawn in December. In fine condition, with a couple small pinholes to body from remnants of a wax seal, and some scattered light edge and corner creases. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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