When this play-acting was done, my father asked for a safe-conduct to leave Moscow.
“I have ordered that no passes be given. Why do you want to go? What are you afraid of? I have ordered the markets to be opened.”
Apparently the Emperor did not realise that, though open markets are a convenience, so is a shut house, and that to live in the open street among French soldiers was not an attractive prospect for a Russian gentleman and his family.
When my father pointed this out, Napoleon thought for a little and then asked abruptly:
“Will you undertake to hand to the Tsar a letter from me? On that condition, I will order a pass to be made out for you and all your family.”
“I would accept Your Majesty’s proposal,” said my father, “but it is difficult for me to guarantee success.”
“Will you give me your word of honour, that you will use all possible means to deliver my letter with your own hands?”
“I pledge you my honour, Sir.”
“That is enough. I shall send for you. Is there anything you need?”
“Nothing, except a roof to shelter my family till we leave.”