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Ballon MontéLetter

This is a letter sent by Ballon Monté (balloon mail) during the 1870/71 Siege of Paris. It was written by a solder to his mother. This letter left Paris on 'Le Gambetta' piloted by Charles Duvivier. Le Gambetta took off from Gare du Nord on January 10th, 1871 at 3:30 am and arrived in Ouanne near Avallon (Yonne department) at 2:30 pm, about 140 miles from Paris. Le Gambetta had one passenger, Lefébure de Fourcy.

Front of letter with 'par Ballon Monté' written on it. Also includes address, stamp and postmark. Postmark date is January 9th, 1871.

Full letter in French, dated January 7th.

English translation
We have suffered terribly from the cold since December 21st, now with the thaw, we almost miss the frost. I'm trying to know more about my medal. I was told that I had been listed by General Courty the commander of our division, by General Maussin our corps commander and by General Duke our the chief of staff, if this is true, then all is good. I'm sending you a picture of myself in my winter outfit. I also sent a test letter to Argina.
I kiss you with all my heart. A Thousand thanks to Madame de Guerichet.
Your son,
A de Cornnaille

Back of the letter with postmark Dinard and dated January 17th, 1871.

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