The World Turned Upside Down

By John Mernone

A chance meeting that changed lives…

By July of 1780, the American War of Independence under the command of General George Washington had been raging for more than five years. And, at long last, aid from the French arrives in the form of troops led by LeComte de Rochambeau. 
Rochambeau chooses as his bodyguard an Italian mercenary, Major Jean Canossa, who has volunteered to fight in America so he could rise in rank. This appointment has a profound effect upon both their lives: for Rochambeau, it provides a dimension of humanity amid the harshness of war, and for Canossa, it offers interactions with people he otherwise never would meet.
One of those people is Nancy Campan, for whom he falls, and hard. Nancy feels the same, and when her family accepts him as one of their own, the direction of Canossa's life is changed forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: John Mernone
• Release date: Jul 11, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393177104

Book preview

The World Turned Upside Down

By

John E. Mernone

Copyright 2020 by JOHN MERNONE. All rights are reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner without written permission except in the case of brief quotations used in articles or reviews.

The World Turned Upside Down is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Cover design by Melinda McClintock

Edited and Formatted by Self-Publishing Services LLC.

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https://www.selfpublishingservices.com/

The life, loves, and adventures of Colonel Jean Canossa in the French Expeditionary Force, sent to the American Colonies in 1780 during the American Rebellion against King George III of Britain.

"If buttercups buzz’d after the bee,

If boats were on land, churches on sea,

If ponies rode men and if grass ate the cows,

And cats should be chased into holes by the mouse,

If the Mamas sold their babies,

To gypsies for half a crown,

If summer were spring and the other way around,

Then all the world would be upside down."

—Popular 18th Century British song

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The New England Coastline, July, 1780

Newport

Revelations

Friendships Develop

Lafayette in Newport

The Return to New York

Meeting in Hartford is planned

Rochambeau Assesses His Situation

Hartford, Connecticut September 1780

Treachery

The Return to Newport

Justice

British Unrest at Home

An October Guest for Dinner

Wedding Plans

The Wedding

1781—A Slow Start

The Surprise Announcement

An Unexpected Visit

The Colonies Taste Victory

Events Begin to Unfold

The British March North

A Near Catastrophe of Words

Read Between the Lines

Wethersfield and Beyond

Rochambeau Makes Plans

The French Leave Newport

British Confusion and Resentment

A Pain in the Ass!

Playing Allies Much Like Enemies

Rochambeau Reveals All

Forever Vigil

We Will Winter in Baltimore

Preparations Begin

A Welcome Diversion

Washington Meets de Grasse

Mysteries Solved and Secrets Revealed

Redoubts Nine and Ten

Surrender Field, October 19, 1781

Repayment of a Debt

Home

Recalled

A New Beginning

About the Author

Chapter 1

The New England Coastline, July, 1780

Inhaling a deep draft of sea air, the commander stared at the thin ribbon of land known as Rhode Island that had slowly become visible on the horizon. The heavy timbers of the King Louis XVI warship strained against the enormous energy of the sea, making the ribs of the vessel creak, a sound he couldn’t get used to regarding as commonplace. He was a career soldier and had been appointed general of all the French forces in all North America, le comte de Rochambeau. Overhead, swarms of sea gulls circled the small fleet, screaming their welcome to this new and foreign land.

From his position on the upper deck near the helm, the general watched the sailors going about their daily duties with the precision and speed developed from years of service. Having studied the art of war for forty years, he appreciated personnel who knew their profession. During their voyage he had witnessed the might and fury of the open sea tossing the great ship about like a child’s toy. He pursed his lips, confident in the abilities of the sailors, yet glad he had chosen the army.

All the general knew about the American colonies had been told to him by the American ambassador to the French court, Benjamin Franklin, and letters that the marquis de Lafayette, serving in the American army, had sent to the king, who had passed the information on to Rochambeau. The military reports he had read were from the North American war twenty years before. Back then, France had lost everything, but success now could give King Louis a new ally, while dealing a lethal blow to the English economy. He was broken out of his personal council by the chatter and laughter coming from a number of his officers emerging from the cabin area on a lower deck. Among the group of infantry officers, he noticed one cavalry officer, a hussar from General Lauzun’s Legion. Leaning on the railing lining the upper deck, he pointed and called out, You. Major.

The grin on the hussar’s face sobered quickly when he realized he was being summoned by the commanding general. Bounding up the steps to the upper deck, the major snapped to attention and saluted. Major Canossa, General. You require my presence?

Major, before we left France, were you told that I requested men from the Duc’s legion to act as my personal bodyguard?

No, my lord, before we left, the duc simply informed me that I and some others would be making the crossing on your ship.

Did you question why he did that, Major Canossa, instead of leaving you with your squadron?

I’m not as rowdy as some of the other foreign officers in the legion, my lord, and frankly, I know more of your officers, including your son. It was my belief the duc might have felt that I fit in better here. In any event I am a soldier, and I go where I am ordered. The duc has been a good friend and commander; I didn’t question the move.

Rochambeau closed his eyes and nodded. Very military of you, Major, but that was not my request. I asked Lauzun to send me someone he thought would be a good candidate to take command of my bodyguard. He sent you. Do you think you would be able to successfully take command of that position?

Yes, General, I do. I am honored.

Then as a member of my staff, I’d like to get to know you better. Meet me in my cabin in an hour, and be prepared to tell me all about yourself.

~.~

At breakfast, Major Jean Canossa noticed that aside from a few luxuries like fresh bread, some fruit, eggs, and coffee, the food being served to General Rochambeau was not much different than what was prepared for his officers.

Where did you meet the duc de Lauzun, Major? And what is your name?

My name is Jean my lord. I was a cadet at the military academy in Turin, when duc de Lauzun, visited, looking for cavalry officers for his legion. I was one of those recommended.

Why the cavalry? The general motioned for him to continue.

Family tradition, my lord. My grandfather and father both were hussars. My father was a captain. Unfortunately, he lost a leg in battle, ending his career.

Then you have already surpassed your papa, the general interrupted.

Begging your pardon, but I don’t believe I will ever surpass my father. It was because of his outstanding service that I was accepted at the academy, and there became friends with Count Fersen. It was he who introduced me to several of the men who are now officers with you.

So, you know the Swede? Fascinating fellow. He is quite good friends with Queen Marie, and he has a talent for maneuvering around the Versailles crowd.

I also made a contact with the marquis de Lafayette, whom I assume may be beneficial to my lord. I attempted to sail with the marquis a few years ago, but I was delayed at Versailles. Smiling sheepishly, he added, And missed the boat.

Rochambeau grinned. So, by missing the boat you mean you were womanizing with Lauzun at Versailles; I know it’s his favorite pastime.

I assure you, my lord, it wasn’t anything as glamorous as that. I had planned to take my leave from the palace one night and join the marquis and his volunteers at Marseilles, but King Louis, got word of our plan to disobey his order to go to America and sent troops to the port. Lafayette arranged for another ship to leave from a Spanish port. They were long gone before I received word of the change. But my commission with Lauzun was still good, so I stayed with the legion.

Your rank, Major. You are quite young for such an honor.

It was the duc who promoted me to my present rank when I was serving with him in the fighting in Africa.

As for your name, Major, it’s not French, is it?

Correct, my lord. My family for many generations all came from Italy.

You have led a full and exciting life for one so young, Major. How are you with languages?

I speak French, Italian, and English fluently, and I can make my way in Latin.

The general nodded. "This is going to work out better than I had hoped.

Major, for the past several decades these colonists have known the French only as enemies. I imagine they don’t know what to expect from us, and we really don’t know how they will accept our presence. Discipline will be of the utmost importance, and your experience has been with Lauzun’s men. He hesitated. Don’t misunderstand, their fighting skills are indispensable to the army, but their behavior...not so much.

I understand your concern, my lord, and though I cannot speak for the duc’s men, neither I, nor any of my men, will be poor examples of the rules you wish for the army to follow.

Very well. I will take you at your word, Major Jean Canossa. You will head my body guard from this day until further notice.

~.~

The following morning, the port of Newport inlet and the rest of the Rhode Island coastline was shrouded in a heavy fog. Standing on either side of Rochambeau was the aged Admiral deTernay and the major.

My lord le comte, Admiral deTernay said, I have issued orders for us to remain here until the fog lifts and we can see that no English ships or batteries are lying in wait. The major scanned the dense fog with his telescope until a cry came from one of the lookouts in the crow’s nest. Pointing, he yelled, The king’s banner! I can see it flying on many places over the city!

Lowering his glass, the admiral asked, Monsieur le Comte, can we be sure of the person who devised the signal?

Reasonably so, Rochambeau said, nudging the major with his elbow. The signal was Lafayette’s idea.

The admiral chuckled while lifting the glass to his eye and playfully replying to le comte in little more than a whisper, Do you remember when you were that eager to get into a fight?

Chapter 2

Newport

A curious crowd of colonial onlookers gathered around the base of the gangway once the first of the French ships had been secured. Returning their gazes in an uneasy silence, the French officers of the general staff gathered behind the ships’ railings. Rochambeau was about to descend the wooden walkway when the conscientious Major Canossa placed a hand firmly on his arm.

Yes, Major?

My lord, as you pointed out yesterday, none of us know what we are facing. You have placed me in charge of your guard, and unlike you, I can speak to these people. Allow me to be first to come into contact with them.

Nodding his consent, the general stepped back. From his position high above the gathering, the major scanned the slowly growing crowd, lingering on the face of a pretty young woman with long, red hair standing on the periphery of the assembly. Then the major smiled and nodded at the city fathers. Descending the gangway, he was followed by a number of his men, and at the base of the ramp was approached by one of the more formally dressed citizens, clad in black and leaning heavily upon a brass-headed cane. Bowing gracefully, the major smiled warmly as the city father tried his best to greet him in French.

Monsieur le General Rocham...

The major looked up from his bow. I speak your language, monsieur. Allow me to introduce myself; I am Major Jean Canossa, head of General Rochambeau’s personal bodyguard. Jean could see immediate relief in the man’s features. I assure you, monsieur, I should be with the general most of the time; however, if not, there are several other officers fluent in your tongue.

Stepping to one side, he allowed his men to pass, and ordered a lieutenant, Cotta, place the men in a semi-circle at intervals throughout the crowd.

Rochambeau stepped off the platform next to Jean, who said to the colonial spokesman, Monsieur le Mayor, allow me to introduce General Jean Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau.

After the formal introductions, the Count Fersen took over the duties of translating while Jean and his men repositioned themselves in the crowd. Stepping up onto the gangway once again to scan the throng, he again observed the young woman was still there. She smiled while brushing a stray bit of hair from her face. Jean smiled and nodded back, when she suddenly lowered her eyes and hurried away.

~.~

The next day, after the initial housing of le comte and his staff was complete, the entire French force was led by members of the 1st Rhode Island Continental Regiment to a variety of suitable campgrounds around the Newport area.

Outside the headquarters building, Jean was going about his duties, organizing and scheduling the general’s guard, when he heard a familiar voice call out, Jean Gabriel!

Wheeling about, the major spotted his former commanding officer, the flamboyant duc de Lauzun. Where have you been hiding? I’ve been looking all over for you! I thought you might have deserted...so many beautiful American women!

Looking sidelong at the duc, Jean asked, Have you spoken with le comte yet?

Yes, he told me he had asked you to head his bodyguard. Lauzun shrugged. So, does that mean we can’t be friends anymore? His face took on an overly dramatic pout. And all this time I thought you liked serving with me.

Knowing the Duc’s bawdy sense of humor, the major grinned. Lauzun was far from finished. Ah, but now I see Canossa...the man you really are. You were just using me to advance your career, and then you left me, like some cheap wench!

Jean burst into laughter.

Yes, go on, laugh, Lauzun continued in a forlorn tone, accented by a sneer and a curled lip. You Italians are all alike; I feel so used. Unable to continue with his dramatics, Lauzun, too, laughed, and the two officers embraced.

It has been a while, hasn’t it? And thank you for recommending me to le comte.

With a shake of his head, the duc ignored the gratitude. It was the easiest thing le comte ever asked me to do.

I don’t understand.

He asked me to provide him with an officer who was smart, brave, and refined. That narrowed the field down to one—you.

Oh, the major replied, not sure whether what he heard was a compliment or not.

Why are you looking at me so seriously? You are a fine soldier. You just have abilities far beyond the others, talents that can be better used around a commanding general. You know what brutes we have in the legion. You were around them for two years.

Jean breathed a sigh. Then you weren’t just taking the opportunity to get rid of me.

Cocking an eyebrow, the strong, handsome duc de Lauzun flattened his mustache, puffed out his muscular chest, and replied, You know better than to ask me that. Then, looking around to make sure they were alone, the duc leaned close and whispered, Now your turn. Has the old man said anything about me?

Yes, Jean responded eagerly, he told me seriously that he loves and respects you dearly, but you are a pain in the ass, and he knows he will have more trouble with your legion than with the rest of the army.

Hmph, the duc grunted, seemingly indifferent to the remark. Well, it’s good to know things haven’t changed much during the voyage, but as long as he isn’t mad about anything, that’s good. Then again, we’ve just arrived and the men haven’t had time to get into any trouble yet.

Jean nodded and added, One thing le comte did stress was discipline. He’s resigned to having to hang a few troublemakers in order to keep harmony with the population. Make sure they aren’t members of the legion! I don’t want to have to hang anyone I know!

Are you busy? the duc asked. I could use some help. I’m on a mission to buy some horses.

I would like nothing better than to ride for a while, but if the general wanted me for something and I was off with you...

Holding up his hand, Lauzun replied with a wincing smile, No need to finish. I wouldn’t want the old man to think that you have become a pain in the ass, too. He laughed. You just take care of yourself and keep the general safe. I love the old man.

~.~

That evening, Jean reported to the headquarters building for a special dinner. Looking up from a conversation he was having with Major Dumas, le comte called him over.

Jean, there is someone I wish for you to meet. Walking across the spacious room, the general interrupted a conversation between Count Fersen and one of the town fathers.

Excuse me, Monsieur le comte, I must appropriate the attention of Monsieur Campan for a moment. Monsieur Francois Campan, this is the officer I told you about earlier, Major Jean Canossa. As you are helping to find quarters for my general staff, I would like to have him housed as near to my headquarters as possible.

Monsieur Campan bowed. Oh yes, Major Canossa, I am so pleased to meet you. Let me get straight to the point to try to comply with the general’s request. Walking to the rear window of the room, he pointed to a three-story brick and wood home about fifty yards away. That is my house, Major, and if you don’t mind the presence of children, I know my wife would be happy to share our large home with you. I assure you; they are good children, and my wife is an excellent cook. Does the location to headquarters agree with you?

What do you think, Jean? Rochambeau asked in more of a friendly tone than an order.

I am honored by your invitation, monsieur, Jean replied with a slight bow, and I will try to be as little disruption to your family as possible. I couldn’t have hoped for a better location.

Good, then it is decided! the general snapped. Now, Count Fersen, come with me and allow monsieur and the major time to get acquainted. I’m sure they’ll find they have a lot in common.

Bowing as the general left, Jean looked mischievously at Monsieur Campan. What do you suppose he meant by that?

I think time might answer that question.

Monsieur, would you like me to speak in French or English at your home?

It’s all the same to my wife and me, Major, but the children speak only English, and, after all, it is the language of the land.

Jean nodded. Once we unite with the Continental Army, I will need as good a command of the language as possible, and I would never want the children to feel like they were being left out of the conversation in their own home.

You seem to have a fine grasp of the tongue already, Major.

I have been blessed in that way; languages have always come easy to me, Jean said.

When the dinner was over, Monsieur Campan remained at headquarters until Jean completed his duties for the night. Strolling leisurely to the Campan residence, Jean was relieved to know that he would be living in what appeared to be a comfortable home. Entering the front yard through an arched, wrought-iron gate, the two climbed the small stone staircase to the ornately carved, wooden front door. Madame Campan greeted them in the central corridor. Bowing deeply to the lady of the house, the major gallantly kissed her hand and introduced himself.

Canossa? Madame Campan repeated as her large, dark eyes sparkled with a smile. Then you, are of Italian blood, Major?

Jean looked up. Yes Madame. I am from Turin.

Campan smiled and said, I believe this is partially what General Rochambeau meant when he introduced us: commonality. We come from the region around Turin and have served the House of Savoy also.

This is truly a surprise, monsieur; I didn’t expect to meet anyone who spoke French, not to mention Italians.

You will soon learn there is a strong anti-Papist feeling in this corner of New England. Frankly, we are forced to keep our Catholic background a secret.

So, you pretend to be Huguenot? Hmm, an interesting concept for a land extolling the virtues of liberty and equality to still keep slaves and prevent certain Christians from worshiping freely.

Nevertheless, until we can get things changed here in Rhode Island, I trust you will keep our secret.

As you wish, Jean replied with a quick nod of his head, but I believe your city fathers are going to be a bit surprised on Sunday when our priests say Mass for the men.

Monsieur Campan chuckled. That should be quite interesting. You see, there is a law here that prohibits Catholics from even living in Rhode Island.

And you and your family?

Been living here for years, and no one has ever questioned us about it, Major.

Jean grinned. Please, I will go crazy if you continue to call me Major. I am Jean.

And we are Francois and Marie.

~.~

The following morning, Francois and Jean were having a conversation in the dining room when Pauline, the youngest of the Campan daughters, entered the room. She stopped abruptly when she saw the tall, handsome hussar having a conversation with her father.

Ah, Major, this is my daughter, Pauline. She is but thirteen, is an excellent student, and is very aware of all that is happening around her in the colonies. If you allow her, she is quite capable of giving you an earful.

Lowering her head, she exclaimed, Oh Papa. She blushed and giggled.

The encounter was no sooner finished than Caroline followed her sister into the room. She curtsied politely, and Jean returned the salutation with a small bow.

And this is Caroline, Francois continued, She is my quiet flower, but she is filled with wonder about Versailles and the royal family.

Have you ever met King Louis and Queen Marie, Major? she asked. Jean smiled when he heard Caroline’s soft feminine voice.

Yes, yes, I have. He looked Caroline squarely in the face. And when my duties permit, I would be glad to answer any of your questions, Mademoiselle Caroline.

She gasped. I would be grateful for anything you could tell me, monsieur, and thank you.

Bending his head to one side, Jean smiled warmly. It would be my pleasure, mademoiselle.

Well, enough of that for now, Marie interrupted. Come and sit before your breakfast grows cold.

Where is Nancy? Francois asked.

She is fussing with her hair, Papa, Pauline snickered. She was at the docks yesterday, and all she could talk about last night was how magnificently dressed the French were. But she can’t fool me; I think she’s sweet on one of them.

General Rochambeau landed yesterday, Jean said.

Was he alone? Pauline asked.

The major grinned and laughed slightly at the innocent question. He shook his head in the negative.

How old is he? Pauline asked.

I would say about your father’s age, maybe a bit older, Jean said.

Nah, it wouldn’t be him, but I know for sure it wasn’t the uniforms, although your uniform is beautiful, Major, she added with an innocent smile and a starry-eyed expression.

Excusing himself, Francois walked to the stairway in the hall and yelled, Nancy, if you don’t get down here now, we are going to begin without you! Returning to the dining room he added, Honestly, for one who likes to eat like she does, I can’t understand why she is always late for meals.

Jean already felt comfortable in the casual family setting of the Campan house. Taking a sip of the aromatic coffee Marie had poured for him, Jean could hear the hurried footsteps of the last of the Campan children running down the hallway. He noticed that the other two were so light on their feet they almost magically appeared in the room. He began to formulate an image of a rather portly girl, probably with a pretty face judging from the rest of the family, when Nancy burst into the dining room.

Mama, the bacon smells heavenly, and I could eat until... She stopped abruptly as Jean stood. Oh, it’s you, she gasped.

Jean was just as surprised; Nancy was the girl he had seen from the top of the gangway. Smiling, he bowed. Mademoiselle Nancy, I am Major Jean Gabriel Canossa. Your parents have been gracious enough to allow me to stay in their house while the army is stationed in Newport.

Lowering her eyes, she curtsied and took her place at the table, which happened to be directly across from Jean.

You’ve gotten suddenly quiet, Caroline teased her older sister.

Nonsense, replied Nancy, what could I possibly have to say that would interest the major?

Well, how about your idea to go back to the docks today, Pauline blurted. Maybe the major could help you find what you thought was so interesting, she added with a sly grin.

I would be happy to explain anything mademoiselle would like to know concerning our presence here in America.

She smiled and looked him in the face. Maybe we could talk this afternoon when you return, Major.

It would be my pleasure. But, truthfully, it will more likely be evening before I am free.

As your situation dictates, Major, we can talk then.

Marie cleared her throat, and a sudden silence fell over the gathering. Major, we have definite times to eat around here, but as your time is not your own, I will prepare a plate for you and leave it in the kitchen so you can eat if you return late.

Standing, Jean bowed to his hostess. You are most kind, and in return, I will try to be the least disruption to your beautiful and well-ordered house. It was a splendid breakfast, but I’m afraid I cannot take more time to enjoy it. The general and my men will be expecting me. Thank you again. He then looked across the table at Nancy. Until this evening, mademoiselle. Bowing once again to the rest of the family, he circled the table and left.

Chapter 3

Revelations

It soon became obvious that the people of Newport and the surrounding areas were committed to more than just a passive role in the presence of America’s new allies. Concerned citizens organized medical facilities to care for them after hearing from the town fathers that the French had lost more than two hundred men to scurvy and that Rochambeau was worried that his medical resources wouldn’t be adequate to treat those still sick. The concerns le comte had for popular acceptance quickly dissipated when a stream of colonials wanting to help converged on the French quartermaster, offering whatever assistance they could.

Impressed by the general acceptance of the French presence, Jean nevertheless remained on duty until long after nightfall, urging his men not to let their guard drop. It only takes one fanatic to become an assassin, he told them.

~.~

Later that night, Jean entered the Campan home as quietly as possible, carefully holding his cavalry saber so as not to accidently bang into anything and awaken the family. Tiptoeing down the central hallway toward his room, he was surprised by the flickering of the light from a lone candle. Nearing the light, he was relieved when he saw Nancy in the shadows in the dining room.

Mademoiselle Nancy, he whispered, my deepest apologies if I woke you...

Hardly, Major. I’m not in the habit of sleeping in the dining room.

He snickered. My apologies. I’m more tired than I thought.

Mama wanted me to make sure you got your dinner. Are you hungry?

I’m starved.

Go and put your saber in your room. There’s a pitcher and bowl in there for you to wash up. I’ll prepare your dinner.

Am I to eat alone?

She shook her head. I was hoping you’d tell me about the French army.

Of course, he replied eagerly. I’ll be right back.

With the first bite of supper, he rolled his eyes. A thousand thanks to you and your mother. I have been going hungry constantly since leaving here this morning. I could eat a horse.

Here, have some wine with your meal. I would have thought you’d come stumbling in after not eating all day.

Jean closed his eyes, savoring the excellent meal. I haven’t eaten such delicious food since attending a party at the palace of Versailles shortly before we left France.

My mother is an excellent cook, and though my father can afford a servant, she insists on preparing all our meals. She popped a bit of beef into her mouth. Did you attend many affairs at Versailles?

A few. I imagine there are those who enjoy the protocol involved there. Personally, it annoys me.

My sister Caroline will be sad to hear that.

He took a sip of the wine. For the most part, women enjoy the pomp. I think it’s a waste of time...but this meal is magnificent, and it tastes better than the wonderful aroma.

Nancy giggled. How long do you think you’ll be in Newport?

I don’t know. He smiled. I would imagine it will take at least a month for our sick to recover. And the second half of the army will arrive sometime after that.

You mean there are more of you coming?

We were told another whole division would soon be following us, if they haven’t already...but you must not reveal that to anyone. It will become a commonly known fact soon enough. In the meantime, we don’t want to give the English any information.

Your secret is safe with me, Major.

I’ll take you at your word, but if we are going to be together for at least a month, you’re going to have to start calling me Jean when we are in the house.

Only if you call me Nancy, she replied.

He looked into her bright eyes and smiled. Should he reveal his secret to her? You were the first person I saw at the dock when we landed.

I remembered you, too, she said eagerly. I think my parents wondered about my behavior after I saw you this morning.

He chuckled. I think your father sensed something also. Why did you leave the dock so quickly?

I didn’t know what to do or say, or even if we could say anything to each other. I was too far away when you were talking to the town fathers.

I understand, but I am truly impressed that you remembered me.

You know, my sisters constantly refer to me as the cow of the family. Why would I think that a handsome young officer would take note of me?

He smiled. They are jealous of your beauty, he added softly. Who could forget a girl as beautiful as you?

I’m flattered by your compliments, Jean, but doesn’t a man as handsome as you have someone waiting for him back in France?

He shook his head. Not in Italy either, unless you count my parents. Since I graduated from the military academy in Turin, I have been quite busy perfecting my profession. There isn’t too much room for mistakes. I’m not sure if I want to spend the rest of my life as a soldier, but it’s good enough for now. My rank has been achieved through meritorious service, not purchased by my family as others have done.

My father, she said, has said when talking to others about the Continental Army that promotion on merit is how our army is modeled, and we will be the better for it.

Finishing his dinner, he nodded. Of that I am sure. When a soldier is hard pressed, he wants to look to a leader he trusts and one who is knowledgeable, not someone who wanted to impress the ladies with his uniform that he will never get dirty. I have been around too many of those types. They are first on the parade grounds and last in the charge.

She giggled and asked, I assume you have been to war before, so have you...?

Killed? he finished her question. It would have been hard for me to avoid. If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t be talking with you today. Though I don’t enjoy taking a life, I must admit that I much prefer it to the alternative.

She smiled at the dry humor.

I sincerely hope that fact won’t hurt your feelings toward our newfound friendship.

She leaned closer. On the contrary, Major. I would be very hurt if you considered us anything less. But for now, it is late. She picked up another candle and lit it from the first. I shall see you at breakfast, she added as she stood. He stood with her and watched as she left the dining room. Looking down at the candle on the table, he smiled before picking it up and walking quietly down the hall to his room.

Chapter 4

Friendships Develop

For the next several days, Jean barely allowed the general out of his sight, shadowing him wherever he went in the city or on what became daily trips to the various regimental camps. On one of these trips to a brick building the people of Newport were using as a hospital for the sick French soldiers, Jean noticed that not only would the general stop to encourage his men to get well, but he took the time to say a prayer over the bodies of those who had lost their battle with scurvy.

My lord, Jean asked as they descended the stairs of the hospital, would it help if I made some of these inspection trips to the camps for you? It would free up a lot of your time.

Rochambeau looked up from the brief he was reading and quipped, I’m older than you, Major, but not that much older.

I didn’t mean to...

Rochambeau stopped him with a wave of his hand. You didn’t; I jest. However, if I were the admiral’s age, I might take you up on your offer. I go on these tours so the men will see me, know that I’m around and will not grow lax. We don’t want these people to get the idea they have replaced one foreign intruder with another. I have stressed to the entire officer corps that anything they require for their men or themselves from the civilian population is to be paid for on the spot, and in hard cash. I expect you to be in the forefront of that policy. Everyone, even I, pays for everything. It’s only through the gentlemanly behavior my officers display that the local governing body has accepted us so completely. Leaning forward, he added, Am I clear on that point, Major?

You are, my lord. Perfectly clear.

Good. I have been checking up on you too. It might interest you to know that Monsieur Campan has approached me recently.

May I ask why? Jean asked, hoping he had not offended his hosts.

He said that I couldn’t have given him a better houseguest, and both he and his wife think very highly of you. Needless to say, I am very proud, though I wouldn’t have expected anything less of you.

The entire Campan family has gone out of their way to welcome me.

Their acceptance is a valuable commodity, Major. Don’t take it lightly.

It’s good to see everything going so smoothly since our arrival in Newport, General.

Le comte grumbled a little before saying, Everything except Lauzun’s hussars.

My lord, I haven’t been informed of any trouble. Jean replied.

No, I can’t string you along. So far, even Lauzun and his men are behaving themselves. The problem lies in the lack of forage for his horses. He hasn’t mentioned it yet, but it’s coming. I’ve already got Major Dumas looking into a solution. Without warning, his eyes lit. Do you believe Campan could direct us to someone who can resolve this problem for us? See what you can find out.

When they reached the headquarters building, the general left the carriage and entered without another word. Standing by himself, Jean was approached by the vicomte de Noallias and Major Dumas.

Canossa, Dumas asked, how is the old man doing today? I trust you’re keeping him safe.

Ah, you know how in control he is. I’m surprised you even asked.

Why didn’t you follow him in? Dumas whispered.

He has things on his mind. Why do you ask?

He’s got a visitor, a dispatch from Washington.

Really, already? We haven’t been here long.

It’s already the end of July, Dumas replied. There really isn’t much time left in the campaign season. I imagine General Washington can’t wait to get into a fight with the English with a French army at his disposal.

Yes and no, Jean replied nonchalantly. Did you know that he led an attack across a nearly frozen river, surprised and destroyed a German mercenary regiment in a place called Trenton? It was on Christmas Eve about four years ago.

Four years. I hope he’s had some victories since then, said Dumas.

They’re still here fighting, aren’t they? Noallias said.

Ignoring the sarcasm, Dumas replied with a frown and fake shiver. Wait a minute—did you say Christmas Eve...cold?

I think that was the point, Noallias added. I don’t imagine the Germans thought that, after their own Fredrick, anyone would be crazy enough to attack a professional army in a snow storm, across a half-frozen river on Christmas Eve.

That’s not all, Jean continued. He followed that up with another victory. I’m not sure of the name of the place.

Why should a follow-up victory be so surprising to you? Dumas asked. Washington had them on the run. Only good military sense—

But very few of the Americans are true soldiers. They are nothing more than farmers and storekeepers who enlist for three to six months. Washington’s two victories were out of sheer desperation. At the beginning of the next year, the enlistments were up for many of his men, so—

To get them to reenlist, he had to give them a victory, Dumas interrupted. As you said, Noallias, they are still here and fighting, so his plan worked. Dumas turned to Jean. How is it that you know so much about what is going on here?

The family I am staying with have told me all they know of the war since ‘75.

According to Lafayette, Noallias said, things have been difficult for them, but the spirit and determination is still there. They are tired of the English. As Lafayette’s brother-in-law, Noallias regularly exchanged letters with the marquis and was well informed.

He had no sooner finished speaking when a Continental soldier, dressed in a worn and faded uniform, emerged from the front door of the headquarters building, buckling up his diplomatic pouch. Nodding to the group of well-dressed guards and officers, the soldier jogged to his mount and raced down the street in a cloud of dust.

~.~

Later that same evening, Rochambeau called a meeting of his general staff.

His Excellency has welcomed us to America and believes that together our two armies, supported by Admiral deTernay’s fleet, should be able to launch a coordinated attack upon the island of Manhattan in the Hudson River in August.

He could hear low rumbling coming from the group of veteran officers. Leaning back against the heavy desk, he motioned for silence. "I know we have been anxious to show the colonists what we can do. I have written to the general, requesting a conference, pointing out that we are not yet up to the full complement of our fighting strength, and to take on such a venture at this time would give the English an even greater advantage than they presently have.

As for our position here, the support of the colonial population is of the utmost importance to our wellbeing. Remember, maintain discipline and pay for everything. Duc de Lauzun has been purchasing horses. He will make sure that all of you have mounts. Over the past several years, the English have taken these people for granted, so capitalize on the enemy’s shortcomings. Treat the common man with respect, especially in relation to their women and families. Most of the colonists know us only as enemies from the last war—this image must be corrected. Nothing we do is comfortable to them—we eat differently, speak another language, and we even pray differently. In spite of all this, they have voluntarily opened their homes to our officers and taken care of our sick. Treating them with respect shouldn’t be a hard task.

Monsieur le Comte, Lauzun questioned, do you have any idea how long we will be here?

A while, my dear duc. I would like to see the arrival of our second division and know we are all healthy before moving to confront the enemy.

You mention our religious differences, Noallias said. Does that not leave the priests in a difficult position?

I cannot change history or the way people choose to believe in God. But if a man is good enough to fight and die for a cause, he is good enough to worship as he pleases. Especially when we read from basically the same book. The priests are part of the army and will be protected as such. For now, it is summer and we can hold open air masses on Sundays. If we are here when the weather grows cold...well, let’s cross that bridge when we come to it. By then we may be in an area of this land that is a little less Protestant. But in any event, they will have to bend a little on this point.

~.~

Nancy was waiting when Jean returned. You’re a little later than usual tonight.

The general called a staff meeting.

Anything you wish to talk about?

We are at war, even though we don’t appear to be.

Looking into his eyes, she took a step closer to him and said in a tone indicating an interest for more than friendship, I wish you’d never go. It’s a comfort having you and your men here.

Jean blushed; she was different than the girls he had known before. She was innocent, did she even realize—?

Are you hungry?

Ravenous. Then overcome by her smile, his emotions got the better of him as she turned away. Grabbing her by the arm gently but firmly, he kissed her on the lips. He had to know how much she returned his affection. She seemed to return his feelings and looked into his eyes. Slowly, his mouth descended again as both their lips parted and their kiss became mutual.  After a moment she slowly pulled back and turned awkwardly to go into the kitchen to get his supper.

Watching her go, Jean removed his saber and leaned it in the corner. Placing a dish on the table before him, she poured him a glass of wine and remained quiet as she took the seat next to him.

Are you leaving soon? There was a hint of sadness in her voice.

I have no desire to leave here, leave you. He wanted to kiss her again, but he took a long drink of wine instead. It didn’t work—he still wanted to kiss her but forced himself to change the subject. Tell me, why are you and one of your sisters named after places, or are they family names?

It is all my parents’ doing. They met and fell in love back in France in the city of Nancy before they moved to Marseilles where Papa started his trading business. Papa felt that the opportunity to expand his business with the Indies was better on this side of the Atlantic, and we moved to Quebec City. On one of his trips, he went to the Carolinas and liked the name...then when it appeared that these colonies were leaning toward a break with Britain, he made the move here. I was only a little girl through all of that. Does that answer your question?

Jean smiled at the romance behind the story. I’m impressed, and I believe only on rare occasions have I ever seen two people as happy and in love as they. Do they ever fight?

Very seldom. In fact, the last time I heard any angry words between them was when my brother left home to join Washington’s army ousting the redcoats from Boston. Since then, we heard once from him from New York and then when the army was at Valley Forge—that’s in the colony of Pennsylvania. We haven’t heard from him since.

Startled, Jean said, You have a brother fighting in the Continental Army? But in all the time I have been here no one—

She lightly placed her hand over his lips. Jean, you must never mention that I told you. Father was beside himself when he left. He wanted his son to learn and eventually take over the business while he smuggled supplies up from the Indies for the army. My brother, Francois, had other ideas. He wanted to take an active part in the fighting. Father was so upset, he sold his ships!

Was your father a soldier?

"If he was, he never said so. He is a brave man, and when it comes to his family, he is a lion. The last thing Francois told us was that he was going to be