I wish we could
persuade him to work less, Monsieur de Talleyrand. He has a frame of
iron, but he cannot continue in this way. These nervous attacks come
more frequently upon him. He will insist upon doing everything,
everything himself. It is noble, but it is to be a martyr. I have no
doubt that at the present moment--but you have not yet told me where he
is, Monsieur de Talleyrand.'
'We expect him every instant, your Majesty.'
'In that case we shall sit down and await his return. Ah, Monsieur de
Meneval, how I pity you when I see you among all those papers! I was
desolate when Monsieur de Bourrienne deserted the Emperor, but you have
more than taken his place. Come up to the fire, Madame de Remusat!
Yes, yes, I insist upon it, for I know that you must be cold. Constant,
come and put the rug under Madame de Remusat's feet.'
It was by little acts of thoughtfulness and kindness like this that the
Empress so endeared herself that she had really no enemies in France,
even among those who were most bitterly opposed to her husband. Whether
as the consort of the first man in Europe, or as the lonely divorced
woman eating her heart out at Malmaison, she was always praised and
beloved by those who knew her.
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