Bayonne, April 23, 1808.
My Dear,—A son has been born to Hortense;[28] I am highly delighted. I am not surprised that you tell me nothing of it, since your letter is dated the 21st, and the child was only born on the 20th,[29] during the night.
You can start on the 26th, sleep at Mont de Marsan, and arrive here on the 27th. Have your best dinner-service sent on here on the 25th, in the evening. I have made arrangements for you to have a little house in the country, next to the one I have. My health is good.
I am waiting for Charles IV. and his wife.
Adieu, dear.
Napoleon.
April 30th.—Charles IV. and the Queen arrive at Bayonne.
May 1st.—Ferdinand gives back the crown to his father.
May 2nd.—Murat subdues insurrection at Madrid.