The motion to call Bonaparte to the Empire was made in the tribunate by a conventionalist, formerly a jacobin, supported by Jaubert, an advocate, and deputy from the merchants of Bourdeaux, and seconded by Simeon, a man of understanding and good sense, who had been proscribed as a royalist under the republic.  It was Bonaparte’s wish that the partisans of the old regime, and those of the permanent interests of the nation, should unite in choosing him.  It was settled that registers should be opened all over France, to enable every one to express his wish regarding the elevation of Bonaparte to the throne.  But without waiting for the result of this, prepared as it was before-hand, he took the title of emperor by a senatus consultum, and this unfortunate senate had not even the strength to put constitutional limits to this new monarchy.  A tribune, whose name I wish I dared mention,* had the honor to make a special motion for that purpose.  Bonaparte, in order to anticipate this idea, adroitly sent for some of the senators, and told them, “I feel very much at thus being placed in front; I like my present situation much better.  The continuation of the republic is, however, no longer possible; people are quite tired out with it:  I believe that the French wish for royalty.  I had at first thought of recalling the old Bourbons, but that would have only ruined them, and myself.  It is my thorough conviction, that there must be at last a man at the head of all this; perhaps, however, it would be better to wait some time longer I have made France a century older in the last five years; liberty, that is a good civil code, and modern nations care little for any thing but property.  However, if you will believe me, name a committee, organise the constitution, and, I tell you fairly.” added he smiling, “take precautions against my tyranny; take them, believe me.”  This apparent good nature seduced the senators, who, to say the truth, desired nothing better than to be seduced.  One of them, a men of letters, of some distinction, but one of those philosophers who are always finding philanthropic motives for being satisfied with power, said to one of my friends, “It is wonderful! with what simplicity the emperor allows himself to be told every thing!  The other day, I made him a discourse an hour long, to prove the absolute necessity of founding the new dynasty on a charter which should secure the rights of the nation.”  And what reply did he make you? was asked.  “He clapped me on the shoulder with the most perfect good humour, and told me:  ’You are quite right, my dear senator; but trust me, this is not the moment for it’.”  And this senator, like many others, was quite satisfied with having spoken, though his opinion was not in the least degree acted upon.  The feelings of self-importance have a prodigiously greater influence over the French than those of character.

* M. Gallois.