One of the most colourful features of the French Army during the 19th century was the Cantinieres. These galant women acted as the Sutleress in each Regiment or Battalion.The Regimental Cantiniere were originally no more than camp followers marching behind the battalion and acting as an unofficial sutler, selling provisions, sweet-meats, nicknacks and alcohol from a small cart or mule train. As time went by however they more and more became accepted as a Regimental Mascot often dressing in a style of uniform similar to the soldiers.When battle commenced they would bravely share the danger, touring the lines dispensing free tots of brandy and tending to the wounded. Some were killed or wounded providing this service.Marie Tete-du-bois of the 1st Grenadiers of the Imperial Guard was killed at Waterloo. Her comrades set up a simple wooden cross above her grave, inscribed "Passerby, whoever you may be, salute Maria".