I am very happy at the news you give me. It compensates me for my disquietude during so many days. You tell me nothing about yourself; but you well know how I have you both in my thoughts. Are you fatigued? I embrace you with all my heart.
The Empress to her Son.
Same date, 6.33 p.m.
I know thou hast conducted thyself well. I am proud and very happy. Thy telegram has greatly pleased me. Thy cousins [Mlles. d’Albe, the Empress’s nieces] congratulate thee, as does everybody. I embrace thee with my whole soul.
Eugénie.
The day following the famous “baptism” was quiet. On the next day (the 4th) Marshal Canrobert’s wife dined at St. Cloud, and she was still there when the Empress received the two telegrams, announcing the defeat at Weissemburg, sent by Marshal MacMahon to the Emperor, who transmitted them to the Empress without any alteration.
Marshal MacMahon to the Emperor.
1. Douay’s division attacked by two divisions. Douay seriously wounded—obliged to retreat fighting—rallied near the Pigeonnier.
2. Three regiments of Douay’s division—the General killed [this was in cipher]—enemy’s forces considerable, at least two army corps [i.e., 60,000 men]—one gun taken—position at rear of Froschweiler—I shall attack if necessary—to resume the offensive at least three more divisions are necessary.
The Empress to Marshal Lebœuf, Metz.