Jacques Pétain was executed on January 18, 1793. He was sentenced to death after he was convicted of desertion and rebellion. He was executed along with about 50 others, charged with committing similar crimes. He was captured the day before by a man in the Royal French Guard, when he was caught in the streets talking to another about his dissatisfaction with Robespierre, and how he wished a new King would take the thrown. Many were convicted of similar crimes, even though there is no substantial proof of fair trials behind the arrests and executions. A final letter written by him was found a few days later written to his father:
Dear Father,
I am very worried. I do not think I will make it out alive from the terrors that are happening on our street as we speak. I have heard of so many that have been killed for not completely agreeing with Robespierre and his men. I think I will soon be caught because I often cannot help but show my disrespect for them. I hope you understand that father, and I wish you the best if anything happens to me. Please tell mother I love her and I miss her.
Sincerely
Jacques Petain