but that was more than sufficient to spread
terror and devastation in the surrounding villages. He was a bold
fellow, and when, with his handful of men, he threw himself upon Hamburg,
the worthy inhabitants thought he had 20,000 troops with him. He had
pillaged every place through which he passed, and brought with him 300
prisoners, and a great many horses he had taken on his road. It was
night when he presented himself at the gates of the city, which he
entered alone, having left his men and booty at the last village. He
proceeded to the French Embassy. I was not there at the time, but I was
sent for, and about seven o'clock in the evening I had my first interview
with the Major. He was the very, beau ideal of a bandit, and would have
been an admirable model for a painter. I was not at all surprised to
hear that on his arrival his wild appearance and huge mustachios had
excited some degree of terror among those who were in the salon. He
described his exploits on the march, and did not disguise his intention
of bringing his troops into Hamburg next day. He talked of the Bank and
of pillage. I tried for some time to divert him from this idea, but
without effect, and at length said to him, "Sir, you know that this is
not the way the Emperor wishes to be served. During the seven years that
I have been about him, I have invariably heard him express his
indignation against those who aggravate the misery which war naturally
brings in her train. It is the express wish of the Emperor that no
damage, no violence whatever, shall be committed on the city or territory
of Hamburg." These few words produced a stronger effect than any
entreaties I could have used, for the mere name of the Emperor made even
the boldest tremble, and Major Amiel next thought of selling his booty.
The Senate were so frightened at the prospect of having Amiel quartered
upon them that to get rid of him they determined to purchase his booty at
once, and even furnished him with guards for his prisoners. I did not
learn till some time afterwards that among the horses Major Amiel had
seized upon the road were those of the Countess Walmoden. Had I known
this fact at the time I should certainly have taken care to have had them
restored to her. Madame Walmoden was then a refugee at Hamburg, and
between her and my family a close intimacy existed. On the very day, I
believe, of the Major's departure the Senate wrote me a letter of thanks
for the protection I afforded