Letter from Billaud-Varenne and Ruamps, concerning the projected descent into Jersey
Letter from Billaud-Varenne and Ruamps, concerning the projected descent into Jersey
Letter written and signed by Billaud-Varenne, also signed by the conventional Pierre-Charles Ruamps (1750-1808), as representatives of the people near the army of the coasts of Brest and Cherbourg. Dated 5 Ventôse Year 2 [February 23, 1794].
Regarding preparations for a raid on Jersey, which was ultimately aborted. [On 25 Pluviose Year II (February 13, 1794), the Committee of Public Safety sent Billaud-Varenne on a mission to Saintt-Malo to organize a raid on Jersey. He joined his colleague Ruamps who had been sent two days earlier. But the planned expedition was finally postponed and Ruamps returned to Paris on 13 Germinal (April 2).
“As soon as our letter is received, citizen, you will let us know the state of the transport vessels put in requisition to go immediately to Port-Malo. You will attach the table of the port in barrels of each building. You will not fail to send off with the frigates which must accompany them, as soon as the winds allow it. You will also take care to provide them with supplies, as much as you can, and above all you will provide them with water. The rigorous execution of these details is given to you under your responsibility […]”.
Provenance: Martin sale of April 4, 1990.