"Speak not to me, sir," said he to Bournonville, who opposed him; "your conduct has made me forget the friendship of thirty years!" "As for _you_, sir," he added, turning to Dupont, "your behaviour towards the Emperor is not generous. I acknowledge that he may have been unjust to you in the affair of Baylen; but how long has it been the fashion to avenge a personal wrong at the expense of the country?" "Gentlemen," exclaimed the Duke of Vicenza, "do not forget that you are in the presence of the Emperor of Russia." The energy with which Macdonald urged the cause of Napoleon embarrassed the Emperor of Russia; but neither the eloquence with which he spoke of the military glory of France, and the resolution of himself and his comrades never to abandon the family of one who had led them so often to victory, and with whom they had shared so many perils in war, nor the arguments with which he sought to enforce the regency, were successful; and at midnight on the 6th, he returned in dejection to Fontainebleau, to render, with Ney and Caulaincourt, an account of his mission. Napoleon again exhibited much emotion, and said, with a sigh, "I know, marshal, all you have done for me--with what warmth you have pleaded the cause of my son. They desire my simple and unconditional abdication? Well--act on my behalf. Go, and again defend my interests and those of my family." Bourienne and others thus relate their last interview. "Alas!" said Napoleon, "I am no longer rich enough to recompense your last service, Macdonald; but I can perceive how unwisely I was formerly prejudiced against you. I can also see the designs of those who inspired me with that prejudice." "Sire," replied the marshal, "I have already had the honour to assure you, that since 1809 I have been yours in life and death!" "Since I can no longer recompense you as I would wish, I pray you to remember that I shall NEVER forget the faithful service you have rendered me!" Napoleon then turned to Caulaincourt, saying, "Duke of Vicenza, bring my sabre." Caulaincourt brought the weapon, which was one of exquisite workmanship, and placed it in the hands of the Emperor. "Behold," said he, "a recompence, Macdonald, which, I believe, will give you pleasure. This sabre, which was given to me by Murad Bey, in Egypt, after we had won the battle of Mount Tabor, accept, my friend--a gift which, I believe, will gratify you." "Sire," replied the marshal, whose voice trembled as he received the sabre from the Emperor; "if ever I have a son, this weapon shall be his noblest heritage; and as such I will guard it with my life." "Give me your hand, and embrace me!" exclaimed Napoleon; and throwing themselves into each others arms, they parted in tears--parted never to meet again as friends.[29] In obedience to the commands of the fallen Emperor, the marshal, on the day succeeding this impressive farewell, sent in his adhesion to the new government.