No. 9 To the Empress, at Mayence
Berlin, November 2, 1806.
Your letter of October 26th to hand. We have splendid weather here. You will see by the bulletin that we have taken Stettin—it is a very strong place. All my affairs go as well as possible, and I am thoroughly satisfied. One pleasure is alone wanting—that of seeing you, but I hope that will not long be deferred.
Kindest regards to Hortense, Stephanie, and to the little Napoleon.
Adieu, dear.—Yours ever,
Napoleon.
No. 9a.
From the Memoirs of Mademoiselle d’Avrillon (vol. i. 128).
To the Empress, at Mayence.
Berlin, Monday, Noon.
My Dear,—I have received your letter. I am glad to know that you are in a place which pleases me, and especially to know that you are very well there. Who should be happier than you? You should live without a worry, and pass your time as pleasantly as possible; that, indeed, is my intention.
I forbid you to see Madame Tallien, under any pretext whatever. I will admit of no excuse. If you desire a continuance of my esteem, if you wish to please me, never transgress the present order. She may possibly come to your apartments, to enter them by night; forbid your porter to admit her.
I shall soon be at Malmaison. I warn you to have no lovers there that night; I should be sorry to disturb them. Adieu, dear; I long to see you and assure you of my love and affection.
Napoleon.