NAPOLEON RESPONDS TO THE REQUEST OF AN OLD SOLDIER: BOLDLY SIGNED 1798 DOCUMENT, ELABORATELY FRAMED ALONG WITH AN AUTOGRAPH REQUEST SIGNED BY JOSEPHINE

(NAPOLEON). Manuscript document endorsed and signed by Napoleon. WITH: Autograph document signed by Josephine. Bastier: August 8, 1798. Napoleon document: single quarto sheet, measuring 7 by 10 inches; Josephine document: single sheet, measuring 7 by 3-1/2 inches. Handsomely framed together with hand-colored engraved portraits of Napoleon and Josephine; entire piece measures 26 by 20-1/2 inches. $17,500.

Manuscript document boldly endorsed "Bonaparte," authorizing the extension of a veteran's salary until his pension begins, splendidly matted and framed together with an autograph letter signed by Josephine and hand-colored engraved portraits of Napoleon and Josephine.

The letter to Napoleon reads, in translation: "Bastier, 20 Thermidor, fifth year of the Republic [August 8, 1798]. My General, Permit me to reveal to you that after 45 years in the services and a constant devotion to revolution I am without [compensation? bread? recompense?]. I am waiting the day of my retirement which never comes. My son who shared the procurements with me has been called back to the army and I have already lost one on the field of honor. I beg you to remember my worthy general that I have admired your talents before they had fixed the destiny of Europe. I beg you to accord me the continuation of my pay until such time as I have my pension. You will ease the mind of a patriotic family. Salutations, Charles Giovanni." The reply reads: "Send back a reminder to General Berthier, Headquarters of General Corfe, and order General Vaubois to keep him on duty until he [Giovanni] will obtain his pension from the minister. [signed] Bonaparte."

The Josephine letter reads, in translation: "Mr. Counselor of State & Prefect of Police, one of my women in waiting would very much like to have a moment of your time to ask your kindness in a favor for Rolland, a painter. I would be personally pleased if you would be kind enough to be useful to a distinguished artist whose situation appears to be very difficult. Malmaison, September 30, 1809. Josephine." Text in French.

A splendid framed piece, bringing together the signatures of Napoleon and Josephine, in fine condition.