FRENCH POST OFFICES: 1899 Military mail, stampless envelope endorsed "Corps d´expédition francais à Madagascar", with a very fair strike of the cds. "SITIA CRETE 6 JUIN 99" on front, alongside a faint blue handstamp "MARINE FRANCAISE SERVICE A LA MER" confirming the free frank status, sent to an active service man on duty at MADAGASCAR, maritime cds. "MARSEILLES A LA REUNION 15 JUIN 99", transit on reverse "ALEXANDRIE" and "PORT SAID"; cover opened for display, back flap slightly shortened and some aging, still an extraordinary combination of a rare origin and exotic destination