Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Napoleonic Letter.
Signed by Commander Bernard Dubourdieu, Captain of the frigate Pauline, and counter-signed by General Jean-Baptiset Moletto, Baron of Morangies, folded with a tear where the seal has been broken, otherwise reasonable condition for age £40-£50

Bernard Dubourdieu was a famous frigate captain of the French Navy, who came to prominence after his capture of H.M.S. Proserpine whilst blockading Toulon on 27 February 1809. He attained the rank of Rear Admiral, and on 23 October 1810 he raided Lissa and captured six ships at harbour. Following this success, he was tasked with capturing the island, but in the ensuing battle his force of six frigates was routed by British forces commanded by Captain William Hoste; Dubourdieu was killed on his flagship Favourite, which was driven ashore and destroyed, and led to the award of the clasp ‘Lissa’ to the Naval General Service Medal.