March, 1873.
Monseigneur,
Being entirely deprived of the happiness of seeing your Highness, I take the liberty of addressing these few words to you.
His Majesty the Emperor was kind enough to count on my devotion, and until a few days ago[147] I was honoured by His friendship and His valued confidence.
I loved the Emperor with all my soul. He commanded my life, and He knew it.
One month before the terrible catastrophe which has so grievously befallen us, the Emperor pronounced these words: “Before long, dear M. de La Chapelle, I will give you the highest mark of confidence which I can give you.” I bowed. I felt myself the happiest of men; I felt that I could do anything if the Emperor commanded. These kind words I shall always guard in my memory, and I have long since vowed that I would be to the son what I had desired to be to the father.
Thus you see, Monseigneur, that, happen what may, whether or not I shall be allowed to see you often, you will always find me ready to abandon everything, and place my devotion and my humble services at your disposal, only too happy if your Majesty will deign to accept them.
(Signed) A. de La Chapelle.
Comte de Clary to the Comte de La Chapelle.
Camden Place, Chislehurst, December 30, 1871.