French military commander, later the Général d'Armée, and a Marshal of France (1735–1820). Compelling LS in French, signed “Kellermann,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.75 x 12.25, September 13, 1791. Letter to General Duportail, Minister of War, regarding the activities and plans of the Emigre Army, then allied with the Prussians and Austrians. Kellermann writes of the measures he has taken against insults to the tricolor cockade and "evil subjects of the Emigres who are roving through the Palatine villages attempting to taint and debauch my soldiers.” In part (translated): “By the news received here since the 10th, from Worms, you are to understand that this town is obeying the tenor of my letter of the 22nd, last month, owing to the circumspect manners they have begun to exhibit…Reports go on to say that M. de Conde [leader of the Emigres] has been to Coblentz to see M. le Comte D’Artois, [later Charles X of France] and he returned on the fifth to Worms, with the Prince of Nassau. Gonde arrived at Worms having fully learned of the outcome of the journey of Artois to the courts of Vienna and Berlin. The Emigres say that he has presented a report to the Emperor [of Austria] and the King [of Prussia] concerning the situation of the King [Louis XVl.]…Four Regiments of Prussians have left from Silesia to go to Westphalia and a regt. of Hussars from Berlin for the same destination. Twelve regts. more are also on the road to the Rhine and I am assured that Austrian troops are also on the road to the Rhine. The Emigres are forming companies at Worms and its envisions to the number of 6 of horse and 7 of foot. The Regt. of Berwick is commanded by M. de Fitzgerald, at Meuwiel, four leagues from Coblentz.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold and a mild shade of toning. Exiled noblemen hoped to invade France, overthrow the Revolution and rescue King Louis XVI. In 1792, at the Battle of Valmy, Kellermann decisively defeated the invaders and saved France. Kellermann was later created Duke of Valmy by Napoleon in honor of this event. RRAuction COA.
