It was too little to alarm her seriously now.  It was enough to make her feel that magnetism which Napoleon knew so well how to evoke and exercise.  Again every one crowded about her with congratulations.  Some said: 

“He never even saw any of us.  His eyes were all for you!  They flashed fire as he looked at you.”

“You have conquered his heart,” others said, “and you can do what you like with him.  The salvation of Poland is in your hands.”

The company broke up at an early hour, but Mme. Walewska was asked to remain.  When she was alone General Duroc—­one of the emperor’s favorite officers and most trusted lieutenants—­entered and placed a letter from Napoleon in her lap.  He tried to tell her as tactfully as possible how much harm she was doing by refusing the imperial request.  She was deeply affected, and presently, when Duroc left her, she opened the letter which he had given her and read it.  It was worded thus: 

There are times when all splendors become oppressive, as I feel but too deeply at the present moment.  How can I satisfy the desires of a heart that yearns to cast itself at your feet, when its impulses are checked at every point by considerations of the highest moment?  Oh, if you would, you alone might overcome the obstacles that keep us apart.  My friend Duroc will make all easy for you.  Oh, come, come!  Your every wish shall be gratified!  Your country will be dearer to me when you take pity on my poor heart.  N.

Every chance of escape seemed to be closed.  She had Napoleon’s own word that he would free Poland in return for her self-sacrifice.  Moreover, her powers of resistance had been so weakened that, like many women, she temporized.  She decided that she would meet the emperor alone.  She would tell him that she did not love him, and yet would plead with him to save her beloved country.

As she sat there every tick of the clock stirred her to a new excitement.  At last there came a knock upon the door, a cloak was thrown about her from behind, a heavy veil was drooped about her golden hair, and she was led, by whom she knew not, to the street, where a finely appointed carriage was waiting for her.

No sooner had she entered it than she was driven rapidly through the darkness to the beautifully carved entrance of a palace.  Half led, half carried, she was taken up the steps to a door which was eagerly opened by some one within.  There were warmth and light and color and the scent of flowers as she was placed in a comfortable arm-chair.  Her wrappings were taken from her, the door was closed behind her; and then, as she looked up, she found herself in the presence of Napoleon, who was kneeling at her feet and uttering soothing words.

Wisely, the emperor used no violence.  He merely argued with her; he told her over and over his love for her; and finally he declared that for her sake he would make Poland once again a strong and splendid kingdom.