means to bring odium upon Lowe, and to furnish the Opposition at Westminster with toothsome details that might lead to the disgrace of the Governor, the overthrow of the Ministry, and the triumphant release of the ex-Emperor.  On the other hand, the knowledge of the presence of traitors on the island, and of possible rescuers hovering about on the horizon, kept Lowe ever at work “unravelling the intricate plotting constantly going on at Longwood,” until his face wore the preoccupied worried look that Surgeon Henry describes.

That both antagonists somewhat overacted their parts does not surprise us when we think of the five years thus spent within a narrow space and under a tropical sun.  Lowe was at times pedantic, witness his refusal to forward to Longwood books inscribed to the “Emperor Napoleon,” and his suspicions as to the political significance of green and white beans offered by Montholon to the French Commissioner, Montchenu.  But such incidents can be paralleled from the lives of most officials who bear a heavy burden of responsibility.  And who has ever borne a heavier burden?[571]

Napoleon also, in his calmer moods, regretted the violence of his language to the Governor.  He remarked to Montholon:  “This is the second time in my life that I have spoilt my affairs with the English.  Their phlegm leads me on, and I say more than I ought.  I should have done better not to have replied to him.”  This reference to his attack on Whitworth in 1803 flashes a ray of light on the diatribe against Lowe.  In both cases, doubtless, the hot southron would have bridled his passion sooner, had it produced any visible effect on the colder man of the north.  Nevertheless, the scene of August 18th, 1816, had an abiding influence on his relations with the Governor.  For the rest of that weary span of years they never exchanged a word.

Lowe’s official reports prove that he did not cease to consult the comfort of the exiles as far as it was possible.  The building of the new house, however, remained in abeyance, as Napoleon refused to give any directions on the subject:  and the much-needed repairs to Longwood were stopped owing to his complaints of the noise of the workmen.  But by ordering the claret that the ex-Emperor preferred, and by sending occasional presents of game to Longwood, Lowe sought to keep up the ordinary civilities of life; and when the home Government sought to limit the annual cost of the Longwood household to L8,000, Lowe took upon himself to increase that sum by one half.

Napoleon’s behaviour in this last affair is noteworthy.  On hearing of the need for greater economy, he readily assented, sent away seven servants, and ordered a reduction in the consumption of wine.  A day or two later, however, he gave orders that some of his silver plate should be sold in order “to provide those little comforts denied them.”  Balcombe was accordingly sent for, and, on expressing regret to Napoleon at the order for sale, received