Everything depends on birth, connection, fortune, and
intrigue. Judge things more accurately; reflect more maturely on the
future."--"General," replied I, "I am quite of your opinion on one
point. I never received gift, place, or favour from the Bourbons; and
I have not the vanity to believe that I should ever have attained any
important Appointment. But you must not forget that my nomination as
Secretary of Legation at Stuttgart preceded the overthrow of the throne
only by a few days; and I cannot infer, from what took place under
circumstances unfortunately too certain, what might have happened in the
reverse case. Besides, I am not actuated by personal feelings;
I consider not my own interests, but those of France. I wish you to hold
the reins of government as long as you live; but you have no children,
and it is tolerably certain that you will have none by Josephine: What
will become of us when you are gone? You talk of the future; but what
will be the future fate of France? I have often heard you say that your
brothers are not--"--"You are right," said he, abruptly interrupting
me. "If I do not live thirty years to complete my work you will have a
long series of civil wars after my death. My brothers will not suit
France; you know what they are. A violent conflict will therefore arise
among the most distinguished generals, each of whom will think himself
entitled to succeed me."--"Well, General, why not take means to obviate
the mischief you foresee?"--"Do you imagine I do not think of it? But
look at the difficulties that stand in my way. How are so many
acquired-rights and material results to be secured against the efforts
of a family restored to power, and returning with 80,000 emigrants and
the influence of fanaticism? What would become of those who voted for
the death, of the King--the men who acted a conspicuous part in the
Revolution--the national domains, and a multitude of things that have
been done during twelve years? Can you see how far reaction would
extend?"--"General, need I remind you that Louis, in his letter,
guarantees the contrary of all you apprehend? I know what will be your
answer; but are you not able to impose whatever conditions you may think
fit? Grant what is asked of you only at that price. Take three or four
years; in that time you may ensure the happiness of France by
institutions conformable to her wants. Custom and habit would give them
a power which it would not be easy to destroy; a