Remember Me, a Giveaway!

The note found with these beautifully embroidered gowns, contained in a case found at auction in 2010. My story for the Giveaway at My French Country Home

30 June1909

My name is Martine Bonaparte, and yes, the great Napolean was my great-great uncle, thus I have grown up in a very traditional French family with a long association with the armed forces. I am writing this note as a way to tell my story, the very personal story, to someone who may open this case in the future.
This small package of linen robes is not so important as the rest of my estate which will go to members of my family when the time comes, but it is very close to my heart, so much that I will never open the case again in my lifetime, however long that may be. So whoever is reading this note, you may know something about me, about why I made these linens and the love story associated with them, in the hope you will find value in them and hold them dear.
I know I am not the only young woman whose life has been changed by war, and the loss of a beloved. I hope that this will be the end of war, for whatever perceived good that may come of it is far surpassed by the sorrow and grief caused. I have cried my tears and will continue to cry for my most loved Henri, whom I was to marry in the Autumn of 1909. He was called away to fight in January last, to serve his country bravely, but alas never to return. I spent the months preparing for the wedding and many an afternoon I sat quietly at the window in my room, embroidering these linens nightgowns to wear as a wife, and perhaps as a mother, with my heart almost bursting with love and excitement for what the future may hold.

I grew up in this chateau which overlooks the beautiful Loire river, often a favourite retreat of my famous ancestor. I loved this time I spent sewing, feeling close to my Henri and awaiting his return. This morning a rider delivered the message advising my beloved had been killed in battle - my life stood still. My dreams for the future are have turned to ashes. I wrap these garments and lock them away in this small case as a memento to the life that will never be. Perhaps some young lady may find this and I wish her every happiness and joy in her life and hope she will appreciate the many hours I spent lovingly stitching these, so she may experience all that love too. Please don't feel sad as I will live my life honestly and my love will never die, I wait until I am reunited with Henri and I trust that a love like mine will be experienced by many in the future, for love is the most important thing in life and this is something that should be recognised before it is too late.

My love to you,

Mademoiselle Martine Bonaparte