The Government knew nothing of this subterfuge. The Empress’s next step was to summon from Cherbourg Charles Duperré (then commanding the frigate Taureau), in whom she had full confidence. He was to go to Metz and tell the Emperor what she could not telegraph to him.
Trochu bluntly told Ollivier he would not accept the headship of the War Office.
Hearing from the Emperor that the enemy was at no point pursuing the French, and that Frossard’s army corps was concentrated at Puttelange, the Empress telegraphed:
The Empress to the Emperor.
August 6.
I have received your despatch, and am quite satisfied with it. It is evident to me that we shall have a success, if we do not press forward.
The Empress’s Second Telegram to her Consort.
Same date.
Opinion in Paris increases against Marshal Lebœuf and General Frossard. They are accused of having brought about the defeats. Speak to Marshal Bazaine respecting future operations.