This forms part of a series of Josephine and Hortense’s letters. They can be found here.
Dear Eugene,
This Thursday 14 Frimaire [year XIV, December 5, 1805].
I who rejoiced in peace, my dear Eugène, and you may be fighting! There is a lot of talk in Paris about the landing of Naples.
Lavallette hadn't wanted to talk to me about it for fear of worrying me but he was wrong. Don’t I have courage? When my sons are older and they go to fight, I will cry when I leave them, but I will not take a step to hold them back.
Tell Lavallette that he is no longer hiding anything about you from me, because I would be much more worried if, thinking that I am weaker than I am, you fear giving me concern.
I have a good idea that the Emperor will go to Italy. You would be very happy to fight before his eyes and I assure you that I would not be angry either. Goodbye, I kiss you. I always use Mr. Battle to give me your news, when you don't have time. I was pleased to see how much you are loved, because everyone is taking an interest in your marriage.
HORTENSE.
