Paris,
August 9, 1.13 p.m.
General Palikao accepts, and leaves immediately for Metz. The Marshal [Lebœuf] must resign before he [Palikao] arrives. This step, I believe, will quiet the Chamber. Everything going well here. Order will not be disturbed. The Council and I do not agree with the view brought by M. Maurice Richard from Metz [that the Emperor should return to Paris and form a new army]. I embrace you tenderly, and also Louis. My affection [for you both] increases with events.
A cold douche soon arrived at the Tuileries. The proposed sending of Palikao to Metz surprised the Emperor.
The Emperor to the Empress.
Metz,
August 9.
I do not at all understand [the meaning of] sending Palikao to Metz. It cannot change the situation in any way. I thought it was the resignation of the Minister of War which was wanted. The other [that of Major-General] is impossible. As regards the army, nothing must be done without consulting me. Changarnier has come here to place himself at my disposal.
Napoléon.
All the clever combinations of the poor Regent were thus upset.
The Empress to the Emperor.