LETTER SIGNED BY PAUL BUTET, soldier in the 13th line infantry regiment in Mayence, TO HIS MOTHER residing in Normandy.

SIGNED LETTER BY PAUL BUTET, soldier in the 13th infantry regiment of the line in Mainz, TO HIS MOTHER residing in Normandy.

Letter difficult to read, with phonetic writing. Addressed to "Madame Widow Piere Butel in Sant Germent Suret (St Germain sur Ay), department of La Manche, canton of Laize (Falaise), post remaining at Peries (Périers), at ease." Postage mark "MAINZ". Remnants of a red wax seal.

Mainz, December 1st (1813?)
I take up the pen to respond to the letter I received on September 19th, which brought me great joy [...]
I will tell you that the journey did not cause me any trouble at all. Since September 19th, when we left Wurtz... (?) to go to Dresden, we have retreated 200 leagues to return to Mainz. We are all in a pitiful state. I will also tell you that I have lost my bag. You asked me for a certificate, but I cannot send it as I am (??) of the regiment, and it requires three to send one to you. I will tell you that we have gone a month without a taste of bread. We eat plums and apples. [...] I will tell you that since becoming a soldier, I do not have a coat, I will tell you that I do not have shoes, that I walk with two worn-out shoes that I picked up. I am begging you to send me some money to get a pair. It would give me great pleasure. Please inform me if my two brothers have not left.
I will tell you that we stand guard every day in front of the enemy. I will tell you that there is talk of peace. Certainly, I desire it with all my heart to come back and see you.
"Here is my address, Butel Paul, soldier in the 13th infantry regiment of the line, 2 battalions, company of Manche in garrison."

Double leaf. 3 pages.
H 23.2 cm x 18.5 cm.
Medium condition, creases, tears with some losses (without affecting the text).