“The great act of abdication being performed, he remained calm during the whole day, giving his advice on the position the army should take, and on the manner in which the negotiations with the enemy ought to be conducted.  He insisted especially on the necessity of proclaiming his son Emperor, not so much for the advantage of the child as with a view to concentrate all the power of sentiments and affections.  Unfortunately, nobody would listen to him.  Some men of sense and courage rallied found that proposition in the two Chambers, but fear swayed the majority; and among those who remained free from it many thought that a public declaration of liberty, and the resolution to defend it at any price, would make the enemy and the Bourbons turn back.  Strange delusion of weakness and want of experience!  It must, however, be respected, for it had its source in love of their country; but, while we excuse it, can it be justified?  The population of the metropolis had resumed its usual appearance, which was that of complete indifference, with a resolution to cry ‘Long live the King!’ provided the King arrived well escorted; for one must not judge of the whole capital by about one-thirtieth part of the inhabitants, who called for arms, and declared themselves warmly against the return of the exiled family.

“On the 23d I returned to the Elysee.  The Emperor had been for two hours in his bath.  He himself turned the discourse on the retreat he ought to choose, and spoke of the United States.  I rejected the idea without reflection, and with a degree of vehemence that surprised him.  ’Why not America?’ he asked.  I answered, ‘Because Moreau retired there.’  The observation was harsh, and I should never have forgiven myself for having expressed it; if I had not retracted my advice a few days afterwards.  He heard it without any apparent ill-humour, but I have no doubt that it must have made an unfavourable impression on his mind.  I strongly urged on his choosing England for his asylum.

“The Emperor went to Malmaison.  He was accompanied thither by the Duchesse de St. Leu, Bertrand and his family, and the Duc de Bassano.  The day that he arrived there he proposed to me to accompany him abroad.  Drouot,’ he said, ’remains in France.  I see the Minister of War wishes him not to be lost to his country.  I dare not complain, but it is a great loss for me; I never met with a better head, or a more upright heart.  That man was formed to be a prime minister anywhere.’  I declined to accompany him at the time, saying, ’My wife is enceinte; I cannot make up my mind to leave her.  Allow me some time, and I will join you wherever you may be.  I have remained faithful to your Majesty in better times, and you may reckon upon me now.  Nevertheless, if my wife did not require all my attention, I should do better to go with you, for I have sad forebodings respecting my fate.”