I have seen Duperré, who will take my answer to you [in reference to the return of the Emperor and the Prince to Paris]. We seem to be returning to the fine times of the Revolution, when they wanted the army led by the representatives of the Convention. General Dumont can have the Lyons post in place of Montauban [Palikao]. I would bring to Metz, if I had the time and the means, the Châlons corps d’armée. I could do nothing better at the moment.
I wish to keep Canrobert at the head of his corps. As to Marshal Lebœuf, he has already resigned, but I cannot accept it until I can get someone capable of replacing him. D’Autemarre must replace Baraguay d’Hilliers, and someone must be found to command the National Guard of the Seine. We embrace thee tenderly.
Napoléon.
Commander Duperré to the Empress.
Metz,
August 9, 10 p.m.
This morning the Emperor gave General (sic) Bazaine the direction of operations and the command of the army, nominating him Major-General. All orders are to be transmitted and carried out by him. Consequently the Emperor must be constantly with him. The post of Major-General thus becomes superfluous. It must be suppressed, and taken from Marshal Lebœuf. This is what you must say in answer to the Emperor’s despatch.
Duperré.[93]
Much annoyed by the Emperor’s refusal to adopt her views, Her Majesty sent a strongly-worded despatch to Metz the same night.
The Empress to the Emperor.
August 9, 11 p.m.