Love Letters Lost: Rediscovered Collection Sheds Light on French Sailors' Lives during Seven Years' War

A collection of love letters written by French sailors during the Seven Years' War has been discovered after more than 250 years of obscurity. The letters were intended for the crew of the French warship Galatée, which was captured by the British in 1758. Among the poignant letters is one from Marie Dubosc to her husband, expressing love and longing, unaware that he had been captured.

Tragically, the letter was never received and Marie passed away the following year. Another letter from Marguerite, the mother of young sailor Nicolas Quesnel, admonished her son for his lack of communication. The letters, which offer a glimpse into the lives of these sailors and their families, were recently rediscovered by history professor Renaud Morieux from the University of Cambridge. This collection of intimate messages provides timeless insights into the challenges of separation and love during times of war, shedding light on the experiences of individuals during the 18th century.