En Garde -- Septembre 1637 Turn Resolution

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Administrative

Thanks to Brian for writing the front!

The Octobre 1637 Turn Deadlines are
Announcements and items for Le Sport: Friday Nov 11
Orders: Friday Nov 18

Send announcements and orders to me at aquazoo(at)patriot(dot)net

Character sheets will go out tonight.

For those interested in discussing En Garde and other related (and unrelated) topics, Brian Jenkins has a Forvm:
http://www.hijenks.net/engardeforums/

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Elan En Garde! Game
Turn Resolution for Septembre 1637

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In Paris:

Most troops returned to Paris, including the majority of the third army who travelled via barge. They were towed up the Rhine to the Marne-Rhin canal by the large numbers of mules kept by the army for its logistics train. The Grand Duc Max Dragoons were tasked with protecting the mules on the east bank - and they saw more than their fair share of excitement. The main excitement was found when one of the privates in the regiment realized they had startled a large brown bear. Acting with calm detachment, Captain Wabbit dismounted and fired a clean shot with his musket. The shot flew true and the angry bear was killed without incident. The troops did complain about eating the gamy bear meat with only spork and knife - some "innovative" quartermaster not willing to give each soldier three pieces of cutlery when two would do. A soldier fishing in the locks of the canal caught a most curious squid. To hear the soldiers tell of it, it was over a hundred pounds before they cooked it for the evening.

As the first and second armies returned via the road, a young gentleman along the way stepped aside to make way. Msr. LeClair, it is told, held his cap in salute of our soldiers until the last of them passed. I'm sure our brave friends at the front can use a man with that stamina.

While some brave soldiers made their way through the streets and alleys to their homes and sweethearts, others went straight to the Louvre to hear news of the appointments. Among the din were stablemasters informing some gentlemen that their horses were on loan from the regiment and that they should see to purchasing their own mounts.

Marquis Legris, Minister of State, emerged from the palace where he had met with the King for a short time, and made an announcement: Legris would resign the colonelcy of the Dragoon Guards in favor of his more urgent responsibilities.

Brevet Brigadier General Megane was named the new Chancellor of the Exchequer. He was becoming one of the most admired gentlemen in Paris - women wanted him, and men wanted to be him. Le Comte Daniel de Sparrot, due to his wisdom and leadership, would continue as First Division Commander. Brigadier Jean d'Acier would continue to command the Heavy Brigade

Lt Col Desacroix's application to become Division Adjutant was declined. Major Pierre was named the Brigade Major of the Heavy Brigade. Newly-minted Regimental Adjutants included Captain Louis Lefuet of the RFG, Captain Jacques Wabbit of the GDMD, and Captain Jean-Michel LeBlanc of the CPC.

Once the announcements were made and congratulations offered, the gentlemen dispersed and went about their business. Marquis Legris returned to a sadly quiet palace and reviewed the nanny and wet nurse that were hired.

Captain Lefuet took heed of the quartermaster's advice and went shopping for horses, finding three that would suit him. Still feeling flush afterward, he repaid an old debt to the Shylock's. Major la Vessie was there for similar business, and mentioned he would buy a new suit of clothes next. Captain Wabbit repaid his loan as Lt Col de Florrete borrowed, and both called in at the Theatre to rent box seats for the month. de Florrete then joined Blue Gables. Ravan Leclair borrowed some crowns and Subaltern Neffis repaid some, and both joined Red Phillips.

Major Le Fleurquin joined Red Phillips, and being the first month in the city coming back from the adventures or war, he spent some time looking for a place to stay better than the garret where he first tossed his snapsack. Even the stables where his horses would be kept were cleaner. The town house he found was not far from the garret, but was respectful in appearance.

Week 1
His Majesty was most pleased to host his Annual Autumn Ball at the Louvre, and as usual some of the lower classes gathered across the way to watch the carriages arrive, in the hopes of a glimpse of their betters in their finery. They were not disappointed as one of the first arrivals was a magnificent carriage, drawn by four white Arabians, with a driver and two footmen garbed in brilliant white with gold accents. The surface of the polished, ebony black carriage shimmered in the light of the lamps about the gates. On its door was the deep blue and yellow heraldry of the very wealthy Duc de la Provence, Nicolas Louis Mondego.

Duc Mondego surveyed those around him and reached out to aid the next passenger to disembark, the Duchesse de la Provence, Victoria Maria Mondego. Next to emerge was their son, Colonel Fernand Mondego. His man Beauchamp had ensured that his dress uniform was particularly suited for the event. He assisted his lady Michelle as she stepped down; she took his arm and they made their way to the palace. Michelle was in a blood red gown, with black accents contrasting with her fair skin, wearing a crucifix of small rubies. Upon her ebony hair was a circlet of fine German silver from which hung a pearl in a small bouquet of seven silver and gold flowers. The gown itself was of silk and followed the highest of Paris fashion.

The group acknowledged the crowd with a calm grace as they proceeded through the gates, their carriage driven off to await their return. Duc Mondego was anxious to see King Louis, it having been some time since their last visit, but he was more anxious to puff his chest at the grant of nobility to be bestowed upon his son. Fernand might be his second son, but tonight, he was his first. Greeting others of the aristocracy who had come to the King's Ball, they made their way to the Grand Ballroom.

A pair of crimson-clad riders brought their mounts to a halt outside the Royal Palace. The carriage to which they were escorts also glided to a dignified stop, it's wheels crunching quietly on the pale gravel. The coach was drawn by four matching white horses and was itself made of lacquered black wood chased and embellished with a great amount of gilding. The roofless carriage's rich burgundy leather interior was also riveted with golden studs in many places creating an picture of opulence. Standing on a small platform on the rear of the carriage was a Captain of the Grand Duc Maxmillian's Dragoons and a subaltern of that regiment sat at front controlling the horses. Both wore the same crimson cloaks as the mounted escort.

Once the carriage had stopped the Captain stepped down and moved to the left side. Placing a hand under the plush burgundy rug hanging over the side he released the catch and lowered the hinged side of the carriage, which became a set of steps. The rug, cleverly attached inside to the steps acted as a rich carpet, dangled its golden tassels to within a centimetre of the gravel. Standing back, the Captain bowed deeply as the occupants of the carriage alighted. First, brevet Brigadier General le Chevalier Renno Megane, attending at the King's request to be conferred with the title of Baron and the Croix de Guerre. The Chevalier was dressed in a splendid black velvet and silk long coat decorated at the cuffs and collar with lace imported from the low-countries and worked with silver thread. The velvet reflected hues of midnight-purple as it caught the slanting rays of the sinking sun. A narrow sash of gold embroidery crossed his chest and his ensemble was completed by black silk stockings and black shoes.

The second person to alight from the carriage was Lt. Colonel Louis-Yves Desacroix, beaming with pride at the honour of being presented with the Croix de Guerre by the King. The Lt. Colonel opted to wear a deep charcoal grey doublet and hose with an elaborate lace collar and favoured cream stockings.

The third person to descend from the coach was Captain Jacque Wabbit, newly-appointed Regimental Adjutant for the GDMD. Having only arrived recently in Paris, the young Captain could never have imagined that he would, so quickly, be honoured by the King with the Croix de la Cite. Captain Wabbit chose a tan coloured hat dressed with an extravagant ostrich father. His moustache was flamboyant, with a tuft of hair under his lip to finish the inverted triangle effect, framed by the long ringlets of light brown hair that sat on his broad shoulder. He wore a ruffled shirt with extravagant white collar and large white cuffs starkly displayed against the golden doublet and rich dark brown, ornamented baldric over one shoulder to support his cavalryman's sabre. His breeches were of dark tan, and tucked into his thigh length brown leather boots, replete with spurs - as befits a horseman.

On his arm was Gillian - the loveliest woman many have seen. She still had one foot on the step, a hand holding back the skirts of her red satin gown to allow her to step down to the red carpet. She bent forwards a little to display a splendid white bosom on which sparkled a row of brilliants matching the string in her jet-black hair. Dark blue eyes, very large, looked out with wonder at the palace, and her mouth, which was not wide but very full and red, opened with a little gasp. As Jacque stepped from the carriage his raised aloft four rapiers - taken from the officers slain by the GDMD in their recent charge - and saluted the crowd with the spoils of war.

The men of the GDMD certainly looked resplendent as they ascended the stairs to the Palace, as befitting officers of a Regiment which is rapidly becoming the regiment of choice for discerning and capable gentlemen everywhere.

Marquis Legris was somberly dressed, as would be expected of a young widower. He accepted his new title of Duc, and shared a few quiet words with the King. Comte de Sparrot attended with Claire and was elevated to Marquis.

Henri de Treville wore his full-dress uniform, while Hyacinthe will had a gown custom made for her extreme state of pregnancy. The blue silk matched the Musketeer uniform, as well as her eyes. de Treville was titled a Baron and also received a Croix de la Cite. Renno Megane was likewise made a Baron and given a Croix de Guerre. So profuse were the congratulations and praises of Captain Wabbit, one would think he was toadying!

New Chevaliers included Silac la Vessie and Piet van der Oops, who also received a Croix de Guerre. Chevalier la Vessie was accompanied by Nadine, and Chevalier van der Oops was with Didi. When Mondego heard his name called by the court, stood as tall as may be, straightened his tabard, adjusted the hang of his sparkling rapier and approached the king. Colonel Mondego bowed before him, received his investment into the nobility and accepted the Croix de la Cite for his actions on campaign. Burning with pride, Mondego kissed the King's ring and backed away, bowing. Hacute d'Ermatitis was made a chevalier, and was so serious as to not touch any of the fine wine.

More medals were bestowed, a Croix du Roi to Jean D'Acier, dressed in a new uniform and accompanied by Ursula in a rather well decollated yellow dress with red accessories and a red rose that he gave to her. Another Croix du Roi was given to Jean-Michel LeBlanc, shy and awed by the grandeur of his surroundings.

Le Duc d'Abril received l'Etoile de France, and was of course accompanied by la Duchesse. He had a special congratulation for his close friend le Baron de Treville for his double honour. Louis-Yves Desacroix was pleased to receive a Croix de Guerre. Jacque Wabbit accepted his Croix de la Cite, but was too nervous to carouse. Jean Neffis was also given a Croix de la Cite, and he marvelled at his good luck in being among such company.

Elsewhere in Paris, three gentlemen wasted no time in their yearning for the company of a fine lady. Lt Col Jean de Florrete visited Camille, with both his arms and two serving boys loaded with gifts. The beautiful lady had heard his reputation and curious to meet him as well as curious about the contents of the parcels! The two of them spent the remainder of the week together and Camille listened raptly to his stories of battle.

Alexandre-Valentin Le Fleurquin decided to chase one of the wonders of the city of light, the intriguing Veronique. Realizing that she is a quality lady, he decided to try and impress her with flowers. He went to the Dutch Tulip merchant and bought most of his on-hand stock of tulips and had them planted in Veronique's front yard. Alexandre-Valentin mumbled to himself "I sure hope she is not allergic to tulips". The bulbs were very expensive seeing as it was not their season and the blooms were forced, and unfortunately they barely lasted the week in the early fall sunlight. Nevertheless, Veronique was astounded by the conspicuous gesture and spent each day gazing at them through her bay window - with the dashing Alexandre-Valentin, of course.

Beaufort de Beaumont also opted to let flowers do the talking. He brought a lovely bouquet of fall blooms to Estelle, rumoured to be wealthy as well as having some influence. She was captivated by the military man and they went around Paris together admiring the little churches and gardens.

At the clubs that week, Louis Lefuet caroused at Hunters and Ravan Leclair introduced himself to the wine selection and other patrons at Red Phillips.

Major Robert Staunton Pierre got straight down to business at the military academy, and was assigned to study illustrations of movements of historic battles. One wonders if the trials of the battlefield were too exhausting for some gentlemen - D'ahstardlee De'Ville, Lt Col Armand St-Cyr and Christian Cyan retreated to their respective dwellings and were not heard from for the rest of the month.

Weekend 1
Le Theatre de Sois presented "Le Ducs de Hasard", the story of two gentlemen and a lady and their whimsical hijinks in the countryside. The most notable part of the production was the lady's wardrobe, which included scandalously short petticoats that showed a great deal of ankle and occasional glimpse of calf. The plot consisted of the three of them finding some sort of trouble or other with the local sheriff, including a number of daring carriage chases.

The reviewer for Le Sport said, "While usually we represent a somewhat different view than the other news source in Paris, regarding this production we must agree with Le Figaro." Le Figaro's review consisted of simply, "Le Pew!" The production, it was agreed, was a stinker. While the disregard for the law could have been amusing, the set was shoddy and one of the carriages fell apart into the front row of patrons.

This production was so bad that some notable members of the audience were embarrassed to be seen, and many ladies and gentlemen used their fans and hats in an attempt to conceal their identity. One who avoided this atrocity was Duc Legris, who rented his usual box but filled it only with roses in memory of his wife who so loved the theatre. (The Duc arranged a private funeral that weekend which he attended instead.)

Those who did not avoid detection in their box seats were Comte de Sparrot and Claire, Baron Renno Megane, Lt Col de Florrete, Captain Wabbit and Gillian, brevet Captain LeBlanc, and Ravan Leclair. Le Duc D'Abril was disappointed with the premise of the show, by the fact of such rascals taking for themselves the title of "Duc" he had to fight so hardly to earn. "It's all fiction, my dear", Beatrice comforted him. D'Abril was fortunate to be distracted by the presence of his regimental rival, Colonel Mondego, who was in the adjacent box with Michelle. Major de Treville excused himself from the company of Hyacinthe with the promise he would return momentarily and stepped outside with the other two gentlemen. Word has it the ladies were not amused at watching part of the play without their gentlemen, and would entertain no thought whatsoever of mimicking the vulgar dress of the actress on stage.

The two experienced swordsmen faced each other, and after the cry of "En Garde!" Mondego deftly dodged D'Abril's initial lunge. It was a ballet of slashes and lunges, each man shaking off his injury and going back for more. Finally they lunged into each other, and although Duc D'Abril was tiring, it was Chevalier Modego who proclaimed he had enough. Baron de Treville bought the three of them a bottle of wine from a street vendor and they went back to witness the horror of a truly awful play.

BG Jean D'Acier attended Church with Ursula, she in now much more modest attire than at His Majesty's ball. Chevalier van der Oops took Didi to Mass, as was their usual custom. Georges Singe Elan was seen again poking around small chapels and taking notes about their artwork.

Captain Louis Lefuet proposed to Cosette, with a gift of a necklace. She was very pleased to have him back from the front and immediately accepted.

Finally some gentlemen decided to upgrade their housing, and since they all had such humble garrets before there was no place to go but up. Lt Col Desacroix bought a Fine House in LaVillette, Subaltern Nevis bought an apartment in Passy, and Captain Beaumont rented a town house in the same neighborhood.

Week 2
The social event of the week was Colonel D'Abril's Farewell Party at the Musketeers headquarters. When the guests started arriving, they were greeted by a squad of Musketeers who showed them the way to the Yard of Arms. There, musicians cheered up the party, and tables were laid all along the sides with the finest food delicacies both sweet and salty, wines and fruit juices (for the ladies). Of course, seating was also provided for everyone, but the guests mingled around the yard enjoying all kinds of foods and drinks. Near the half of the party, le Duc d'Abril asked for everyone's attention and gave a brief speech and a toast to the King's Musketeers. He formally turned over his colonelcy of the regiment.

While any Cardinal's Guardsmen would be offered hospitality, none showed and in fact the fete was attended solely by King's Musketeers and their families. Major de Treville and Hyacinthe , she in a flattering black gown, brought a case of wine to share.

Bothwells enjoyed the presence of Comte de Sparrot and Claire, and Chevalier van der Oops and Didi. Louis Lefuet caroused at Hunters alone. Jean de Florrete showed off his new love Camille at Blue Gables, and Alexandre-Valentin Le Fleurquin did the same at Red Phillips with Veronique.

Baron Megane moved from his apartment to a Palace in the Isle de la Cite. The posh building suited his new title and he spent the week arranging things and enjoying the echoes in the cavernous halls.

Chevalier la Vessie gathered up Nadine and the baby and went to Colonel Mondego's residence, expecting to find a party. The Colonel was off at the barracks, practicing his rapier.

Subaltern Jean Neffis busied himself with regimental duties at the GDMD barracks.

Ravan Leclair presented himself at the Picardy Musketeer barracks, but the officer on duty was not impressed and sent him away. Next he went to the Princess Louisa Light Dragoons and was turned away there, also. Finally he called on the 27th, where the Colonel was impressed with his enthusiasm and sold him a captain's commission. Leclair hoped to become a major, but discovered there were no open slots at that level.

Duc Legris attended to his ministerial duties.

The Military Academy had three students that week. Captain Wabbit, Major Pierre, and BG D'Acier analyzed the summer campaign in depth, with the Brigadier demonstrating more knowledge than the instructor. With much kindness at the end of the week, the retired Colonel informed D'Acier that his knowledge was sufficient and the only way he would improve at his level was on the battlefield.

Captain de Beaumont practiced in the 53rd barracks, which was an unfortunate choice as it left Estelle alone. Two gentlemen had not heard the news that she was with de Beaumont the previous week and had gifts sent to her house. Lt Col Desacroix gave her flowers and expensive jewelry, and Captain LeBlanc sent an even greater quantity of the same, not realizing that the wealthy lady would not be impressed by excess.

Estelle did watch wide-eyed from her window as the two of them cried "En Garde!" and drew their sabres. Desacroix hit with a slash and a cut, and LeBlanc replied with a few slashes and cuts of his own. After a particularly jarring cut, however, LeBlanc offered his surrender and managed to politely ask for a surgeon. He spent the week recovering at home, and Desacroix knocked boldly at Estelle's door.

Captain de Beaumont will be very disappointed to hear that Estelle forgot about him completely when she invited Lt Col Desacroix in for the week. She sweetly tended his wounds and then asked if there was anything else he needed.

Major d'Ermatitis had a lovely visit with the girls at Madame Fifis.

Weekend 2
The Christening of Roland, son of Chevalier Silac la Vessie and Nadine, was a tasteful and joyous event with many attending. Duc Legris sent a gift of a gold-stamped, leather-bound, properly illuminated vulgate Bible. Jean D'Acier and Ursula attend, and gave him a toy sabre - perhaps the child would become a Cavalry man! Chevalier Mondego attended the service, as did Lt Col van der Oops who gave the proud parents a bag of crowns. Major Staunton Pierre presented them with a finely wrought cross and the well wishes of the CPC. Other attendees were Georges Singe Elan, Jean de Florrete and Beaufort de Beaumont who was, sadly, alone.

Comte de Sparrot attended mass at Montmartre with Claire and Jean-Louis, praying for those who lost their lives over the summer and giving thanks for those who returned safely

Le Duc D'Abril found Bothwells to be a quiet place to relax on a weekend, as did Lt Col Desacroix at the Frog & Peach.

Louis Lefuet met with a landlord to rent Mansion in Belleville. Renno Megane went shopping for tasteful statuettes and rugs for the new gaff.

Perhaps in the hopes that it would improve, Jacque Wabbit took in another performance of "Le Ducs de Hasard" with Gillian. Alas, it was as bad as before. The lovely lady wondered if she had somehow displeased her paramour to warrant such treatment.

Week 3
The day of Chevalier Mondego's affair had finally arrived. The days of preparation by laborers supervised by the iron fist of Beauchamp were completed that morning. The palace garden was trimmed to perfection, not a leaf out of place, even the very trees themselves joining in with the theme of the affair. The gold and red leaves of early fall were gently blowing in the breeze, soon to be joined by the red of the setting Sun.

Soon, the guests began to arrive. Among the first was Captain Jean-Michel LeBlanc of the Crown Prince Cuirassiers. LeBlanc was attired in a flowing robe of brilliant white, wearing a mask designed as the face of a beautiful youth formed of gold, the golden curls encircled by a shining halo. When introduced to his host, the young man described himself as Helios, the Greek Sun God.

"Helios" was soon joined by Major Silac la Vessie of the Cardinal's guard and his wife Nadine. His mask was of the rising Sun itself, its burnished bronze surrounded by rays of silver sunbeams. Nadine was masked as the setting Sun, in colors and materials the opposite of her husband's. Where his mask was of bronze circled by silver rays, hers was a polished silver Sun, held in the embrace of bronze sunbeams.

Next to arrive was Chevalier Mondego's second in command, Lt. Colonel Piet van der Oops and his wife, Didi. They wore masks similar in style to that of Major la Vessie and Nadine, but where they had the smooth surface of the Sun as their masks, Lt. Colonel van der Oops and Didi had the classic smiling Face of the Sun upon theirs. His was in gold leaf, hers entirely in variations on Cardinal Red. As the Lt. Colonel and his wife were escorted within, the last guest arrived. And, such an arrival!

When the carriage stopped at the gates and grooms had grasped the reins of the horses, the door opened and its occupants stepped out. The first to exit was a cloaked Major Robert Staunton Pierre. He stepped down, a papier mache layer around the coach mimicking the fluffy insubstantiality of true cloud. His cloak, suede bleached and dyed all the shades of a cloudy morning: outer panels of grey, white, and darkest purple, shifting occasionally to display a slightly brighter lining of false-dawn blue. Following him was the lovely Rosalyn, attired in a slashed silk dress of blue cut with the lightest of pinks. Once inside, cloak taken by a helpful porter, Pierre's clothing is revealed to be a massive patchwork of silk, velvet and suede. A shirt of deep purple silk shot with gold thread starts the ensemble with a tunic of roughly woven silk - each thread seemed to be a different color blue or gray, with the occasional thread of pink and red. His vest mimicked the deep clouds of firing cannon at dawn: an explosion of gold and red by his left kidney expanding into a dappled black and gray cloud of suede (with a lining of red silk to hint at the light of a sun illuminating the cannon) stretching over his chest and attaching to his right shoulder. His pants are dyed linen of deep purples, blues, and reds.

Once in the party, with all the guests arrived, Major Pierre stood to make a toast. "My lords, ladies, and gentlemen, A toast to the King and the regiments founded in his name. May his cannon always be known as reason, for they are truly the last argument of Kings!"

A rousing, "The King!" chorused around the Major as his early toast seemed to signal to all that the festivities were to start.

It did not take long for the affair to get into full swing. The guests were eagerly helping themselves to the plates of meats, cheeses and breads, while his chef attended to the suckling pig roasting on the hearth, and servants scurried between wine cellar and Reception Hall to ensure that the drink flowed freely. Among the guests, it must be admitted, most of the attention was given to the flamboyant Major Pierre. Many were impressed with the evident work that went to his creation.

Chevalier Mondego went to the rail of the main staircase and rapped a knife against his crystal wine glass. The sharp ringing called the attention of the guests. "Gentlemen, and ladies, the time has come for me to announce the winner of my little prize. As you know, the theme of this party was to design and display a mask that best incorporated the announced theme. That being the Golds of the Dawn, the Reds of the Dusk and the Silvers that do adorn the Clouds and he who best incorporated these Wonders would be judged by the Ladies present to receive my Gift.

After a short deliberation, Rosalyn stepped forward. She couldn't help a glance towards Major Pierre. "Sirs, we have chosen a winner. Though the costume worn by my Robert was deemed to be the most stimulating of those present, he did not include a mask as a part. So, as this was a theme using Masks to celebrate this affair, we found that we could not award him the win. Given the masks that we saw this evening, we have decided that the one worn by Lt. Colonel Piet van der Oops was the victor. It was close between his and Major la Vessie, but we decided we liked the way he made the Sun smile in his mask."

Mondego replied, "So, my friends, a winner has been chosen. Major Pierre does have a stunning costume, and I will not let such an effort go unrewarded." Mondego turned to a table next to him. Upon it were three small cases. Mondego took the first case and presented it to M. van der Oops. "Here is a selection of the finest truffles to be had from the last Richerenches harvest. There are about a dozen and they should prove to be most tasty." Mondego then presented the second case. "This case contains six bottles of Essential Oil of Lavender. This oil is wonderfully relaxing and gives a sour day a fresh look. Also, if applied to wounds, the oil seems miraculously curative. Use these in good health, monsieur. Lastly," reaching for the third case, "there is this case of 100 Crowns. Small enough reward for such a fine mask. And monsieur Pierre, you have quite the impressive costume. Therefore, I will gift you with a purse of 50 crowns, thus shall your great effort be not totally in vain."

With that, the guests resumed their entertainments. Chevalier Mondego provided many small wandering acts in his gardens and throughout his palace, his chefs ensuring that the food did not run out. Beauchamp, supervising all, had the duty to make sure all ran smoothly.

On the third day, Chevalier Mondego called his guests together for an announcement.

"Gentleman, you have heard of the writer Pierre Corneille," a muffled groan was heard by some nearby guests, some of whom had had enough theatre for the season. "Tonight, we will view his newest work, The Cid." A few of the guests exchanged quiet comments that Mondego might be behaving a bit cheeky to present a play celebrating a hero of Spain, France's enemy. But, it was decided that, perhaps it might be interesting to see what was in the offing.

"And, for your added enjoyment, I have the playwright here with us, this evening." Gesturing to a man sitting in the front row, Mondego went on, "Here, my friends, is the wonderful playwright, Pierre Corneille." At that, the man stood and bowed to the audience. He seemed to be in awe of his surroundings and very nervous at the collection of Paris' elite here to see his play.

When the play was complete, Mondego's guests sat stunned and their applause was long and loud. Corneille was blushed with pride at the reception and was pleased to be the target of the guest's attentions for the remainder of the evening.

Finally, the day came when it had to end and the guests left by their carriages and horses, leaving the servants to stand aghast at the massive job of cleaning ahead of them.

Elsewhere in Paris, Duc Legris avoided all social contacts and attended to his ministerial duties.

Comte de Sparrot practiced his cutlass that week, and Captain de Beaumont worked on his rapier skills. Subaltern Neffis would be found again at the GDMD barracks for his regimental duties.

At the Military Academy, Captain Wabbit, Major de Treville and BG D'Acier studied the most efficient use of cavalry in battle. Again the Brigadier shared his own depth of knowledge.

A Minister cannot have less than a palace as a residence! And, being Minister of War, closeness to His Majesty is of critical importance should an emergency (revolt, enemies invading, etc) arise. Thus les Ducs d'Abril moved to a palace in Isle-de-la Cite. They also announced that their former mansion in La Chapelle was for sale.

Captain Lefuet moved into his Mansion in Belleville, and Ravan Leclair rented a cozy Town House in Les Batignoles district.

Baron Megane decided that his palace needed a feminine touch, and realizing he could use the same he decided to call on Babette. The lady was known for her exquisite taste, so he selected a large delftware bowl and filled it with fresh apples. Being a practical man, he also tucked a brooch amongst the fruit, it was gold with granulations, pearls and rubies in an oval shape. His gifts hit their mark and Babette spent the week with him, the two of them sometimes feasting at her house and other times about town selecting furnishings for his palace.

Chevalier d'Ermatitis spent the week carousing at Hunters. Blue Gables was the setting for Lt Col de Florrete and Camille. Lt Col Desacroix and Estelle sampled the wines at the Frog & Peach, and Major Le Fleurquin entertained Veronique at Red Phillips.

Weekend 3
Duc Legris refrained from social activities again that weekend, and Comte de Sparrot also spent a quiet weekend at home with Claire.

Moving to a new house was a great deal of work! Le Duc d'Abril treated la Duchesse to a nice dinner in one of the fanciest places in Paris.

Lt Col Desacroix looked after some regimental paperwork.

At mass this week were Jean D'Acier and Ursula, and Piet van der Oops and Didi.

Louis Lefuet was so overjoyed with his engagement to Cosette that he missed the reviews of the play, and treated his intended to the show. She was stunned. Someone without the excuse of ignorance was Baron Megane, who took Babette to the theatre as well. She was rather icy in reaction, and in fact called for her own carriage to go home at intermission. Lt Col de Florrete was there, indulging some masochistic itch. It was Captain de Beaumont's first visit, and he was fortunate to sit next to a gentleman willing to share some rotten fruit for the curtain call. One cannot fathom what Jacque Wabbit was doing there again, with Gillian. She began to wonder of he had too much admiration for the actress who portrayed Mlle Duc, and was it was better or worse that he dragged her along?. On the way home, she informed him in no uncertain terms that she would not ever be wearing such short petticoats.

Week 4
Baron Megane managed to tender a sincere enough apology to Babette for the theatre, and she decided to be merciful and attend his party at Hunters. As each gentleman entered the Baron's soiree, a member of the Hunters staff handed him a pair of red and white gaming tokens, each graven with a gilt "25" on one side. Officers of the Grand Duc Maximilian's Dragoons received a pair of blue and white tokens bearing a gilt "50". The man inclined his head slightly as he handed these out stating, "Courtesy of Baron Megane, monsieur. Bon chance".

The Baron had delved deep into Hunters renowned wine cellar, which again proved its ability to surprise and please. After much small talk and exchange of pleasantries the Baron eventually requested a moment's silence from his guests. As he did so the staff moved among the guests with fresh glasses and bottles of sweet Sauternes. The Baron then raised a toast to the memories of those brave men who had fallen during the summer and called down damnation on the heads of traitors such as Yobesn d'Yullse Yshaevron and Zephram Zekelbahum, whose treason had cost many Frenchmen their lives. Others in the room darkly and quietly echoed the word, "Damnation". The Baron quoted a verse from Isaiah before inviting his guests to join the toast:

"The just perish
and no-one takes it to heart;
men of good faith are swept away, but no-one cares,
the righteous are carried away before the onset of evil,
but they enter into peace;
they have run the straight course
and rest in their last beds"

Everyone raised their glasses and drank in silent contemplation. The guests' glasses were then re-charged. The Baron smiled and moved on to propose another toast; this time to the enchanting beauty of the ladies of Paris. Those present looked coy and feigned modesty at his flattery while the men called out their approval and drained their glasses, this time with a cheer. With that, Baron Megane invited his guests to use their gaming tokens at the card tables.

Louis Lefuet proved to be lucky in love, unlucky at cards as he lost at the tables but had his dear Cosette always by his side. Jacque Wabbit did the same with his gambling, and suffering the occasional pointed remark from Gillian about "that play". Louis Yves Desacroix did quite well, taking home 200 crowns.

Robert Staunton Pierre discuss the role of mounted infantry with other interested parties, and Rosalyn brought him a bit of luck at the cards, gaining him 50 crowns. Henri de Treville did the same, and while Hyacinthe was becoming in her green gown she was also tired at carrying the extra weight. Georges Singe Elan won 50 crowns, and praised the Baron's generosity at providing this opportunity.

In a private room at Hunters, Chevalier la Vessie and Nadine hosted a Christening party. Bouncers ensured that they would not be disturbed by any King's Musketeers, and in fact the keen-eyed employees made sure there was no accidental contact with Major de Treville, who was attending Baron Megane's party.

Chevalier Mondego remarked of little Roland, "A strapping young man he seems, Major. I see the marks of leadership upon him. Men will follow this one." Straightening, the colonel gestured to his man, Beauchamp, who was standing nearby with a long object wrapped in brilliant white silk. Beauchamp approached, bowed his head and presented the silken wrapped item with importance. Mondego reached out, untied a golden, tasseled cord and flipped aside a flap of silk. A golden hilt was exposed, with a grip of pearl. Taking the hilt in hand, the colonel partially withdrew a rapier the like of which, few had ever seen. A shimmering blade, the edge honed to perfection, held within a sheath of supple leather, black as night, tipped with golden accoutrements.

"If I be so bold, Major, I would like to present your young gentleman with this rapier. When the day comes, I believe he will find it of use in service to our King. May it draw His enemy's blood with relish." Returning the rapier to the silken fold, Colonel Mondego retied the cord, took the weapon from the outstretched hands of his servant and presented it to Major la Vessie. "Now," he said with a smile, "if we can convince the young man to sign up with the Cardinal's guard, all will be right with the world."

Chevalier van der Oops and Didi also admired young Roland and offered toasts to everyone's health.

Patrons enjoyed their clubs once again, such as Comte de Sparrot catching up on some gossip and carousing at Bothwell's. Lt Col de Florrete showed Camille a pleasant time at Blue Gables, and Major Le Fleurquin did the same with Veronique at Red Phillips.

Duc Legris attended again to his ministerial duties.

Duc D'Abril decided, "Let's not forget that, first of all, we are soldiers of France!" and spent the week practising with his sword. Captain de Beaumont honed his skills with his rapier.

BG D'Acier spent yet another week at the Military Academy, perusing the library and engaging in discussions with the instructors. He yet again proved very knowledgeable in his own right.

Ravan Leclair sent a lovely number of gifts to Veronique's house, but to his chagrin she was not at home when he called.

Captain LeBlanc and Subaltern Neffis went to the bawdyhouse for some recreation.

Chevalier d'Ermatitis planned to spend the week at Hunters. To his dismay, a complaint had been registered by a gentleman of finance regarding his lack of payment for a loan. The chevalier spent the week in gaol, in one of the nicer cells, of course. He found himself in the company of Lt Col Armand St-Cyr, who had a similar complaint lodged against him.

Weekend 4
Duc Legris spent the final weekend privately, out of the eye of society.

Comte de Sparrot supervised the completion of a new folly in the gardens of his palace

Duc D'Abril saw to some paperwork at his ministry office.

BG D'Acier visited Brigade headquarters to get updated on any current developments.

Colonel Mondego visited the booksellers to see what might be had in the City of Lights, having been gone on campaign for so many months. Coming across a collection of poems by John Donne, he was intrigued and purchased the work. It being in English was a problem, but not insurmountable. Perhaps it was time to learn. Returning home, the colonel immersed himself in the task.

Chevalier van der Oops attended mass with Didi, as did Captain Lefuet with Cosette.

To the shock and horror of Paris, there was still an audience for the Theatre de Sois production of "Le Ducs de Hasard". By this time, the set and properties were so worn an broken as to be barely recognizable, and "barely" was also an accurate description for the attire of the leading lady. Like a horrible carriage wreck, Lt Col de Florrete was back to see it if was as bad as he remembered.

Captain Wabbit collected Gillian that evening, and once she realized his intentions she said she was not feeling well and demanded to be taken home immediately. He went alone to the theatre, and when he got home there was a note from his lady waiting for him. Unfortunately it was to say that he needn't call her ever again.

Lt Col Desacroix bought a horse as required for his rank. The stablemaster commented that they had expected to do more business that month, and there were rumors of disciplinary action for those military men who did not have their required mounts.

Looking back over the busy month, Baron Megane spent a quiet weekend recovering.

===================================

At the front:

After the reverses and successes of the summer campaign, this first month of autumn was a month of journeys and sieges. The volunteer regiment, now rebuilt around the core of the Picardy Musketeers and lead by General Voisin, smoothly occupied First Army's camp now staffed only by those die-hards in the frontier regiments. While the enemy in Merzig tried a few light sallies, the veteran regiments easily held their ground. Unfortunately, there is still sufficient strength to make assaulting the ruins of Merzig a losing proposition. Are our brave young men only seasonal soldiers? The true honor and glory will not be won in the warm summer, but in the mists and fogs of autumn.

Proving their true mettle were Captain Laisse and Major Salvadore. On the third such sally from the Germans, Major Salvadore led the volunteer regiment in a sally against the ruined west wall, hoping that the Germans' reduced strength would allow him to capture the wall. In his enthusiasm, he led the way and was first up the wall, followed shortly by Captain Laisse. While the rest of the regiment was climbing through the ruins, an unexpected German reserve took the top of the wall and encircled these two brave lads. Without speaking a word the two stood back to back and kept fighting. Salvadore's swordplay was such that the enemy finally brought in muskets to shoot these damned nettles down.

At this point, Captain Laisse redoubled his efforts to break free of the now opening circle and managed to cut an opening. Unfortunately, the uncertain ground was such that Major Salvadore lost his footing on a but of gore, slipped, and hit his helmet with a resounding clang. Already off the wall and in the protective safety of his men, he could only watch as Major Salvadore's twitching body was dragged from the wall.

There are no offers of ransom at this time. (See rules for Rescue - Q1 in military)

Remember, my friends, as the leaves fall from the trees, the war is not yet won!

Until next month,
Procipius de Ceseria. Dated Septembre of the year of Our Lord 1637.

Campaign Matrix:
Char MiDs Prom Crs Other
==== ==== ==== ==== =====
SOS -- -- -- CAPTURED BY ENEMY!
ML 6 -- 450

Character Matrix

Char	Regt	Rank	Club	Housing	Mistress	Title	SPs	SL (Gain)
AML	DG	bBG	Both	Pal*IsleCite	Widowr 8/37	Duc	106	24+
TDA	None	bLTG	Both	Pal*IsleCite	Beatrice	Duc	98	23+
DdS	None	bLTG	Both	Pal*IsleCite	Claire	Comte	65	23
FM	CG	Col	Both	Pal*Montr	Michelle	Chevalier	75	16+
PvdO	CG	LtCol	Both	Pal*Montr	Didi	Chevalier	72	16+
HdT	KM	Maj	Hunt	FH*Charon	Hyacinthe	Baron	69	16+
JdA	CPC	BG	Both	Apt*Bellevil	Ursula		57	16+
RM	GDMD	bBG	BlueG	Pal*IsleCite	Babette	Baron	103	12+
SlV	CG	Maj	Hunt	TH*Charon	Nadine	Chevalier	64	11+
HdE	RFG	Maj	Hunt	Gar*Passy		Chevalier	64	11+
LL	RFG	Capt	Hunt	Man*Bellevil	Cosette		38	11+
ASC	QOC	LtCol	Frog &	Apt*Bellevil	Karine		19	11
DDV	None			Gar*Passy			-1	11-
GSE	DG	Capt	Frog &	TH*Passy			25	8+
LYD	GDMD	LtCol	Frog &	FH*LaVillet	Estelle		45	7+
JdF	RM	LtCol	Blue G	Gar*Passy	Camille		19	7
RSP	CPC	Maj	RedP	Gar*Passy	Rosalyn		47	6+
JW	GDMD	Capt	Frog &	TH*Les Bat			33	6+
JML	CPC	Capt	RedP	Gar*Passy			36	5+
AVF	4th	Maj	RedP	TH*Passy	Veronique		21	4+
RL			RedP	TH*LesBat			7	4
SOS	PM	Maj		Gar*Passy			-	4
JN	GDMD	Sub	RedP	Apt*Passy			25	3+
ML	PLLD	bCapt		Gar*Passy			-	2
BB	53rd	bCapt		TH*Passy			14	2+
CC	None			Gar*Passy			1	1

'+' indicates the gain of a SL this turn
'-' indicates the loss of a SL this turn
'D' indicates the character is currently disgraced

Reminder: No Sps are tallied while on campaign

No Orders Received: ASC, CC, DDV
NOR Orders Used:
Converted to NPC:

The Regiments
The table shows the disposition of officer slots within each of the regiments. C6 - C1 are the captain slots in increasing order of seniority. M2 - M1 are the two majorities, LtC is the Lieutenant Colonel, and COL is the Colonel. 000N0 indicates the position is filled by an NPC. The first three digits are the NPC number and the last digit is his MA. - means the position is open. Any officer with a military appointment does not have a regimental command; that duty is passed to the next senior officer of the regiment.

Any character holding a brevet rank of Col. or below will be indicated as holding both ranks (ie CPT and MAJ).

Remember, for game purposes, there is no limit to the number of privates and subalterns allowed within a regiment, and they will only be noted if occupied by a player character.

Regimental organization: see http://patriot.net/~aquazoo/eg/eg_res/regts.html

The General Staff

Brigade Commands:
Brigade of Guards -- Moliere (NPC)
Horse Guards Brigade --
Heavy Brigade -- JDA Aug 38
RSP is Brigade Major Aug 38
Dragoon Brigade --
1st Brigade of Foot -- Aurillac (NPC)
2nd Brigade of Foot -- Petite (NPC)
3rd Brigade of Foot --
4th Brigade of Foot -- Saint-Girons (NPC)
1st Volunteer Brigade -- Groulart (NPC)
2nd Volunteer Brigade -- de Challon (NPC)
3rd Volunteer Brigade --
4th Volunteer Brigade -- Bonshom (NPC)
1st Cavalry (V) Brigade -- Becdelievre (NPC)
2nd Cavalry (V) Brigade -- Flambert (NPC)

Division Commands:
1st Division -- Luxor (NPC)
2nd Division -- DdS Aug 38
Cavalry Division -- Gamut (NPC)
1st Volunteer Division -- de Souveray (NPC)
2nd Volunteer Division -- Guivar'ch (NPC)
Volunteer Cavalry Div -- Guillory (NPC)
Frontier Division -- Voisin (NPC)

Army Commands:
1st Army -- Pied dans la Bouche (NPC)
2nd Army -- Besancon (NPC)
3rd Army -- Benoist (NPC)
Field Army -- de Gatinais (NPC)
Frontier Army -- Perigeux (NPC)
Field Marshal -- Dillee (NPC)

Other Military Appointments (only Player Characters are listed)
Regimental Adjutant RFG -- LL Aug 38
Regimental Adjutant GDMD -- JW Aug 38
Regimental Adjutant CPC -- JML Aug 38

Civil Appointments (only PC MwoPs shown)
Comsr of Public Safety vacant
Chancellor of the Exchequer RM Aug 38
Minister of Justice vacant
Minister of War TdA Mai 38
Minister of State AML Mai 38
Minister w/o Portfolio
* The month shown is the last month in which the character will hold the appointment. The appointment ends on the last day of the indicated month.

Mistress Roster

Mistress	SL	Attrib.	Gentleman
Beatrice	22		Married - TDA
Claire	23	I	Married - DdS
Antoinette	18	W, I, B
Michelle	17	W	FM
Ursula	16	I	JdA
Aimee	16	B
Babette	15	I	RM
Didi	15		Married - PvdO
Mina	15	B
Madelon	14
Isabelle	13
Hyacinthe	13	I	Married - HdT
Karine	13	B	ASC
Camille	12	I, B	JdF
Lydia	11	W, I
Cosette	10	I, B	LL
Patrice	10	W
Nadine	9	W, I	Married - SLV
Rosalyn	9		RSP
Veronique	8		AVF
Gillian	8	B
Wendie	7	W
Francoise	6
Estelle	6	W, I	LYD

Player Roster
Achilles Martin Legris AML 24 nospam.bill@pentex.org
Tirs D'Abril TDA 23 nospam.tirs@tirsabril.com
Daniel de Sparrot DdS 23 nospam.acarin@btinternet.com
Fernand Mondego FM 16 nospam.ckirmser@charter.net
Piet van der Oops PvdO 16 nospam.vinlander@hotmail.com
Henri de Treville HdT 16 nospam.sandbagger3@gmail.com
Jean D'Acier JdA 16 nospam.jbalkestahl@yahoo.com
Renno Megane RM 12 nospam.reaching-moon@supanet.com
Silac la Vessie SlV 11 nospam.micks@gmx.co.uk
Hacute d'Ermatitis HdE 11 nospam.tomm@doctors.org.uk
Louis Lefuet LL 11 nospam.kauss@eriga.lv
Armand St-Cyr ASC 11 nospam.drew@zip.com.au
D'ahstardlee De'Ville DDV 11 nospam.chainsawpixie@yahoo.com
Georges Singe Elan GSE 8 nospam.aquazoo@patriot.net
Louis-Yves Desacroix LYD 7 nospam.lydick@2nd-source.com
Jean de Florrete JdF 7 nospam.rubber_man_98@yahoo.com
Robert Staunton Pierre RSP 6 nospam.brian@technicraft.com
Jacque Wabbit JW 6 nospam.ashkc@btinternet.com
Jean-Michel LeBlanc JML 5 nospam.redwing922@yahoo.com
Alexandre-Valentin Le Fleurquin AVF 4 nospam.david.wells@sinclair.edu
Ravan Leclair RL 4 nospam.mrhamm1967@yahoo.com
Sam Orlando Salvadore SOS 4 nospam.martibr2003@yahoo.com
Jean Neffis JN 3 nospam.johnicholas.hines@gmail.com
Marcel Laisse ML 2 nospam.thedouble1998@yahoo.co.uk
Beaufort de Beaumont BB 1 nospam.brwntrsk@sover.net
Christian Cyan CC 1 nospam.ijew.1971@tesco.net