Harper's New Monthly Magazine, No. XXVII, August 1852, Vol. VVarious
History
Harper's New Monthly Magazine, No. XXVII, August 1852, Vol. V
Various
American literature -- Periodicals; Civilization -- Periodicals; Culture -- Periodicals
Europe were doing homage to the mighty emperor, crowds of visitors
were often assembled at Malmaison; and upon this lawn, with the
characteristic gayety of the French, many mirthful games were
enacted. The favorite amusement here was the game of prisoners.
Frequently, after dinner, the most distinguished gentlemen and
ladies, not of France only, but of all Europe, were actively and
mirthfully engaged in this sport. Kings and queens, and princes of
the blood royal were seen upon the green esplanade, pursuing and
pursued. Napoleon occasionally joined in the sport. He was a poor
runner, and not unfrequently fell and rolled over upon the grass,
while he and his companions were convulsed with laughter. Josephine,
fond of deeds of benevolence, loved to visit the cottages in the
vicinity of Malmaison; and her sympathy and kindness gave her
enthronement in the hearts of all their inmates. After the divorce
of Josephine, the Palace of Malmaison, which Napoleon had
embellished with all those attractions which he thought could soothe
the anguish of his wounded, weeping, discarded wife, was assigned to
Josephine. A jointure of six hundred thousand dollars a year was
settled upon her, and she retained the title and the rank of Empress
Queen. Here Napoleon frequently called to see her; though from
motives of delicacy, he never saw her alone. Taking her arm, he
would walk for hours through those embowered avenues, confiding to
her all his plans.
Just before Napoleon set out for his fatal campaign to Russia, he
called to see Josephine. Taking her hand, he led her out to a
circular seat in the garden, in front of the mansion, and for two
hours continued engaged with her in the most earnest conversation.
At last he rose and affectionately kissed her hand. She followed him
to his carriage and bade him adieu. This was their last interview
but one. He soon returned a fugitive from Moscow. All Europe was in
arms against him. He earnestly sought a hurried interview with the
faithful wife of his youth in her retreat at Malmaison. As he gazed
upon her beloved features, tenderly and sadly he exclaimed,
"Josephine! I have been as fortunate as was ever man upon the face
of this earth. But in this hour, when a storm is gathering over my
head, I have not any one in this wide world but you upon whom I can
repose." With a moistened eye he bade her farewell. They met not
again.
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