After much reflection, I shall offer the apologies and keep the presents.
HAVRE, September 26, 1870.
Yes; but to whom shall I carry the apologies, and to whom shall I present them? The Government of the French Republic is divided in two: there is one part in Paris and one part in Tours. To go to Paris is not to be thought of. Paris is besieged and blockaded by the Prussians. I shall go to Tours.
HAVRE, October 2, 1870.
I did not go, and I shall not go, to Tours. I received yesterday a visit from the correspondent of the Times, a most agreeable and sensible man. I told him that I intended going to Tours.
"To Tours! What do you want in Tours?"
"To present the apologies of my master to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the French Republic."
"But that minister isn't in Tours."
"And where is he?"
"Blockaded in Paris."