Archivist’s Journal: Entry No. 5
Date: Wednesday, April 28, 2024
Hypothesis: A Revenge by Men-at-Arms
Today, I found a decree dating from July 1789, appointing Léonard Racle as Director of Fortifications and Head of the Artillery of Pont-de-Vaux by the syndic.
The soldiers gathered at the Arquebuse, while Racle, eager to control everything, undertook numerous modifications to the defensive plans.
Upon learning this, the military grew frustrated that a mere civilian could command them. This resulted in a collective hatred among the soldiers, who began exchanging letters foreshadowing a mutiny.
July 8, 1789
“Gentlemen, the hour is grave. We now find ourselves under the command of a mere civilian, and it is our duty to find a way to make him leave. Our honor is at stake, and under no circumstances can we allow our lives to rest in the hands of such an ignorant man. Let us protect our families and protect our army!”