II
Traverse the waters borne by one of such; and thereto Bonaparte’s
responses are:
I
“The principles of honour and of truth which ever actuate the
sender’s mind
II
“Herein are written largely! Take our thanks: we read that
this conjuncture undesigned
I
“Unfolds felicitous means of showing you that still our eyes
are set, as yours, on peace,
II
“To which great end the Treaty of Amiens must be the ground-
work of our amities.”
I
From London then: “The path to amity the King of England
studies to pursue;
II
“With Russia hand in hand he is yours to close the long
convulsions thrilling Europe through.”
I
Still fare the shadowy missioners across, by Dover-road and
Calais Channel-track,
II
From Thames-side towers to Paris palace-gates; from Paris
leisurely to London back.
I
Till thus speaks France: “Much grief it gives us that, being
pledged to treat, one Emperor with one King,
II
“You yet have struck a jarring counternote and tone that keys
not with such promising.