See

1. 1770.* ma cartouche; cartouche means hère a soldier's letter of discharge, stamped with the regimental seal, and containing a statement of the bearer's services. (Etym. It. cartoccio^ from carta^ a card. ) Note that cartouche is masculine in the sensé of an architectural ornament.

1. 1776. que sais-je? how do I know whether there were not many more?