This copy of the “Gazette des Absents” newspaper (No. 7 plus Supplement) originated from the Sénate office in Paris on November 16, 1870, (third collection) and was prepaid 20 centimes for the French internal letter rate to Rostrenen, “Par Ballon Monté.” These newspapers reported the daily events of the Siege and provided a blank space for correspondence. Based on the date and time of collection plus the arrival datestamp of November 25, 1870, it is likely that this letter was carried out of Paris by the balloon Général Uhrich.
The Général Uhrich carried only 80 kilograms of mail and was the first balloon to take flight during the night. Although the balloon descended into enemy-occupied territory, the passengers and dispatches were eventually conveyed to safety. Portions of the mails were sent to Luzarches and Viarmes for processing.
