Charles Bonaparte's handwritten 1781 contract with French soldiers mentions his son, Napoleon, three times. Soon the name would be on the lips of everyone in Wester Civilization and beyond. This original 7 by 8 1/2 inch document (EX-MT) reflects the elder Bonaparte's climb back to status after the French invaded the Bonapartes' native Corsica. When it became clear that the family's land would not be enough to support them, he got a law degree. This contract is between Charles Bonaparte and French soldiers who were digging at the islands' salt works. The writing is clearly legible, making this a terrific companion to any Napoleon collection.