One-page handwritten letter (in an unknown hand), dated February 24, 1804, signed by Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821), First Consul of the French Republic (1799-1904) and Emperor of the French (1804-1814). In his letter, scripted in French on "Bonaparte 1st Consul De La Republique" letterhead, Bonaparte writes to Jean-Étienne-Marie Portalis, a counsellor of state. In full (translated): 

Paris Ventoze the 5th Year 12 of the French Republic -  Citizen Portalis, State Counsellor,  I ask that you have 20,000 francs delivered to the Bishop de Coutanceau, out of which 10,000 francs are meant for himself and 10,000 francs for his diocese. Also have 10,000 francs delivered to the Bishop of Meaux. Have an assessment made of the potential needs of the various Paris churches within a 50,000 francs limit.

It is signed "Bonaparte" in black ink (grading 9/10"). Ventoze is the third month of the winter quarter, starting between February 19th and 21st, and ending March 20th and 21st. Since the letter is dated the fifth day of Ventoze, it was most likely written on February 24th. The twelfth year of the French Republic was 1804. Napoleon made Portalis a Counsellor of State in 1800 and Portalis was later a key member of the four-man commission tasked with producing the Civil Code. In 1801 Portalis was also put in charge of "Cultes" (state-controlled public worship). 

The letter (7.25x8.5") displays a vertical fold and is otherwise in apparent Excellent to Mint condition. It has been mounted (by means of photo corners; easily removed if so desired) and matted together in a framed display with an engraving of Napoleon and a descriptive plaque. Total dimensions: 24x20.25." Full LOA from PSA. Please Note: The size and/or weight of this lot will necessitate an increased shipping charge.