' You know the results, gentlemen,' he con-
tinued ; ' my armies, and the climate of my
country, avenged my subjects for the miseries
they had undergone. You were but passive
instruments. I only esteem you the more for
having done your duty, and proved your attach-
ment, your devotion, and your fidelity to your
master, of which you are now giving him a fresh

vol. ii. 26



i6 2 MARSHAL MACDONALD'S RECOLLECTIONS

proof, instead of doing as many others have done,
who have thrown themselves into our arms, and
done their best to bring about his downfall, and
that of the French Empire. We were willing
to treat openly with him at Prague, Frankfort,
and Chatillon-sur-Seine ; he would not consent,
and see whither his obstinacy has brought him.
We have now declared that we will not treat
further with him, because we can place no reliance,
upon him ; but we do not wish in the smallest
degree to take any part in the government of
France, nor to lay her under any contributions,
nor to diminish her ancient territory. We will
even increase it.'

He recommenced his praises of the French
army, of its Marshals, etc. We saw through
it, and clearly distinguished how much flattery
there was in this long speech, which we did not
interrupt.
