After a short and favorable crossing, they arrived at the Cape on 2 March. They found the town burnt down since Mardi Gras when the Blacks [les Negres] slaughtered a large portion of the natives. Mr. Didans hasn't lived here for about 8 months and he has no one else he can trust for help. He and two others have enlisted in the National Guards where they do the same service as the League troops. He mentions merchant ships that arrive every day, and the high cost of colonial food. He fears a new attack from the Blacks who occupy most of the colony. He gives news of a general who lost his arm earlier that month. He sends his love to mother, asks for news, and tells her that she can address her letters to him c/o two merchants in the Cape. This letter is dated using the French Revolutionary style, 17 Ventose 11.