All that I ask is, that the execution of the orders given for the destruction of the bridge may be suspended till the sovereigns shall arrive here, when, if it should be agreed by common accord that the bridge ought to be destroyed, I shall have no objection.

July 9, 1815.[8]

[Footnote 8:  The Duke rarely writes or speaks twice, when once will do.  On this occasion he was anxious; and—­successful.]

* * * * *

Summary Justice.

To the Sous-Prefet de Pontoise.—­J’ai ordonne qu’on vous fasse prisonnier, parceque, ayant envoye une requisition a Pontoise pour des vivres, vous avez repondu que vous ne les donneriez pas, sans qu’on envoie une force militaire assez forte pour les prendre.

Vous vous etes mis dans les cas des militaires, et je vous fais prisonnier de guerre, et je vous envoie en Angleterre.

Si je vous traitais comme l’usurpateur et ses adherens ont traite les habitans des pays ou ils ont fait la guerre, je vous ferais fusiller; mais, comme vous vous etes constitue guerrier, je vous fais prisonnier de guerre.

July 13, 1815.

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Characteristic Letter to Marshal Beresford.

The battle of Waterloo was certainly the hardest fought that has been for many years, I believe, and has placed in the power of the allies the most important results.  We are throwing them away, however, by the infamous conduct of some of us; and I am sorry to add that our own government also are taking up a little too much the tone of their rascally newspapers.  They are shifting their objects; and, having got their cake, they want both to eat it and keep it.

As for your Portuguese concerns, I recommend you to resign, and come away immediately.  It is impossible for the British government to maintain British officers for the Portuguese army, at an expense even so trifling as it is, if the Portuguese government are to refuse to give the service of the army in the cause of Europe in any manner.  Pitch them to the devil, then, in the mode which will be most dignified to yourself, and that which will have the best effect in opening the prince’s eyes to the conduct of his servants in Portugal; and let the matter work its own way.  Depend upon it, the British government must and will recall the British officers.

August 7, 1815.

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SPEECHES IN PARLIAMENT.

Praise of Lord Hastings and the Indian Army.