EBLÉ JEAN BAPTISTE: (1758-1812) French general in charge of bridge equipment in the Grande Armée. Eblé leaded the building of two of the three bridges built over the Berezina river in November 1812. He waited as long as he could before burning them, allowing the maximum number of troops crossing. Appointed General for his behaviour and achievements, he died of exhaustion thirteen days after. A.L.S., Eblé, one page, folio, Dunkerque, 23rd January 1796, in French. The document bears the printed heading of the ''North Army - French Republic - Liberté - egalité - Fraternité - Eblé Division General and Artillery Commandant''. Eblé orders citizen Lefaivre, engineer serving the North army to supervise the installation of the furnace in the arsenal of the city. Countersigned by Major Commandant Despriez. Bearing to the front a red wax seal in fine condition. Folded, with overall minor age wear and edges slightly trimmed. G £200-300