I lived for several months in Metz when I was younger. I loved the city, especially the old centre ville and its majestic cathedral, affectionately known as La Lanterne du Bon Dieu, or The Good Lord’s Lantern. Now and again, I collect things from the city that keep me connected with its history and development over time.

I was cruising through an auction site one day and saw a French Revolutionary pamphlet that mentioned Metz. I could tell it was written as a response to an individual pleading on behalf of the good canons of the local Chapter, who were about to see their property confiscated by decree of the National Assembly. But someone wasn’t having it and penned a retort that blends a bit of reasoning with a dose of sarcasm and no small amount of criticism.

Use the menu below to access images of the original followed by my translation.