The Municipal Council of Paris had determined to offer to the Emperor’s betrothed a magnificent set of diamonds. The Prefect of the Seine received the following letter:
M. Prefect: I am much affected on learning the generous decision of the Municipal Council of Paris, which thus displays its sympathetic adhesion to the union the Emperor is contracting. Nevertheless, I experience a painful sentiment when I think that the first public act attaching to my name at the moment of the marriage is to be a considerable expense for the city of Paris. Permit me then not to accept your gift, however flattering to me; you would make me happier by employing in charity the sum you have fixed upon for the purchase of the ornaments the Municipal Council wished to offer me. I desire that my marriage shall not be the occasion of any new expense to the country to which I belong henceforward; and the sole thing I aspire to is to share with the Emperor the love and esteem of the French people. I beg you, M. Prefect, to express all my gratitude to the Council, and to receive for yourself the assurance of my distinguished consideration.
Eugenie, Comtesse de Teba.
Elysée Palace, January 26, 1855.
The money was employed in founding an establishment where poor young girls should receive a professional education, and which they would leave only when provided with suitable positions. This establishment was to bear the name of the Empress and be placed under her protection.
To be continued
