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NAPOLEON
AT
FONTAINEBLEAU AND ELBA
1ONDON : PRINTED BY
SPOTTISTVOODE AND CO., NEW-STREET SQXTARK
AND PARLIAMENT STBEET
MAJ.-GEN. SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. C.B
Or DUNTROON
NAPOLEON
• • . AT
FONTAINEBLEAU AND ELBA
BEING
A JOUENAL OF OCCUEEENCES
IN
1814—1815
WITH NOTES OF CONVEKSATIONS
BY THE LATE
MAJOE-GENEEAL SIE NEIL CAMPBELL, C.B.
BRITISH COMMISSIONEB, KNIGHT OF THE IMPEBIAL RUSSIAN OBDEHS
OF ST. GEOBGE, ST. ANNE, AND ST. WLADIMIK
ir 0f t pfe an& S*rto 0f tat ©feet
BY HIS NEPHEW
AKCHIBALD NEIL CAMPBELL MACLACHLAN, M.A.
VICAB OF NEWTON VALENCE, HANTS
•WITH
LONDON
JOHN MUKKAY, ALBEMAELE STREET
1869
The right of translation it reserved
DC
.238
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PREFACE.
THE JOUKNAL of the late Sm NEIL CAMPBELL, now
offered to the public, has been for some years in my
possession. From time to time I had looked over the
MS. in a cursory manner, and dim visions of submit-
ting it to the press had flitted across my mind.
At each fresh reading I fancied the characters be-
came more difficult to decipher, the paper (very thin
and evidently of foreign manufacture) more blurred
and wormeaten. One day, after a somewhat longer
interval than usual of its being drawn out from under
lock and key, —
, . . claves et grata sigilla pudico,
the truth flashed upon me — it must be ' now or never.'
There was no more choice in the matter. Either the
MS. would perish by the mere process of natural decay
—I should be obliged to say to it, as Horace to his
book,
Tineas pasces taciturnus inertes,
— or it must be at once transcribed.
Accordingly it was the pleasant employ of leisure
hours during a prolonged winter — the break-in upon
the daily routine of a ' country parson,' and the primary
vi PREFACE.
duties of parish-work — to write out a fair copy of
the complete MS., and so rescue it from its impend-
ing fate.
Some friends to whom it was then shown, agreed
in thinking that, over and above the value of every
fragment bearing upon Napoleon's history, the Diary
of Sir Neil Campbell contained much information not
hitherto disclosed, touching the conduct of Napoleon
during his residence at Elba, the preparations for his
escape, and his consummate skill both in veiling and
executing the manoeuvres which led to the crowning
event of his career.
It was therefore decided that the Journal should
no longer remain in its manuscript form, but be laid
before the general reader.
In the next place it seemed necessary to prefix a
brief Memoir of the Author, in order to show (how-
ever imperfectly) what manner of man he was.
But here many difficulties arose from the scarcity of
materials. There were few of Sir Neil Campbell's
letters or papers at hand, by help of which to trace
out the story of his life ' from year to year.'
The whole of his baggage, having been near the
front when he received his wounds at Fere Cham-
penoise in March 1814, disappeared from under the
charge of the Cossacks, who were supposed to protect
it, and could never afterwards be recovered. With it
went the greater part of his military and official papers.
At a subsequent period a box, in which the mass of his
correspondence had been treasured up by one of his
sisters, was lost together with the ' Duntroon charter-
chest,' containing many valuable documents and ancient
PllEFACE. vii
family relics, in consequence of the bankruptcy of the
agent to whose care they had been committed by the
owners, during their residence on the Continent. I
have therefore been obliged, in preparing my own
comparatively trifling portion of the book, to content
myself with such scanty memoranda as had escaped
these disastrous chances. Living in a remote part of
the country, with no extensive general library of my
own, I have enjoyed few opportunities of consulting
books of reference, and thereby fully verifying allu-
sions and facts of history ; so that I am only too well
aware of my many shortcomings and possible mistakes.
And last but not least embarrassment of all, ever pre-
sent to my mind while venturing to write of 'battles,
sieges, fortunes,' has been the great Emperor's dictum,
as recorded by my uncle's pen, and evidently stamped
with his approval, ' that the Archbishop of Malines,
who had been his [Napoleon's] chaplain, ivas extremely
addicted to descanting on military subjects, which is
very disgusting to military men I '
A. N. C. MCL.
NEWTON VALENCE VICARAGE :
January 1, 1869.
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
MEMOIR.
CHAPTER I.
[1776—1810.]
PAXiK
Campbells of Duntroon — Commencement of Military Career —
Jamaica — Caioss Islands — Military College — Shorncliff Camp —
West Indies, Second Time— West Indies, Third Time — Marti-
nique— The Sain tea — Guadaloupe 3
CHAPTER II. -
[1810—1813.]
Resigns Staff Appointment in West Indies — Proceeds as Volunteer
to Peninsula — Appointed Colonel of 16th Regiment Portuguese
Infantry — Blockade of Almeida and Battle of Fuentes d'Onore
— Blowing up of Works at Almeida and subsequent Catastrophe
— Attack of Fever and Journey to Lisbon — Rejoins the Army
near Sabugal— Relief of Ciudad Rodrigo by Marmont — Combats
of El Bodon and Aldea de Ponte — Siege and Capture of Ciudad
Rodrigo — Receives honourable Mention by Brigadier-General
Pack, Lieutenant-General Picton, and Lord Wellington — Siege
of Badajos — Advance from Ciudad Rodrigo towards the Douro —
Holds temporary Command of Pack's Brigade — Bridge of Torde-
sillas — Battle of Salamanca — Occupation of Madrid— Capture of
Hornwork at Fort St. Michael, near Burgos — Mentioned for the
Second Time by Lord Wellington in Public Despatch — Retreat
of the Army from Burgos — Invalided, and returns to England . 18
i CONTENTS.
CHAPTER HI.
[1813.]
PAGK
Appointed to Lord Cathcart's Staff — Sails from Harwich to Gotten-
burgh— General Hope's Mission — Journey to Stockholm — Inter-
views with King, Queen, and Crown Prince of Sweden — Visit to
Madame De Stael — Journey to Carlscrona 44
CHAPTER IV.
[1813.]
Journey from Carlscrona to Kalisch — Joins Lord Cathcart's Staff —
Emperor Alexander, Grand Duke Constantine, and Platoff— Pa-
rade of Russian Guards — Progress of Imperial Headquarters from
Kalisch to Dresden — Presented to Emperor of Russia and King
of Prussia — Advance of Allied Army through Saxony — Joins
Wittgenstein — Battle of Lutzen — Incidents of Retreat through
Dresden and across the Elbe — Battle of Bautzen — Distant View
of Napoleon and Staff — Armistice — News of Battle of Vittoria —
Comparison of Napoleon and Wellington ..... 64
CHAPTER V. 9
[1813—1814.]
Joins Headquarters of Duke of Wurtemburg before Dantzic — Inci-
dents of Siege — Receives Imperial Russian Orders of St. George
and St. Anne — Capitulation of Dantzic — Berlin — Dines with
Princess of Orange — Evening Visit to Princess Louise of Prussia
— Headquarters of Allied Sovereigns at Fribourg — Rejoins
Wittgenstein, and crosses the Rhine — Battle of Brienne, &c. —
Printed Proclamation of Louis XVIII. at Nogent-sur-Seine —
Wounded at Fere Champenoise — Arrives in Paris — Appointed
British Commissioner to Elba — Knighted, with Patent of Aug-
mentation to Arms 87
CHAPTER VI.
[1814—1816]
Return from Elba — Interview with Prince Regent — Debates
in Parliament respecting Napoleon's Escape — Retrospect of
Events at Elba during Sir N. Campbell's Mission — Proceeds to
Brussels — Letter of Introduction from Lord Castlereagh — Dines
with the Duke of Wellington on June 15 — Witnesses the Battles
of Quatre Bras and Waterloo — Joins Sir Charles Colville's Divi-
CONTENTS. xi
PAGB
sion — Assault of Cambray — Mentioned in Despatches — Sir
Charles Napier a Volunteer— Combat at Auhervilliers — Contro-
versy between Sir Charles Napier and General von Grollmann
— Capture of Paris — Appointed to Command of Hanseatic Le-
gion— Receives the Thanks of Senate of Bremen — Legion broken
up — Return to England — Companion of the Bath, and Knight
of St. Wladimir— Invalided and goes upon Half-pay . . 104
CHAPTER VII.
[1816—1827.]
Various Visits to the Continent — France, Spain, &c. — Spanish
Politics — Coronation of Charles X. — Made a Major-General —
Appointed Governor of Sierra Leone, and Colonel of Royal
African Corps — Notices of the Colony — Illness and Death . . 125
JOURNAL.
CHAPTER I.
Arrival in Paris — Appointed British Commissioner— Instructions
from Lord Castlereagh — Goes to Fontainebleau— First Interview
with Napoleon — Treaty of Fontainebleau — Various Anecdotes . 153
CHAPTER II.
Morning of Departure — Conversation with Napoleon — Parting
Address to the Old Guard — Leaves Fontainebleau — Interview
with Napoleon at Briare — Incidents of Journey — Marshal Auge-
reau — Arrival at Frej us ........ 178
CHAPTER III.
Napoleon embarks on board H.M.S. 'Undaunted' — Incidents of
Voyage — Notes of Conversation — Arrival at Elba— Excursions
in the Island with Napoleon — Various Conversations — General
Koller leaves Porto Ferrajo — Napoleon holds a Drawing-room
—Statistics relating to Elba ....... 198
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER IV.
PAOK
Florence — Count Stahremberg — Rome— Interviews with the Pope
— Returns to Leghorn — Discovery of Napoleon's secret Agents
— Escorts Madame Mere and Suite to Elba . . . 257
CHAPTER V.
Interview with Napoleon in company with Captain Battersby —
Goes to Leghorn to meet Admiral Hallowell — Arrest of Emis-
saries— Letter from Count Stahremberg — Despatch from Lord
Castlereagh — Declaration of War by Dey of Algiers — Interview
with General and Madame Bertrand— Conversation, on Septem-
ber 16, of three Hours with Napoleon — Arrival of Polish Lady
and Child at Elba — Habits of Napoleon — Goes to Florence, and
is presented to the Grand Duke 280
CHAPTER VI.
Arrival of Polish Lancers — Tunisian Corsair — Edict of Napoleon —
Hints thrown out by General Bertrand — Conversation with Na-
poleon, October 31 — Arrival of Pauline — Pecuniary Embarrass-
ments of Napoleon — Writes to Lord Castlereagh on Subject —
Resistance to Contributions — Visit to Florence — Interview with
M. Hyde de Neuville — Old Guns sent from Porto Ferrajo —
Conversation with Napoleon, December 4, of three Hours and a
Half — Presents Captain Adye — List of Napoleon's Vessels —
Report of Conversation between Napoleon and M. Litta — Inter-
view with Napoleon, December 21 — Discharge of Soldiers —
Gradual Estrangement of Napoleon 308
CHAPTER VH.
Goes to Genoa — Interview with Napoleon on Return — M. Ricci,
Vice-Consul — Suspicious Persons at Porto Ferrajo — Warm Ar-
gument with General Bertrand — Visit to Continent — Meets Mr.
Cooke, Under-Secretary—Suspicious Circumstances — Embarks
in ' Partridge ' for Elba — Landing and Discovery of Napoleon's
Escape — Interviews with Mr. Grattan, Madame Bertrand, M.
Lapis, and Pauline— Pursuit of Napoleon — Return to England . 351
MEMOIE
OF
MAJOR-GEN, SIR NEIL CAMPBELL, KNT., C,B,
KNIGHT OF THE IMPBEIAL EUSSIAN
OEDEES OP ST. GEOEGE, ST. ANNE, AND ST. WLADIMIE ;
SOMETIME BEITISH COMMISSIONEE WITH NAPOLEON AT ELBA ;
GOVEENOE OF SIEEEA LEONE; AND COLONEL OP
THE EOYAL AFEICAN COEPS.
CHAPTER I.
[1776—1810.]
CAMPBELLS OF DTJNTROON — COMMENCEMENT OF MILITARY CAREER —
JAMAICA — CAICOS ISLANDS — MILITARY COLLEGE — SHORNCLIFF CAMP
— WEST INDIES, SECOND TIME — WEST INDIES, THIRD TIME — MAR-
TINIQUE— THE SAINTES — GUADALOUPE.
SIR NEIL CAMPBELL, the writer of the MS. narrative
hereafter to be detailed, was the second son of Neil
Campbell, Esq., of Duntroon Castle and Oib, in the county
of Argyle, a Highland gentleman of ancient lineage, and
fair landed estate, and was born on May 1, 1776. His
mother was Jean, daughter of Archibald Campbell, Esq.,
of Blandfield, a younger son of Campbell of Craignish,
and Captain in the 3rd (King's Own) Dragoons, who had
served as Aide-de-camp to General Humphry Bland, and
Judge Advocate, during the war in the Low Countries, and
the campaign against the Pretender, under the orders of
H.E.H. the Duke of Cumberland, 1745-46.
The eldest son of 'Duntroon,' on whom the hopes of
the family had fondly rested, fell mortally wounded at the
battle of the Helder, October 2, 1799,— 'shot through
the body,' as wrote his Colonel, Sir Allan Cameron, ' while
most gallantly leading the Grenadier Company ' of the
79th Highlanders — and was the first officer of that famous
regiment ever killed in action. He had previously served in
the East Indies, at the taking of Pondicherry in 1793, and
B2
4 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. I.
at the capture of the Cape of Good Hope in 1795. General
3tewart of Garth, in his ' Military Annals of Highland
Regiments ' (vol. ii. p. 28), thus speaks of him : ' At
Bergen, 1799, the regiment lost Captain James Campbell
of Duntroon, who, with great intelligence, an open and
generous mind, and a personal appearance the most pre-
possessing, exhibited in every view, according to the
opinion of an old Highlander, a perfect model of one of
the heroes described in Ossian.'
The Campbells of Duntroon, a younger branch of the
House of Argyll, had been for centuries established in
their wild and rocky stronghold, the time-worn battle-
ments of which, overlooking Loch Crinan, still form a
prominent feature in that bold and picturesque scenery.
Although now, except in the female line, that ancient race
has come to an end,1 and the lands so long possessed by
them have passed into other hands, many and curious are
the Gaelic legends and antique poems yet in existence,
telling quaintly the story of their feuds and their friend-
ships, the devotion of their retainers, and the martial
1 A tablet erected in Kilmartin Church, Argyleshire, records as follows :
To the Memory of
GENERAL PATRICK CAMPBELL, E.A.,
Last surviving Son of Neil Campbell, Esq., of Duntroon and Oib.
Born 17th December, 1779. Died 29th August, 1857.
1795, commenced his Military Career in the West Indies, under Sir Ralph Abercromby,
against the French, the Caribs, and Negroes.
1800, Major of Brigade to the Artillery at Gibraltar.
1809, joined the Spanish Army under General Cuesta. As Volunteer present at the Battle of
Medellin. and all the Operations with the British Troops in the South of Spain, at
Castalla, Tarragona. &c., and engaged at ths Battle of Talavera.
1810, in Isle of Leon, A.D.C. to the Duke of Albuquerque and Military Correspondent to
Mr. Frere at Madrid.
1811, raised a Spanish L. I. Regiment, appointed its Colonel, had the rank of Major-General
and the Orders of Charles III. and San Fernando conferred upon him.
181 1-14, commanded a Spanish Brigade in the Field.
1815—21, in Catalonia, on General Castanos' Staff, and Military Correspondent to
Mr. Frere at Madrid.
1823, his active Military Service ended, commenced a Diplomatic Career, and, as British
Commissioner, made a Treaty with the Columbian Republic.
1825—30, Charge d' Affaires at Bogota, South America.
1833—40. H. B. M. Agent and Consul-General in Egypt and Syria.
His surviving Sisters, Jane, Widow of Lieut. -General Archibald Maclachlan, and Elizabeth,
erect this Tablet to record the Public Services of the last Representative
of their Family,
CHAP. I. FAMILY OF DUNTROON. 5
exploits of their sons in the old feudal times.2 It had
passed into a proverb, that ' the Castle of Duntroon had
never wanted a hero, a bard, or a piper/
The authentic records of the family date back to the
year 1390, when Duncan, son of Sir Colin, 13th Knight of
Lochow, acquired the lands of Duntroon, and became the
founder of that branch of the Argyll family.
The ' Origines Parochiales Scotise ' quotes from Argyll
Charters and Breadalbane Inventory as follows (vol. ii.
p. 93) :
' In the year 1448, one of the Stewards of Ardskodniche,
under Sir Duncan Campbell of Lochow, was Duncan Yong
Campbell of Duntrone.
' In 1470, a precept of seisin by Colin, Earl of Argyll, is
addressed to John Campbell of Duntroone and others.
' In 1511, Donald Campbell of Downtron was one of the
local baillies of Archibald, Earl of Argyll.
' In 1513, a precept of seisin by King James Y., in favour
of Earl Colin, is witnessed by John Campbell of Duntrone.
' In 1531, John Campbell of Duntrwn was one to whose
arbitration all disputes between Archibald, Earl of Argyll,
and Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy (ancestor of the
Breadalbane family) were submitted by the parties.
' In 1565 there appear on record Duncan Campbell of
Duntrone and Donald Campbell his brother.'
In * Sketches of the Highlanders ' (vol. ii. p. 31), General
Stewart of Garth refers to the 'uniform practice in the
families of the Campbells of Melfort, Duntroon, and Dun-
staifnage, that when the head of either family died, the
chief mourners should be the other two lairds, one of
whom supported the head to the grave, while the other
walked before the corpse. In this manner friendship took
the place of the nearest consanguinity, for even the eldest
8 ( Gaelic Relics,' Nos. 1, 2, 3, 16. January, March, April, 1823, and
Ackermann's Jtepositoiy of the Arts : March, 1825.
6 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. I.
sons of the deceased were not permitted to interfere with
this arrangement. The first progenitors of these families
were three sons of the family of Argyll, who took this
method of preserving the friendship, and securing the
support of their posterity to one another.'
There had likewise been, from time immemorial, a
' bond of friendship ' between the Campbells of Glenorchy
and the Duntroon family; and, according to the terms
of an ancient treaty, the heir of the Chief of Breadal-
bane for many generations was fostered at ' the Castle
of Turrets.' To this quaint custom the venerable Earl
of Breadalbane (father of the Marchioness de Grey) was
wont pleasantly to refer, when any of the Duntroon family
chanced to be visiting at Taymouth, and would especially
•delight in relating the old Highland tradition to his
English guests.
Duntroon, or * the Castle of Turrets ' (' Neil Oig of the
Turrets ' having been, in olden days, the Gaelic patronymic
of the laird), was famed for the natural defences of its
position, and the unusual strength and thickness of its
walls. In the ' Statistical Account of Scotland' (Argyle-
shire p. 558) there is an anecdote told relating to this
very point. ' Duntroon Castle,' it says, ' withstood the
ravages of the celebrated Coll Macdonnell, alias Colla
Ciotach, i. e. left-handed Coll, and his followers, when
he invaded Argyleshire.' And after giving some account
of this wild adventurer, the story goes on to tell, that
having with his kinsman, the Earl of Antrim (who bore
no goodwill to Argyll for having joined the Covenanters),
raised a body of 3000 men in Ulster, Macdonnell landed
in Kintyre, and proceeded northwards, destroying and
pillaging all in his way. From Castle Sween he pro-
ceeded by sea with his forces towards the Bay of Crinan,
intending to attack and destroy Duntroon Castle, and
sending forward his piper by land in order to procure
information. The piper was admitted into the castle,
CHAP. I. COMMENCEMENT OF MILITARY CAREER. 7
where lie found, by the peculiar construction and narrow-
ness of the staircase, that only one person could enter at
a time to attack the place, and that it was otherwise
sufficiently strong to repel the invaders ; and being him-
self suspected, he was confined to one of the upper turrets
of the castle, where, seeing Macdonnell's forces approach-
ing, he contrived to warn him of the danger of making
the attack, by playing on his bagpipes the well-known
pibroch,
Dearest Coll, shun the tower, shun the tower, &c.s
This warning was understood by Macdonnell, who finding
Duntroon Castle impregnable, left his faithful piper to
his fate, and with his forces proceeded northwards, de-
stroying and plundering everything in his way.
Born and nurtured in this wild ancestral home, the
young Neil Campbell entered the Army in 1797. His first
service was in the West Indies, where he remained for three
years. In October, 1798, we find him stationed at Jamaica,
as ensign in the 67th Regiment. In consequence of the
evacuation of St. Domingo by the British at that period,
and its delivery to Toussaint 1'Ouverture the Negro chief,
the colonists of the Caicos, or Turks' Islands, were appre-
hensive that an attack might be made upon them by the
Blacks. They therefore sent an appeal for protection to
the Earl of Balcarres, the Governor and Commander of the
Forces in Jamaica, who accordingly despatched a small
detachment of the 67th Regiment, and a party of Artillery
with guns and stores, under the command of Ensign Neil
Campbell. The Caicos Islands are of different sizes, ex-
tending for many leagues, the whole encircled by a reef of
coral rocks, excepting in one part, where there is deep
water and anchorage within the reef. Upon a small bank
opposite to this anchorage Ensign Campbell placed his
8 The t warning,' now called ' the March of Duntroon Castle,' is still
played by the pipers.
8 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. I.
detachment, and then proceeded to construct defences,
barracks, and storehouses. As the inhabitants, from the
capture of their corn vessels and other disappointments
incident to an infant colony, were nearly in a state of
famine, the detachment was compelled to subsist entirely
for many weeks upon fish procured by themselves and
Indian corn. Many of the soldiers of the 67th having
been rebels taken at Vinegar Hill, and transported from
Ireland, were with great difficulty kept in any kind of
subordination until commissariat provisions arrived from
New Providence in the Bahamas. On his quitting the
Caicos, Ensign Campbell received an unanimous vote of
thanks from the community in accordance with the follow-
ing resolution : ' That the zeal, vigilance, and judgment,
manifested by Neil Campbell, Esq., of Her Majesty's 67th
Regiment, in discharge of his duty as Commandant of
Fort George, together with his unremitting attention to
the interests and security of the Caicos, justly entitle him
to the thanks and esteem of all its inhabitants.'
Having been promoted to a lieutenancy in the 57th
Eegiment by purchase, Neil Campbell returned to Eng-
land in 1800, and shortly after joined the Bine Corps
(95th Regiment) upon its original formation, obtaining
his company by purchase in the following year.
About this time his zeal and abilities began to attract
the attention of his superior officers ; and, after passing
through a course of study at the Military College,4 from
February 1802 to September 1803, he was appointed Assist-
ant-Quartermaster-General in the Southern District, in
which situation he remained until promoted, at the special
recommendation of Sir John Moore, to a majority in
4 ' High "Wycombe would be everything that is bad, and learn
William's ruination ; all the tricks nothing, though others dc study
played there have been made known and learn.' Life of Sir Charles
to me by Neil Campbell : there are a Napier, vol. i. pp. 30, 31.
set who keep horses, race, bet, play,
CHAP. I. SHORNCLIFF CAMP. 9
the 43rd Light Infantry, then in his brigade at Shorn-
cliff. Besides his own merits, Major Campbell found a
passport to the General's favour through the fact, that his
eldest brother James, a captain in the 79th Highlanders,
had served in Sir John Moore's Brigade during the expe-
dition to the Helder, where, as before mentioned, he was
mortally wounded at the head of the Grenadier company
of his regiment.
It was while stationed at Shorncliff, that Neil Campbell
formed that close and lasting friendship with Sir Charles
Napier, which was often referred to by that great soldier,
and of which mention is made in his Life.5
When recalling anecdotes of the camp, Sir Charles
would tell of an impromptu race, from the bottom to the
top of the Shorncliff height, which took place on some
occasion among a party of officers, when, as he said, ' Neil
Campbell beat us all ! '
Of this period of service Sir William Napier speaks
in the life of his distinguished brother,6 ' To awaken the
faculties of those under him, inspiring and teaching,
was one of Sir John Moore's qualifications for command.
At Shorncliff Camp he devised such improvements in
drill, discipline, dress, arms, formations, and movements,
as would have placed him for military reforms beside
the Athenian Iphicrates, if he had not the greater glory
of dying like the Spartan Brasidas. His materials were
the 43rd, 52nd, and Rifle Regiments ; and he so fashioned
them, that afterwards, as the Light Division under
Wellington, they were found to be soldiers unsurpassable,
perhaps never equalled. The separate successful careers
of the officers strikingly attest the merit of the school.
So long a list of notable men could not be presented by
three regiments of any service in the world.'
That in this school of heroes, this nursery for military
5 Vol. i. pp. 30, 265, 268. fl Vol. i. pp. 58, 59.
10 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. I.
tactics, Neil Campbell was no unready learner, is testified
by Ms 'Instructions for Light Infantry and Riflemen.'
In the Introduction to the second edition, dated April 4th,
1812, when he was ' in camp before Badajos,' and dedicated
by permission to H.E.H. the Duke of York, Commander-
in-Chief, he thus writes :
' The first edition of this publication appeared without
any name ; and nothing is claimed beyond the labour of
writing out, selecting, and arranging the exercises, which
were practised by tte 95th Rifle Regiment, under Colonel
Manningham and the Honourable Lieutenant-Colonel
William Stewart, with the subsequent practice of the
Light Infantry Brigade (comprising the 43rd, 52nd, and
95th Regiments) under Major-General Sir John Moore,
from the year 1800 to 1806, during which period the
author served in the 95th and 43rd Regiments.
' The same system of instructions and exercises which
were established by these three distinguished officers (two
of whom have since sacrificed their valuable lives for their
king and country), are still practised by these corps ; and
the conspicuous services of the gallant Light Division
(composed of them, the 1st and 3rd Portuguese Cacadores),
in the Peninsula, require no comment.
' It has further been extended to all the Ca9adore bat-
t aliens of thePortuguese Army by a translation, verbatim,
of the first edition, "which has been given to them by
Marshal Sir William Carr Beresford, Commander-in- Chief
of the Portuguese Army, approved of by his Royal Highness
the Prince Regent of Portugal.
' A translation has likewise been made into the Spanish
language, upon which the light corps of Major-General
Whittingham's Legion is now forming in the Island of
Majorca.'
For nearly sixteen years, from 1808 to 1824, when a re-
vised work upon the subject was published by order of the
Adjutant-General, this book was used in all Light In-
CHAP. 1. VOYAGE TO WEST INDIES. 11
fantiy Regiments as the only standard of reference for
uniformity of movement and practice.
In February, 1806, Major Neil Campbell was removed
from the 43rd to the 1st battalion of the 54th Regiment,
in order that he might endeavour to keep in check some
irregularities which had arisen in that corps. Accompany-
ing it to Jamaica in 1807, he remained there for a year,
when failing health compelled him to return to England for
a brief rest. In October 1808, however, he again proceeded
to the West Indies, for the third time, having been
appointed Deputy- Adjutant-General to the Forces in the
"Windward and Leeward Islands, with the brevet of Lieu-
tenant-Colonel.
A Journal kept by him during the voyage, and illustrated
by plans and drawings, relates the usual incidents on
board a troopship of that period, sailing from Woolwich
to Barbadoes, and passing by Porto Santo, Madeira, and
Teneriffe. The c Creole ' mounted twelve six-pounders
and two nine-pounders ; had a crew of twenty-four men,
including master and mate ; and carried, besides Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Campbell and his servant, a detachment of
Artillery, consisting of five officers and forty-six men. At
the Downs she joined company with 150 sail, many of
them transports destined for Spain; but soon after,
weighing anchor from thence, the convoy was caught by
a tremendous gale, which effectually dispersed it, and blew
over several of the vessels — the * Creole ' among them —
to the French coast near Boulogne, though with no
ultimate loss. On November 2nd, off" Lyinington, a de-
tachment of Foreign Artillery, consisting of one sergeant
and twenty- six men, was taken in.
On the 4th the ' Creole ' passed through a fleet of light
transports beating up Channel. ' These are probably,'
Colonel Campbell notes, ' the ships returning from France,
after landing the French troops agreeably to the Convention
of Cintra.' ' On the 13th, the day being a dead calm, the
12 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. I.
boat was lowered to pursue a turtle, which was spied 300
yards from the ship. Two hands rowed, I took the helm,
and the master sat in the bow of the boat ready to seize
him. As he seemed to be asleep upon the surface of the
water, we approached him with as little noise as possible.
When the boat almost touched him, the mate suddenly
grasped him by one of his fore-fins, and tossed him into
the boat. The exploit being witnessed from the ship, we
were welcomed by a loud cheer in exultation of our success.
The appearance of the ship with all its sails set, indolently
bending from one side to another, her deck and sides
crowded with men, the sea clear and smooth as glass, and
the delightful warmth of the day, were truly beautiful and
cheering to our spirits. There was no small anxiety to
view the prize — sailors and soldiers, women and children,
all crowding about us to satisfy their curiosity. The turtle
was laid on his back upon the deck, to the joy of every one.
In course of the evening we made three attempts after
other turtle, but none of them succeeded. They were not
asleep, and, when we approached within a few yards, lifted
up their heads, surveyed us, and disappeared.'
In the early part of the year 1809, Colonel Campbell
served as Deputy- Adjutant-General with the expedition
which captured the island of Martinique.
The fleet and transports destined for the attack having
been assembled in Carlisle Bay, Barbadoes, got under
weigh on the morning of January 28th. The Commander-
in-Chief, Lieutenant -General Sir George Beckwith, was on
board the 'Castor,' Captain Beaver; Lieutenant- General
Sir George Prevost on board the ' Penelope,' Captain Dick ;
Major-General Maitland and Briga,dier-General Sir Charles
Shipley, commanding the Engineers, on board the ' Nep-
tune,' Admiral Sir Charles Cochrane. Colonel Campbell
was on board the ' Owen ' schooner, taken up by his own
department. The Artillery were commanded by Brigadier-
General Stehelin.
CHAP. I. CAPTURE OF MARTINIQUE. 13
The campaign was short but brilliant, lasting only
twenty-five days. The army landed at various points of
the island without opposition, under cover of the fleet, by
sunset on January 30. On February 1, the different corps
having been united under the Commander-in-Chief, ad-
vanced to the attack of the enemy's first position, which
was protected in front by a deep ravine formed by the
river Monsieur, and carried up the heights of Mount
Surrery, which were exceedingly steep and rugged, and
strengthened by redoubts.
' One light three-pounder was brought up to the great
road, and placed upon a height in front, an entrenchment
being thrown up for its protection by a party of work-
men under the directions of Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell,
Deputy- Adjutant-General and Captain O'Reilly, Assistant
Engineer.'
* Nothing,' Colonel Campbell notes in his Journal of
operations, ' can exceed the apparent joy of the inhabitants
of this island, of all colours and ranks, at our arrival among
them ; the proprietors waiting upon the Commander-in-
Chief to pay their respects, and bringing presents of
poultry, &c. ; the militia quitting their ranks, and returning
home; the inhabitants and negroes leaving Fort Royal,
and going into the country, to avoid the effects of the
approaching bombardment.'
On the separation of the British Force, the Commander-
in-Chief was pleased by a general order 'to renew, for
the last time, his thanks and affectionate respects to the
various officers of his Staff,' and among others ' to Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Campbell, Deputy -Adjutant- General, for his
active services in many instances, and in particular upon
the 2nd of February, when the Commander-in-Chief was
an eye-witness of the rapidity and judgment with which
this officer executed his orders for withdrawing the troops
from the enemy's works.'
Colonel Campbell's papers contain a memorandum of
14 MEMOIR OF Sill NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. I.
the operations on that day, although, unlike the Com-
mander-in- Chief, he does not mention his individual
part in them.
' At midday the right wing of the 8th Regiment, with
their two flank companies, commanded by Major Maxwell,
and under the immediate orders of the Commander of
the Forces, proceeded to attack an advanced post of the
enemy at St. Omer's, upon the extremity of a point of
land to our right, which projected to the rear of Mount
Surrery, towards the Bouille redoubt. When within half
a mile of the houses upon the point, they received a fire
from the advanced sentries. They pushed forward through
a coffee plantation along the ridge, opposed by the enemy's
picquets, and some round shot from the Windmill re-
doubts, forced the post at the end of the point, and took
possession of the houses. The enemy must have expected
an attack upon the Windmill redoubts in front, and from
this post, for they immediately drew out their force in
different parties in front of those works, amounting to
300 or 400 men, and set fire to the proprietor's house
and premises in flank of the redoubt. A part of Major
Maxwell's force was detached to the left, to take posses-
sion of another projecting point between St. Omer's and
Surrery. The Light Battalion having been brought up to
the left opposite to the Windmill, a few advanced skir-
mishers commenced a fire against the enemy's out-sentries,
near the great road to the Windmill, about half an hour
after Major Maxwell had forced St. Omer's. The Light
Company of the 25th Regiment, which had just that
moment joined the Light Battalion after a march, and
was unacquainted with the ground, drove in the enemy's
sentries, and followed their picquets with the bayonet,
chasing them past the Windmill into the redoubts. One
of the Black Companies of the Light Battalion accom-
panied them, but at this moment Major Campbell of the
Royal W. I. Rangers, who commanded the Light Batta-
CHAP. I. MARTINIQUE. 15
lion, was stunned by a musket ball, which, however, his
watch prevented from penetrating into his body. A few
minutes after Captain St. Clair of the Light Company,
25th Regiment, was shot through the head, and Major
Campbell was forced to retire into the Windmill from a
second wound in the arm. The other companies of the
Light Battalion, and Lieutenant-Colonel Pakenham with
pa,rt of the 7th Eoyal Fusiliers, pushed on to their support,
but he too was wounded, and forced to quit the field. The
men found that the first redoubt was farther from the
summit of the ridge which they had gained than they
imagined, and that in addition to the fire from this first
redoubt there was another flanking them to the left,
which poured upon them incessant volleys of grape. To
avoid those fires they lay down under the edge of the
ridge, and continued from that position to fire towards the
batteries. The 23rd Regiment was brought down the
road, and formed in columns of subdivisions, ready to
advance to the support of the others, or to cover their
retreat. The Commander of the Forces and Lieuten ant-
General Sir George Prevost took post at their head. This
position and the firing on both sides were continued for
twenty minutes ; during which time it was doubtful
whether to advance with the 23rd, in order to storm the
redoubts with the bayonet, or to draw off the troops, who
were dispersed in various parties along the crest of the
hill, lying on their faces. Many men were returning
wounded, many others without ammunition, and it was
reported that very few rounds remained. Two or three
Staff officers were sent forward to reconnoitre the works,
and their reports being decidedly against any such attempt
at that time, from the apparent strength of the redoubts,
it was determined to draw off the men. A Staff officer
was sent to Lieutenant-Colonel Blakeney7 of the 7th with
7 Afterwards Field-Marshal Sir Edward Blakeney.
16 MEMOIR OF SIR XEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. I.
these orders. The " Retreat " and the " Close " were
sounded by two bugles, and the retreat was effected by the
parties passing through each other in succession. It might
have been expected that the enemy would seize this very
favourable moment to sally from their redoubts, but
nothing was attempted, as probably from their own in-
cessant fire, and a heavy fall of rain at the time, they
were prevented from seeing our movements. We lost
several men in the course of this morning upon the height
of Surrery by cannon shot from these redoubts, particu-
larly the easternmost flanking battery.
' The King's Regiment, 8th, threw up an entrenchment
on their own front, across the advanced point which they
occupied.'
After a series of obstinate fights, the enemy's troops
were driven into Fort Bourbon, the key of the island ; and
on its being besieged and taken, the final conquest of Mar-
tinique was effected, and the French with the Governor
Vice-Admiral Villaret-Joyeuse (the opponent of Lord
Howe, June 1, 1794) surrendered.
In the following April, 1809, Colonel Campbell accom-
panied Major-General Maitland, as Senior Officer of the
Staff, in his successful attack upon the Saintes Islands.
Having been landed under the protection of a British
squadron commanded by Captain Philip Beaver, of His
Majesty's frigate ' Acasta,' the troops first possessed them-
selves of a mountain called Moine Russel, which com-
pletely commanded the harbour or roadstead. This, from
having three distinct entrances, was not easily blockaded,
but some guns from the height above having been brought
to bear, three French ships of war, which had taken re-
fuge there, were obliged to put to sea, and, after a smart
chase, one of them, the * D'Hautpoult,' was captured by
the British fleet.
The landing at the Saintes took place on April 14, and
the island finally surrendered on the 17th. The act in
CHAP. I. THE SAINTES. GUADALOUPE. 17
regard to the capitulation was signed by Lieutenant-
Colonel Campbell on the part of the British, and by Colonel
Madier on the part of the French commander.
In the despatch of Major- GeneralMaitland, dated, Camp
at the Saintes, April 18, 1809, and addressed to Lieut.
General Beckwith, Commander of the Forces, he says :
* Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, Deputy- Adjutant-General,
has been always forward ; he is an officer who must rise
by his merits.'
In January, 1810, Colonel Campbell served as Deputy -
Adjutant-General with the expedition which terminated
in the capture of Gaudaloupe. During these operations
he was detached with a column under the command of
Major- General Harcourt, and in the despatch of that
officer to Sir George Beckwith, the following observations
occur:
' Port Bellair, Moine St. Louis, Gruadaloupe :
'February 7, 1810.
* Lieut.-Colonel Campbell, Deputy-Adjutant-General,
merits my warmest acknowledgments by his zealous ser-
vices, which have been unremitting, particularly for his
exertions and able assistance in the affair of the 3rd.'
On that day an engagement had taken place between
General Harcourt's division and a body of French troops,
on the ridge Beaupere St. Louis, when the latter were de-
feated. The island surrendered on April 6, the Governor,
General Ernouf, and the whole garrison becoming prisoners
of war.
18 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
.OHAPTEE II.
[1810—1813.]
RESIGNS STAFF APPOINTMENT IN WEST INDIES — PROCEEDS AS VOLUN-
TEER TO PENINSULA — APPOINTED COLONEL OF 16TH REGIMENT
PORTUGUESE INFANTRY — BLOCKADE OF ALMEIDA AND BATTLE OF
FUENTES D'ONORE — BLOWING UP OF WORKS AT ALMEIDA AND SUB-
SEQUENT CATASTROPHE — ATTACK OF FEVER AND JOURNEY TO LISBON
— REJOINS THE ARMY NEAR SABUGAL — RELIEF OF CIUDAD RODRIGO
BY MARMONT — COMBATS OF EL BODON AND ALDEA DE PONTE —
SIEGE AND CAPTURE OF CIUDAD RODRIGO — RECEIVES HONOURABLE
MENTION BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL PACK, LIEUTENANT-GENERAL
PICTON, AND LORD WELLINGTON — SIEGE OF BADAJOS — ADVANCE
FROM CIUDAD RODRIGO TOWARDS THE DOURO — HOLDS TEMPORARY
COMMAND OF PACK'S BRIGADE — BRIDGE OF TORDESILLAS — BATTLE
OF SALAMANCA — OCCUPATION OF MADRID — CAPTURE OF HORNWORK
AT FORT ST. MICHAEL, NEAR BURGOS — MENTIONED FOR THE SECOND
TIME BY LORD WELLINGTON IN PUBLIC DESPATCH — RETREAT OF THE
ARMY FROM BURGOS — INVALIDED, AND RETURNS TO ENGLAND.
THE successful operations in the "West Indies having
entirely expelled the Trench from those islands, and there
appearing therefore no further prospect of active service
in that quarter, Colonel Campbell's energetic mind turned
Wistfully towards the stirring events then passing in the
Peninsula. Accordingly, in the hope of being transferred
to the seat of war there, he resigned his staff appointment,
and returned to England at the end of 1810. It was not
long before his wish was gratified. Proceeding to the
Peninsula in the first instance merely as a volunteer, in
April, 1811, he was appointed Colonel of the 16th Regi-
ment of Portuguese Infantry. Brigadier- General Pack's
brigade, to which this regiment belonged, was not placed
in any division with British troops, but was invariably
detached where the service was most active.
The regiment, under the command of Colonel Campbell,
was employed in the blockade of Almeida (which formed
CHAP. II. FUENTES D'ONORE. 19
the left of the position during the battle of Fuentes
d'Onore), the sieges of Ciudad Eodrigo, Badajos, and
Burgos, and the battle of Salamanca. He received a
medal for Ciudad Eodrigo with a clasp for Salamanca;
and subsequently the gold cross for four general actions
and sieges, including, besides the two former, Martinique
and Guadaloupe. He considered himself likewise entitled
to a medal for Fuentes d'Onore, in accordance with the
following statements :
* My regiment was arduously employed in the blockade
of Almeida, before and after the battle of Fuentes d'Onore,
constantly exposed to cannonade and skirmishing, in which
many men were killed and wounded. The blockade and
attempted relief of Almeida by Massena caused the battle,
and formed a part of it ; and our brigade was the left of
the line and of the position.' And again : ( The medal for
Fuentes d'Onore cannot be intended for only those regi-
ments which were engaged with the enemy in the village
of Fuentes d'Onore, and to exclude others which were ex-
posed to cannon and musketry against the same enemy,
contending night and day for the same object, and forming
the left of the position. Our patrols were undoubtedly
in immediate connection with the division commanded by
Lieu tenant- General Sir William Erskine, for his line ex-
tended to Fort Conception, and our line of picquets crossed
the road of Almeida, about a mile from the latter place
towards the former.
* I do not believe this exclusion has been made on ac-
count of the escape of General Brennier and his garrison.
The regiments composing General Pack's brigade were
marched to two villages several miles distant at sunset
the day before, by order of Lieutenant-General Alexander
Campbell, who took possession at the same time (in his
person and with the 36th Eegiment) of our quarters, and
of the position which our brigade had occupied for the
week preceding.
c2
20 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
i The men of our brigade, who composed the picquets
where the enemy forced his passage, were bayonetted on
the spot, and those who were in immediate contact fol-
lowed him to the last.' l
In consequence of the battle of Fuentes d'Onore the
French failed to relieve Almeida, the only place they
retained in Portugal, and the garrison subsequently
escaped. Colonel Campbell was left there with his regi-
ment, while the rest of the army proceeded southwards to
the Alentejo, with the exception of one brigade, which
was stationed at Sabugal, fifty miles off.
From 'Almeida, May 20, 1811,' he writes as follows :
'Brennier deserves great credit for the attempt and
execution of his retreat, as well as the perfect manner in
which he destroyed everything here. However, had he
not hit upon the very point of the circumference of
picquets which he did, and had there not been a coinci-
dence of errors, any one of those circumstances changed
would have prevented his escape.
'My regiment is the only one quartered here. I am
happy to think that the ruinous state of the works holds
out no temptation to the French for retrograde operations.
For in that case any defence on our part, however honour-
able, would scarcely reconcile me to a useless sacrifice of
life, or at best to indefinite detention in France.
' However, we are perfectly quiet, for the whole of Mas-
sena's army is at Salamanca, and beyond it, excepting the
garrison of Ciudad Rodrigo. Badajos is at present the
active scene ; and I confess my anxiety, knowing the diffi-
culty of opposing a foe in the field, with an enemy's
stronghold in the rear, and few points to pass the river.'
1 Napier, History of War in Pe- a nicety proving at once his cool-
ninsula, vol. iii. book xii. chap. v. ness and previous observation. Pack
p. 156 : ' On the 10th, at midnight, followed him with a few men hastily
he sprang his mines, broke through collected, and plied him with fire,'
the picquets in one column, and &c.
steered between the reserves with
CHAP. II. ALMEIDA. 21
Soon after, however — although in place of. throwing a
force into Almeida, the French under Marmont, who had
in reality moved out of Ciudad Eodrigo, were at that
moment on their march to the Alentejo — an alarm was
raised that they were advancing. Almeida had become a
great depot of shops from Oporto, Lisbon, and Coimbra,
through which goods of all sorts were rapidly sold to the
army. The Militia had likewise been sent by the Govern-
ment of the country, in order to repair the place tem-
porarily, and the inhabitants looked to it as a place of
security.
' On the afternoon of June 7,' writes Colonel Campbell,
' I received an order to join the brigade at Sabugal imme-
diately, previously destroying five or six hundred barrels
of gunpowder, and exploding six mines which had been
prepared. This was of course to prevent the stores from
being taken by the French, and to render the place useless
to -them. Had a small corps been left in front to feel the
enemy in case of their advancing, all this would have been
unnecessary, and the subsequent catastrophe avoided.
' Fancy my sending for the Juiz de Idra (chief magis-
trate) at four in the afternoon, to inform him of the orders
I had received, and to desire him to quiet the people's
minds : that they should remain in their houses, where
no harm should happen to them from the mines ; that the
explosion was merely a precaution, and a measure uncon-
nected with the movements of the armies ! This, however
eloquent, was unsatisfactory to those poor people. In a
few minutes whole families, of all ages, began to move out
with mules, asses, and horses, loaded with baggage, infants,
and aged and infirm people, leaving behind them their
property, and in many instances shops filled with goods.
In half-an-hour there were about four hundred people and
as many animals assembled outside the fort, where the
regiment was under arms. I also sent for the Lieutenant-
Colonel of Militia to tell him he might go where he pleased
22 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CnAP.il.
with his working parties. Lieutenant Trench of the
Engineers with eight men was left with me to destroy
the mines. I gave him sixty picked men to assist. They
carried out every barrel, knocked in their heads, and
tumbled out. their contents from a high bastion into the
ditch, while Lieutenant Trench and I stood by them. He
then informed me he was ready to proceed to set the slow
matches to the mines. I told him I would go to the next
bastion to make a signal to my Major to march off my
regiment, and should return in five minutes to accompany
him through the whole operations. I was waving my
hand to the Major, not thirty yards from the bastion I
had left, when a most dreadful explosion took place in
that direction, which perfectly stupefied me, and covered
me with smoke and dirt. I sallied over the parapet into
the ditch, and got out at the gate of the fort, not knowing
what it could possibly arise from. An instant after there
came forth eleven poor fellows, with an appearance scarcely
human. Their clothes torn into shreds like bits of tinder,
their skin perfectly black except where it was hanging in
pieces, and the blood issuing in streams. Some rolled on
the ground, others danced or screamed in agony. The
poor young man, Lieutenant Trench, was carried out by his
men in the same state.2
* It appears that during my absence he discovered a box
of grenades and small shells, from which he took the fusees,
and then threw them into the ditch where the powder
2 Jones, Journal of Sieges in of Engineers with the corps, was,
Spain, vol. i. note 7 : ' Several from the awkwardness of the unin-
shafts, left in an unfinished state structed soldiers employed under
by the French, were by order of him, blown to pieces, and in conse-
Sir Brent Spenser completed and quence no report could ever be
exploded, when he marched with obtained of the details of the ope-
his corps to the Alentejo in the ration, or of the quantity of powder
following month, and utterly de- used, nor of the exact distances of
molished other considerable por- the French shafts, or the precise
tions of the revetement. manner in which they applied the
In the performance of this duty, powder.'
Lieutenant Trench, the only officer
CHAP. II. EXPLOSION OF MINES. 23
was. Falling from a considerable height upon stones,
they of course emitted sparks. The whole of the powder
blew up even to the bastion, where three barrels were
standing without their heads, which Lieutenant Trench
had reserved for the mines. I fancy he must have been
stationed near them. I had him carried back into Almeida,
and left with him his two servants, one of my assistant
surgeons, and every possible necessary ; but he died in
two days. This unfortunate occurrence set the whole of
the inhabitants and their baggage to flight, and their
screams and cries, united to those of our poor men in rear
of the regiment, were truly appalling, We had to march
on half a mile to be out of the reach of the explosion of
the mines, and then to dress these poor creatures, and
place them in litters, though they could scarcely bear to
be touched. It was now nearly sunset, but my orders for
the explosion of the mines were still unexecuted. As the
regiment had to march fifteen miles, I ordered them on,
and returned to Almeida with the party of engineers.
They were perfectly ignorant as to the mode of exploding
the mines, and had very nearly blown up themselves and
me. We exploded four, and left two undone, which were
close to the gate. One of them being set fire to, we
galloped out — as we thought, at the hazard of our lives
— every instant expecting the explosion to take place
over us.
' It was then dark. We had a dreadful night's march,
with our poor men in the greatest agony. Three of them
died in two days, and I suppose none will survive. So melan-
choly a service I never was engaged in, and hope never
shall again. The poor young man, Lieutenant Trench,
was at dinner with me when we received the order, and
we proceeded to execute the service together instantly.
Then to leave him in the bastion in perfect health and
spirits, and five minutes after to see him carried out
a dreadful object, with scarcely any traces of the same
24 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
person ! After the place was destroyed, the subordinate
general wished he had not sent the order, as the French had
retired ! ! '
After joining the army at Sabugal, Colonel Campbell
was again ordered back with his regiment to Fuchedas, in
rear of Almeida, to defend the passes of the Coa, as a
body of French, on their march from Salamanca to the
Alentejo, had made a reconnaissance in that direction in
order to deceive the British general.
A severe attack of fever followed, induced probably by
the distressing scenes he had witnessed four days before,
and by bodily fatigue during the subsequent march and
counter-march.
'On the llth,' writes Colonel Campbell, *I was sud-
denly seized with a chilliness, and had scarcely strength
to sit on my horse for the last league of the march to
Fuchedas. On the 13th the regiment followed the army
to the Alentejo, and left me insensible, in charge of three
Portuguese surgeons. On recovering my faculties a week
after, I found myself so weak as scarcely to be able to
articulate, or to turn in my bed. Although it was not
likely that the French would send any party twenty miles
in advance from Ciudad Rodrigo, it was not pleasant to
think that I was on the great road from that, and not a
British or Portuguese soldier within fifty miles of me. I
was carried in my bed, on peasants' shoulders, to Pin-
hel on the 20th. What I suffered in conveyance from
thence to Coimbra is beyond description — a distance of
more than 100 miles, part of it rough road, and no inns,
I first tried a liteira. This is a very large sedan-chair,
but instead of men, there is a mule before, and another
behind, with the poles fixed on their sides. Conceive
their unequal movements, sometimes at a slow trot, but
generally a walk. The liteira, besides jolting up and
down, possesses a motion backwards and forwards like a
sedan-chair, but to a much greater extent. I had no
CHAP. II. JOURNEY TO LISBON. 25
alternative but my horse, exposed to the sun, in very hot
weather, and on white glaring roads. I was lifted out
and in, off and on, twenty times, trying both conveyances
in turn — obliged to go on, in order to reach some village
where I could find shelter, perhaps ten or twelve miles
off. Unable in my weak state to endure this suffering and
fatigue for more than one day, my attendants hired a cart
of the country, which is very clumsy, and mounted on two
solid wooden wheels (the noise of which may be heard a
mile off), and drawn by two oxen. Having then no bed,
I was placed in it, lying at full length upon straw. I
could have borne this had the roads been good, but
when we came to some places, where the cart was jolted
and thrown in all directions, I really felt sometimes as if
I must give up. After two days' trial, I was obliged to
discharge the cart, the motion was so violent. The rest
of the journey I made on horseback at a walk ; and so
feeble was I, that I could not move two paces without a
supporter. I generally managed to travel five miles in
the morning, and again from two to seven in the after-
noon and evening, frequently resting for twenty or thirty
minutes under the shade of a tree, to slumber on my
cloak. In most of the villages the houses were full of
filth and vermin, and in many instances the French had
burnt everything, down to the very doors and flooring, so
that it was impossible to enter them. When this was the
case, I generally went into the church for shelter.
' My attendants were numerous : my assistant-surgeon,
a subaltern of my regiment, an orderly corporal, four ser-
vants and two of their wives, three riding and four bag-
gage horses, an ass, and two goats. Whenever we came
to a town or large village for our night halt, the civil
magistrate gave us a billet on one of the principal inha-
bitants, who was thereby obliged to provide accommoda-
tion for myself, my servants and horses, as well as the use
of kitchen and table utensils ; and also a bed for me, with
26 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
clean linen and lights. If there is no commissary, the
magistrate must likewise furnish rations of fresh beef
and mutton, bread and wine. If the inhabitant on whom
the billet is given be rich, he frequently sends in a
dinner or supper. In the course of my journey this hap-
pened to me three or four times. On one occasion a
widow lady was peculiarly courteous in this respect. She
sent her servant to my subaltern, putting all she had in
her house at our disposal, and apologising for her supplies
not being better.
' The cause of her apology was as follows : When the
French came to the village, she had left a servant with every-
thing in charge, ordering him to offer them the use of her
house, with a table provided for the commanding officer.
Massena, with some fifty officers and attendants, occupied
the house, eat her provisions, and drank her wine. Some
of this party had discovered the place — within a plank in
the roof of one of the rooms — where all her ready money
was hid (she named the sum), and the poor lady's hoard
was carried off. However, she was very grateful on find-
ing that her house and furniture, offices and garden, had
not been injured. And well she might, when the whole
country (with a few such exceptions) was devastated.
'A Monsieur Pais, at whose house, half-way to Co-
imbra, I rested, was more fortunate. His was a princely
house, handsomely furnished, with some good paintings,
an extensive park, and everything in great style. He
buried his chief stock of wine, and carried off his plate ;
but left an upper servant, an Italian, with a cook, and
two or three others — the furniture as it stood, and a
small quantity of wine. A letter addressed to Massena
informed him of the articles placed at his disposal.
Massena, in his advance, occupied the house with his
whole staff, and ate and drank freely of its supplies, but
nothing was ever injured.
' If you refer to the map, you will see that my route
CHAP. II. REJOINS THE ARMY. 27
from Pinhel lay by Yizen, on the right bank of the Mon-
dego. About twenty-five miles from Coitnbra I em-
barked in a boat, and reached it the same day, which was
the 5th of July. This was a relief beyond description.
From Coimbra I went by water to Figueira, at the mouth
of the Mondego, and by the same mode, a few days after,
to San Martinho, and thence to Caldas, where there is a
hot chalybeate spring, and a very fine public establish-
ment. Here upwards of 100 poor persons have access to
the baths, are lodged in the hospitals, fed, and provided
with medical attendance ; and have also free admittance
to the public gardens. It used to be much frequented by
the nobility and gentry as a place of recreation at this
season of the year, and even now there are several fami-
lies here.'
Colonel Campbell finally arrived at Lisbon on July 21,
by which time his health had so improved, that he was
able within a few days to set out to rejoin his corps,
which was stationed at Pena Macor, near Sabugal. The
army had then gone into cantonments — one line being
between the Guadiana and the Tagus — the other north of
the Tagus, in and about Castello Branco, where Lord
Wellington had his headquarters.
' The army,' Colonel Campbell reports on rejoining, ' is
not healthy, and inconceivably diminished by invalids sent
to the rear. When last in front of Marmont and Soult,
between Elvas and Badajos, Lord Wellington had under
30,000 men, inclusive of waggon-train, and 21,000 Portu-
guese, while the enemy had 64,000.' 3
No operations are recorded until more than a month
afterwards, when Marmont, ably taking advantage of the
comparative weakness of Wellington's force, collected a
3 Napier, vol. iii. book xiv. ch. sabres and bayonets were in line ;
vi. p. 316 : ' Although largely re- whereas the French had a fourth
inforced, the British had so many more of artillery and infantry, and
sick and wounded, that only 28,000 twice as many cavalry.'
28 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
body of from 50,000 to 60,000 men out of all his garrisons,
Placensia, Coria, Burgos, &c., for the purpose of escorting
a convoy to Ciudad Eodrigo with provisions for four
months. While Wellington, on the other hand, however
anxious to prevent this supply being thrown in to the
blockaded garrison, would not, as he said, risk his ' little
army against double numbers, for an object on which the
fate of Spain did not depend.' The enemy were ' double
his number in infantry, and three times so in cavalry.'
The relief of Ciudad Eodrigo and the consequent
affairs at El Bodon, &c., are thus described by Colonel
Campbell :
' Beginning their march early in September, the
French columns approached Ciudad Eodrigo by the mid-
dle of the month, and reached it on the 23rd, our detach-
ments falling back. On the 25th the enemy attacked our
right. They had lancers and hussars mixed, and infantry
skirmishers to support them. We drew back leisurely
to Fuente Guinaldo. Our right was then towards the
sources of the Agueda and Coa, and our position crossed a
line of hills which rise from Ciudad Eodrigo to Sabugal.
This was occupied by the 3rd and 4th Divisions, and by
our brigade. The 6th Division was on the left, in the
low country, detached under General Graham ; the Light
Division did not cross a ford, and join on the right, until
3 p.m. on the 26th. During that day the French re-
mained immediately under our view, little more than a
mile off, and close to our advanced guard of cavalry.
The fields were quite open, so that we could count every
man, and we could see as many as five times our own
little numbers. Lord Wellington sat all day on a height
to the left, in the ditch of a field-work thrown up during
the night, sometimes napping in the sun ; and I fancy, if
the enemy had seriously advanced, we must have scam-
pered off, giving them some rounds of artillery. The Light
Division, too, must have scrambled away as they could,
CHAP. II. COMBATS OF EL BODON, ETC. 29
separated from us by a river and chain of hills. During
the night we retreated to Alfyates, three leagues in rear
of our former position. The French followed us close, and
during the whole day of the 27th we had some fighting,
principally near our brigade, at the village of Aldea de
Ponte ; but our Ca9adores only were actually engaged,
being advanced in front. On the night of the 27th, or
rather early morning of the 28th, we retreated again to
Sabugal, but the French drew back at the same time,
and since then have marched off to Salamanca and Pla--
censia as hard as they can.
' The army of Gallicia is becoming formidable, and the
French are certainly hampered by the guerillas, and the
difficulty of getting provisions except by force, as they have
but little money. Both Spain and Portugal are so ex-
hausted, that this war seems to be turning into a mere
struggle for subsistence.' 4
On Marmont's retiring, and there being no further ap-
prehension of attack, Wellington and his army went into
winter-quarters at the beginning of October. The Com-
mander-in-Chief was at Freneda, on the right bank of the
Coa ; Pack's Brigade close by, at Azenhal, one league from
Almeida.
Colonel Campbell writes from thence, on November 20 :
' We are quite quiet, and will probably continue so for
some months.'
That prediction, however, was destined to be soon
rudely shaken. Within five days from the previous date,
the army was again on the move — and Pack's Brigade
with them — ' expecting a convoy from Ciudad Eodrigo,
which it was intended to intercept.' But as it did not
4 This was Wellington's own and of the French military system.
view of the case. Despatch to Lord They are now, in a great measure,
Liverpool, Sta. Marinha, March 23, on the defensive, and are carrying
1811 : ' We have already, in some on a war of magazines.'
degree, altered the nature of the war
30 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
come, the troops returned to their winter cantonments,
' excepting the Light and Cole's Divisions and ourselves.
We are rather nearer Ciudad Eodrigo than any of these
(Colonel Campbell is writing from Espiga, December 10,
1811) ; in fact, only five miles from it. Our market is
entirely supplied with cabbages brought from its im-
mediate vicinity, and the peasantry go there and back
at all hours of the day. The garrison do not venture
beyond their guns. They are dissatisfied for want of pay
and provisions, and many Italians desert.'
At this time it was supposed that General Pack would
shortly be removed to a British brigade ; and in expecta-
tion of this he had recommended Colonel Campbell to
Marshal Beresford as successor to his present command.
The change, however, did not take place, General Pack
himself continuing to hold the appointment ; and Colonel
Campbell had consequently only the temporary command
of the brigade during a brief period, when the brigadier
was incapacitated by illness. While thus acting, he was
led to form a most favourable estimate of the Portuguese
soldiery composing the several corps.
' The next campaign will give us opportunities to show
off the Boys, not a Spanish undisciplined collection of
peasantry, but three good veteran regiments, completely
equipped and disciplined, and acting in the most honour-
able situations of the Allied Army.' 5
This favourable opinion was amply justified in the
issue. The campaign of 1812 commenced at a very early
period of the year. Invested on January 8, Ciudad Ro-
drigo capitulated on the 19th. For their part in the
assault Colonel Campbell and his regiment received hon-
ourable mention in the several despatches of the Brigadier,
5 Napier, History of War in Pe- whether British or Portuguese, that
ninsula, vol. iv. book xviii. ch. i. regiment was distinguished in the
p. 234 : ' Whenever an officer formed war for its discipline and enduring
under Moore obtained a regiment, qualities.'
CHAP. II. ASSAULT OF CIUDAD RODHIGO. 31
Pack, — the Divisional Commander, Sir Thomas Picton, —
and the Couimander-in-Chief himself.
Brigadier-General Pack to the Adjutant-General of the
Portuguese Army.
[Translated from the Portuguese.]
'Convent of Caridad, January 20, 1812.
* I have the honour to transmit a return of the casual-
ties during last night, and have the most sincere pleasure
at the same time of communicating, for the information
of His Excellency the Count of Transcoso, Cornmander-
in-Chief of the Portuguese Army, the extreme good con-
duct of the regiments.
'This attack, agreeably to the general orders, was to
have been a feint upon the exterior works of the gate of
St. Yago ; but His Excellency, Lord Wellington, was
pleased afterwards to grant us some ladders, in case of
opportunity. With these the walls were scaled, and we
made prisoners of two officers, three sergeants, and seventy-
five rank and file.
' The 16th Regiment, by its relative situation, was first
directed to the point of attack, and from the gallant
style with which it advanced, led by Colonel Campbell, I
have felt it my duty to request that officer to recommend
a sergeant for promotion, whose name I take the liberty of
adding for the favourable consideration of His Excel-
lency.'
Extract from General Orders, as issued by Lieutenant-General
Picton, commanding the 6th Division, Army of Portugal.
' Ciudad Kodrigo, January 20, 1812.
' Lieutenant- General Picton avails himself of this op-
portunity of returning his best thanks to the whole of
his division for the promptness, valour, and soldier-like
32 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
steadiness with which they mounted the breach and
fausse-braye of the garrison last evening ; and if any-
thing could surpass his well-founded expectations of the
troops under his command, it was the consummate judg-
ment displayed by all the officers of his division. But
the Lieutenant- General would be doing injustice to what
he owes to such brilliant services, if he did not particu-
larly mention the names of Colonel Neil Campbell, 16th
Portuguese Regiment, &c.'
Extract from Lord Wellington's Public Despatch.
'Gallegos, January 20, 1812.
' The 1st Portuguese Regiment under Colonel Hill, and
the 16th under Colonel Campbell, being Brigadier-General
Pack's brigade, were likewise distinguished in the assault
under the command of the Brigadier General.'
Although present throughout the siege of Badajos, com-
menced March 25, the 16th Eegiment appears to have had
no part in the actual assault, April 6. But in the suc-
ceeding operations of the year's compaign, including the
battle of Salamanca, and long series of previous man-
O3uvres, the subsequent march to Madrid, and the siege of
Burgos, it was again prominent.
On June 13 the army moved forward from Ciudad
Rodrigo and its vicinity, and entered Salamanca on the
1 7th, having crossed the river Tonnes the same day in
two columns. During that march, Pack's Brigade held the
advance of General Picton's Division. On the 20th the
army were collected in a position before Salamanca, facing
southwards, and with their right on the Tormes. Mar-
mont remained close in front for three days, then fell back
some miles, and threw a few thousand men across the
Tormes, who, however, returned the following day. On
the 27th, the fortified Convent,6 which had prevented the
9 The works ' consisted of a fort formed out of the large convent of
on the north-west of the city, St. Vicente, which stands in the
CHAP. II. ADVANCE OF THE AKMY INTO SPAIN. 33
British from using the bridge of Salamanca, surrendered ;
and on the 29th they again advanced, Marmont retiring
in his turn.
This was the first occasion on which Colonel Campbell
had seen anything of the interior of Spain, Ciudad
Eodrigo and Badajos being only frontier-towns; and
accordingly his letters at this period contain some graphic
sketches of Spanish scenery and character, as well as
afford glimpses of the general condition of the country.
' Our operations have of late been very interesting, for
every rock and tree on the frontier of Portugal had become
familiar to us, and besides it presented nothing but desolate
villages and misery-stricken inhabitants. From Ciudad
Rodrigo to Salamanca the country is beautifully varied,
with corn and pasture-land, wood, and water. The vil-
lages are uninjured ; the people sturdy, healthy- looking,
and well-clothed ; the roads excellent ; in fact, 110 traces
whatever of the ravages of war. Beyond Salamanca, how-
ever, as far as the Douro, the whole scene changes. There
is scarce a tree to be seen — very little water/ except stag-
nant pools, now nearly dry from heat and exhalation — no
pasture, the whole country being laid down in corn, which
is just ripe for cutting, with large tracts of vineyards.
As there are no stakes to allow the vines to run up, these
do not present the relief of woods, but look like fields of
enormous turnips planted in regular rows. No fences of
stone or hedges mark the divisions anywhere. I did not
see any single houses. The villages are generally large
and important, almost like towns ; and each placed in a
bottom. Handsome steeples adorn the churches : within
they are universally magnificent. The altars fill up one
end with their ornaments of gilding, paintings, and velvet ;
in fact, whatever can look showy and gorgeous, heaped
centre of an angle of the old town the river,' Jones, Journal of Sieyes
wall, which is there very lofty and in Spain, vol. i. ch. viii.
built on a perpendicular cliff over
34 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
together. The candlesticks, lustres, images, &c., which
were formerly of gold and silver, are now only in imitation,
of wood and tin, gilt and tinselled, the original having
been all carried away three years ago by the French.
Two villages which Marmont occupied under our noses
near Salamanca were ransacked, like those in Portugal,
without mercy ; but, with this exception, nothing that we
have seen shows any signs of the suffering or destruction
incident to war. The produce of the country is so abundant,
that the people have had plenty for themselves, as well as
for the French and the Guerillas ; and, besides, could well
afford the money-contributions imposed upon them, having
no other taxes to pay. They profess to be heartily sick
of the French, and rejoiced to see us. At every village
through which we pass, the whole population meet us with
acclamations of " Yiva Espagna ed Inghilterra," and
bring out pitchers of water for our men. For some time,
however, they appear to have made up their minds to sub-
mission, for want of an adequate army or generals, and a
government to direct them. Now our cause looks well, if
the Kussian War continues.
* The French have lately been much distressed for maga-
zines of bread, but now they have the means of support at
hand, the corn being all ripe. However, the Guerillas
annoy them exceedingly.'
It was about this time that Colonel Campbell, as senior
officer, assumed the command of Pack's Brigade, the briga-
dier himself being confined to his bed with fever and ague.
From June 29 to July 2, when Marmont passed the
Douro, the brigade was attached to the Light Division,
and led with them the march of the army. The ope-
rations of the latter day are thus noticed by Colonel
Campbell :
* I think that on July 2, when the bulk of Marmont's
army crossed the Douro, we might have closed upon their
rearguard, and inflicted on them great loss. The main
CHAP. IL HAS COMMAND OF A BRIGADE. 35
body of their cavalry got mixed up with the infantry, and
were apparently in much confusion. The skirmishers of
the cavalry being driven in on their reserves, ours were
within fifty yards firing at them ; but Lord Wellington
would not allow the advantage to be followed up, though
the Light Division and our brigade were close at hand.
What a flattering scene, I fancied for a moment, was
opening upon me at the head of 2,300 men ! But, alas !
not one opportunity of fighting was offered during my
command of the brigade, and now General Pack is so
much better as to propose returning at once to his
post.
c Lord Wellington, I should suppose, is confident that he
can ultimately gain his object by teasing and wearing
them out,7 and does not therefore wish to lose men, even
while gaining some advantage by it, and inflicting greater
loss on the enemy. For we might certainly have thrashed
them at Salamanca, when they remained two and a half
days before us ; they in a flat, we on a hill, and scarce a
stone or tree to interrupt us.'
Marmont did not continue his retreat beyond Tordesillas,
and still occupied the bridge there across the Douro.
Pack's Brigade thereupon drew back to Rueda, three
miles to the south, from which latter place Colonel Camp-
bell writes on July 7 :
* Marmont is still at Tordesillas, with most of his army
about it. The bridge is fortified and very defensible ; but
there is a ford at Polios close by. The enemy have only
one double vidette, 500 yards on this side of the bridge.
Ours again is but twenty yards distance from them ; and
the men are very quietly sitting on their horses, looking
at each other !
7 Colonel Campbell had so far that the contest is expensive, and
read correctly the mind of his chief, affords no hope of success except
Despatch to Lord Liverpool, Sta. by tiring out the French.'
Marinha, March 23, 1811 : 'I know
D 2
36 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
' We have 5,000 Spaniards of Don Carlos and Don Julian
with us. The Gallician Army under Santhouldes, 20,000
strong, is besieging Astorga ; but I understand that Lord
Wellington has requested them to move on and communi-
cate with us, leaving the French garrison at that place, as
well as those of Zamora and Toro, the only ones which
remain in rear of our left flank ; and General D'Urban
with some Portuguese cavalry is hovering about the latter
two places.'
The two armies remaining thus face to face with each
other, a general engagement could not long be delayed.
On July 22 was fought the great battle of Salamanca.
Marmont was considered the most accomplished tactician
of all the French marshals ; and therefore Wellington's
victory over him was proportionably enhanced in his own
as well as in the world's estimation, following too, as it
did, upon a long series of manoeuvres, by means of which
his adversary had endeavoured to circumvent and outwit
him in every possible way. It was a proof of the peculiar
pride felt by Wellington in this military achievement,
that when the British Army was reviewed during the
occupation of Paris in 1815, in honour of the Allied
Sovereigns, the movements performed under his own im-
mediate command wore those of the battle of Salamanca.
A letter written by Colonel Campbell to one of his
sisters, the day after the battle, runs as follows :
1 To make up for my long silence, I hope to find favour
in your sight by acquainting you that I am safe, after a
most brilliant victory obtained by our glorious Chief over
Marmont. Every one entertains feelings peculiar to
himself in connection with his own profession and habits,
which persons of other pursuits cannot enter into so
easily. Now, I feel as if I had never lived as a soldier
before this great day, and the recent interesting opera-
tions preceding it. Lord Wellington's dispositions were
so grand and so sudden, that they presented to my imagi-
CHAP. II. BATTLE OF SALAMANCA. 37
nation the idea of a lion turning round against a troop of
tigers, from whom he had received snaps and insults
while following his own majestic course.
' The enemy have lost 15 or 16 pieces of cannon, 3,000 or
4,000 killed and wounded, and from 6,000 to 8,000 prisoners.
We have about 3,000 or 4,000 killed and wounded, as we
formed under their tremendous cannonade. The battle
was fought in front of Salamanca, which we covered, facing
to the south. Marmont is said to have lost an arm.
General Le Marchant of ours is killed, and among the
wounded are Sir S. Cotton, Marshal Beresford, and Gene-
rals Cole and Leith.
It could not be ascertained until this morning what road
the enemy had followed, after recrossing the Tonnes in
different places. It now appears they are pursuing that
from Alba de Tormes to Penaranda in perfect disorder and
consternation. If our provisions can be forwarded, or any
obtained by the way, we shall make more prisoners. An
army like ours, supplied by a commissariat upon system
and payment, is in a very different position from one which
plunders without mercy, and has therefore less chance in
the pursuit of fugitives after the first day. Our policy, how-
ever, renders any imitation of the French impossible. They
strip houses and fields, as they pass along, of every single
article, and leave nothing behind for the poor inhabitants,
tearing up the potatoes, peas, and corn (which last they
grind in small hand-mills, which are carried on mules),
and driving all the cattle before them. The road is strewed
with dead French and quadrupeds, arms and drums, books,
papers, &c. This defeat will damp their spirits, and
strengthen ours, as well as revive the Spaniards ; and a
great portion of the enemy will likewise be so disorganised
as to be incapable of acting for some time. If the Gallician
Army, now between Yalladolid and Burgos, as well as the
Guerillas, are at all active, and if Drouet and Suchet do
not speedily unite their forces with Marmont to back him,
38 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
it is not improbable that we may reach Madrid, or at any
rate the passes of the Guadarama. An army (unless,
indeed, it gives itself up to the vile abandoned habit
of unjust contributions and general pillage, like the
French), must be regulated in its movements by its
supplies; and these are not easy to be obtained for a
large force, where magazines have not been previously
established. The inhabitants, too, require a little time to
return from their hiding-places off the roads.'
Colonel Campbell narrowly escaped being wounded in
the action, his military cloak, which was strapped in
front of his saddle, having been completely riddled by a
musket ball, which dropped at his feet while he was in
the act of getting off his horse at the close of the day.
A more detailed account of the action, as given by him
in another letter, while yet the whole scene was fresh and
vivid in his mind, seems also worth relating :
* After the fall of the Convent at Salamanca, the enemy
fell back towards Valladolid, and we followed, from June 29
to July 2, as far as Rueda. On the 15th we began to
collect again from our different cantonments, in conse-
quence of the enemy having drawn together every man
within reach, excepting the garrisons of Valladolid, Zamora,
and Toro. We manoeuvred, gradually falling back upon our
former position, in order to cover Salamanca, having that
city in our rear, and the river Tonnes on our right. From the
15th to the 21st we had constant skirmishing, and several
times offered battle ; but the enemy always manoeuvred to
our right, so that we were obliged to do the same, or else
hazard our supplies and the city of Salamanca. On the
21st their army crossed the Tormes, between Alba de
Tormes and Salamanca. We followed suit at other fords
with nearly the whole of our army. On the 22nd we had
some skirmishing in front of our left, our brigade being
principally engaged ; but this was merely a feint to attract
our notice, while Marmont drew his troops principally
CHAP. II. BATTLE OF SALAMANCA. 39
beyond our right, in rear of some heights, and took pos-
session of a very steep rugged hillock. At one time Wel-
lington ordered this to be taken by our brigade, but the
enemy having reinforced it considerably, and seeming dis-
posed for battle, the order was countermanded. They
drew back their columns again, excepting from this height,
and for some hours continued to move farther beyond
our right, occupying one hill after another with artillery
and cavalry, and driving our cavalry before them. We
felt furious at having our right menaced and manoeuvred
against in this way for seven days, and even expressions
of surprise at Lord Wellington's seeming disposition for
retreat beyond Salamanca were universal in the army.
But this wonderful man had laid his plan for leading on
his vaunting enemy to a distance, and to such a situation
as would prevent him from escaping, except with great
loss, and with a river to repass in his rear.
' However, during Marmont's successful manoeuvres (as
they then appeared) to our right, our columns were brought
up to near the field of battle, and then, as if by magic,
almost before we were aware of it, and to our surprise
and joy, the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th divisions and
the cavalry proceeded to the points directed for each,
with more precision, regularity, and speed than in any of
our sham-fights at Swinly Camp. In twenty minutes the
whole appeared in order of battle, ranged in various lines,
only two pieces of cannon and some skirmishers covering
our front, while the enemy kept up a roar of great guns
from the opposite heights for two miles in length, sent
out clouds of skirmishers to some points, and began to form
close bodies of infantry also. Meantime we remained on
our first ground, rather retired and elevated, so that we
could see the formations of the whole. There was not a
tree to obstruct the view. The Light and 1st Divisions
were in reserve behind us, to the left.
' About half an hour after the line advanced, our brigade
40 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
under General Pack 8 were ordered to attack the very strong
height before mentioned. We got up close to. the very
summit, but the topmost cliffs were inaccessible, and the
openings between them so warmly defended that we could
not carry them. Our men turned, and suffered considerably
in going back. How I wished at that moment for a British
regiment ! Although the Portuguese troops are wonder-
fully improved, their nature and previous corrupted habits
will prevent their ever equalling our own fine fellows. It
is the inferior material to be wielded, which makes the
Portuguese service so laborious to the officers. However,
at last we conquered all difficulties, and carried every
height in succession, night alone preventing us from
destroying the enemy's whole army.'
While part of the British forces went in pursuit of the
beaten French across the Douro, the left division of the
army marched to Madrid, and took possession of that city
on August 12, King Joseph having abandoned his capital
and fled southwards towards Toledo and Aranjuez.
' It is impossible,' says Wellington in his despatch an-
nouncing his entry, ' to describe the joy manifested by
the inhabitants on our arrival.'
In a similar strain writes Colonel Campbell from thence,
August 15, 1812 :
* We carry on this campaign nobly. Since my last I
have been at Yalladolid and Segovia, and arrived here two
days ago. . This is the third night of illuminations, pro-
cessions, Te Deums, proclamations, &c. The people exhibit
8 Napier, History of War in of smoke, a shout, a stream of fire,
Peninsula, vol. iv. book xviii. chap, and then the side of the hill was
iii. p. 271. 'That officer [Pack], covered with the killed, the wound-
having ascended the French Her- ed, the flying Portuguese, They
manito in one column, was within were scoffed at for the failure, but
thirty paces of the top, and believed unjustly: no troops could have
himself victorious, when suddenly withstood that crash upon such
the French reserves leaped forward steep ground ; and the propriety of
from the rocks upon his front and attacking the hill at all seems ques-
left flank ; there was a thick cloud tionable.'
CHAP. II. OCCUPATION OF MADRID. 41
tlie most enthusiastic, nay frantic, joy. Men and women,
of all ranks and ages, gather round us in the streets, and
hug us at every step !
' The garrison of the Retiro surrendered yesterday, only,
however, after the scaling ladders had been brought out,
and three divisions were in position round them. 1,800 of
the finest looking fellows possible became our prisoners,
with 20,000 stand of arms, and immense stores, very useful
to the Allied army.'
Wellington soon after found it necessary — for purposes
of discipline to his troops, as well as with the design of
sheltering them from the extreme summer-heat of Madrid,
that burning centre of ' tawny Spain ' — to remove a portion
of the army from the capital, and, among others, Pack's
Brigade was marched to the Escurial,9 twenty miles off,
under the shadow of the Guadarama. This position, on
the direct road to the north and to France, appears to
have suggested to Colonel Campbell the following remarks,
contained in a letter dated Escurial, August 28, 1812 :
' Persons at a distance cannot easily conceive how com-
pletely cowed most of the Spaniards were, from the
terrifying examples which the French had made for the
four previous years, in order to put down every act of
resistance.
9 In my Journal of Travel, June, " Cornelio " forms not the least won-
1853, I find the following notice of der of the place. If his instinct was
the Escurial : at fault for a moment, he had only to
' Bacon has well said (Essays, touch the nearest wall with his stick,
xlv. Of Building) :J " It is strange when he at once took up the cue,
to see now in Europe such huge so to speak, and speeded on more
buildings as the Vatican and Es- briskly than ever. The old man told
curial and some others be, and yet us, that he remembered well the
scarce a very fair room in them." occupation of the Escurial by a
For the rest of the interior seemed a part of Wellington's army, and
perfect labyrinth of corridors and laughed grimly over the idea of "the
chambers and courts, and plunging soldiers without trowsers," as he
into them, as it were, one soon loses called them — meaning of course the
all idea of locality. Marvellous to Highlanders.'
relate our guide was stone-blind !
42 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. II.
' All the principal towns and villages on the line of com-
munication between Madrid and the French frontier, had
a fortified church or convent occupied by troops, where
they could defend themselves for a certain time against any
number of peasants or guerillas unprovided with cannon.
And if any act of violence was committed against a single
French soldier, the whole population of the particular
locality suffered by the infliction of increased contributions,
the seizure of hostages, and the punishment of the prin-
cipal inhabitants. But now, if the Russian War will give
us time, not only to assemble but to establish an army
and a government in this country, it will be a work of
many years, even for Buonaparte's transcendent military
and political genius, to subjugate Spain, and much more
to wield its resources offensively against Great Britain.'
In consequence of the French Army of the North, now
under Clausel, showing a disposition to resume offensive
operations, Wellington was obliged to make a forward
move in their direction ; and accordingly quitted Madrid
on September 1, gathering up his divisions as he went
along. He came upon the enemy at Yalladolid on
the 7th, and they in turn retired towards Burgos ; on
reaching which, in the course of his pursuit, and finding
them determined to hold their ground, he at once pro-
ceeded to the attack of that stronghold — with no favourable
issue, as is well known.
From a memorandum by Colonel Campbell, under the
head of Burgos, we quote as follows :
' Although the place was not taken, the service was very-
severe. I was constantly under fire during the first twenty-
four hours of the siege, being employed in driving in the
outposts on the first day. I also headed a column of assault,
which succeeded in forcing its entry, and remained all night
in command of the hornwork at Fort St. Michael, and of
the trenches, to break ground, until relieved at 12 o'clock
on the following day.'
CHAP. II. SIEGE OF BURGOS. 43
Lord Wellington was pleased to notice this gallant and
difficult service in his public despatch, dated ' Villa de Toro,
near Burgos, September 21, 1812.' %
' As soon as it was dark, the same troops, with the addi-
tion of the 42nd Regiment, attacked and carried by assault
the hornwork which the enemy had occupied in strength.
In this operation Brigadier-General Pack, Lieutenant-
Colonel Hill of the 1st Portuguese Regiment, and Colonel
Campbell of the 16th, distinguished themselves.'
During this chequered campaign of 1812, the casualties
among the officers of the 16th Regiment amounted to
sixteen killed and wounded, being exactly one-half of the
number present. On the army going into winter quarters
Colonel Campbell, being invalided by a decision of a Medical
Board, returned to England, where he arrived in January,
1813.
44 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL, CHAP. III.
CHAPTER III.
[1813.]
APPOINTED TO LORD CATHCARl's STAFF — SAILS FROM HARWICH TO
GOTTENBURGH — GENERAL HOPE'S MISSION — JOURNEY TO STOCKHOLM
— INTERVIEWS WITH KING, QUEEN, AND CROWN PRINCE OF SWEDEN
— VISIT TO MADAME DE STAEL — JOURNEY TO CARLSCRONA.
COLONEL CAMPBELL'S stay in England, after his return
from the Peninsula, was but of short duration. In Feb-
ruary, 1813, he received an appointment from H.K.H. the
Duke of York, Commander-in-Chief, as Colonel on the
Staff (in the room of the Earl of Tyrconnell, lately
deceased), under the orders of General Viscount Cathcart,
Ambassador at the Court of St. Petersburgh.
It had been arranged between the Secretaries of State,
that his lordship should accompany H.I.M. the Emperor of
Russia with the Imperial Armies, both in his civil capacity
as Ambassador and in his military quality as General, on
the Staff in the continent of Europe. In the latter he was
charged to receive reports upon the operations of the
different corps from Colonel Sir Robert Wilson, Colonel
Lowe,1 and Colonel Campbell, who were to be severally
attached to them, agreeably to a stipulation in a recent
treaty between Great Britain and Eussia.
Colonel Campbell accordingly sailed from Harwich on
the night of the 4th March, 1813, and, after a very stormy
passage, arrived at Gottenburgh on the 9th. There he
fell in with General Hope, who had been sent to Stockholm
for the purpose of arranging a treaty with Bernadotte, the
Crown Prince of Sweden, and was now on his return to
1 Afterwards Sir Hudson Lowe; Governor of St. Helena.
CH\P. III. JOURNEY THROUGH SWEDEN. 45
England. It had been part of Colonel Campbell's in-
structions, that he should place himself at the disposal of
that officer in case of need.
He writes from Gottenburgh, March 10, 1813 :
' General Hope arrived here last night from Stockholm,
and sails this forenoon for England in H.M. ship "Daphne,"
having concluded his mission, I hope and believe, success-
fully, from the universal sentiments of the people of the
country, and of the Prince Royal, and the favourable im-
pressions of both, which General Hope seems so cordially
to feel. I go from this in a day or two to Stockholm,
and from thence shall turn again south to Carlscrona,
and proceed across to the coast of Prussia, according
to the state of the navigation, and the particular place
where Lord Cathcart may then be. He left St. Peters-
burgh some time ago for the head-quarters of the Imperial
Army.
' I hope, as I pass through Stockholm, to send you some
interesting accounts of Bernadotte, and the famous au-
thoress, Madame de Stael, who is now there on a visit.
* Pray, however, keep in mind my strict injunctions —
never to let any of my letters out of your hand, and never to
communicate any public event on my authority, or before
it has become known through other channels. You will
recollect too my peculiar situation, whenever my letters
appear uninteresting.'
The distance from Gottenburgh to Stockholm being 350
miles, there was at first some difficulty in providing a
suitable conveyance, until by the lucky purchase of a
barouche, which had been left behind by Prince Koslousky,
the Russian Ambassador to Sardinia, on his embarkation
for England, Colonel Campbell was able to post on without
more delay, in company with two friends, their servants
and luggage following in open carts.
' These carts,' he says, * are admirably constructed, and
in universal use by all classes, for no traveller is ever seen
46 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. III.
on horseback. They are very narrow and long, with four
small wheels, the two front ones being lower than the
other pair. Along either side is a railing about a foot
high. Upon the top a seat with back, sufficient for two
persons, is lashed, and the remainder of the cart can be
used for holding luggage. If there is no luggage, two of
such seats can be fixed on either side railing, and then
four persons can be conveyed. When the roads are
covered with snow, the body is taken off the wheels, and
placed upon a sledge. These carts travel quite as fast as
our own carriage, which is about the pace of an English
mailcoach.
' The mode in Sweden of getting horses for conveyance
is upon a plan totally different from that in England. No
person can obtain the necessary relays unless in possession
of a passport. Ours was specially signed by the governor
of the province at Gottenburgh, for the purposes of
greater expedition and attention. There are post-houses
under the order of Government at every stage, a distance
of twelve or fourteen miles; the post-master keeps a
record of the horses in possession of the farmers within
several miles. Each of these in turn sends a servant
with a cart and pair to the post-house, where they wait
several hours; and if no traveller arrives during that
limited period, they then return to their homes. If the
travellers exceed the number of horses in waiting, the
post-master is bound instantly to despatch a servant upon
horseback to the farmer whose turn comes next, with a
requisition for another pair. The post-master keeps a
book, in which every traveller inserts his name and
destination, and the number of horses employed by him.
To this book are prefixed printed government regulations,
stating the number of horses kept in and about each
station, the expense per mile and per horse, the reciprocal
duties of the post-master and travellers, &c. If the travel-
ler has any complaint to make, he inserts the nature of it
CHAP. III. MODE OF TRAVELLING IN SWEDEN. 47
after his name. The book is inspected monthly by some
government officer. To ensure not being detained en
route, a man with a horse and cart, and part of the bag-
gage, is sent forward the preceding night, with a list of the
stages which the traveller intends to pursue on the follow-
ing day, and of the horses which will be required at each.
These arrangements must be so fixed as that the traveller
will not deviate more than two hours from the time warned
by the "forebode " — as he is called in Swedish — otherwise
he must pay waiting- money. Besides, the farmer's horses
will probably have returned home, and one failure in point
of time will affect all the succeeding stages for that day.
Such is the honesty of the Swedes, that the traveller's
baggage is passed on without loss or injury, although
there is a new "forebode " at every stage. In the evening,
when we arrived at our journey's end, our driver made out
a list of the stages for the following day, specifying like-
wise the places where we intended to breakfast and dine ;
and we always found everything ready for ourselves and
our servants.
4 It is the custom here to gallop down the hills, and the
horses are so accustomed to it, and so sure-footed, that
they never fall. At one descent of considerable length,
and exceedingly steep, we insisted upon walking, as the
road was covered with ice, and we had to tie twigs round
our feet to counteract the slipperiness. But our little
animals — four abreast in our carriage, which was very
heavy, and impossible for their strength to check — went
off at a canter, and increased presently to a hard gallop,
in a way that was truly wonderful.
'We generally travelled from six in the morning till
dark, as from these specimens given us of the furious pace
down hill, we thought it unnecessary to hazard the risk
of breaking our bones by travelling at night. Besides, it
would have been too severe for the servants, who were
more exposed than ourselves. As it was, the cold was
48 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. HI.
more intense than I ever before experienced. The roads
were excellent, and there was also a constant succession of
the most picturesque scenery, mostly forests of fir, excepting
small streaks of birch, interspersed with lakes, and broken
at intervals by patches of meadow and cultivated ground.
We passed only a very few seats, of better appearance than
the common residences of the peasantry. The houses are
entirely built of beams of fir-wood ; and the roofs are of
wooden shingles, arranged like slates or tiles, and the
whole painted red. There are no fireplaces in the rooms ;
but as there are double windows of glass, closely fitted, and
the seams filled up with cement, a very slight heat ma-
terially changes the temper ature. This is given by lighting
a few billets of dry fir within a stove, at different periods
during the day. The stove soon becomes heated, and
circulates the warmth through the rooms. During the
winter months no fresh air ever enters a room, excepting
while a door is being opened for a moment, never more, to
admit persons. The consequence is, that all the rooms
have a most unpleasant odour, and are quite suffocating
from the heat. Hence, too, the natives suffer more from
the cold than the strangers on the spot. No one ever
goes out without a fur coat. These habits quite ruin the
constitution among the better orders. The men are quite
unable to face any rigorous weather, and are averse to
expose themselves to it ; while the women look sickly, and
have bad complexions. The lower orders, however, seem
robust and active.'
During this little tour through Sweden, the scenery and
people appear to have constantly called up to Colonel
Campbell's mind, memories of his early Highland home.
The great lake Wener, which first came in sight near the
town of Lidkoping, 'very much resembles Loch Lomond
in breadth, at the point of view we had, though it greatly
exceeds it in length ; and there are no mountains to supply
the variety and grandeur which our Scotch lake presents.'
CHAP. III. INTERVIEW WITH KING OF SWEDEN. 49
The inhabitants too of the various towns and -villages
through which he passed — among them were Mariestad
and Orebro — bore a marked resemblance in his eyes to the
Highlanders of his native land, as well from the similarity
of their personal appearance, being universally * very fair,
with small light eyes, and high cheek-bones, as from
their language so nearly resembling the Gaelic. They
seem (he continues) uncommonly obliging and good tem-
pered, and very attentive in paying marks of outward
respect to their superiors. The men always kept off their
hats while we were passing them along the road — as did
all the officials who examined our passports — and the
women curtsied.'
' Our little horses reminded us, by their size and stur-
diness, of the small country garrons in the Highlands of
Scotland.'
Arriving at Stockholm the 17th of March, Colonel
Campbell received an official intimation that the King,
Queen, and Crown Prince would honour him with
private interviews before he proceeded farther on his
journey.
These receptions are best described in his own words :
' On the 18th I dined with the British Minister, Mr.
Thornton ; the next evening with the Portuguese Minister,
and afterwards went to the Opera. On Sunday, accom-
panied by Mr. Thornton, I was introduced to the King,
Queen, and Prince Royal respectively, and conversed
some time with each, dining afterwards with the Prince
Royal.
* The King is a very feeble old man, little of stature, and
infirm beyond his years, in consequence of paralytic strokes.
When he rose from his chair to receive us, as the door
opened, he had not strength to raise himself erect, and an
officer from behind was obliged to hold him up. He
continued standing, while conversing with Mr. Thornton
£
50 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. EL
upon the politics of the day, the various intelligences re-
ceived as to the advance of the Russians and the late
treaty. Then advancing with difficulty two or three
paces, leaning upon his cane, he put to me several ques-
tions— his articulation being low, and thick, and laboured
— as to the period of my departure from the Peninsula,
the state of England, and my intended route to join Lord
Cathcart.
* No person was in the room, with the exception of Mr.
Thornton and the officer in attendance.
* We next proceeded to pay our respects to the Queen,
and were first ushered into a room, where were assembled
several noblemen and officers of the household. Two
huge doors were then thrown open, admitting us to an
interior apartment, upon which from fifteen to twenty
middle-aged ladies fell back to the right and left, leaving
one of their party, who was the Queen, to advance towards
us with a very courteous address. Approaching quite
close, she kept us in conversation for a quarter of an hour
in French. The same subjects were introduced as with
the King, but she was much more pointed in her questions,
and very sensible. She said she was particularly inter-
ested in all the members of the Prussian Royal Family,
as they were her relations, and she knew them well. She
spoke of the Treaty of Westphalia, and the time it lasted ;
and then turning towards me, she asked particularly as to
our King's state of health, whether he was sometimes
better, and whether the Queen associated with him con-
stantly, or was only allowed to pay him occasional visits,
&c. At length she made a bow as our signal, and we
retired.
* Upon going to the Prince Royal's apartments, Mr.
Thornton alone was ushered in. He came out in a few
minutes, and told me that he had found the Prince sitting
up in bed, surrounded by papers, and that we were to
return again about 3 P.M. for a formal interview, and
CHAP. III. INTERVIEW .WITH BERNADOTTE. 51
afterwards at 5 o'clock for dinner. The Prince has been
so occupied with affairs of state for the last two or three
months, that he sits up a great part of the night ; and in
the morning again, fresh communications so press upon
him, that he is often detained from dressing for several
hours.
' At 3 o'clock, according to appointment, Mr. Thornton
and I were introduced to the Prince's apartments. There
was a large8 map upon a table, extended over some books
and papers. In a minute or so the Prince came forward
from an adjoining room, with a very pleasing air and
courteous manner, and returned our profound bows with
great politeness, but with no affectation of stiffness or
state. He first asked Mr. Thornton how he was, and then,
immediately turning to me, introduced the subject of
Spain. He spoke of the " glorious " battle of Salamanca,
in which he understood I had been engaged ; said that
Lord Wellington emulated our other great general in
former times, Marlborough, and that his operations in
the Peninsula had covered him with wreaths of laurel.
He then entered minutely into the nature of the defences
at Burgos, and our system of attack ; and asked what was
the character of Pancorvo, the only stronghold between
that and the Ebro. He inquired as to the number of
British, Spanish, and Portuguese troops under Lord
Wellington in that part of Spain, and the possibility of
blockading Burgos and Pancorvo with one portion of the
army beyond the Ebro, while giving the chief attention
to Soult south of the Tagus. After comparing our
strength at the former point with that of the enemy,
and making a rapid arithmetical calculation of numbers,
he wound up the whole by observing, "Eh bien, mon
Colonel, Lord Wellington ne pouvait pas bloquer ces
endroits, il n'avait pas la force necessaire ; il etait done
2 Lord Londonderry, War in Highness produced, as usual, his
Germany, ch. vi. p. 88. ' His Royal map,'
E 2
52 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. III.
parfaitement justifie dans sa retraite ; il a fait comme
un sage general." 3
' After ten minutes' further conversation with Mr. Thorn-
ton on topics connected with General Hope's mission, he
reminded us of our engagement to dinner at 5 o'clock, and
we took our leave.
' The Prince is about 5ft. llin. in height, active and well
made, with a handsome figure. His complexion is very dark,
with small black eyes and black hair, quite Spaniard-like.
Indeed he reckons himself half a Spaniard, being from the
part of France adjoining Spain. He is very popular here,
as he evinces in every way a desire to become a perfect
Swede. His son, who is about thirteen or fourteen, speaks
and reads and writes the language like a native. French,
however, is generally spoken in the better circles.
' I may mention that the report signed " Engestron,"
describing the political relations of Sweden for the last
three years, and Monsieur Cabre's dismissal, which ap-
peared in the London papers of February last, was written
by Bernadotte himself.
'At 5 o'clock, the appointed hour for dinner, Mr.
Thornton and myself returned to the Prince Royal's
apartments.
' We found the Eussian and Spanish Ministers, and se-
veral Swedish officers, assembled in a waiting-room. Soon
afterwards the young Prince, dressed in a jacket and
pantaloons of light blue, the uniform of the Light Cavalry
of the Guard, and accompanied by his tutor and governor,
passed through, returning again in a few minutes in com-
pany with his father, who carried his hat in his hand. He
wore the same dress as in the morning, viz. the uniform
of a Swedish general, with white pantaloons and long
boots with yellow spurs.
3 'Well, well, Colonel, Lord Wei- he was therefore perfectly justified
lington could not blockade those in retreating ; he has acted like a
places, he had not sufficient strength ; wise general.'
CHAP. III. DINES WITH CROWN PRINCE. 53
' The company immediately fell back, ranging themselves
round the room. The Prince then entered into conversa-
tion with General Suchelin, the Russian Minister, and Mr.
Thornton. On dinner being announced, we all followed
to the next room. The Russian and English Ministers
sat right and left of the Prince. My place was next the
Russian Minister, the Spanish Minister's next Mr. Thorn-
ton, the young Prince sat opposite to his father. There
was very little conversation during dinner, and even that
carried on in a low tone of voice. The Prince spoke only
to those on either side of him.
' After dinner, which was soon over, we all returned to
the waiting-room, following the Prince, and again ranged
ourselves round it. He himself stood at the door, in order
to receive some twelve or fifteen officers of rank, who came
in to pay their respects, merely bowing and passing on.
The Prince then commenced a conversation with the
person nearest to him, and proceeded regularly round the
whole circle, stopping a few minutes to talk to each
individual.
' Sunday is a gala-day in Sweden, and is the only
occasion when the young Prince dines in public. While
his father was making the tour of the circle, he approached
quietly from behind, and touched him. The Prince Royal,
on perceiving him, immediately put his two hands on his
cheeks and kissed him. The young Prince then bowed to
the company, and retired with his tutor, his father con-
tinuing his round.
' When he came up to me, he asked me several questions
as to the apparent feelings of the Spanish people ; and
upon my praising them for their patriotism, seemed to
take the compliment as paid to countrymen of his own.
When I adverted to the difficulties under which the nation
laboured from want of officers, with the Regency and
Cortes shut up in Cadiz, he descanted upon the inefficiency
of a legislative apart from an executive government. Then
64 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. III.
he spoke of Wellington as a leader, that the Spaniards
surely could not feel any jealousy towards him, from fear
of IT'S taking the entire power of the Government into his
own hands ; that it might be otherwise with one of their
own grandees, but that Lord Wellington would no doubt
be well pleased to return to his own country, there to
enjoy his well-earned honours and fortune. I assented to
this, but could not help feeling that the tone in which he
made these assertions, implied a lingering doubt in his
own mind as to their exact truth. Adverting next to
Madame de Stae'l, and her intention of going to England,1
he said he was afraid she would not enjoy there all the
pleasure she expected ; for that in our country women were
considered out of their sphere when they meddled with
politics. "When do you go?" he then asked. "Re-
member me to Lord Cathcart. Bon voyage, Colonel."
And with a very kind smile passed on. After completing
the circle, the Prince gave a general bow and retired to
his own apartments.'
It was now more than two years since Bernadotte, having
been elected by the free voice of the Swedish people, had
made his first public entry into Stockholm on Novem-
ber 1, 1810, and occupied the position of Crown Prince.
4 Edinburgh Review, No. 258. -walking up straight to the Duchess
October, 1867, Art. V. ' Miss with flashing eyes, began :
Edgeworth, her Life and Writings,' ' Eh ! madame la duehes?e, vous
p. 487. ne vouliez pas done faire ma con-
Miss Edgeworth took down from naissance en Angleterre ? '
the Duchess of Wellington's o\vn 'Non, madam e, je ne le voulais
lips a dialogue between herself pas.'
and Madame de Stae'l on a remark- ' Eh ! comment, madame? Pour-
able occasion. The Duchess had quoi done ? '
purposely avoided making the ac- 'C'est que je vous craignais,
quaintance of Madame de Stae'l in madame.'
England, not knowing how she 'Vous me craignez, madame la
might be received by the Bourbons duchesse ? '
after the Restoration. Finding, on ' Non, madame, je ne vous crains
her arrival at Paris, that ' Coriime ' plus.'
was well received, she invited her Madame de Stae'l threw her arms
to her first assembly. She came, and round her: ' Ah ! je vous adore.'
CHAP. III. BERNADOTTE, CROWN PRINCE OF SWEDEN. 55
In consequence of the infirmities of the reigning King,
Charles XIII., as just described by Colonel Campbell,
after his interview with H. M., the whole burden of govern-
ment had devolved upon Bernadotte, and his situation in
the present state of European affairs had been for some
time sufficiently embarrassing. Although owing his rise
and subsequent success entirely to Napoleon's favour — for
he was born at Pau, but of humble parents, in 1764 — and
was made marshal of the Empire in 1804, and Prince of
Pontecorvo in 1806 — he had now chiefly to consider the in-
terests of his adopted country ; and these certainly for the
moment did not square with those of his old master, who
had besides, since his elevation, treated him with suspicion
and contumely. However, his first overt act of opposition
to Napoleon was not taken till March 3, 1812, when, after
meeting favourably the advances of England, as expressed
through General Hope's mission, he signed the treaty of
Stockholm, and engaged himself, on payment of a British
subsidy, to employ a body of 30,000 Swedes, in concert
with the Allied armies of Russia and Prussia then as-
sembling in Germany. In a letter written from Carlscrona,
when he was on the point of leaving the country, and was
therefore better able, after a short experience of its politics,
to estimate the difficult position in which Bernadotte had
been placed throughout the recent negotiations, Colonel
Campbell notes as very important, in evidence of the
loyalty of the Crown Prince towards his new Allies, the
fact that * a part of the Swedish troops have already occu-
pied Pomerania, and more are collecting daily to reinforce
them as soon as the ships return.'
He had already become very popular by identifying
himself in every way with Sweden and its institutions, and
this new stroke of policy was accepted throughout the
country with universal acclamations. As Colonel Camp-
bell remarked, 'the Swedish people were acquiring new
animation and intelligence from the Crown Prince and his
56 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. HI.
measures.' Although previously favourable to Napoleon's
cause — in whose interest, as they fancied at the time,
they had elected Bernadotte as their Crown Prince and
eventual successor to the throne of their childless King, —
the Swedes had now caught some sparks of the anti-
Gallic enthusiasm, which was so rapidly spreading through
Germany and the whole North of Europe.
* I have just read,' Colonel Campbell writes, ' an extract
from a Hamburg paper, describing the joy of the inhabit-
ants there on the entrance of the Russians into their city
on the 18th ult.5 Their enthusiastic exultations appear
to have even exceeded, if that is possible, those of the
Spaniards on our entering Madrid last year.'
The determination of Bernadotte to devote himself, cost
what it might, to his new country, had likewise been
shown in relation to his wife. The daughter of M. Clary,
a merchant of Marseilles, she was also sister of King
Joseph's Queen, and had herself in early life been the
object of Napoleon's addresses. Soon after her arrival at
Stockholm, she found herself not very pleasantly situated in
regard to the female noblesse ; principally, it was thought,
5 Alison's History, ch. Ixix. vol. strewed wreaths of flowers before
ix. pp. 170, 171 : • On the 18th, the victors. Shouts of unbounded
Tetterborn, at the head of the acclamation now rose from the
advanced guard of his indefatigable countless multitude : the enthu-
Cossacks, approached the town siasm was such, that the very
amidst the acclamations and as- heavens seemed to be rent asunder
tonishment of a countless multitude by the sound. 'Long live the
of spectators. About half a mile Russians ! Long live Alexander !
from the city the Russian videttes Long live Old England ! ' burst from
were met by the greater part of the tens of thousands of voices ; the old
citizens in a body, who filled all steeples trembled with the acclama-
the houses, gardens, fields, and tions ; the roar of artillery, and the
lanes around. A tremendous hurrah loud clang of bells, gave vent in
accompanied their progress through louder notes to the universal trans-
the dense array, while the Cossacks ports; numbers wept for joy;
sang their merry national airs. At friends and strangers alike embraced
the gate of the city, the magistrates and wished each other joy to have
appeared with its keys, while lived to see such a day.'
thirty maidens, clothed in white,
CHAP. III. INTERVIEW WITH MADAME DE STAEL. 57
through the influence of a French lady who had accom-
panied her, and was not considered sufficiently conciliatory.
These disagreements on points of etiquette became at last
so pronounced, that the Crown Princess and her confidante
returned to France. But, notwithstanding this matri-
monial separation, Bernadotte still retained his son in
Sweden.
During his short stay at Stockholm, Colonel Campbell
paid a visit to Madame de Stae'l who was residing there,
and was thus able, according to a wish expressed in a
former letter, to send his sister a full account of the
celebrated authoress of ' Corinne : '
( I have just returned from spending three-quarters of
an hour with Madame de Stae'l. The Secretary of Lega-
tion, Mr. Douglas, introduced my friends, Mr. Macdonald
(Kinnear) and Dr. Neil Maxwell, and myself. She was
sitting near a table in company with M. Schlegel, who
is a German literary character, and acts in the capacity
of companion and tutor to her daughter, and two other
gentlemen. She received us very kindly, and spoke for a
minute or two to each in turn. Then taking a place in
the centre of the sofa, her daughter having entered the
room just before, and been introduced to me, she asked me
to sit next to her on the left, while her daughter occupied
the seat on the right. She then conversed freely with each
of us, as well as with three or four other persons who
entered at intervals. Among the latter was her son, an
officer in the Swedish army, and Count Fernonay, a French
emigre, despatched from England by the French Princes
upon a mission to St. Petersburgh.
' It is impossible to describe the variety and readiness of
her conversation, delivered too with ease and mildness, free
from, all affectation or interruption to others. She asked
where we were from, and where we were going ; whether I
was a relation of Lady Charlotte Campbell ; whether I
ever wore the kilt, and whether it was still worn generally
58 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. III.
in Scotland ; whether I was of opinion that Ossian's original
poem had ever existed. To Dr. Maxwell she spoke of the
extraordinary sickness at Dantzic and in the armies. To
Mr. Macdonald she mentioned Constantinople, and ex-
pressed regret at never having visited it ; said that she was
writing a poem describing Eichard Coeur de Lion and his
Crusades ; that she intended to introduce the Magna Charta
of England, but in place of its being extorted from his
successor John, she proposed to describe it as a dying
grant of Eichard. She asked us if we were acquainted
with Scott or Thomas Campbell, quoting at the same time
passages from their poems which she admired, particularly
parts of " Marmion ; " the description of the tombs of Pitt
and Fox in Westminster Abbey, close to each other. Had
read Fox's history. Had a great desire to become acquainted
with Sir James Mackintosh in consequence of his eloquent
defence of Peltier,4 and had been told that he was very
amiable in society and conversation. Thomas Campbell
had written to her concerning a translation of the work
she had written in Germany, when exiled by Bonaparte ;
spoke of his boundless ambition, • alculating the number
of lives sacrificed by him, and that he never was in so
critical a situation as now. Still, although greatly lowered,
he had vast resources, and would not fail to exert them.
Mentioned her intention of going to England, but feared
there were risks of capture in the passage, and this would
entail serious consequences on her. The expenses of living
6 ( M. Peltier's trial now took secution of Peltier's paper. The
place. M. Peltier was an emigre, occasion was an ode, in which the
whom the neighbouring revolution apotheosis of Bonaparte was referred
had driven to our shores. He to, and his assassination pretty
carried on a French journal, which, plainly advocated. Sir J. Mackin-
finding its way to the Continent, tosh's speech was translated by
excited the remarkable suscepti- Madame de Stae'l, and read with
bility of the First Consul. This admiration not only in England,
was just after the Peace of Amiens, but on the Continent.' Historical
Urged on by the French Govern- Characters, Sir H. L. Bulwer.
meiit, our own undertook the pro- Mackintosh, vol. ii.
CHAP. III. MADAME DE STAEL. 69
and travelling in England were great ; she hoped, how-
ever, to reach it in May or June. I offered my services in
forwarding any communication to Admiral Morris or
Captain Acklom at Carlscrona, and said that as men-of-
war were often going from thence to England, I was
persuaded there would be no difficulty in providing a
passage for her. She spoke of the war with America, and
regretted that Marquis Wellesley and Mr. Canning were
no longer in the Ministry. The name of Lucien Bona-
parte occurred. When I told her he intended to publish
a poem, she said he had no talents for poetry, but he
could interest and instruct by giving anecdotes of his
brother, and relating circumstances particularly known to
him. She spoke in complimentary terms of the English
language, and compared it with the French ; quoted a joke
of the Prince de Ligne, that French was the only language
in the world before the Tower of Babel. The " Edinburgh
Review" had reviewed her novel of "Corinne;" did not
know who was the editor, but understood it was Mr.
Playfair ; it was not a difficult labour to criticise and con-
demn, as shown by the criticisms on Scott's poetry and
the remarks on Eoderic Dhu. She repeated a few words
from Horace, and pointed out the peculiar pronunciation
of Latin by the English, so different from the Scotch.
In reference to the last campaign in the Peninsula, she
thought it strange Lord Wellington should have remained
so long before Burgos, if not adequately provided for the
siege. She asked me if I thought the French would be
able to hold Madrid long. She had never seen any of Lord
Byron's poety, but understood it was immoral ; regretted
this, for morality was necessary for true sentiment and
poetry, and England was the country and seat of morality.
' OnMr. Macdonald mentioning his difficulty in obtaining
a passport from the Austrian ambassador, from not being
known to him, she immediately insisted on writing a letter
of introduction. Her son brought her a small writing-
60 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. III.
desk ; she placed it on her knee, and, without any inter-
ruption to the general conversation, wrote a note. When
it was finished, she said, " Now my daughter will do the
rest," and passed it to her. She sealed and addressed it,
while the son removed the bureau. She then invited me
to dine with her on the third day from this, stating that
she was engaged to the Prince Royal to-morrow, and
somewhere else on the following day. It was with great
regret I was obliged to decline on account of the short-
ness of my stay.
' Although I entered Madame de StaeTs presence with a
considerable degree of diffidence, this soon wore off from her
perfect ease and simplicity, and the charming amiability
of her manner. She speaks English almost as readily and
correctly as a native, only with a slight foreign accent.
Her daughter also speaks the language well. Madame de
Stae'l appears about fifty. She is of middle size, and looks
strong and vigorous. Her features are large and massive,
the upper row of teeth projecting, her eyes dark, and eye-
brows strongly marked. She wore a dark-green silk
pelisse. Her daughter7 is about seventeen; her manners
are mild and unaffected, but rather reserved, and her
countenance is not so marked or expressive as that of her
mother. She is fair, with auburn hair; and she was
attired simply, in a cotton dress.
' As this extraordinary woman will no doubt be received
with great interest and attention in England, I am in
hopes that this hasty sketch will not be unacceptable to
you!'
The daughter of Neckar — who, although a Swiss by birth,
had been Finance Minister in France during a portion of
Louis the XVIth's troubled reign — Madame de Stae'l had
become obnoxious to Napoleon on account of some poli-
tical writings and anti-imperial sentiments; which, full-
7 Afterwards Duchesae de Broglie.
CHAP. III. MADAME DE STAEL. 61
seasoned as they were with wit and sarcasm, had gone the
round of the congenial salons of Paris. ' Seated on the
throne of Charlemagne,' it had been well said, the French
Emperor ' was afraid of a woman's tongue ! ' Being
accordingly exiled from France,8 she first took refuge at
Vienna, where she wrote ' De 1'Allemagne ' — a work she
herself referred to, as has been seen, in her conversation
with Colonel Campbell. From thence, in order to be as
far as possible out of the reach of French espionage, she
proceeded on to St. Petersburg. Subsequently — her hus-
band having been Swedish Minister at Paris, and she her-
self being an ardent admirer of the Crown Prince, both
personally and politically — she took up her residence at
Stockholm. There, under her auspices, her friend, Mons.
Schlegel, published in French a pamphlet entitled, * Sur le
Systeme continental et sur ses rapports avec la Suede.'
This contained many allusions complimentary to the
Crown Prince as well as to England, and vigorously de-
8 See Edinburgh Review, No. 258, the disastrous battle of Eylau, with
October, 1867 ; Art. I. ' The Napo- the armies of Russia and Prussia
leon Correspondence/ pp. 329, 330 : arrayed against him, the Emperor
' I am told, Citizen Minister, that recurs to his petty persecutions
Madame de Stael has arrived at against a woman : —
Muffliers, near Beaumont-sur-Oise. ' " J'ai ecrit au Ministre de la
Let her know through some of her Police de renvoyer Madame de Stael
friends, and without any fuss, that a Geneve, en lui laissant la liberte
if on the 15th Vendemiaire she is d'aller a 1'etranger tant qu'elle
still to be found there, she will be voudra. Cette femme continue son
conducted to the frontier by the metier d'intrigante. Elle s'est ap-
gendarmerie. The arrival of that proche"e de Paris, malgre mes ordres.
woman, like that of a bird of ill- C'est une veritable peste. Mon
omen, has always been the signal intention est que vous en parliez
of some disturbance. My intention se"rieusement au Ministre, car je me
is that she should not remain in verrais force de la faire enlever par
France. la gendarmerie. Ayez aussi Trail
• To Regnier, Minister of Justice, sur Benjamin Constant, et, a la
« October 3rd, 1803.' moindre chose dont il se melera, je
1'enverrai a Brunswick, chez sa
P. 331. 'In a letter addressed to femme. Je ne veux rien souffrir
Cambaceres and written from head- de cette clique; je ne veux point
quarters at Osterode shortly after qu'ils fassent des proselytes." '
62 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. III.
nounced Bonaparte's aggressions and insatiable ambition.
So far as English society was concerned, Madame de Stael
was now in the zenith of her literary fame. Her novel of
' Corinne' had achieved an extraordinary success among the
educated classes of Great Britain, and her proposed visit
to England had been eagerly anticipated and discussed.
As is well known, her intention was carried out in the
following year, and she thereupon became the Lionne of
the fashionable and literary world.
Lord Byron's Letters and Memoranda contain various
notices of her ; some complimentary, as ' I have her books
— like most of them, and delight in the last.' In explana-
tion of the passage in the ' Bride of Abydos,'
The mind, the music, breathing from her face,
he added a note, referring to Madame de Stael's 'De
PAllemagne,' and speaking of her as 'the first writer of
this, perhaps of any, age.'
Others, however, of his remarks upon her were tinged
with his usual tone of sarcasm — and of coarseness, it must,
in truth, be added.
From Lord Byron's Memoranda, too, we gather inciden-
tally, that the wish which Madame de Stael had expressed
to Colonel Campbell, of becoming acquainted with Sir
James Mackintosh, was gratified. It was at his house
that Lord Byron witnessed Curran's introduction to her.
The son mentioned as present during the interview
above described, was afterwards killed in a duel. One is
almost ashamed to quote Byron's unfeeling words upon
the subject : ' Madame de Stael Holstein has lost one of her
young barons, who has been carbonaded by a vile Teutonic
adjutant — kilt and killed in a coffee-house at Scrawsen-
hausen. Corinne is, of course, what all mothers must be ;
but will, I venture to prophesy, do what few mothers could
do — write an essay upon it ! '
Colonel Campbell left Stockholm on March 23rd,
CHAP. III. JOURNEY TO CARLSCRONA. 63
' having been extremely interested,' as he wrote, ' by his
tour through Sweden, and short visit to its capital. Stock-
holm is built upon thirteen islands proverbially, but chiefly
upon the mainland and two of the larger islands. Upon the
centre island is the palace.
' The road from Stockholm to Carlscrona, particularly
the first half, is still more picturesque than that from Got-
tenburgh. The only manufactories I saw en route were
a foundry for cannon and a glasshouse, neither of them
upon a large scale. About half-way the site of some
mines was pointed out to us, with a considerable esta-
blishment of iron-works in connection with them. The
distance from Stockholm to Carlscrona is 350 miles, the
road passing through the towns of Nykoping, Norkop-
ing, Lynkoping, and Elksho. I arrived at Carlscrona
on March 28.'
64 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAT. IV.
CHAPTEE IV.
[1813.]
JOURNEY PROM CARLSCRONA TO KALISCH — JOINS LORD CATHCART's
STAFF — EMPEROR ALEXANDER, GRAND DUKE CONSTANTINE, AND
PLATOFF — PARADE OF RUSSIAN GUARDS — PROGRESS OF IMPERIAL
HEADQUARTERS FROM KALISCH TO DRESDEN — PRESENTED TO EM-
PEROR OF RUSSIA AND KING OF PRUSSIA — ADVANCE OF ALLIED
ARMY THROUGH SAXONY — JOINS WITTGENSTEIN — BATTLE OF LUT-
ZEN — INCIDENTS OF RETREAT THROUGH DRESDEN AND ACROSS THE
ELBE — BATTLE OF BAUTZEN — DISTANT VIEW OF NAPOLEON AND
STAFF — ARMISTICE — NEWS OF BATTLE OF VITTORIA — COMPARISON
OF NAPOLEON AND WELLINGTON.
CAPTAIN ACKLOM, the Commodore of the Baltic squadron,
had left a gun-boat, the l Earnest,' to await Colonel Camp-
bell's arrival at Carlscrona. Sailing from that on March
30, he was landed the next day at Colberg in Prussian
Pomerania. There one of his fellow travellers, Mr.
Macdonald, who was bound for Berlin en route to the
East, separated from him ; while he himself, in company
with Dr. Neil Maxwell, proceeded direct to Kalisch in
Poland, where Lord Cathcart had now arrived in attend-
ance upon the Imperial headquarters.
We continue Colonel Campbell's diary of progress :
' At Colberg I purchased a travelling-carriage from the
French Consul, and hired his servant, a Prussian, who had
been in England, and did not wish to accompany his master
to France. Strange enough that facilities for the fulfil-
ment of my mission should be provided by an agent of the
French Government !
' Upon the afternoon of April 1, I left Colberg, my
friend and myself inside the carriage, the two servants on
the dickey, and the baggage tied outside. The post-horses
CHAP IV. ARRIVAL AT KALISCH. 65
are small ; we had four, and these were changed at every
post-house. The driver sits upon the near wheel-horse,
and guides the two leaders by means of his reins and whip.
He carries a small trumpet bugle, which he sounds, not
very musically, when any impediment appears on the road,
and while brought to a halt outside the barrier-gate of any
town, until the sentry calls out the sergeant of the guard
to inspect the passports.
' We arrived at Kalisch nearly at midnight on the 4th,
having rested only part of one night at Posen, on account
of the servants, as it rained heavily. We travelled by
Stargard, crossing the Netze river at Driesen, and the
Wartha at Zirke. These two rivers unite at Custrin, and
form the Oder. At Posen we passed the Wartha again,
and a third time at Peisern. Thence two stages to Kalisch.
This is a large town, the capital of one of the Polish pro-
vinces. In front of it there was lately an action, which
lasted for nearly a day, between the Eussian advance and
a force of Saxons under General Regnier.
( Poland is very flat, and the soil in general light and
sandy, growing nothing but fir-trees in some parts, but in
others extremely productive, and laid down entirely in
corn. In some of the towns and villages the greater por-
tion of the inhabitants are Jews, employed in peddling of all
sorts. For the last three months they have had an exten-
sive field of operations, purchasing from the Russian army
their booty, from a gold watch or piece of church-plate to
an old stocking !
* Kalisch was so occupied with troops, in addition to the
Emperor of Russia and King of Prussia being there with
their respective suites, that my friend and myself could
find no sort of accommodation for the night, and had to
lie down in our cloaks in an outer room of Lord Cathcart's
quarters.'
Lord Cathcart, whose staff Colonel Campbell now joined
I
66 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
for the first time, had been appointed ambassador at St.
Petersbu.rgh on the rupture of that court with Napoleon,
and continued in this position during the invasion of
Russia. When, upon the French retreat, the Emperor
Alexander, himself took the field, and crossed the Vistula
with the Russian Army, his lordship was directed by the
British Government to accompany the Imperial head-
quarters, and to report upon the military operations, re-
ceiving at the same time the rank of a general on the con-
tinent of Europe. His first prominent service had been
at the capture of Copenhagen in 1807, when the Duke of
Wellington, then Sir Arthur Wellesley, served as second
in command. The young Earl of Tyrconnell had been one
of the attaches of the Embassy at St. Petersburgh, but,
carried away by a spirit of adventure and romantic en-
thusiasm, he had joined Admiral Tchichagoff 's corps of
the Russian Army as a volunteer, and died at Wilna in
the previous December from cold and excessive fatigue,
while engaged in the pursuit of the French. It was to this
young nobleman's destined place upon the staff, and under
the orders of Lord Cathcart, that Colonel Campbell now
succeeded.
The Imperial headquarters had arrived at l Kalisch, at
the beginning of February, 1813 ; and there, after some
secret negotiations in which Hardenberg, the Prussian
Minister, was the prime mover on the one side, and Alex-
ander himself on the other, a treaty of offensive and defen-
sive alliance between the Emperor of Russia and King of
Prussia was signed March 1. On the fifteenth, the two
1 Prince Leopold left Breslau for Guards, he was attached to his
Kalisch in Poland, where the Em- staff. The Emperor having re-
peror Alexander had his head- ceived the rank of Major-General,
quarters. lie was the first German he found himself one of the older
Prince who joined the liberating generals. The Early Years of the
army. On the demand of the Prince Consort, Appendix A, p.
Grand Duke Constantino, his bro- 381. Reminiscences of Kiiuj Leo-
ther-in-law, who commanded the pold.
CHAP. IV. PARADE OF RUSSIAN GUARDS. G7
sovereigns met at Breslau, for the first time since the
peace of Tilsit in 1807, afterwards returning in company
to Kalisch.2
' Yesterday, being the morning after my arrival,' writes
Colonel Campbell, 'April 6, Kalisch (upon the river Prosna,
fifty-five miles from Posen), I saw the King of Prussia
set out for Berlin, accompanied by Hardenberg and others,
the suite occupying several carriages. The Imperial head-
quarters mar.ch from here to-morrow in an easterly di-
rection. The Russians continue to advance from the
Vistula, not merely with Cossacks, but in great force,
sending forward new levies, and bringing up reserves.
There are reports of their occupying Berlin. Serious
riots have occurred at various points of the German coast,
in opposition to the French douaniers. Dantzic still
holds out, and I presume the operations against it will
be confined to a blockade or bombardment.
' The weather was very unfavourable yesterday, with
successive falls of snow and rain. Yet the Guards mounted
in the square as usual, and I was able from Lord Cath-
cart's windows, immediately above it, to witness the whole
proceedings. The Grand Duke Constantine first came upon
parade on foot, wearing the uniform of the Chasseurs of
the Guard who were on duty, and of which he is colonel.
He bowed to the different officers as he walked down the
line, the men standing at ease. Soon after the Emperor
himself came upon parade, attended by Platoff, the Duke
of Wurtemburg, brother of the Confederation King, and
eight or ten others. Platoff had a Cossack orderly. He
was himself dressed something like a Turk, in a blue cloth
2 The Russian army had been reorganised army should advance,
much weakened hy the fatigues of The Prince shared the King's mis-
the winter campaign. The King of givings on that subject. The Early
Prussia coming to Kalisch expressed Years of the Prince Consort, Appen-
ti I'rince Leopold his apprehension dix A, p. 381. Reminiscences of
that the Russian army would not King Leopold,
be strong enough when the French
F 2
68 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
wrapper with white sash, a sort of turban cap, and half-
boots with pantaloons. The Emperor wore a long coat of
dark green, with green overalls, gold epaulets, and orange
ribbon across his breast, and a huge cocked hat with an
immense black feather. All the other officers of the suite
were dressed in similar hats and coats, with ribbons of
dark or light blue, green pantaloons, and long boots. All
their hats were worn quite square. The Chasseurs passed
in slow and quick time, Constantino on the right of the
first section, and saluting with his hand to his hat. After
this the Guards halted. The different officers, from twelve
to fifteen in number, came out to the centre of the square
where the Emperor stood, with his hand to his hat. Each
then stepped forward in succession, with sword reversed,
said, " I am of such a guard," faced to the left with a
peculiar flourish of the sword, and then rejoined his
guard. After this the Guards marched to their posts, and
the Emperor with his suite walked off.
' The Emperor is about the height of the Duke of York,
or perhaps rather taller, but not so large. The Grand
Duke Constantine is stouter and shorter. The Emperor
is fair, and has a very good countenance ; but the Grand
Duke has a most unpleasant physiognomy, like a flat-
nosed Tartar. Both of them are very smart, and walk
with a quick short step. They never miss the guard-
mounting, and perform the duties corresponding to those
of field-officer and adjutant of the day. The Emperor
has also frequently manoeuvred one of his regiments of
Guards under Lord Cathcart's windows, and given the
word of command himself. At other times he has ordered
another officer to perform movements with the Chasseurs
in extended order down the street, he himself directing
and specifying the particular formations. In fact, he is
constantly with the army, knows particular men, and
speaks to them by name. You may believe how he is
adored by them. On one occasion, while the King of
CHAP. IV. INTRODUCTION TO EMPEROR ALEXANDER. (39
Prussia was with him, he called out a man to show him
as a pattern of good conduct. I have not yet caught
sight of the3 Marshal Prince of Smolensko; he does not
go out much. Nor have I seen any Russian troops except
of the Guards and Cossacks. The former are the finest-
looking and best-dressed men I ever came across. Re-
collect, however, that they are the elite 4 of 50,000,000 !
1 The Emperor has received very graciously Lord Cath-
cart's proposal to attach me to a corps of the Russian
army. When the particular one is fixed on, I shall be
presented to him in due form. Sir Robert Wilson, who
is now making a tour of inspection to Stettin, Custrin, &c.,
is to be attached to another. Colonel Lowe is here, but
returns to the rear upon a specific duty with the new
German Legion.'
Colonel Campbell left Kalisch with the Imperial head-
quarters on April 7. They passed by Breslau, Wintzig,
and Steinau on the left bank of the Oder. From this
last place he diverged to Glogau, one of the fortresses on
the Oder still held by the French, for the purpose of seeing
the blockade and preparations for the siege — rejoining
Lord Cathcart April 23, in order to enter Dresden the
following day in triumph with the Allied Sovereigns. Then
— on being appointed military attache to the corps of
General Wittgenstein, which was in the front — he was
formally presented to the Emperor of Russia, as well as to
the King and Crown Prince of Prussia.
His impressions of the Emperor were very favourable.
1 T send you herewith a very good likeness of Alexander,
3 Kutusoff, the hero of the Rus- however a wide difference between
sian campaign, died soon after this, the staple of the Russian Army and
May 10, 1813, at Bunzlau in Silesia, the Emperor's Guards. The latter
while still nominally in command are very select, both Cavalry and
of the Imperial Army. His death Infantry ; nothing indeed can be
is said to have been kept secret for superior. The Grenadiers of the
some time. Guard are equally large and stout ;
* Lord Londonderry, War in the discipline and well-dressed state
Germany, ch. iii. p. 32. ' There is of these men are very imposing.'
70 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
which I got in remembrance of my interview with him.
He is a very fine handsome fellow and a keen soldier.
When in quarters he never misses the morning parade
and guard-mounting. While his army is on the march, he
rides with and among the men, and goes exactly the same
distances, knows individual soldiers, speaks to them by
name, and in every possible way increases the enthusiastic
admiration they entertain for him. His Cuirassiers and
Guards are very superior to anything we can show. Their
horses, and those of the artillery which I have seen, are
in the most beautiful condition, although now on service
for a year.
* Whatever the Opposition papers may say, I assure you
Lord Cathcart is in the greatest favour with the Emperor,
and was invited to accompany him throughout the whole
of the march from Kalisch, and now rides and dines with
him almost daily.'
The headquarters remained at Dresden 5 till April 29,
when the two Allied Sovereigns left for the purpose of
placing themselves at the head of their respective armies,
which had been massed in its immediate vicinity.
( Dresden is a pretty little city ; the armoury and
museum of sculpture, the finest "I ever saw. The extensive
picture-gallery and large collection of China from Meissen
both belong to the King, but are freely open. The en-
virons are beautiful, particularly near the banks of the
Elbe. About a mile from the city is the seat of the late
Lord Findlater,6 which I visited. The climate is delightful,
like summer in England, without damp or fog.
* Notwithstanding the King's adhesion to Bonaparte, the
5 The army advanced towards 6 James Ogilvy, seventh Earl of
Dresden, where it arrived in the Findlater and fourth Earl of Sea-
latter days of April. After a short Held, died at Dresden, October 5,
stay it moved on towards the Saal. 1811, without issue, when the latter
The Early Years of the Prince Con- earldom devolved upon his cousin,
sort, Appendix A, p. 381. Remi- Sir Lewis Alexander Grant, uncle
niscences of King Leopold. of the present peer.
CHAP. IV. JOINS WITTGENSTEIN. 71
inhabitants of all classes are zealous in our cause. I was
at a party the other night, where were assembled some
very pretty elegant women of the elite of society here ;
they were quite unanimous in our favour. The Prussians
too are enthusiastic ; nor, as far as I can hear, is the same
feeling wanting in any part of Germany.'
The Allied Armies advanced across the middle of Saxony,
in the direction of Lutzen ; while Napoleon was moving to-
wards the same point, from Erfurth on the opposite side.
' Saxony,' Colonel Campbell continues, ' is the finest
country I have ever been in. It is like the richest part of
the interior of England, and abounds in corn and cattle ;
but it is more picturesque, as there are no fences nor
enclosures, but clumps and avenues of trees at intervals.'
On May 1, Colonel Campbell was introduced to Witt-
genstein, now commanding the Allied Armies, and became
nominally attached to his corps ; but subsequently, as
opportunities for observation, or reporting progress were
afforded, he joined from time to time the rearguard under
Milaradovitch, and occasionally the respective staffs of
Lord Cathcart and Sir Charles Stewart. Of these, the
former remained by the side of the Emperor, while the
latter followed Bernadotte.
c Now that I have joined the Russian corps,' he writes,
* my correspondence must be very limited. .1 shall have
no channel of communication except through Lord Cath-
cart; and if my letters are too lengthy or excessive in
number, the Russian general will think, either that I am
telling tales to his lordship, or am over- communicative to
people in England.'
The following day — the Allies and Napoleon then meet-
ing in fight for the first time on German soil, since the
retreat of the latter from Russia, — Colonel Campbell took
part in the battle of Lutzen. He records his impressions
of the action of May 2, and consequent events, as follows :
'It has sometimes been stated, that Bonaparte was
72 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
unexpectedly attacked by the Allies. That could not have
been the case. At least he knew they had collected their
force on the right bank of the Elster near Pegau, for a
large body of cavalry under Wintzenrode was engaged
upon April 30 and May 1, near Weissenfells, upon the
other side of the Elster, and temporary bridges were at
the same time thrown across the river. It was now some
weeks since Milaradovitch had occupied Dresden, and
Blucher had been advanced at the same time beyond
Leipsic.
'All these measures, and the nature of the country,
indicated offensive operations on the part of the Allies.
For there was no object in occupying a defensive position
behind the Elster, such position being accessible by fine
roads upon both flanks, leading towards Dresden, Torgau,
and the other passages of the Elbe. But, in my opinion,
the Allies ought, on the advance of Bonaparte from Erfurth,
to have concentrated on the defensive behind the Elbe.
They had no adequate purpose to serve in quitting that
advantageous line of defence. But if they did advance to
attack, they ought to have been determined upon closing
with the enemy as soon as possible during his flank march
towards Leipsic. The commander too of the Allied Army
should have been named two weeks sooner ; not on the
day before the battle. And as between the two sovereigns
and their respective chiefs, Wittgenstein and Blucher,
their objects in making a foward movement should have
been well understood beforehand, and those objects man-
fully acted on.
' Instead of this, upon the day of the battle, a vapouring
and unmeaning display of force was first made in front of
the enemy, exposing the Allies unnecessarily to the French
artillery,7 while the troops of the latter were not seen
7 ' It was a furious combat of ' It was my good fortune, aided
artillery more especially, and such by Colonel Campbell, my aides-de-
as modem wars only present. camp Charles and Brinken, and at
CHAP. IV. BATTLE OF LUTZEN. 73
but remained sheltered among the villages and undula-
tions of ground. Then large detachments were sent from
our open order of battle (when every man, horse, and gun
could be counted for a mile of march in advancing), to
attack the centre of the enemy among the enclosures of
Gorshern. This was done in the hope of alluring the
French into the fine open country so favourable for our
numerous cavalry ; 8 but they declined the combat further
than by an obstinate defence of their position. No diver-
sion in favour of these attacks was made from any other
part of the line, the whole of which remained stationary,
and open to view of the enemy, so that their attention
was not distracted to any other point.
' The solution of all this was, that the Commander-in-
Chief was quite unequal to the situation to which he had
been appointed, and so felt within himself. His un fitness
was further increased by the interruption to reflection
caused by his Imperial master, who, in company with his
Royal Ally of Prussia, and surrounded by general officers
of high rank, and counsellors of state attached to their
persons, stood upon a rising ground in the centre of the
line, asking questions, suggesting motives and explana-
tions, and discussing the operations during a great part
of the day. In the afternoon the two Sovereigns rode
down near the village of Gorshern, and a Prussian dragoon
who was passing lost his leg by a cannon-shot, so near the
the moment Dawson whom I met place on May 2. If the dispositions
on the field, to rally the Prussians, had been made as they ought to
as they were flying from Glogau (?), have been, it ought to have been a
and extending panic through the decisive victory, owing to the great
Russians, to enter with them, superiority in number and quality
sword in hand, and carry the vil- of the Allied cavalry,
lage, which was maintained until As it was, the ground was kept
night, when three French columns by the army, which retired towards
again threatened to retake it. the Elbe. The Early Years of the
Diary of Sir Robert Wilson, vol. i. Prince Consort, Appendix A, p.
p. 354. 381. Reminiscences of King Leo-
8 The Battle of Lutzen took pold.
74 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
King of Prussia, that he stretched out his arm to support
the man while in the act of falling off his horse.
' Then, if it was desirable to attack upon May 2, it was no
less so on the third ; for both armies were still upon the
same ground, and both had probably lost an equal number
of men. Bonaparte would not have ventured to attack
the Allies for several days, during which time they might
have concerted another attack, or at any rate continued to
pursue that system of operations, whatever it might be,
upon which it ought to be presumed that they had ad-
vanced originally from the Elbe.
' Or, if they did determine upon a retreat, they might
have commenced it leisurely upon the day after the battle,
and not during the first night, thereby dispiriting their
own troops, and giving confidence to the enemy.'
As just stated, the Allies drew back after their unsuc-
cessful attack at Lutzen. On May 4, Colonel Campbell was
at Eochlitz, on the direct road to Dresden, with Wittgen-
stein's headquarters; but within two or three days, as
we gather incidentally, he had joined Milaradovitch,
who commanded the rearguard and protected the retreat.
The rest of the Allied troops passed through Dresden on
the seventh, scarce making a halt; and Milaradovitch,
after recrossing the Elbe there, only remained behind long
enough to destroy the bridge and gather up stragglers.
' But why,' Colonel Campbell asks here, * abandon the
capital of Saxony without making any effort ? For, besides
the bad moral effect which the loss of Dresden had upon
the King of Saxony and his troops, and indeed upon all
Germany, the occupation of that city was in itself a most
important military feature, in combination with the river
Elbe and the mountains of Bohemia. There was not a
French soldier in Torgau, which might otherwise have
threatened our right flank. General Thielmann, the
governor, and a whole regiment of Saxons, had evacuated
that fortress, and gone over to the Allies.
CHAP. IV. RETREAT ACROSS THE ELBE. 75
' Although the Allies were in possession of Dresden for
the whole of the month of April, yet up to the time of
their retreat, after the battle of Lutzen, no steps whatever
had been taken for strengthening the place. Bonaparte °
proved, within a month or two afterwards, how susceptible
it was of defence, by restoring the old works, the ramparts of
which still remained, and making the city itself the centre-
point of his subsequent operations. The only work which
had been attempted by the Allies was a tete-de-pont upon
the left bank, intended to protect the pontoon-bridge a mile
above the town. This, although so trifling a matter, was
only half-finished, and never made use of. A few of the
peasants who were unable to desert were kept at their
labour upon it, with Russian sentries over them, till the
French skirmishers drove them away, and the bridge was
set fire to upon the forenoon of May 8.'
The same memoranda afford some graphic sketches of
incidents which occurred during the retreat of the Allies
and the advance of the French.
' The deficiency of military arrangement and good
order were only too evident.
' The Russians were on the left bank of the river Elbe,
9 Alison's History of Eitrope, vol. structed farther out, the fire from
ix. ch. Ixx. p. 307. Souvenirs de which intersected the whole inter-
Dumas, iii. 503, quoted in note, vening space, and rendered it im-
' I wish to make Dresden/ said possible to approach the town till
he (Napoleon), ' with its double part of them at least was taken,
tete-de-pont, the centre and pivot The value of these redoubts was
of my army.' strongly felt in the campaign which
P. 360. ' Dresden itself was the followed ; they saved the French
object of his anxious solicitude, army from a death-blow within
Being but imperfectly fortified, the a few days after the resumption of
gaps in its walls were filled up by hostilities ; and so anxious was the
ditches and palisades, which com- Emperor for their completion, that
pleted the circuit : the mouldering 15,000 peasants conscribed from all
masonry of the old bastions was parts of Saxony were, during the
repaired, their ditches cleaned out armistice, employed constantly on
and filled with water ; while five them night and day.'
large redoubts, connected together P. 365. ' Dresden is the pivot on
by strong palisades, were con- which all my operations will turn.'
76 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
occupying heights which commanded not only the bridge,
but also the opposite plain, over which the French advance
of cavalry and light artillery was approaching with great
caution. While the last party of Cossacks and a few
infantry were in the act of crossing the pontoon-bridge
to join the main body of the army, and the French vi-
dettes were as yet nearly half a mile distant, such was the
confusion, that both ends of the bridge were set fire to at
the same moment, and fifteen or twenty of the infantry,
who could not rush through the smoke and flames with as
much celerity as the Cossacks, were left upon the bridge,
which was now burning at either end, and gradually float-
ing down the river. Luckily the stream was not rapid,
and few or none of them were drowned. The bridge
separated into three pieces, each of which, thirty or forty
feet long, and slowly consumed by the flames, majestically
and almost insensibly floated down. Some of the French
videttes galloped about, holloaing to the Russians appa-
rently in terms of ridicule on account of their stupidity,
and a few of them fired their carbines towards us in de-
fiance. The house which had been for many years the
residence of the late Lord Findlater, and still, I believe,
belongs to his family, stood upon the hill immediately
above this bridge. A portion of the pontoons were after-
wards saved, I believe, by the French, in consequence of
some floating down to their side of the river ; while others
struck and became fixed against the stone-piers of the
city-bridge.
' The enemy likewise profited through another instance
of stupid disorder and want of foresight. A boat, capable
of containing thirty or forty men, was left near Dresden,
upon the left bank of the river. The enemy, with their
usual activity and intelligence, passed over some infantry
in it on the nights of May 8 and 9, at a point about two
miles below the city. On the morning of the 10th, the
Russian patrols, to their no small surprise, were fired at
CHAP. IV. COMBATS NEAR DRESDEN. 77
from behind a bank on their own side of the river. Some
hundreds of the enemy had already established themselves
there, and the boat continued to ply with reinforcements,
protected by artillery and parties of skirmishers upon the
right bank, these last being dispersed behind trees, or lying
down in the hollows of paths. Several hours elapsed before
General Milaradovitch, whose corps formed the rearguard,
came to visit the spot, during which time no decisive
plan had been adopted for driving away the enemy. At
last some Russian light guns were brought down, and fired
grape at random towards the opposite side of the river ;
but they did no execution, as the French were perfectly
sheltered by the height of the bank above the river.
' A very extraordinary contest of artillery here took place,
each party firing grape at the dispersed infantry upon the
opposite side, and at each other's guns. The brave but
ill-commanded Russian soldiers stood up, and challenged
the French upon the opposite bank. The latter however,
well under cover, knocked them down, and crippled them
literally like pigeons. Still these poor fellows, reproach-
fully and ineffectually, dared their opponents to stand up
on equal terms, and the casualties of their comrades ap-
peared only the more to excite their emulation, and induce
the same useless expenditure of their lives. In the course
of a few hours, General Milaradovitch withdrew his ar-
tillery and skirmishers, and the next morning followed the
rest of the army to Bautzen.
( A few days afterwards I was again with Milaradovitch,
while engaged against Macdonald at Bischopswerda, just
half-way between Dresden and Bautzen. Some of the
Russian skirmishers occupied the town, the rest of the
corps being on the high ground above it on the east side,
while Macdonald held that to the west. Several houses
nearest the enemy were then on fire, but whether this
arose from accident on the part of those who were de-
fending them, or from the shells of the enemy, I cannot
78 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
say. If there was intentional wantonness in the case, as
has been suggested, it must have proceeded from the
Russians, for there was not a single French soldier within
the town. If, on the other hand, the fire was occasioned
by the French artillery, that cannot be ascribed to a spirit
of mere wantonness, for it was the invariable practice
with either army, to fire at a town or village with as
little remorse as at a wood, if the expulsion of an ad-
versary could only be thereby obtained.'
The battle of Bautzen was commenced on May 20, and
continued throughout the next day. The following day,
May 22, Colonel Campbell writes from Gorlitz, the pos-
session of which — at a short distance only in rear of the
battlefield — sufficiently indicates the fierceness of the
combat and the consequent weakness of the pursuit.
* As my horse l was killed under me the day before yes-
terday, it reminds me to give you and my other friends
a hint that it was not myself !
'Bonaparte having collected his army in front of Bautzen,
where the Allied Eussian and Prussian Army had taken up
a position, about mid-day on the 20th, crossed the small
river Spree, close under the town, without serious opposi-
tion. It was not intended to dispute this part of our line of
defence, but merely to hold it for a time with the advance.
He then attempted to turn both our right and left by
cannonade and infantry, but did not succeed.
' During the night, however, he strengthened his bodies
of infantry on both flanks, and brought forward the re-
mainder of his army to the hill opposite our centre. Soon
after daylight his double attack was renewed, and continued
during the day. On our left he gained little ground. • On
our right he was repulsed, until about 3 P.M., by constant
advances of fresh troops, he tired out the brave and sturdy
1 Colonel Campbell had his horse cannon ball in the neck.' Diary of
killed in the next battery by a Sir Robert Wilson, vol. ii. p. 18.
CHAP. IV. BATTLE OF BAUTZEN. 79
Russians, and carried one small eminence. This was re-
taken and again carried several times. At the same time a
detached corps made a detour considerably round our right,
in order to threaten our communications ; while a large
body of infantry in squares, and covered by guns and cavalry,
were massed opposite our centre, and hot moved from that
imposing situation all day, thus keeping our cavalry in
check, and being ready to take advantage of any opportu-
nity. Under these circumstances, and with such inequality
of numbers, it was deemed necessary to retire. We did so
at 6 P.M. in perfect regularity, and pursued but feebly.
Every man did his duty most bravely, and the combinations
for defence were much more skilful than those of our attack
on May 2 at Lutzen. We must have killed many more of
the enemy than we lost on our side. Besides, we took
some guns, and lost none that I heard of.'
Speaking of the battle of Bautzen at a subsequent period
Colonel Campbell remarks, that it ' was much more sangui-
nary and warmly contested than that of Lutzen. Bonaparte
indeed exaggerated the casualties in the latter case, in
order to give it more importance and eclat in the eyes of
the French nation, it being the first he had fought since
his retreat from Russia.'
The various accounts of the battle are somewhat con-
flicting, with respect to the person who held the chief
command on the part of the Allies, and directed their
movements, as well during the action as upon the retreat.
Colonel Campbell states, in one of his memoranda, that
' Barclay de Tolly joined the Allied Army at Bautzen two
days before the battle, but would not assume the command
until the battle was over, as the choice of position and
the works for its protection had all been made by
Wittgenstein.2
2 Lord Londonderry, War in their duty in the most intrepid
Germany9 ch. iv. ' The battle manner ; but there was unfortu-
[of Bautzen] throughout was well nately some deficiency in manage-
contested : the troops performed ment, which motives of delicacy
80 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
* When the enemy had forced several parts of the position,
and it became necessary to make arrangements for the
retreat, it was General Knesebeck, — a Prussian officer in
attendance upon the King, and therefore in company with
him and the Emperor of Russia throughout the day, —
who amid the general confusion was obliged to suggest
the roads to be appropriated for the retreat of the several
corps, and to detail the cavalry which were to cover the
rear of the army.'
A periodical of the day, in which Colonel Campbell is
mentioned ' as having been engaged at the battle of Lutzen,
and had a horse killed under him at the battle of Bautzen,'
remarks :
' He is the same officer whom we announced some time
ago as having gone, by way of Gottenburgh, on a particu-
lar service to the headquarters of the Allies. His duties
would appear to consist in being present with the armies,
and reporting confidentially to the British Ambassador
and Government their condition and character. Colonel
Campbell, it is said, extended his observations to the
enemy also; for, besides exposing himself in the grand
battles of Lutzen and Bautzen, so as to receive a wound
in the first, and to have his horse killed under him in the
latter, we understand he advanced so near Bonaparte on
one occasion, that he could see that extraordinary per-
sonage with the naked eye, and distinguished him from
the staff officers and attendants by whom he was sur-
rounded.'
and diffidence prevent me from subsequent period) : ' It was often
dwelling upon. difficult to say, amidst the confusion
Count Wittgenstein, on all occa- of emperors, kings, and generals,
sions, displayed great personal at headquarters, who really held
courage ; but certainly he did not the supreme command ; every one
possess the general confidence of was willing to share in the credit
the Russian army, because perhaps of successful measures, but none
he was not a Russian.' would* admit the responsibility of
Alison, History of Europe, vol. ix. reverses.'
ch. Ixx. p. 322 (writing of a slightly
CHAP. IV. RETREAT OF ALLIES. 81
One of his own letters gives a particular account of this
last incident :
' We saw two distinguished characters on a hill about
gunshot from our battery, and not 500 yards above our
skirmishers, at the beginning of the action, and have every
reason to suppose that one was Bonaparte and the other
Beauharnais.3 They walked up and down twenty or thirty
yards in front of all the others for about half an hour,
having some videttes along the face of the hill, and two
small bodies of cavalry on either flank, and a Mameluke
among others standing behind. The party were so near,
that without the glass I could distinguish two small specks
in advance of the crowd. With the glass the one answered
precisely to Bonaparte's figure : he had on a plain hat, and
walked with his hands behind his back ; the other had on a
feathered hat, and wore a blue uniform coat with a star,
white pantaloons, and half-boots very high.
After the battle of Bautzen,4 the Allied Army continued
to retreat in good order through Silesia, passing by Gorlitz
and Goldberg. On May 25 (on which day Colonel Camp-
bell notes, 'the Duke of Brunswick Oels 5 just arrived '),
the Emperor of Russia and King of Prussia left the latter
3 This appears to have been a and though again not beaten, it
mistake, so far as the latter indi- was forced to retire into Silesia.'
vidual was concerned. Eugene The Early Years of the Prince
Beauharnais, the Viceroy of Italy, Consort, Appendix A, p. 381. He-
who had commanded a division of the miniscetices of King Leopold,
French Army at Lutzen, was with 5 The Duke of Brunswick Oels,
Napoleon when he entered Dres- nephew of George III. and brother
den on May 8, but quitted him for of Queen Caroline, having been
Milan on the 10th, in the fear that driven out of his own territory by
Austria was about to declare her- Napoleon's partizans, had resided
self. in England since the latter end of
' Le meme jour (Mai 10) le the year 1809, and his contingent
Prince Eugene re£ut de Napole'on had been taken into British pay.
1'ordre de retourner en Italic, et d'y The news of the war in Germany
organiser une arm6e.' Vaudoncourt, recalled him to that country. He
Histoire du Prince Eugene, vol. ii. was killed at Quatre Bras on June
ch. x. p. 199. 16, 1815, at the head of his ' Black
4 ' The Allied Army was too weak, Brunswickers.'
G
82 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
place for Jauer, near which, at Pleswitz, an armistice was
signed on June 4.
From Reichenbach, June 11, 1813, Colonel Campbell
writes:
* You will have heard of the armistice concluded for six
weeks. The French line passes by Laun, Goldberg, Leig-
nitz, and the river Katzbach to the Oder. Ours is
parallel to it, about fifteen miles distant, passing by
Pfaufendorf, Landshut, Bolkenhayn, Striegau, Cauth, and
a short distance on this side of Breslau. Breslau is not
occupied by either party.
' If the Austrians are determined on being ready to fight
the French by the time the armistice expires, or to fix
them to proper terms of restitution before that, all will be
well. If they waver, I shall regret that the armistice ever
was entered into.
* The Russian force has been greatly overrated by them-
selves; and even of those assembled, a vast number are
always out of the ranks, being with the baggage, or acting
as servants. It was evident at Bautzen that the French
had at least one-quarter more numerical force present in
the field than ours, which was said to consist of 45,000
Russians and 35,000 Prussians.6
' The Russians have the finest materials of men I have
ever seen, but ignorant officers, a great want of arrange-
ment, and much of the Eastern loose mode in regard to
baggage and followers. The Prussians are perfect in every-
thing. They have made glorious efforts, and I trust they
will not be deserted now, as they were at Tilsit.
'. The French have certainly lost an immense number of
men in their attacks at Bautzen and upon our rearguard
6 Lord Londonderry, War in 'If other mis-statements were
Germany, ch. iv. p. 48, 49. ' There averaged in the same ratio, it may
was the usual difficulty amongst be calculated that the Allies had
the Russians as to their numbers, not more than 65,000 in the battle,
and it was impossible to procure a The enemy must have had from
correct estimate. 100,000 to 120,000 men.'
CHAP. IV. ARMISTICE. 83
in the subsequent marches. At Sir Charles Stewart's, some
days ago, I dined in company with Count Stadion. He
related that Bubna — an Austrian Minister, I believe — went
from Prague to Dresden lately, but had great difficulty in
finding a quarter there, as the city was crowded with
wounded ; and from that place to Bautzen, the road was
covered with dead and dying. He had an escort of 3,000
men, and Bonaparte (" L'Empereur Napoleon," as Stadion
persisted in calling him !) recommended him not to remain
there, as he could not pledge himself for his safety with
Billow's parties and Cossacks about. I wish there had
been more such parties ! '
During the armistice 7 Colonel Campbell made a tour
along the frontier of Bohemia. He was desirous of pro-
longing it as far as Vienna, in order that he" might view
the ground on which the battles of Austerlitz, Aspern,
and Wagram had been fought ; but for this Lord Cathcart
refused to give leave * for political reasons.' It had been
rumoured at the moment, that the French Emperor had
made proposals to England for a Plenipotentiary to be
sent to join the others, then assembled at Prague ; and as
Lord Castlereagh and the British Government had, in
truth, refused to take any part in that congress, it seemed
only prudent that no British officer in full employ under
Lord Cathcart should be traversing Austrian territory at
the same time.
7 'An armistice was then con- 'Prince Leopold remained the
eluded at the beginning of June, whole time at Prague, much in the
which lasted till the middle of society of the negotiators, Prince
August. Negotiations had been Metternich, Baron Huinboldt,
carried on at Prague. Napoleon Baron Austedt the Russian Pleni-
could not bring himself to accept potentiary, Chevalier Gentz, &c.
the most moderate propositions of He was the only person admitted
the Three Powers. The Emperor to see the Emperor Francis of
of Austria feared the breaking-out Austria.' Early Years of the Prince
of a war, and, to the last moment, Consort, Appendix A, pp. 381, 382.
expressed the hope that Napoleon Reminiscences of King Leopold.
would give way.
G 2
84 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
On July 1 2, in the very midst of the negotiations which
were being carried on at Prague, a meeting took place at
Trachenberg, a town in the North of Silesia, between the
Emperor of Russia, the King of Prussia, and Bernadotte,
the Crown Prince of Sweden, for the purpose of arranging
military operations among the Allies, on the anticipated
reopening of hostilities ; a proof how little, by some at least
of the parties principally concerned, a favourable issue was
expected from the Congress ; although at the same time,
by mutual agreement, the armistice was prolonged for ten
days.
In the interval, too, the news of the great battle of
Yittoria, fought on June 21, had become universally dif-
fused, and produced decisive effects, in opposition to all
diplomatic endeavours after peace.
Colonel Campbell, writing from Reichenbach, July 13,
1813, naturally takes a purely national view of so impor-
tant an event :
' We English have held our heads very high for some
days, in consequence of information of a great victory
gained by Lord Wellington, near Vittoria. It rests on
French authority, communicated by the Austrian Minister
at Dresden to Stadion, the Austrian Minister here. Our
accounts are, that three divisions have been routed, and
all their baggage and cannon taken. The Austrians at
Dresden perceived that some unpleasant news had reached
Bonaparte and his Ministers. With some difficulty he
traced the quarter, and gradually extorted this confession
from the Duke of Bassano. We have no doubt of it, but
long to be able to show our own accounts to these conti-
nental gentlemen, and say : " Look here, and do the
same ! " If Lord Wellington had this army under British
control, he would march to Paris. There is a very fine
young man living with me here, a son of Lord Arden, and
nephew of the late Chancellor of the Exchequer.'
During the lull of war in Germany, occasioned by the
CHAP. IV. NAPOLEON AND WELLINGTON. 85
armistice of Pleswitz, the battle of Yittoria appears to
have given rise, as might be expected, to much discussion ;
and many comparisons were in consequence drawn between
the respective merits of Napoleon and Wellington. The
following rough memorandum on this point occurs among
ColonerfOampbell's papers, pointing, probably, to some
article which had appeared in a foreign publication.
' Some of the anecdotes told of Bonaparte may be inter-
esting to persons who have not shared in military opera-
tions, as to them they appear to convey a peculiar charac-
ter of activity, on horseback and otherwise. But without
in the least insinuating that he does not display extraor-
dinary power, the description given of him by French offi-
cers and others of his admirers only express what would
be the habits of any other commander-in-chief in the
field. Besides, the mere title of " General Officer," given
as authority for statements, is no explanation. Unless
the person in question were attached to the headquarters,
he would only know the gossip of the army, filtered per-
haps through a hundred channels from the fountain-head.
We want to know, in each case, what is his character, and
his opportunities of observation as an eye-witness ; what
situation he held while with the French army, or upon the
scene of action.
' But after all, upon a comparison of the respective duties
performed by Bonaparte and Wellington — the one aided
by Berthier, Bassano, Caulaincourt, Narbonne, Duroc,
Murat, and many Aides-de-camp of the rank of general
officers about his person — the other unassisted in great
measure by any individual excepting his Quartermaster
General, Sir George Murray — the active powers of mind
and body, displayed by the latter, appear to me even more
surprising than those of the former. In addition to the
immediate operation of his army, Wellington has to carry
on a separate correspondence with the British Minister
and the Commander-in-Chief of the Army at home — the
86 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. IV.
General commanding the British Army in the South of
Spain — the Regency of Portugal and the Cominander-in-
Chief of the Portuguese Army — the Spanish Government,
the several Commanders of the Spanish Armies, and the
Guerilla Chiefs — making in all ten or twelve branches,
with whom he is obliged to make distinct arrangements
and combinations.*
CHAP. V. EXPIRATION OF ARMISTICE. 87
CHAPTER V.
[1813—1814.]
JOINS HEADQUARTERS OF DUKE OF WURTEMBURG BEFORE DANTZIC —
INCIDENTS OF SIEGE — RECEIVES IMPERIAL RUSSIAN ORDERS OF ST.
GEORGE AND ST. ANNE — CAPITULATION OF DANTZIC — BERLIN — DINES
WITH PRINCESS OF ORANGE — EVENING VISIT TO PRINCESS LOUISE OF
PRUSSIA — HEADQUARTERS OF ALLIED SOVEREIGNS AT FRIBOURG —
REJOINS WITTGENSTEIN, AND CROSSES THE RHINE — BATTLE OF BRIENNE,
ETC. — PRINTED PROCLAMATION OF LOUIS XVIII. AT NOGENT-SUR-
SEINE — WOUNDED AT FERE CHAMPENOISE — ARRIVES IN PARIS — AP-
POINTED BRITISH COMMISSIONER TO ELBA — KNIGHTED, WITH PATENT
OF AUGMENTATION TO ARMS.
THE armistice expired on August 10, and the Austrian
declaration of war was expected to appear at Prague on
the following day, when the Emperor of Russia and the
King of Prussia proceeded from Reichenbach towards
Bohemia with a portion of the army, in order to meet
their new ally of Austria. Colonel Campbell writes from
Reichenbach, August 11, 1813 :
' I have been now for three weeks expecting my instruc-
tions to proceed to Dantzic, in order to harmonise the
Duke of Wurtemburg, Admiral Gregg [the Russian Ad-
miral], who remains on shore with him, Captain Acklom
commanding the British squadron, and Major Macdonald
with his guns.
' I shall regret not seeing the Austrians, as well as miss
the variety attending the movements of so large an army
as this ; and if the siege of Dantzic becomes a tedious
operation, I shall hope to be allowed to rejoin headquar-
ters without waiting for the issue.'
Receiving his orders on the following day, Colonel
Campbell left Reichenbach on August 13. The journey
88 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. V.
to Dantzic occupied four days, travelling as he did night
and day, in order to reach his destination with all speed.
The siege of that place was proceeding slowly enough, the
operations being carried on under the supreme command
of H.E.H. the Duke of Wurtemburg, uncle of the Em-
peror of Eussia, by 30,000 Russian and Prussian troops,
chiefly militia, and a flotilla of Eussian gun-boats, assisted
by a small British force, naval and military.
In the first instance, Colonel Campbell took up his resi-
dence at the Duke's headquarters, as the best point for
facilitating communication among the parties engaged.
The duties assigned to him were somewhat varied and
complicated. He was the medium of intercourse between
His Eoyal Highness and the British officers, Captain
Acklom and Major Macdonald, commanding respectively
detachments of the navy and artillery; and he had to
combine at the same time the operations of the latter
with those of the Eussian and Prussian besieging force
under Admiral Gregg. He was likewise charged to super-
intend the disembarkation of immense stores of guns, am-
munition, rockets, &c., which were being despatched from
England, as well as to report all along to Lord Cathcart,
the general progress of events.
In announcing his arrival at Dantzic he writes :
' I have found the Duke of Wurtemburg kind beyond
description ; his table is always open to me. I have
quarters in his house ; a sentry and an orderly ; and his
horses are at my command.'
A few days afterwards, the Duke being then unfortu-
nately confined to bed by illness, and his headquarters
being likewise situated at a point too far distant from the
sea-board, where the operations were for the moment
most important, and the officers of the British Navy and
Artillery were posted, Colonel Campbell proceeded to Olu,
a village on the coast, and took up his abode at the house
of a merchant, who was shut up in Dantzic, the other
CHAP.V. SIEGE OF DANTZIC. 89
tenants of the mansion being a Colonel of Cossacks who
was sick, and a Major of Russian Infantry wounded.
* This is an elegant chateau, with all the accompani-
ments of luxury. There are a number of similar ones all
round, with fine gardens, shrubberies, promenades, statues,
jets d'eau, &c., and woods and lawns sloping down towards
the shore. The Duke furnishes me with dragoon horses in
addition to my own ; and the two Cossacks with me, acting
as orderlies, have their own horses.'
Throughout the month of September there were re-
peated combats, occasioned by attacks on the one side
and sorties on the other, and resulting in various success.
Colonel Campbell gives particulars of some of these.
'OffDantzic, September 3, 1813.
*I am now on board H.I.M.'s Frigate " Amphitrite,"
Admiral Gregg, after being up all night in the suburb
of Langfuhr, in consequence of an attack which com-
menced there at 4 P.M. yesterday. The whole was very
soon carried by the Russians, with the exception of two
houses which were fortified. The resistance occasioned
by these, and the reinforcements sent to them by the gar-
rison, kept up constant fighting and burning of houses
throughout the night.
f I came on board here about 8 this morning, expect-
ing that in the course of the day we shall attack some
batteries upon an island at the mouth of the Vistula ; also
some works upon the mainland, which are separated by a
branch of the river about twenty yards broad. Admiral
Gregg has eighty gun-boats, each mounting three guns.
Captain Acklom gives the use of our twenty transports,
which took on board yesterday 1,400 Russian troops and
pioneers, and the boats of the transports will debark them.
The works on the mainland are to be attacked at the same
time by Russian and Prussian troops, under the orders of
Admiral Gregg.'
90 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. V.
From a subsequent letter we find that this plan of
action did not succeed. * Our attack by sea was not suffi-
ciently impressive to enable us to land the troops, and the
wind has since been too violent for another effort to be
made. The siege is going on, but I do not expect rapid
progress.'
On October 10 there is a record of another mishap :
'Last night we made an attack. Unhappily, we lost
eight or nine hundred men, and failed after all ! I got a
musket-shot through my coat, just below the shoulder,
but luckily my side was presented, otherwise it might have
been an ugly thump ; for the French were only about
twenty yards off, firing from behind a bank.'
A third time we hear incidentally of his being warmly
engaged, but now with happier result.
' In consequence of a particular act in going forward
with the rockets, and pushing the Russian light troops
into the outer defences of the town, when he was slightly
wounded, H.R.H. the Duke of Wurtemburg recommended
Colonel Campbell for the distinction of the golden sword, or
sabre of honour. This is a small badge of that weapon,
worn like a military decoration at the breast. As, how-
ever, there was no precedent for a foreigner, not holding
a commission in the Russian Army, receiving this decora-
tion, the Emperor conferred upon him in its place the 4th
Class of the Order of St. George. This is by far the most
honourable of all the Imperial Orders, being purely mili-
tary, and one which is most sparingly bestowed. The
Emperor himself only wears the 4th Class of it ; no one
but Kutusoff had the 1st. It is a small white cross, with
an image of the Saint, suspended at the left breast by a
ribbon of orange and black stripes.'
Colonel Campbell was likewise made, at this period, a
Knight of the Imperial Order of St. Anne, second class ;
* the badge of which is worn round the neck, suspended by
a red ribbon with yellow edges. It is supposed to be in
CHAP. V. CAPITULATION OF DANTZIC. 91
diamonds and precious stones, which, however, are only
imitation ; and there is a cross in the centre, set in gold.'
These orders he received permission from his own govern-
ment to * accept and wear.'
The siege drew its weary length along, and Colonel
Campbell was soon longing for more active service.
' The Duke of Wurtemburg is very kind, but it is too
far from the grand theatre. Nor do I find that there is
anything to be learnt here. Rapp and his officers are so
comfortable in Dantzic compared to what they would be
as prisoners, that they have every personal inducement
to a vigorous defence ; they have bread for some
weeks, and horse-flesh has no longer any prejudice with
them. The Danes, too, have promised to throw in a sup-
ply of provisions. Sixteen of their vessels are now at
Bornholm. The besieging army is stated to be 40,000, but
I do not think 25,000 are effective ; such are the abuses
of a Russian army ! Of these 20,000 are militia.'
However, when applied to, the Duke refused to part
with Colonel Campbell, until after the capitulation of the
town, which took place on November 29.
At a subsequent period he received the following letter
of thanks, signed by ten of the principal inhabitants of
Dantzic, who had been shut up as prisoners in their own
city during the time the French held it in possession :
( Sir, — It was with extreme regret that we, and many of
our most respectable fellow-citizens, felt ourselves de-
prived, by your ' early departure, of the satisfaction we
anticipated, by presenting to you personally the grateful
acknowledgments due to your generous endeavours to les-
sen the devastations of a siege ; but we have the pleasure
now to convey these in our and their name. And we
doubt not it will be deemed to enhance in some degree
the honourable distinction with which your services to-
wards reducing this city have been marked, that they
92 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. V.
were united with exertions highly beneficial to the interests
of the suffering inhabitants.
' We believe ourselves also to be partly indebted to you,
for Captain Green having continued the blockade at so
late a season beyond the period intended, which no doubt
contributed to forward the capitulation ; and we beg the
favour of your conveying to Captain Green our thanks for
this material service.
' &c. &c.'
Colonel Campbell's next letter is addressed from Frank-
fort-on-the-Maine, December 18, 1813 :
' I left Dantzic on the 4th, and arrived here this morn-
ing. From hence I shall proceed towards Switzerland, to
receive Lord Cathcart's further instructions.
* The siege of Dantzic was shockingly mismanaged. I
am told that the capitulation, or rather convention en-
tered into there, has not been ratified. Do not think I
had any part in it, for my sentiments were openly against
it. I long foresaw the embarrassments which would arise
from a prosecution of the siege at such a season, and with
such troops ; and I proposed not to open the first parallel
after the battle of Leipsic, but merely to continue the
blockade till the provisions of the enemy were exhausted.'
From Dantzic to Frankfort, his route lay through the
centre of Germany, passing by Berlin, Leipsic, Weimar,
and Fulda.
' Berlin is the prettiest town (not excepting Edinburgh)
that I have ever seen — very regular, and yet varied with
fine buildings, squares, and spacious streets. The only
want is pavement for foot-passengers. In England there
are two great defects, which are generally supplied on the
Continent, viz. the fine avenues of trees which form the
promenades in and about the various cities, and are a
peculiar feature ; as well as the handsome gateways,
which span the entrances to the principal streets, and pro-
CHAP. V. SOCIETY AT BERLIN. 93
duce a very fine effect. During my stay at Berlin I dined
with the Princess of Orange, mother of the present Stadt-
holder. The evening after I spent at the Princess Louise's,
sister of the King of Prussia, who is married to the
Polish Prince Eadzivill. There were three other gentle-
men besides myself, the Princess of Orange and her
daughter, widow of the Duke of Brunswick Oels (the
elder brother of the Princess of "Wales), and three other
ladies. We sat round a large table and had tea, which
was made by one of the ladies of the household, and
handed about by one of the servants, just in the same
family style as in England. After this a large dish of
omelette was placed before the same lady, and a plate of
it with a spoon was delivered to each. Then a dish with
pudding was served out in the same way. No cloth was
laid, and each held the plate, like a cup of tea, in the
hand. The conversation went on with great spirit, for
the Princess Louise is uncommonly clever and lively.
The ladies were employed in picking lint1 from old linen
for the wounded. This is a constant occupation in all
families, and generally a requisition for a certain quantity,
according to the number in family, is made by the magis-
trates.'
From Frankfort Colonel Campbell proceeded to Fri-
bourg in Switzerland, where the Emperors of Russia and
Austria and the King of Prussia, with the various diplo-
matic and military chiefs, were then holding their head-
quarters.
On reporting himself to Lord Cathcart there, he was at
once sent to rejoin Count Wittgenstein, commanding one
of the great corps of the Eussian Army at Eadstadt ; and,
in attendance on that officer, crossed the Ehine near the
1 February 3, 1814. ' L*ly were pleased to call lint for the
Castlereagh, Lady Clancarty, with soldiers, but which I hope was
myself and a few others, sat round never used for that purpose.' He-
a table with the Princesses, who miniscences of a Septuagenarian,
employed us in making what they p. 44, 45.
94 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. V.
latter place, upon January 1, 1814. From the Rhine, the
Russian corps advanced by Hagenau, Luneville, Nancy,
and Toul. On January 29 he was present at the battle
of Brienne2 — the first fought on French soil — being on that
occasion attached to Marshal Blucher's Staff.
In the .course of the subsequent months of February
and March, he took part in a succession of combats, such
as Nogent-sur-Seine, Mormant, Bar-sur-Aube, Troyes,
Nangis, Vandceuvre, Arcis-sur-Aube, &c. ; ' in fact, in
every affair where any considerable part of Count Witt-
genstein's corps, or of his advanced guard, under that
brave and intelligent officer, Count Pahlen, came in contact
with the French.'
Colonel Campbell relates a curious and interesting inci-
dent as having occurred on one of these occasions :
' Upon Feburary 11, 1814, at Nogent-sur-Seine, when
it was first attacked by the Allies, I was with General
Pahlen, who commanded there. I then, for the first time,
saw, in the possession of Marshal Wrede, a copy, in
French, of H.M. Louis XVILT.'s Proclamation, dated from
Hartwell, January 1, 1814. I wrote out another copy of
it, while in a deserted house under fire, and prevailed
upon General Dovray, chief of Wittgenstein's Staff, and
the Count himself, to get 2,000 copies printed at Provins,
and these were subsequently circulated. Soon afterwards,
upon February 17, when retreating from Mormant, with
the skirmishers of the rearguard under fire, I alighted
from my horse, and fixed a packet of these papers upon
the meat-hooks of a butcher's shop. They were the first
ever published near Paris.'
Upon March 25, Colonel Campbell was severely wounded,
near Fere Champenoise, by a lance-thrust through the
8 The great army struggled on winch might easily have been done.'
in France ; political difficulties pre- The Early Years of the Prince Con-
venting its going after the battle sort, Appendix A, p. 384. Reminis-
of Brienne, on February 2, to Paris, cences of King Leopold.
CHAP. V. WOUNDED AT FERE CHAMPENOISE. 95
back, and a sabre-cut across the head. It was supposed,
on subsequent inquiry, that in consequence of his wear-
ing a blue surtout and .red sash, added to their over-
hearing him call out to the enemy in their own language,
the Cossacks, who inflicted the wounds, had mistaken him
for a French officer, and in consequence rode him down
from behind. It was in vain that, while in the act of fall-
ing from his horse, he had the presence of mind to throw
open his coat and display his Russian decorations.
The particulars of this affair are best quoted from his
own journal :
' The Emperor of Russia and King of Prussia entered
Vitry-sur-Marne in Champagne, upon March 24, 1814. A
council of war was held, at which Prince Schwartzenberg
(whose army had approached that place, marching from
Arcis-sur-Aube), Lord Cathcart, Sir Charles Stewart, and
the Russian Minister Nesselrode, assisted. Prince Blucher
with his army was known to be in the direction of Epernay
and Laon, but was not in direct communication. Napo-
leon and his army had passed a little above Yitry two days
before, moving in the direction of St. Dizier. An inter-
cepted letter from him to the Empress Marie Louise
(which was taken upon March 23), explaining the object of
the intended operations, was discussed at this council;
and it was determined that Prince Schwartzenberg's army
should advance upon the following day to Paris by the
direct great road. In course of the march, upon March
25, towards Fere Champenoise, several detachments of
French troops, in advance of the corps commanded by
Marshals Marmont and Mortier, who supposed them-
selves upon a free line of communication with the rear
of the French Emperor's army, were forced to retrace
their steps, being, to their astonishment, attacked by the
advanced parties of an army moving in front from Yitry,
and upon the left flank from Epernay. One of these con-
sisted of 5,000 infantry and artillery, escorting a great
90 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. V.
convoy of ammunition, and 80,000 rations of bread from
Paris, under the command of General Pacthoud. Fol-
lowed by increasing swarins of Cossacks during the whole
day, they were obliged to abandon their waggons ; and
near sunset, reinforcements of cavalry and artillery hav-
ing come up, and being supported by approaching masses,
they were forced, after a very brave resistance against the
charges of several squadrons, to halt in a mass, as if dis-
posed to surrender. In the confusion which ensued, some
of the Russian cavalry cutting down the enemy, and they
selling their lives in desperation, I called out to the latter
*' to cease firing, or they would all be massacred." Some
squadrons of Russian cavalry arriving to support those
with whom I had executed the first charge, and seeing me
in the melee, as if giving orders to the French, considered
me to be one of their opponents. One of the hussars of
the front rank, who are armed with lances, struck his
weapon through my back ; and when I was upon the
ground, another cut me with his sabre across the head,
although I cried out lustily, " Anglisky Polkovnick " (Eng-
lish Colonel). A Russian officer succeeded, by the use of
better language, in preventing the infliction of a third
wound. This may give some idea of the exasperated feel-
ings which even the common soldiers bore towards each
other ; so different, I am happy to say, from those which
existed between the British and French troops opposed to
each other in the Pyrenees and the adjacent frontier of
France.
' A very melancholy occurrence was passing at the mo-
ment upon the opposite side of this same mass of French
infantry. Colonel Rapatell, Aide-de-camp of the lamented
General Moreau, had accompanied him in his exile to
America, and returned with him to Europe. After the
death of his chief before Dresden, he continued with the
Emperor Alexander, who, looking upon this attack at the
distance of a quarter of a mile, sent Colonel Rapatell to
CHAP. V. WOUNDED AT FERE CHAMPENOISE. 97
the spot. This officer, actuated by the same motives of
humanity which influenced myself, approached the French
square, waving his handkerchief; and about the time
that I received my wounds, he likewise was struck by a
musket shot, which killed him on the spot. His brother
was at the very moment among the mass of French, serv-
ing as a Captain of Light Artillery, and had greatly dis-
tinguished himself in the course of the day.'
The Emperor of Russia, who was close by (as just men-
tioned), testified the deepest personal concern at the un-
fortunate mischance through which Colonel Campbell
had been wounded, and treated him with the most marked
kindness and consideration, placing him under the charge
of Dr. Crichton, one of his own medical attendants, and
Dr. Gessling, Physician-in-Chief to the Imperial Guards,
who dressed his wounds on the field of battle, and after-
wards accompanied him to the village of Fere Champenoise,
where he passed the night.
There also Dr. Wylie, the head of the Emperor's medi-
cal staff, and, like Dr. Crichton, a countryman of his own,
visited him by command of Alexander.
The following anecdote is related on the authority of
the former :
' Sir Neil Campbell, you may remember, was severely
wounded by a party of Cossacks, owing to a mistake on
their part, from hearing him speak French. Now it so
happened there was a regiment of these wild -sons of
the desert with which that officer was constantly present,
and which corps invariably furnished him with escorts
and orderlies when required. Indeed, a sergeant of the
regiment was ever with him, as his own particular hench-
man ! By an odd coincidence, this man's name was
Cambloff ; and it was unfortunate that, at the moment Sir
N. Campbell was wounded, he had been sent to the rear
with a message from him to one of the Russian comman-
ders, which detained him for some time. When, on his
ii
98 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. V.
return he found his beloved chief bleeding and senseless,
his wrath, and that of the whole regiment to which he be-
longed, rose to such a height, that it was not without diffi-
culty the Muscovite authorities could prevent them coming
to blows with the corps the men belonged to, through
whose ignorance the disaster had been occasioned.'
Lord Burghersh,3 in his * Memoir of the Operations of
the Allied Armies,'4 refers to the incident in the following
terms :
* Colonel Campbell, who was particularly distinguished
on this occasion, was severely wounded by a Cossack,
who, taking him for a French officer, forced his pike
through his back.'
As likewise in his Lordship's public despatch to the
Secretary of State, Earl Bathurst :
' It is with the greatest regret I have to announce
to your lordship that Colonel Campbell was yesterday
most severely wounded by a Cossack. Colonel Campbell,
continuing that gallant and distinguished course which
has ever marked his military career, had charged with the
first cavalry which penetrated the French masses. The
Cossacks, who came to support the cavalry, mistook him
for a French officer, and struck him to the ground. From
the appearance this morning, however, I am in consider-
able hope of his recovery.'
Sir Charles Stewart's despatch,5 on the same occasion,
also mentions the circumstance :
' Your lordship will, I am sure, regret to learn, that that
very deserving officer, Colonel Neil Campbell, was unfortu-
nately wounded by a Cossack, in the melee of the cavalry.'
He had also to lament the loss of all his baggage (con-
taining, besides personal effects, many important papers
and memoranda), which had been, as well as himself, with
3 Afterwards eleventh Earl of 5 Afterwards third Marquis of
Westmoreland. Londonderry.
4 Tart viii. p. 233.
CHAP. V. IMPRESSIONS OF RUSSIAN ARMY. 99
the advance-guard of the Eussians, and could never after-
wards be recovered.
The following precis, dating apparently from this period,
when he was laid up from active service, and was able
to review, from the quietude of a sick-bed, the circum-
stances of the preceding campaign, will perhaps be read
with interest in the light of more modern events :
' The description given of the immense quantity of car-
riages and followers of the Eussian Army, resembling a
horde of Asiatics, is perfectly correct. This is the ruin of
that army, for by those encumbrances the resources of the
country are exhausted, while the army is impeded, and
becomes unmanageable from the difficulty of collecting it.
It cannot act with force and promptitude against the
enemy, and is itself exposed to sudden attacks along its
own extensive, weakened, and disorderly front. The
superintendence of the general and field-officers over each
other and over the subordinates is lost. The former are
scattered over the whole country, with all sorts of car-
riages and an unlimited number of servants, in order to
place themselves within the best quarters they can find, at
a distance from the bivouacs of their respective regiments.
The men composing the latter are consequently inattentive
to their position and duties, and become themselves scat-
tered, so as to obtain as much shelter and plunder as they
can. Individual bravery is rendered unavailing, while so
loose a system prevails ; and it was to this that Napoleon
owed his success, in 1813 and 1814, against armies so supe-
rior in numbers and far superior in physical force to the
raw levies of the French Army.
' After the battle of Lutzen the Eussian officers openly
expressed their sentiments as to there being no national
object for them whereon to waste their lives in fighting
the battles of the Germans. The Austrians sent nearly
the whole of their force to the Army of Italy and that
near Lyons. The smaller German Powers, such as Bavaria
H 2
100 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. V.
and Wurtemburg, each of which acted generally as sepa-
rate corps, although under the orders of Prince Schwart-
zenberg, considered themselves too weak to stand the
brunt of the contest against the Trench, and sought every
opportunity to avoid it. But the Prussians under Blucher
always looked out for occasions to close with the enemy,
every individual being enthusiastically hostile against the
French ; and they alone served with feelings similar to
those of the British Army. The French generally killed
five to one of the Russians ; yet the army of Bonaparte
was so inferior to that commanded by Soult in Spain, that
the detachments of the latter, brought from thence first to
Germany and then to Champagne, were considered the
elite, quite equal to the Old Guard.
'Any rapid reform in the Russian Army can only be
superficial, e.g. in matters of parade, or of dress, so long
as it is constituted as at present. The radical improve-
ments must keep pace with the general civilisation of the
whole population. The officers who possess education are
so few in proportion to the whole number in the army,
that they are only to be found in the Guards, on the Staff,
and in a few of the favourite regiments of cavalry. The staff-
officers are generally ten times as numerous as those
attached to the generals of other nations ; and the whole
of them, excepting the chief, spend their days for the
most part in eating and drinking, gambling and sleeping —
all these operations too being performed in the same room,
and by the parties relieving each other !
' When any regiment of infantry is about to be engaged,
the general places at its head one of the many officers
attached to him, at the very moment perhaps that the
enemy are marching forward. This favourite is afterwards
sent, with a flaming report of his prowess, to the Emperor,
who, in the fulness of his joy, confers upon him a decora-
tion or a step of rank — perhaps both. This career of
military service will be sufficient to show what sort of in-
struction the best Russian officers receive, and what may
CHAP. V. IMPRESSIONS OF RUSSIAN ARMY. 101
be expected of them when they rise to the chief commands.
The other officers, who are uneducated, and speak no lan-
guage except their mother-tongue, have very little prospect
of ever advancing. They only look to the comfort of the
moment, by plundering, and evading in every possible way
the hardships of the field. The privates derive no advan-
tage from the zeal, intelligence, foresight, and combinations
of their superiors. Their strong physical powers alone sup-
port them in the exercise of their duties. It may readily
be conceived, that the improvement of any army composed
of such materials must be very slow, and that the exertions
of the sovereign, the imitation of more civilised nations,
and the introduction of foreign officers can only effect
superficial reforms. The rest must be a work of time, and
cannot precede the general civilisation of the whole empire
by its gradual improvement in arts and sciences.' 6
Being delayed at Fere Champenoise by his wounds,
which at first bore a dangerous aspect, and caused great
difficulty in breathing, Colonel Campbell did not reach
Paris till April 9, nine days after its capture by the Allied
Armies. The issue of the then existing crisis was still
uncertain ; the fate of Napoleon yet trembled on the
6 Lord Londonderry's War in 'The general tone prevalent
Germany, ch. iii. pp. 32, 33 : ' The throughout the military officers of
numerous baggage waggons of all the Russian Army was of a despond-
descriptions, &c., exceed belief ; and ing nature : they thought they had
no general officer has less than done enough} especially as Austria
eighteen or twenty orderlies, ca- had not declared itself, and Saxony
valry and infantry, which always continued to oppose them. The
follow him. In fact, I am persuaded tide of their success seemed to them
the men out of the, ranks, and the arrested, and they eagerly looked to
followers and military attendants their own frontier,
in a Russian Army, amount to at ' The soldiers of the Prussian
least one-fifth of the total number. Army had, at this crisis, a higher
' With regard to the officers, they and more animated feeling : they
are certainly brave men, and some were fighting for their existence,
of superior abilities ; but the and every mile, if in retreat, raised
generality of them did not at this a murmur of discontent. Their
period possess those talents and state of discipline was good, and
resources found among their oppo- their superior officers most efficient ;
nents, so long initiated in the school their cavalry fine, and artillery ex-
of Bonaparte. cellent.
102 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. V.
balance. For although on April 4 he had drawn up and
signed an act declaring his readiness to descend from the
throne, should it be necessary for the welfare of France
and the peace of Europe, it was with this reserve — that
the rights of his son should be maintained, and the
Empress appointed Regent in the meantime. To this
partial surrender, however, of his power the Allies had
refused to agree; and it was not till April 11, when he
found that all his marshals were deserting him one by
one, and that further resistance was hopeless, that he was
prevailed upon to sign his final act of abdication, and to
accept the sovereignty of Elba — as suggested in the first
instance by the Emperor Alexander.7
On the completion of the ' Treaty of Fontainebleau,' the
Four Allied Powers at once proceeded to nominate com-
missioners, who were to accompany the ex-Emperor to
the place of embarkation. For this appointment Colonel
Campbell was selected by Lord Castlereagh on the part of
the British Government. It was somewhat against the
opinion of Dr. Crichton (who continued his attendance in
Paris) that he undertook so anxious and difficult an office
— as testified by the following medical certificate :
( It is but my duty to add that this journey, undertaken
before the complete cure of his wounds, and while labouring
under the symptoms just mentioned, is accompanied with
very considerable danger ; and that nothing but the idea
that Colonel Campbell is going to a warmer climate, and
his extreme anxiety to obey the orders he had received,
could have justified his setting out before the complete
cicatrisation of his wounds.'
7 Viscount Castlereagh to Earl quality of security, on which he
Bathurst. insisted, seemed disposable, to
' Paris, April 13, 18U. which equal objections did not
occur, and I did not feel that I
' I should have wished to substi- could encourage the alternative
tute another position in lieu of which M. de Caulaincourt assured
Elba for the seat of Napoleon's re- me Bonaparte repeatedly mentioned,
tireinent ; but none having the — namely, an asylum in England.'
CHAP. Y.
AUGMENTATION TO ARMS.
103
In the well-known picture of the elder Vernet, entitled
<Les Adieux de Fontainebleau,' the figure of Colonel
Campbell is represented in his wounded condition, with
head bound, and his arm supported in a sling.
The circumstances of the mission to Elba will be here-
after detailed in his own words. During his residence
there he received a patent, conferring upon him knight-
hood, and an honourable augmentation to his arms ; and
he was likewise made a Companion of the Bath, and re-
ceived a pension for wounds of 300/. a year.8
8 ' His Royal Highness the Prince
Regent has been pleased, in the
name and on the behalf of His Ma-
jesty, by Letters Patent under the
Great Seal of the United Kingdom
of Great Britain and Ireland, to con-
fer the honour of Knighthood upon
Neil Campbell, Esq., Colonel in the
Army, and Knight of the Imperial
Russian Orders of St. Anne of the
Second Class, and of St. George of
the Fourth Class.
' And the Prince Regent, being
desirous of conferring upon the
said Sir Neil Campbell such a
further mark of His Majesty's royal
favour as may, in an especial sense,
evince the sense he entertains of
the highly distinguished services
performed by that officer at the con-
quest of the important colonies of
Martinique, Guadaloupe, and their
dependencies ; at the assault and
capture of Ciudad Rodrigo, and at the
brilliant engagement on the plains
of Salamanca ; as also the great
zeal and ability manifested by him
while attached to the Russian Army
in the glorious and ever-memorable
campaigns, which have recently
terminated in the restoration of
peace in Europe, and more espe-
cially the signal intrepidity dis-
played by him in the action fought
at Fere Champenoise in France, on
the 25th day of March last : His
Royal Highness has been pleased
to grant unto the said Sir Neil
Campbell, His Majesty's royal li-
cence and authority, that, to the
ancient armorial ensigns of his
family, he and his descendants may
bear the following honourable aug-
mentations, that is to say :
' " On a chief a lion passant guar-
dant, grasping in the dexter paw a
sword; and on a canton pendent from
a ribbon, a representation of the badge
of the Imperial Russian Military
order of St. George" conferred upon
the said Sir Neil Campbell by His
Majesty the Emperor of All the
Russias, in testimony of the sense
entertained by that Sovereign of
his great merits ; and the following
crest of honourable augmentation,
that is to say :
' " Out of a mural crown, a demy-
lion guardant gutte de sang, grasping
a sword as in the arms, and gorged
ivith a ribbon ; pendent therefrom a
representation of the gold medal con-
ferred upon him for his services at the
aforesaid capture of Ciudad Rodrigo
and Battle of Salamanca ; and in an
escrol above, this motto, FERB
CHAMPENOISE." '
104 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
CHAPTEE VI.
[1814—1816.]
RETURN FROM ELBA — INTERVIEW WITH PRINCE REGENT — DEBATES
IN PARLIAMENT RESPECTING NAPOLEON'S ESCAPE — RETROSPECT OP
EVENTS AT ELBA DURING SIR N. CAMPBELL'S MISSION — PROCEEDS
TO BRUSSELS — LETTER OF INTRODUCTION FROM LORD CASTLEREAGH
— DINES WITH THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON ON JUNE 15 — WITNESSES
THE BATTLES OF QUATRE BRAS AND WATERLOO — JOINS SIR CHARLES
COLVILLE'S DIVISION — ASSAULT OF CAMBRAY — MENTIONED IN
DESPATCHES — SIR CHARLES NAPIER A VOLUNTEER — COMBAT AT
AUBERVILLIERS — CONTROVERST BETWEEN SIR CHARLES NAPIER
AND GENERAL VON GROLLMANN — CAPTURE OF PARIS— APPOINTED
TO COMMAND OF HANSEATIC LEGION — RECEIVES THE THANKS OF
SENATE OF BREMEN — LEGION BROKEN UP — RETURN TO ENGLAND
— COMPANION OF THE BATH, AND KNIGHT OF SI WLADIMIR —
INVALIDED AND GOES UPON HALF- PAY.
RELEASED from the position of British .Resident at Elba by
no less an event than the startling escape of Napoleon
from that island on February 26, 1815, Sir Neil Campbell
reached England on April 1.
On his arrival he was summoned to a private interview
with the Prince Regent at Carlton House, when His Royal
Highness was pleased to express in unqualified terms his
entire approval of Sir Neil's conduct during the time he
had been employed by the Foreign Office, as well as upon
all previous occasions, when that officer had been brought
under the notice of His Royal Highness, assuring him that
in no way could he, as English Commissioner, be considered
responsible for the unfortunate evasion of Napoleon from
Elba, greatly as such a circumstance was to be deplored by
the world at large.
The Earl of Liverpool in the House of Lords, and Viscount
Castlereagh in the House of Commons, during the public
CHAP. VI. DEBATES IN PARLIAMENT. 105
debates of April 7, each declared, with equal emphasis,
that no shadow of blame attached to Sir Neil Campbell,
whose mission on the part of the British Government had
merely been to conduct the ex-Emperor in safety to his
own dominions, with permission to remain there so long
as Napoleon himself should desire the protection of his
presence.
Lord Liverpool observed : ' As to the respectable officer
to whom allusion had been frequently made in public, he
felt it his duty to observe, that had he been in the island
at the time, it would have made no difference, when all
the power and police of the island, such as it was, were in
the hands of the person whose designs he was expected
to counteract. If he had suspected him, and betrayed
those suspicions, what was there to prevent his being put
under arrest ? '
And Lord Castlereagh : ' With respect to the residence
and situation of this personage at Elba, whatever may be
my own individual opinion upon the subject of the arrange-
ment which gave to him that jurisdiction — whatever
objections I may have had to this settlement from the
beginning, and the opportunities its locality afforded for
the realisation of what has unhappily since occurred — there
can, I trust, exist but one feeling among liberal minds,
and that is, that when this island was given to Bonaparte
for his residence, that residence should comprise the portion
of fair and free liberty which was then due to a person in
his situation. When the island was secured to him by treaty,
it was of course done with as much exercise of personal
liberty as became the compact ; it was never in the con-
templation of the parties that he should be a prisoner
within that settlement, that he should be the compulsory
inmate of any tower, fortress, or citadel ; they never meant
that he should be so placed, or that he should be deprived
of sea excursions in the vicinity of the island for the fair
purposes of recreation.
106 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
( The Allied Powers who concurred in the Treaty of Fon-
tainebleau never undertook to conduct a system of espion-
age, either within or without the residence which they
had ceded to him ; it was never in their contemplation to
establish a naval police to hem in, or prevent this man's
committing himself, as he has done, to his fortunes. In
fact, if they were so inclined, they were without the means
of enforcing such a system ; for the best authorities in our
Government were of opinion, that it was absolutely and
physically impossible to draw a line of circumvallation
around Elba ; and for this very conclusive reason — that,
considering the variation of weather, and a variety of
other circumstances, which could not be controlled, the
whole British Navy would be inadequate for such a
purpose.'
And then presently, with particular reference to the
British Commissioner, the Noble Lord, the Minister for
Foreign Affairs, added :
' I repeat that our Government never undertook a police
establishment at Elba. Colonel Campbell was certainly
there, for the purpose of occasionally communicating with
our Government upon such matters as might pass under
his observation both there and in Italy, where at that time
we had no accredited agents : he was there at first merely
as one of the conductors, according to the treaty ; and I
afterwards suffered him to remain between that island and
Leghorn for the purpose I have mentioned ; but nothing
more was ever contemplated. It would have been out of
Colonel Campbell's power to have attempted anything
further — he could not have done it ; for the fact was that,
although at first treated with familiarity by Bonaparte,
his visits were subsequently disapproved of: latterly he
found the greatest difficulty in obtaining an interview
with him, so completely did the latter surround himself
with imperial etiquette.'
It will at once be seen, by those who read the Journal of
CHAP. Vi. RETROSPECT OF EVENTS IN ELBA. 107
Sir Neil Campbell, how anxious and harassing had been
the latter period of his mission, when, with his mind fall
of suspicions that Napoleon only awaited a pretext for
breaking faith with the Allies, he was yet unable, with
all his efforts, to arrive at any certain information, and
felt himself utterly powerless to fathom the deeply-laid
schemes. His position towards the ex-Emperor had com-
pletely changed since the early months of his residence
in Elba, when, as the former had once said, they were
together en soldat. For, ' suspicious of latent danger in
the extraordinary reverse of his fortunes, as well as appre-
hensive of open attack from some of the piratical states
of Barbary,' Napoleon had been at first most anxious that
the British Commissioner should prolong his stay in the
island. His earnest request, to that effect was complied
with, and Sir Neil Campbell had instructions to remain
beside him.
From this period, until the assembling of the Congress
at Vienna, Bonaparte evinced the greatest predilection
for the constant personal presence and society of Sir
Neil Campbell ; but the discussions of the Allied Powers
touching his future situation, and the arrangement of the
Italian States, seemed to awake his slumbering passions,
and to create an extraordinary rancour in his mind.
Henceforth he gradually alienated himself from the habits
of intimacy he had before cultivated with the British
Resident.
Instead of the daily intercourse that had existed during
the earlier portion of Sir Neil Campbell's mission, when
Napoleon had made a point of being attended by that
officer in all his rides and excursions round the island,
and had insisted on his being a regular guest at his table,
the ex-Emperor now began to surround himself more and
more with the courtly forms of etiquette. Becoming thus
estranged — though by slow degrees, and in a manner which
it was impossible to notice except silently — the British
108 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
Commissioner found tliat it would be necessary, for tlie
purpose of keeping up any sort of communication for the
future, formally to request interviews on all such op-
portunities as presented themselves, more particularly on
his return from periodical visits to the continent of Italy.
Napoleon would then receive him with his usual courtesy,
entering into conversation with equal eagerness, and
sustaining it with the same unflagging interest as on pre-
vious occasions. But it was evident that the reports
which continued to reach him from Vienna, and especially
a rumour in circulation that it was proposed to remove
him to St. Helena, filled his mind more and more with
anxiety and suspicion. Hence the doubts he constantly
expressed as to whether it was ever intended to fulfil with
honour the articles of the Treaty of Fontainebleau ; and
his whole demeanour showed but too plainly how each
day he was becoming more restless and dissatisfied with
his situation.
At this juncture Napoleon's youngest sister, Pauline —
the greatest intriguante of her day — appeared on the
scene. And from that period there was a constant influx
of mysterious persons from both France and Italy, oc-
casioning great disquiet to Sir Neil Campbell, who repre-
sented the perilous state of affairs, as well to his own
Government and the Austrian authorities on the Conti-
nent, as to M. Hyde de Neuville,1 an agent of the French
King. This gentleman, on account of his distinguished
zeal and ability in the Bourbon cause, had been sent to
Italy, by Louis XVIII. 's confidential friends, to collect
reports respecting Napoleon's position and conduct at
Elba. His mission conveyed in itself an evident proof of
the apprehensions they entertained, that the internal state
of France and Bonaparte's situation were incompatible
with the tranquillity of that nation. It was in conse-
1 Afterwards Minister from France to the United States.
\
CHAP. VI. RETROSPECT OF EVENTS IN ELBA. 109
quence of the information thus acquired that two French
frigates were sent shortly afterwards to cruise round Elba,
although in the event, either through treachery or accident,
this precaution proved quite useless, and the evil could
not be averted by them.
' Can any sufficient reason ' — asks Sir Neil Campbell —
be alleged for the conduct of the French Ministers, who
knew these things, and many others of a like nature ?
* They were fully informed of the intrigues carrying on
between Bonaparte and his adherents in France, for many
months before he quitted Elba ; some of the persons em-
ployed as active agents in those intrigues were seized
upon their way to Elba, through the exertions of some of
the King's household, by means distinct from the minis-
ters or other official authorities; written proofs were
found upon them, which were confirmed by their own full
confessions of guilt; but so inefficient was the Govern-
ment, that, in spite of the most determined efforts on the
part of some of the King's friends, these conspirators were
permitted to escape trial.'
In one of his despatches to Lord Castlereagh, Sir Neil
Campbell had given it as his opinion, that if money were
plentifully supplied to Napoleon, so as to enable him to
amuse his mind by carrying out his various schemes and
plans of improvement in the island, and to keep up the
semblance of a Court, such as his vanity might consider
suitable, he might be content to pass the remainder of
his days in tranquillity. But, if this were not the case,
the British Commissioner considered him capable of cross-
ing over to Piombino with his troops, or of committing
any other eccentricity. — [Despatch No. 34.]
The crisis so much dreaded by Sir Neil Campbell was
not long in coming. Madame Bertrand told him the situa-
tion of the Emperor was 'frightful ' — that he had scarcely a
franc, and not even a ring left to present to any one of his
followers, so completely had he got rid of all personal valu-
110 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
ables. England, indeed, was in no way responsible, more
particularly as- related to pecuniary matters, but still the
state of things was faithfully represented by Sir Neil
Campbell to his own superiors. No notice, however, was
taken of his repeated warnings ; 2 and in the end, so un-
prepared were the .Allied Powers for the actual event, that
the sovereigns and foreign ministers assembled at Vienna
were still wrangling over the details of the Peace, at the
very moment that Napoleon's flotilla had arrived in St.
Juan's Bay ! Tired out by the long war — dating back,
with but short intervals, to the French Revolution — the
Allies seem to have lulled themselves into a fatal dream
of security, from which no watchman's voice could rouse
them, until the news of Napoleon's escape fell upon their
ears with the most startling shock.
* No means were at my disposal,' Sir Neil Campbell
openly and distinctly stated, 'for the security of the'
French, or any other nation, against an invasion by Napo-
leon ; nor for restricting him in " the free possession and
the peaceable enjoyment in full sovereignty of the island
of Elba " (the words of the protocol). This was the very
letter and spirit of my instructions from Lord Castle-
reagh, their only object and meaning, and the only duty
which the British Government or their Commissioner were
bound to perform. The bare necessity imposed by the
treaty would have been fulfilled in landing Napoleon on
the island of Elba, from on board the English frigate,
upon May 4; but the liberal construction of that treaty,
and of Lord Castlereagh's instructions (as well as my
cordial feelings of respect and sympathy towards a man
who, although an enemy, had fallen from the highest, ele-
2 ' The whole correspondence of situation, and desired instructions
Sir Neil with the British Ministers which do not appear to have been
has been seen by me, and it is but sent.' MS. Letter from Sir Walter
justice to say, that he repeatedly Scott. Edin. March 12, 1828.
represented the difficulties of his
CHAP. VI. PROCEEDS TO BELGIUM. Ill
vation of sovereign power, and from eminent glory in my
own profession), prompted me for some time to strain
every nerve in promoting his comfort, as far as lay in my
power, with, as much alacrity and zeal as if he had for-
merly been my own military chief. Without that aid
from me, and without a personal residence near him for
several months, he could not have been fully established
in possession of Elba. At his positive request, expresssd
by himself verbally, and by General Bertrand in a written
note, my stay was prolonged, and subsequently approved
of by His Eoyal Highness the Prince Regent and his
Ministers.'
In the certain prospect of a renewal of hostilities, the
eyes of Europe turned instinctively towards Belgium, as
the battlefield on which the decisive struggle between
Napoleon and the Allies was destined to take place. The
54th, Sir N. Campbell's regiment, formed part of the Duke
of Wellington's army there assembled, and he accordingly
proceeded to join that corps. Before leaving England,
however, he received from Lord Castlereagh a copy of a
letter of introduction, which, after being submitted to the
Duke of York, the Commander-in-Chief, had been sent to
the Duke of Wellington. It ran as follows :
' Foreign Office, May 27, 1815.
* My Lord,— Colonel Sir Neil Campbell being about to
join his regiment in Flanders, it is with much satisfaction
that I avail myself of this opportunity to address your
Grace, for the purpose of assuring you that His Majesty's
Government have had every reason to be satisfied with the
activity and intelligence manifested by Sir Neil Campbell
during the time he was serving under the direction of this
department, as well at the siege of Dantzic, and in the
campaigns of Germany and France of 1813 and 1814, as
more particularly during the very delicate and difficult
112 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
charge imposed upon him, while residing near the person
of Napoleon Bonaparte in the island of Elba.
"The unfortunate evasion of that person from Elba,
wholly unexpected as it was, and disastrous as the event
must prove to the cause of humanity, cannot, in the judg-
ment of His Majesty's Government, be attributed to any
want of proper exertion and activity on the part of Sir
Neil Campbell. It is not, however, judged advisable, at
the present moment, to continue the services of Sir Neil
Campbell as Besident with any of the Allied Armies under
the orders of this department ;3 and he has therefore, in
the most honourable manner, decided to return to the per-
formance of his military duties.
' As I can entertain no doubt that Sir Neil Campbell's
conduct under your Grace's command will continue, as
on former occasions, to receive your approbation, I have
only to add, that every mark of confidence which, in the
course of the ensuing campaign, your Grace shall have an
opportunity of bestowing upon him, will be highly grati-
fying to His Majesty's Ministers, and personally to me.
3 Memorandum by Sir N. Camp- mental duties with the British army,
bell : after several years' absence from
' So violent and general were those them, while employed upon the
prejudices upon the Continent in Staff, I immediately assured Lord
May 1815, upon my return to Great Castlereagh that I was ready, nay,
Britain from Elba, that the Min- desirous of joining my regiment,
isters considered it necessary so far then in Belgium with the army
to yield to them, as for that reason under the command of Field Marshal
not to give me an appointment as the Duke of Wellington, but that
Military Correspondent at the head- I trusted such explanations in my
quarters of any of the Allied Armies, favour would be given to his Royal
then assembling for the invasion of Highness the Duke of York and to
France. It was feared that my pre- his Grace, as would remove every
sence might excite irritating dis- shadow of doubt from their minds
cussions with me upon this subject, in regard to my conduct while em-
even among our own Allies, the risk ployed upon the recent mission,
of which it were better to avoid. Lord Castlereagh acquiesced in my
Unwilling to embarrass Minis- request, by writing in my favour
ters, whose opinions had been so to the latter, and sending a copy of
unequivocally declared with the ut- the letter to his Royal Highness
most publicity, and being desirous the Commander-in-Chief, as also a
to enlarge my experience of regi- copy to myself.'
CHAP. VI. BRUSSELS. 113
' I have the honour to be, with great truth and respect,
my Lord, your Grace's most obedient humble servant,
(Signed) ' CASTLEKEAGH.
' To Field Marshal his Grace
the Duke of Wellington, &c., &e. Brussels." •
On arriving at Brussels, Sir N. Campbell presented him-
self at the Duke's headquarters. This was on June 15.
The Duke was engaged at the moment, but sent a mes-
sage through his Aide-de-camp, Lord G. Lennox, inviting
him to dinner on the same evening, and appointing an
official interview for the following day. That dinner has
become famous in history — second in romantic interest only
to the Duchess of Richmond's ball, which followed it.
* At dinner ' (so Sir N. Campbell dots down among some
hurried memoranda) ' the Prince of Orange and Marshal
Blucher's Aide-de-camp called, and gave information of
the attack at Charleroi. All in movement.'
The Duke was certainly so far ' surprised,' as that he
had promised Sir N. Campbell an interview for the fol-
lowing day (June 16) ; but of course, as the troops
marched out of Brussels towards the front during the
night and early morning, his hopes of obtaining a staff
appointment were for the moment disappointed.
' My friends,' he writes, ' Sir Colin Campbell, Sir Edward
Barnes, and his Aide-de-camp Colonel Hamilton — the two
latter I knew in the West Indies — have recommended me
to remain at Brussels, or near headquarters, for a few
days, when no. doubt I should hear from the Duke, and
they would attend to my interests, if any opportunity of
reminding him of me should offer.'
With the desire of acting upon the latter portion of
this advice, Sir N. Campbell at once set about providing
himself with the necessary equipment ; but there was so
much confusion in the town, and such difficulty in even
getting horses shod, that it was not till towards the
middle of the day on the 16th (even then leaving his ser-
i
114 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
vants employed in urging on panicstricken saddlers and
dilatory outfitters), that he was able to have one horse
ready and to ride towards the front. At the close of the
action at Quatre Bras, on the evening of the 16th, he re-
turned to Brussels ; but again set out before daylight on
the 17th; from which day, until the 19th, although not
serving in any official or military capacity, he followed the
headquarters, and thus became witness of the battle of
June 18.
After that event, despairing of finding the Duke of Wel-
lington disengaged for a single moment, unless, as he
wrote, he should ' press for an interview in a way that
was not agreeable to himself,' Sir N. Campbell, upon the
19th, joined his own regiment, the 54th, which, as forming
part of the force kept in reserve for the protection of the
road to Brussels through Hal, had not been actually en-
gaged in the great battle. On his reporting himself, Sir
Charles Colville, the General of the Division, at once
gave him the command of the Light Companies of the
35th, 54th, 59th, and 91st Regiments, brigaded together,
with occasionally a grenadier company or two, and a whole
regiment in support.
These troops led the advance of the army, and en-
tered the French territory on the 20th. On the 24th
they appeared before the fortified town of Cambray, and
the garrison having refused to surrender, it was stormed
and taken on the 25th, Sir N. Campbell with his Light
Companies heading the assault.
Sir Charles Colville's despatch to the Duke of Wel-
lington, announcing the capture of the stronghold, thus
reports :
'Gory, June 26, 1815.
' I beg leave to take the opportunity of mentioning,
that I feel much obliged to Colonel Sir Neil Campbell, for
his conduct in closing, in the town of Cambray, with the
Light Companies of Major-General Johnstone's Brigade,
CHAP. VI. STORMING OF CAMERA Y. 115
and in leading- one of the columns of attack. The one
which he commanded escaladed, at the angle formed on
our right side by the Valenciennes gateway and the cur-
tine of the body of the place.
• ••••••
'The Valenciennes Gate was broken open by Sir N.
Campbell, and drawbridges let down in about half an
hour.' 4
For his conduct in this rapid but gallant affair, achieved
with the loss of only thirty-five men, Sir N. Campbell re-
ceived the Waterloo medal, it being considered to form
part of the general campaign.
It is interesting to note, that the late Sir Charles
Napier accompanied his old friend on this as well as on a
subsequent occasion.5
We quote from Sir William Napier's 'Life' of his
brother : 6 ' The commotion of war drew Charles Napier to
Ghent, where he awaited the great impending battle, not
called by duty, but seeking it as a volunteer. Napoleon's
rapidity baffled all calculations, and Waterloo was fought
almost before the French passage of the Sambre was
known at Ghent : thus the eager volunteer could only
join in the storming of Cambray. But when the British
army reached Paris the French were still resistant, and
Charles Napier assisted in a combat, where the superior-
ity of the British infantiy, officer and soldier, over allies
and enemies, was signalised in the following remarkable
manner :
4 ' Cainbray had been carried by the rampart. This pass was pointed
escalade, by a bold coup-de-main, out to them by the townspeople.'
of which we saw the vestiges. The Paul's Letters to his Kinsfolk, letter
citizens, who were chiefly royalists, xi. p. 270.
favoured the attack ; and a part of 5 ' His letters describing the
the storming party entered by means storming of Cambray and Carnp-
of a staircase contained in an old bell's combat have been lost.' Life
turret, which terminated in a sally- of Sir Charles Napier, vol. i. p. 266.
port opening to the ditch, and above 6 Vol. i. p. 2(55.
ia a wicket communicating with
116 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
1 A large body of Prussians attempted to drive the
French from a suburb, where they occupied one side of a
street. For hours a fire from the windows went on, each
side suffering severely, without any marked advantage to
either. The Prussians were then relieved by a much
smaller number of British troops, under Sir Neil Camp-
bell, with whom Sir Charles Napier went as a volunteer.
The continuous fire, before heard for hours, now ceased ;
but the blows of pickaxe and hatchet succeeded, mixed at
times with a stifled sound of musketry and occasional
shouts, and in an hour the French were driven away.
Campbell had forced entry to a house on the French side,
broke through the partition walls, and stormed each
building in succession, thus gaining his object with a
furious but calculated rapidity, and with far less loss than
the Prussians had sustained without success.'
In after years -this fight became a subject of contro-
versy between General Von Grollmann and Sir Charles
Napier, on occasion of a letter published by the former.
The letters of the latter in reply thereto appeared in
the ' Naval and Military Gazette,' August 20 and 27,
1836. From one of these we extract as follows :
' The General says, " a reconnoitring party was des-
patched towards the Ourcq Canal, by whom the enemy
was driven with loss from the village of Aubervilliers."
Now here General Von Grollmann and I differ as to
facts. I beg leave to say, that the enemy were not driven
with loss from Aubervilliers by the Prussian reconnoi-
tring party. The late Sir Neil Campbell was ordered to
relieve the Prussian detachment with three Light In-
fantry Companies of Sir Charles Colville's Brigade,
amounting to under 300 men. I went with him. We
found a constant firing maintained by the Prussians,
which fire was apparently disregarded by the French, who
scarcely returned a shot. The Prussians had not dis-
CHAP. VI. COMBAT AT AUBERVILi^IERS. 117
lodged the latter from any part that they had occupied at
the beginning of the attack, and were themselves covered
by some houses and walls, from which they kept up this
useless fire. On our arrival the Prussian commander
gave Sir Neil Campbell directions as to what he ought
and ought not to do. The Prussians had done nothing
but waste powder and ball, and we saw neither killed nor
wounded men ; therefore, though the Prussian officer and
his men were, no doubt, brave and experienced soldiers,
Sir Neil Campbell resolved not to imitate their mode of
attack, of which the failure, up to the period when we
relieved them, was evident. We occupied the ground
quitted by the Prussians. Campbell made his reconnais-
sance and laid his plans ; then attacked and carried two
or three of the highest houses ; from the top of tliese he
broke into those which were lower, but without much fir-
ing, only a few shots in breaking through the division-
walls of some houses, for the French did not seem re-
solved on an obstinate defence. In about two hours we
possessed ourselves of one side of a whole street, with a
communication from house to house through the partition
walls, and thus we quickly became masters of the greatest
portion of the village. The French officer asked Sir Neil
Campbell if we were Prussians. Answer, " No ! British."
" I thought so," said he, " from your different manner of
attack. These Prussian fellows have been firing for
hours, and could not dislodge me from a single house.
Will you accept a flag of truce ? " Campbell accepted
the offer, as he had already possessed himself of the
greatest part of the village, and we had reason to believe
that a battery from the canal would open upon us, if the
French were really to evacuate the post. The post they
held was between us and the battery. Sir Neil reported
the proposition to his commander, which was consented
to, and there we remained two days and the intervening
night ; the intrepid, the unflinching, the indefatigable
118 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
Neil Campbell directing all himself, as prominent by his
courage as by his rank.
( When this officer demanded a parley, he was in a
house nearly opposite that in which Sir Neil Campbell
and myself were. The truce being agreed upon, we were
careless in going to the windows, and a private of the
54th Regiment, standing in the room with us, was shot
dead from a distant window on the opposite side. He
did not make the least exclamation or motion. I never
saw death so sudden ; the ball passed through his brain.
He was probably the last British soldier killed in that
long war. All were angry ; and the first proposal was to
make a general attack and give no quarter; but there
were present a few cooler heads, among which, fortu-
nately, was Neil Campbell himself, who ordered all to be
quiet, while he represented the case and demanded satis-
faction from the French commander. The officer at once
answered that he was shocked, that he knew nothing,
but would go instantly to the house where the shot
was fired and inquire. " If you like to do so, take ven-
geance on me," said he to Campbell as he ran downstairs
and stood in the street. " If you doubt," said he, " fire ;
there is my breast," and he threw open his coat. Had the
reader seen our state of excitement at the moment, he
would be aware of the danger which this resolute man
incurred by what he did. But British discipline is superior
to human passions. When the French officer appeared,
the loud voice of Campbell rang through the street :
" Let no one fire without my orders," and vengeance for a
comrade slain during a truce was dormant. I doubt much,
from what I saw, whether Prussian discipline would be
equally obedient. The French officer made the inquiry ;
he came back, and told Campbell that the man who fired
was a young conscript ; that he had not understood what
was going on ; that he (the officer) left the decision to
CHAP. VI. PRUSSIAN ARMY. 119
Campbell ; that it was a mistake, but that he and many
others then stood purposely exposed, if the English chose
to avenge the accident. Sir Neil Campbell said no ; that
he wanted no retaliation for an error ; that his handsome
conduct had proved it to be one; but that he must be
aware the truce was at an end lest some other accident
should occur. The Frenchman's conduct was throughout
brave and loyal. Both sides afterwards kept under cover
till the French retired.'
No particular mention of this combat is made in any of
Sir Neil Campbell's papers or letters, as though it was
not specially distinguished in his mind from the numerous
other skirmishes and affairs which occurred during the
advance to, and investment of, Paris. But from memoranda
of a previous date it may be gathered, that had he been still
alive, when the respective merits of British and Prussian
tactics were thus being discussed, he would scarcely have
joined his old and valued friend in any depreciation of
the latter. On the contrary, the terms in which he always
speaks of the conduct and spirit of the Prussian soldiery
are most emphatic and laudatory. And to these he could
personally bear witness, as having been so long in the
field with them, and especially at the battle of Brienne,
where he was present by the side of Marshal Blucher
himself. Thus at the period of' the armistice of Eeichen-
bach he writes, ' The Prussians are perfect in everything.'
And again, speaking generally of the campaigns of 1813
and 1814: 'The Prussians under Blucher always sought
for every occasion to close with the enemy, every indi-
vidual being enthusiastically hostile against the French,
and they alone served with feelings similar to those of the
British army.'
Sir Neil Campbell's estimate of the military organisa-
tion and soldierly qualities of the Prussians has certainly
been confirmed, in a remarkable manner, by the campaign
of 1866, throughout which, in the opinion of competent
120 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VL
judges, the Prussian troops have shown themselves to be
second to none in Europe.
On approaching Paris, Blucher with the Prussian army
moved to his right, and crossed the Seine at St. Germain,
occupying in succession each height on the left bank of
the river, and thus commanding the city on its most vul-
nerable side. While Wellington and the British, con-
tinuing their direct advance from the north, came up in
face of Montmartre and the town of St. Denis, which had
been strongly fortified, and were likewise protected by the
inundation of the whole of the surrounding country
and the line of the Ourcq Canal. However, finding
that the Allies were now in full communication with
each other, by means of bridges which had been thrown
across the Seine, both above and below Paris, and that
further resistance was hopeless, the enemy on July 3 sent
to them proposals for a suspension of arms, and the
consequent evacuation of the city by the whole French
army.
Article VIII. of the Convention ran as follows :
' To-morrow, July 4, at mid-day, St. Denis, St. Ouen,
Clichy, and Neuilly shall be given up. The day after
to-morrow, the 5th, at the same hour, Montmartre shall
be given up. The third day, the 6th, all the Barriers shall
be given up.'
Accordingly Sir Neil Campbell writes from ' St. Denis,
three miles north of Paris, July 6, 1815. Our Division
occupied this place the day before yesterday. Yesterday
the enemy gave up Montmartre, and this day Paris. We
expect to march through the city, and encamp in the
suburbs this day. What an era in one's life, even in the
most subordinate situation of the army ! Louis XVIII. is
a few miles behind us.'
Leaving Ghent, where he had resided since his hasty
flight from Paris, and following close upon the forward
march of the British troops, the French King had re-
CHAP. VI. COMMANDS HANSEATIC LEGION. 121
moved to Cambray7 — well-known for its royalist sympa-
thies— within a day of its capture by Sir Neil Campbell,
and there established his court until summoned to Paris,
which he entered July 8.
Ten days after the occupation of Paris, Sir Neil Camp-
bell was appointed by the Duke of Wellington to command
the contingent of troops — a body of 3000 men — furnished
by the Free Hanseatic cities of Hamburg, Lubec, and
Bremen.
His headquarters were at the Chateau de Denancourt,
near Peronne, department of La Somme ; from where he
writes, October 17, 1815.
*I am quite out of the British world here, amusing
myself with my troops, shooting, and visiting. It is a
fine rich country, about twenty-five miles south of Amiens.
However, as I have had my Hanseatic Legion in the neigh-
bouring villages ever since the middle of July, and they
consist of cavalry, infantry, and artillery, who have never
been together before, I have not been idle. The system
of discipline, as regards the inhabitants, and the mode of
provisioning, is very different in the Duke of Wellington's
army from what they have been accustomed to. Besides,
I have to carry on a correspondence with the senate of
each of the states.'
From the same letter we catch a glimpse of the state
of France at this period :
' The people of this unfortunate country are quiet at
present, but there are so many factions, that it is only by
the force of the Allies that they are kept from cutting
each other's throats. When they come to know and feel
the heavy contributions to be exacted from them, there will
7 The Duke of Wellington to inst., and the King of France pro-
Earl Bathurst. ceded there with his court, and
[Despatch.] with his troops on the 26th. I
1 Orviiie, June 28, 1815. have given that fort over entirely
' The citadel of Cambray sur- to His Majesty.'
rendered on the evening of the 25th
122 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VI.
probably be some outbreak. They are like the Poles, and
no one can tell when or how these factions will subside.'
The appointment of Sir Neil Campbell to the Hanseatic
Legion had been originally approved by the burgomasters
and senators of the Free Towns in the following terms :
' It has given us great satisfaction to learn, that His
Grace the Duke of Wellington has appointed you to take
the command of our Legion, and that you are about to join
these troops.
' Fully convinced of the good, brave, and Orderly spirit
of these troops, partly composed of young men related to
our first families, we cannot but feel the highest satisfac-
tion to learn that they will be led by an officer who
engages himself to regulate his command, and identify
himself with this corps, as much as any officer belonging
to it, and born a subject of the Hanseatic Towns, and to
devote all his efforts to a zealous and patriotic discharge
of their duties.
'After this solemn engagement, we cannot doubt but
that you will take care in having our published military
laws and articles, relating to discipline and military pun-
ishment, observed ; and that during the time you command
and lead these troops, you will show the just and necessary
regard to the military authorities of the Hanseatic Towns,
in faithfully and loyally executing what they might state
and prescribe.'
That this command must have imposed upon Sir Neil
Campbell duties of a somewhat difficult and delicate
nature may be inferred, as well from some of the expres-
sions here used, as from the fact mentioned by himself
that he was required to keep up a regular correspondence
with the senators of each state. But that he was suc-
cessful in smoothing over susceptibilities, is no less evident
from a letter addressed to him by the Senate of Bremen,
November 16, 1815, on the recall of their troops.
*Vos services, Monsieur, rendus pendant le terns de
CHAP. VI. KNIGHT OF ST. WLADIMIR. 123
votre commandment resteront dans le souvenir, recon-
naissant du Senat de Bremen. II regrette, que son desir
de vous conferer le grade de general, n' a pas pu etre
rempli.'
The Legion was finally broken up in December, 1815,
when Sir Neil Campbell returned to England.
A short time before he had been nominated a Com-
panion of the Bath, by his own Sovereign, and a Knight
of St. Wladimir by the Emperor of Russia, in accordance
with the following letter from Count Lieven, his Imperial
Majesty's Ambassador at the Court of St. James :
«Londres,ce(f octobre j
l_4 novembre/
' Monsieur — C'est avec bien de satisfaction que je m'ac-
quitte aujourd'hui du soin que m'a commis Monsieur le
Marechal Comte Barclay de Tolly, de vous annoncer, Mon-
sieur, que sa Majeste 1'Empereur, mon auguste maitre,
rendant justice a la bravoure que vous avez deployee a
differentes occasions dans la guerre si glorieusement ter-
minee, a desire vous en donner un temoignage publique, en
vous nommant chevalier de son ordre de St. Wladimir de
la 3me classe. Des que cette decoration me sera parvenue,
de St. Petersbourg, je m'empresserai de vous la transmettre,
et je vous prie de recevoir en attendant les assurances de
la consideration tres-distinguee avec laquelle j'ai 1'honneur
d'etre, Monsieur, votre tres humble et tres obeissant ser-
viteur,
(Signe) ' LIEVEN.'
The wound which he had received from the lance of
a Cossack at Fere Champenoise having penetrated, as be-
fore mentioned, through the back to the lungs, in the
course of the following year, the symptoms of inflamma-
tion returned, accompanied by a difficulty of breathing,
and thereupon Sir Neil Campbell was, by his own request,
invalided. Up to this period, after an active service of nine-
124
MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CH.VP. VI.
teen years, from 1797 to 1816, and with very brief intervals
of leave, he had never before been on half-pay.
The following record, drawn up by Sir Neil Campbell
himself, will fitly close the more eventful portion of his
military career :
BATTLES, SIEGES, ETC.
Medal. 1809, Jan. 30 . .
Feb. 24 . .
April 14 . .
„ 17 . .
Medal. 1810, Jan. . . .
Feb. 6 ...
1811, May . . .
July . . .
Sept. . . .
Medal. 1812, Jan. 8 ...
„ 19 . . .
March 25 . .
April 6 . .
Medal. July 21 . .
Sept. . . .
1813, May 2 ...
„ 20, 21 . .
Aug. to Dec. .
1814, Jan. 28 . .
Feb. & March
March 24 .
1815, June 18 .
Medal. , 24
f Landing in Martinique.
I Siege of Fort Eoyal begun.
The Capitulation.
Landing at the Saintes.
The Capitulation signed by Colonel Madier
and Neil Campbell.
Landing in Guadaloupe.
The Capitulation signed.
J Battle of Fuentes d'Onore.
I Blowing up of Almeida, etc.
/"Blowing up of Almeida by English, and
I Marches to Campo Mayor.
/ Eelief of Ciudad Rodrigo by Marmont, and
\. Operations at El Bodon, etc.
Siege of Ciudad Rodrigo begun.
The Assault and Capture.
Siege of Badajos begun.
The Assault and Capture.
Battle of Salamanca.
f Assault and Capture of Hornwork at Burgos.
I The Siege and Retreat to Ciudad Rodrigo.
Battle of Lutzen.
Battle of Bautzen.
Siege of Dantzic.
Battle of Brienne, 1st day.
Affairs at Troyes, Mery, Nogent-sur-Seine,
Mormant, Nangis, Vandeuvres, Arcis, etc.
r At Fere Champenoise.
•j Charge and Capture of General Pacthoud with
L 4000 men by the Advanced Guard.
Battle of Waterloo [but not engaged].
Escalade of Cambray.
CHAP. VII. VISITS TO THE CONTINENT. 125
CHAPTER VII.
[1816-1827.]
VARIOUS VISITS TO THE CONTINENT — FRANCE, SPAIN, ETC. — SPANISH
POLITICS — CORONATION OF CHARLES X. — MADE A MAJOR-GENERAL —
APPOINTED GOVERNOR OP SIERRA LEONE, AND COLONEL OF ROYAL
AFRICAN CORPS— NOTICES OF THE COLONY— ILLNESS AND DEATH.
THE life of a soldier retired for the time from active
service cannot be expected to supply much matter for
record. The minute details of foreign residence, although
full of novelty then — the gossip of Parisian salons, varied
by occasional visits to England — anecdotes picked up at
military clubs — can scarcely at this date be even amusing,
much less instructive to an ordinary reader. There is no
longer the same interest that attached to Sir Neil Camp-
bell's diary and letters, as while he was writing from the
scene of public and stirring events, which have become
matters of history, and notices of which are interweaved
with this Memoir. Our quotations therefore, for the next
few years, and indeed up to the close of his career, will
be comparatively brief.
However that during this period of professional ease
and idleness Sir Neil Campbell's mind was still actively
directed towards subjects of a military and political na-
ture is evident from various memoranda in his hand-
writing.
Among other points, more or less ' suitable for these
times,' he advocates the principle of ' Arbitration ' in the
case of all national disputes, as thus :
' There is no Utopian imagination in this, for it seems
120 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
to be an understood Law of Nations since the Congress of
Vienna ; and it has been partly acted on already : whereas
no such principle was ever hinted at before the last general
peace.
* The instances which, it is hoped, may become precedents
for such a general and happy principle, are as follows :
* 1st, The amicable reference which, in the year 1818,
settled the difference between Prussia and France respect-
ing the claims for debts against the latter.
'2nd, The removal of the Army of Occupation from
France, effected by amicable discussion among the parties,
consisting of Four United Powers on one side and One
Power on the other. But the interests of several other
Powers were confided entirely to the decision of those Four
Powers.
* 3rd, The reference by Spain and Portugal respecting
Olivenza and Monte Video.
'4th, The interests of all the Powers of Germany referred
to a Diet at Frankfort, and left entirely to it.
' 5th, The difference between Bavaria and Baden re-
specting an indemnity of territory, which is left to the
other Powers for decision.'
At the close of the war, and in the prospect of a long
peace, there was a general rush from England to the
Continent, which had been so long sealed up to travellers.
And accordingly, following the fashion of the times, Sir
Neil Campbell, accompanied by his brother-in-law ' and
two of his sisters, crossed over to Normandy in the year
1817. They were attracted to that part of France, in the
first instance, by the hospitable invitation of two Eoyalist
families — Marquis de Canisy and Baron de Balzac — who
having been reinstated in their ancient domains were
desirous of repaying the attention they had received from
their British friends during the long period which had
1 Afterwards Lieut.-General Archibald Maclachlan.
CHAP. VII. SOCIETY IN PARIS.. 127
elapsed between their exile at the Eevolution and the
battle of Waterloo. They at any rate did not share in the
opinion expressed by some fanatical friends of the Bour-
bons, to the effect that Sir Neil Campbell had been bribed
by the Bonapartist party to wink at the escape of Napoleon
from Elba !
The Marquis de Canisy, of Chateau Fontaine-le-Henri,
near Caen, was also possessor of an hotel in the Faubourg
St. Germain at Paris, and there too Sir Neil Campbell
and the other members of his family were frequent and
welcome guests, and enjoyed opportunities of mixing in
Parisian society ; in this instance, it must be added, of a
very decided Royalist and parti-pretre colour. On the
other hand, at the house of their relative Mr. Drummond,
the Commissioner for British Claims, they were in the
habit of meeting, as upon common ground, persons of more
varied opinions and general European reputation. Hum-
boldt, Klaproth, Denon, Cuvier, Washington Irving, &c.
are among the distinguished names which occur in Sir
Neil Campbell's correspondence during his various visits
to Paris between 1818 and 1825.
On the 12th of November, 1820, we find Sir Neil Camp-
bell writing from Barcelona to his friend and relative
Major Maxwell, of Aros, in the Isle of Mull :
' Leaving England in July last, I visited part of the
Pyrenees with reference to the Duke of Wellington's last
campaign, and then joined my brother at Madrid.
'We attended the proceedings of the Cortes, and ob-
served with great satisfaction the unanimity, moderation,
and wisdom with which they were conducted. They have
now just closed the session, and considering the quantity
of abuses, royal, aristocratic, and ecclesiastical, which
pressed for immediate reform, in addition to casual cir-
cumstances to occupy their deliberation, it is surprising
how much they have effected, particularly with a king
who does everything 'against the grain,' as we say
123 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
in Scotland, and a people who have been accustomed to
consider the grossest absurdities of superstitious forms as
religion. The convents have all been taken possession of
without any disgust being shown on the part of the peasan-
try. The clergy have been subjected to the laws by which
the rest of the people are bound. All aristocratic and
ecclesiastical privileges and immunities have been done
away with. The Militia (who are the same as our Volun-
teers) are well organised in every town and village. The
army is considerably reduced in numbers, and is now
regularly paid. All the interior distinctions between pro-
vinces are removed, and are now only continued on the
frontier of the kingdom.
' There is still a great deal to do ; but I am sanguine in
their gradual prosperity, although it may be slow from the
ignorance and habits of the people. The Cortes do not
again meet till the 1st of March, unless some extraordi-
nary event should compel them ; but there are a number
of committees upon the leading points connected with
political economy, which will continue their labours. A
general committee also remains to represent the Cortes,
although they have not the power of legislating ; and as
the Cortes and the Executive Government have proceeded
with perfect accord, there is nothing to fear during the
vacation.
'This part of Europe affords a most interesting field
for observation and conjecture. Portugal, Naples, and
the Roman States will sooner or later follow the example
of Spain ; and although the Austrians may keep down the
North of Italy for a longer time with military force, this
compression cannot last always. If I do not return
to England for the coronation next year, I shall probably
spend most of it in the Mediterranean, and make a sort of
maritime tour to Gibraltar, and some parts of Africa.
This is a charming city, with fine views, both towards the
sea and the interior, good society, good and cheap living,
CHAP. VII. SPANISH POLITICS. 129
and a most equable mild climate, without extreme heat,
even in summer.'
Soon after this period, and for the next two or three
years, the position of Spain became the engrossing topic
of political discussion throughout Europe. This was a
subject in which Sir Neil Campbell appears to have felt
peculiar interest, as well from having himself served iu
that country, as from his only surviving brother2 just men-
tioned having been directly affected by the revolutionary
transactions of the Peninsula. In April, 1821, while in
command of a Spanish regiment at Barcelona, and acting
brigadier, this officer, through the intrigues of the re-
actionary party, was seized in the dead of the night by
a body of militia, headed by the King's lieutenant, who
stated that he was acting under orders from the Captain-
General of the province. It was in vain that Colonel
Patrick Campbell remonstrated against such an arbitrary
act, and demanded his passports for France ; adding that,
unless compelled by force, and taken in the character of
a prisoner, he would not go to Majorca, which was men-
tioned as his proposed destination. The following day, in
company with Baron De Eroles, General Sarsfield, and
some others, he was conveyed on board a bark bound for
that island, by the town-adjutant and an armed party.
2 Afterwards General P. Cainp- message, it was not until his horse
bell, R. A. He had previously served had been killed under him in the
as Aide-de-camp to General Casta- hazardous service. At the battle
nos at the battle of Medellin, March of Castalla, April 15, 1813, he had
28, and at the battle of Talavera, command of a Spanish light infantry
July 23, 1809, on which latter occa- regiment, and was mentioned in
sion he was specially mentioned in despatches ; and he was subse-
the despatch of General Cuesta, the quently engaged at the siege of
Spanish commander-in-chief. Upon Tarragona and in the various opera-
the refusal of all the officers com- tions of the combined army on the
posing the staff of the latter to carry eastern coast of Spain. It was for
an important order between the these services he was raised to the
Spanish and English lines on ac- rank of brigadier-general by the
count of the heavy fire, he had volun- Spanish Government, and had the
teered to be the bearer, and although orders of Charles III. and St. Fer-
he succeeded in delivering the diuand conferred upon him.
130 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
General Castanos, 'the hero of Baylen,' who then held
command of the garrison of Barcelona, vehemently pro-
tested against this deed of violence, and publicly declared
that his British friend and comrade was the victim of
despotism and private malice ! But he was himself
deposed soon afterwards. At this period Mr. Wiseman
(father of the late Cardinal) was British consul at Madrid,
and on his representation an order was transmitted from
the chief government for the release of Colonel Patrick
Campbell. On being set at liberty, he at once sent in
his resignation of the commission he had held as brigadier
in the Spanish service, and although pressed by the Prime
Minister, in the name of King Ferdinand, to withdraw it,
immediately returned to England.
In February, 1823, we find Sir Neil Campbell writing
from Paris : * Since the beginning of the French Revolu-
tion there never was a period in which the situation of the
whole world hereafter depends so much as now upon the
present conduct of Great Britain in regard to Spain. The
four despotic Powers (for France must now be included
among them, although she has the name of a constitution)
were so incensed at our dissent from their Laybach pro-
clamation and Verona projects against the liberties of the
world, that they resolved to act against ours through
Spain and Portugal. They looked upon us as the root of
all their difficulties, and considered that although we
might see through their schemes, the dislike of John Bull
to taxation and want of unanimity would prevent any
opposition on his part, until they had truly Bonaparte-like
occupied Spain, and turned its resources against Portugal,
and ultimately against Jacobin Great Britain. Now the
ungrateful Bourbons are defeated by the talent and spirit
of our Ministers, and of all parties in Parliament, supported
as they are by the universal feeling of the nation. They
must now go on and run the risk of defeat in Spain, as
well as conspiracy at home, with Great Britain openly
CHAP. VII. REVIEW OF FRENCH GUARDS. 131
against them ; or retract. Never was I so proud of being
an Englishman. I am still a Tory in England, but on the
Continent a decided Liberal, nay a Carbonaro and Desca-
mozado !
* The Duchesse de Berry almost turned her back upon
our Ambassador lately ; but Monsieur tried to make up
for it. Mrs. Fitzherbert, who lives here, told the Due de
Mouchy, that England had saved the Royal Family be-
fore, and it is she who will save them again !
' I saw the Guards reviewed yesterday by Monsieur and
his son at the Tuileries. There was not a single cheer from
the soldiers, nor from the spectators, except that while
they were passing through the Arc de Triomphe to the
Place Carousel, a few persons, who had evidently been ad-
mitted by the police within the sentries, raised a cry, but
none joined in it. I stood close to the gateway while the
infantry were filing into the Tuileries, and every face
bespoke melancholy, in place of the gaiety which French
troops usually display. Captain Napier thinks of going
from this to Auxerre in his iron steamboat in a few days,
and perhaps I shall go with him, returning in a week or
less. This will be the first steamboat which over went
above Paris.'
Later in the year Sir Neil Campbell crossed over to
England. His younger brother was to sail in the autumn
for Columbia, on a special mission from the Foreign Office.
A letter of October 28 speaks of his witnessing the em-
barkation of the latter at Portsmouth. This officer has
already been referred to as a brigadier-general in the
Spanish army.
On his return from Spain, he had been brought under
the notice of Mr. Canning, through the favour of his
warm friend Mr. Hookham Frere, formerly Minister to
that country, whose military correspondent he had been
in 1810 ; and within a year of Mr. Canning's succession
K2
132 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
to the seals of the Foreign Office, he was appointed one
of the three commissioners to the newly-formed Republic
of Columbia. On April 18, 1825, he signed, in conjunc-
tion with Colonel J. P. Hamilton, the treaty with General
Bolivar the President.
Colonel Patrick Campbell subsequently became Charge
d'Affaires at Bogota, in connection with which mission the
following anecdote, as related by himself, may prove of
interest. 'H. E., the Yice-President of the Republic,
having presented me with an embroidered castle which
formed one of the quarters in the arms on the banner with
which Pizarro entered Peru in 1533, 1 forwarded the same
to Mr. Canning, under the powerful feeling that this
memento of the subjugation of that part of the New
World could nowhere be in such proper keeping as in
the hands of the great statesman to whose liberal and
enlightened policy South America stands indebted for the
blessings and dignity of political independence.' 3
On Christmas-day 1824, we find Sir Neil Campbell again
in Paris, celebrating that anniversary in company with his
sister and a party of Scotch friends, under the hospitable
roof of Lord and Lady Strathallan. Since his last visit to
the French capital a new reign had commenced, Charles X.
having succeeded his royal brother Louis XVIII. in the
previous September. Sir Neil Campbell was presented to
his Majesty on January 18, 1825, by Lord Granville, the
English ambassador.
In a letter dated March 5, the name of his old friend,
Sir C. Napier, occurs in connection with an interesting
episode. 'I wrote you that Colonel Napier, who was
wounded and taken prisoner at Corunna, and afterwards
allowed to go to England without exchange, had sent me
8 ' It will gratify you to hear castle of the old flag of Pizarro put
(wrote Mr. Bandinel, the under- into a very handsome frame, and
secretary to Colonel P. Campbell) hung up in his dining-room.'
that Mr. Canning has had the
CHAP. VII. MARSHAL SOULT. 133
a Turkish sabre, and a very handsome letter to deliver to
Marshal Soult.4 I have received an invitation from him
and Madame la Marechale to a ball on the 10th instant,
which I enclose. It is to be given the day after the mar-
riage of their only son.'
During the summer of 1825, Paris was more than
usually gay, and full of strangers, on occasion of the sacre,
or coronation, of Charles X. The Duke of Northumber-
land5 had come over as special envoy from England,
Viscount Granville being the ordinary ambassador. ( I
believe (writes Sir Neil Campbell, May 12) that in my last
I gave you an account of the commencement of Lady
Granville's entertainments. Her ladyship receives every
Tuesday from two to five, in the house and garden, when
people walk about, or sit, and partake of luncheon. Last
Tuesday the Duke of Northumberland was there, and a
band of music. There are invitations out for balls on
Friday and Wednesday. The Drummonds and myself
have ours for Wednesday. The Duke and Duchess will
probably be at both. Their Graces go to-day to the Tuile-
ries, to be presented, with all the other grand ceremonies.
I must finish this to walk out, in hopes of seeing the
cortege.'
4 It was Ney, however, and not shal also obtained for the drummer
Soult, who permitted the actual (who had saved him from being
release. See Napier's History of murdered by a French soldier) the
the Peninsular War, vol. i. p. 496. decoration of the Legion of Honour.
Major Napier ' was returned among The events of the war obliged
the killed. The morning after the Soult to depart in a few days from
battle, the Duke of Dalmatia being Corunna, but he recommended
apprised of Major Napier's situa- Major Napier to the attention of
tion, had him conveyed to good Marshal Ney.'
quarters, and with a kindness very 5 The magnificent Sevres Vase,
uncommon wrote to Napoleon, valued at 10,000/., which was pre-
desiring that his prisoner might not sented on this occasion by the
be sent to France, which (from the French King to Hugh third Duke,
system of refusing exchanges) is reported to have narrowly escaped
would have been destruction to his destruction during the recent fire at
professional prospects. The Mar- Northumberland House.
134 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
Sir Neil Campbell appears to have been greatly struck
by the little loyalty or emotion which the event of the coro-
nation had excited among the French themselves, although
it had been so long in expectation. The temper of the
people was rather shown in the numberless 'jeuxd'esprit,'
of which it was made the occasion. He gives one as * a
good specimen : '
Tu vas avoir VOint du Seigneur,
Pour remplir les esptSrances.
Puisses-tu pour notre bonheur
Etre bientot VOint (loin) de la France !
There is another letter, dated June 5. ' To-morrow I go
to St. Cloud, to be presented to Madame Gontaut6 and
the Due de Bordeaux. On Thursday the 26th I dined
with the Duke of Northumberland ; we were twenty at
dinner, although Sir John Malcolm, another gentleman,
and myself were the only strangers. Everything was very
splendid, and the Duke and Duchess most amiable. There
are all sorts of reports flying about here, as to the Duke
being offended and going away without giving any balls.
I believe they are quite untrue. He expected, indeed, to
have given a ball to the King ; but this is contrary to usage
here, and it would also have obliged all the other Ambas-
sadors to have followed his example and the King to
attend. His Majesty will be invested with the Garter on
the 7th.
* The Duke did not go to Rheims, because it was the only
opportunity of leisure he could hope to enjoy, in order to
see the sights of Paris. Besides, he required a little rest
before the commencement of the fetes. On his first pre-
sentation to the King, the Duke made his speech in
English. After proceeding very well for some time, he
came to a dead pause ; but it was near the end of a sen-
tence. After the pause he resumed, but soon became
6 Gouvernante des enfans de France.
CHAP. VII. CORONATION OF CHARLES X. 135
embarrassed again ; on which the King relieved him by
giving his reply. This you may rely on, as Sir George
Drummond and I had it from your friend Count de Noe,7
who was present. Everything went off well at Eheims
(except as regards the affair of the carriage-horses being
frightened), and even surpassed expectations; so at least
the Due de Luxembourg and Count de Noe tell me. But
"I have not yet seen any Englishman who was present.
Sir John Malcolm and I fixed to go down together, but
I abandoned the intention on account of the probable
difficulty of getting back. On the llth I dine at the
Embassy, and on the 18th have a royal invitation to the
Tuileries. I enclose a ticket for a fete given by the Duke
of Bourdeaux at St. Cloud, which I did not make use of.
There was a promenade, illuminations in the gardens, and
dancing within.
* After the coronation festivities are over, I shall cross to
England, and if my rheumatism returns in the winter, I
shall probably run out to Colonel Napier 8 in the Ionian
Islands. When the shooting season commences, I am
engaged to spend a fortnight with Lord Chandos at
Wotton.'
Having been made a Major-General on the 29th of May,
1825, and his health being in a measure restored, Sir Neil
Campbell became once more desirous of active employ-
ment after so long a period of enforced leisure. ' I have
7 Hereditary Peer of France, and hospitality shown to himself in the
one of the Gentilshommes de la days of exile. I well remember the
Chambre. During the emigration Count — a most finished gentleman
he had held a commission in one of — as a frequent visitor at my father's
the foreign regiments of the British apartments in the Rue Caumartin,
army. The well-known caricaturist, Paris, during the winter of 1829-30,
' Cham/ is the elder son of the when he was always ready with a
Count. His cartoons show, I fear, ticket of admission to some sight or
that he is less well-affected towards court entertainment.
England than was his father, to 8 At this period Colonel, after-
whom his old British friends were wards Sir Charles Napier, was
constantly indebted for acts of Military Resident at Cephalonia.
courtesy and attention, in return for
136 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
seen tlie Duke of York (writes Lord Cliandos9) ; he was
very kind, and expressed himself in particularly friendly
terms about you ; said you were a very deserving officer,
and that your name was on the list for India.' And he
himself reports from London, July 20, 1825 :
* I am noted for the Staff, and have an official letter to
that effect. In my personal interview with the Duke of
York, I asked for the East Indies (where I have never
served), and His Royal Highness said he would bear
it in mind. I have another letter of his, promising to
name me to Lord Bathurst as a candidate for a foreign
government ; and Mr. Wilmot Horton, in a personal in-
terview, gave me to consider myself an early candidate.
Lord Bathurst has also written a private letter to my friend
Lord Chandos to the same effect. I am also promised the
K.C.B. as vacancies occur, as well as a regiment in my
turn.'
In the following year a foreign governorship fell vacant,
and was accordingly offered to Sir Neil Campbell. It was
Sierra Leone and its dependencies, to which was subse-
quently added, by the Horse Guards, the Colonelcy of the
Eoyal African Corps. General Turner had died of fever
after holding the appointment in succession to Sir Charles
Macarthy, who had been killed by the Ashantees in
January, 1824. The colony was universally known as the
' white man's grave.' Still Sir Neil did not hesitate
for a moment. On the contrary, in spite of the earnest
entreaties of loving relatives, and the warm remon-
strances of all his friends, he cheerfully accepted the
post, and rejoiced at the prospect of a return to active
work. As for the climate, he had served three several
times in the West Indies, and he persuaded himself that
his constitution was impervious to the noxious effects of
even a worse latitude. But at any rate, however that
might be, the call of duty was with him paramount to all
9 Afterwards' second Duke of Buckingham and Chandos.
CHAP. VII. APPOINTMENT TO SIERRA LEONE. 137
other considerations. So he at once set about making
his arrangements for leaving England and taking up his
residence (for many years as he fondly imagined) in that
most pestilential of British colonies. His letters at this
period show the sort of spirit with which he again buckled
on his harness. Thus to his brother-in-law (Colonel Mac-
lachlan) he writes : * I assure you the more I learn con-
cerning the appointment the better I like it, and would
on no account exchange it for any of the minor governor-
ships in the West Indies. The prejudice against the
climate will be renewed by the deaths of two of the ex-
plorers— Pearce and Morrison;1 but recollect they pene-
trated into the interior, and had to live the life of the
natives, exposed to sun, night-air, scanty subsistence, &c.
I am dreadfully occupied, but well and in high spirits, not-
withstanding all your alarms on the subject of my new
appointment.' And to one of his sisters : ( I daresay
you will view the place with the same dread which prevails
generally among the public. General Turner brought on
his own death (humanly speaking) by over-zeal. He went
on an expedition with 150 men (I believe as far as 100
miles up the river) to destroy a Negro town, and was for
two days and nights in an open canoe after the vessel
grounded. It is as fine a climate as the West Indies,
and although there has been a great mortality there among
the troops, this is not the case among the civilians if they
do not live intemperately, or expose themselves to dews or
night-air. Macarthy and his predecessor Maxwell were
there in excellent health for many years. There are two
colonial vessels for the use of the governor, besides a
steamboat lately sent out, quite independent of the navy.
I was offered a passage in the " North Star " frigate, which
leaves the river on the 29th, but I could not get ready in
1 Captain Pearce died at Engwa Jannah. See Clapperton's Journal of
on Tuesday, December 27, 1825, a Second Expedition into the Interior
and Dr. Morrison the same day at of Africa, ch. i. pp. 18, 19.
138 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
time, as I have a good deal to do in preparing my equip-
ment, personal as well as for my house. Besides, I have to
get instructions as to my functions, which are not only
the usual ones, civil and military, but include another
which is very complicated, that, viz. of impeding the slave-
trade as carried on by foreigners, and establishing a system
of colonisation for the captured slaves.'
Sir Neil Campbell embarked from Plymouth on July
21, in H.M. frigate ' Lively,' accompanied by his Staff,
which consisted of two aides-de-camp, and a military and
a private secretary. On August 4 he writes from Madeira :
' We landed here on the 1st in full uniform and with
due ceremony, and at once marched up to the governor's
to pay our respects. With the captain of the " Lively "
and my four Staff, besides Lumley the lieutenant-colonel
of my regiment, we looked very formidable ! The captain
(Elliott) was employed in various services the year be-
fore last in the Tagus, and he and all his officers have
Portuguese orders. I and Colonel Lumley likewise wore
our Portuguese medals. By a strange coincidence, the
regiment stationed here is the one with which the latter
served in the Peninsula !
' During our stay, I and my Staff have lived in the house
belonging to Duff, Gordon & Co., and have been enter-
tained with grand feasts daily, consisting of turtle, all
sorts of wine and fruits, besides the usual dainties, so that
this seems to us quite a paradise !
' To-morrow we proceed to Teneriffe, and from thence to
the Cape de Yerde Islands, as these are all in the way, and
we may there obtain some information as to the slave-
trade.'
For this latter purpose the ' Lively ' likewise ran into
St. Mary's, at the mouth of the river Gambia, on August
14, and remained for two days.
After a passage of thirty-three days, the ' Lively ' an-
chored in the harbour of Freetown on the afternoon of
CHAP. VII. GOLD COAST. 139
Tuesday, August 22, 1826. On the following morning
Sir Neil Campbell landed under the usual salutes, and at
once proceeded to Government House, where he took the
oaths as ' Captain- General and Governor-in-Chief of Sierra
Leone and its dependencies.'
On September 9, however, he was abruptly called away
to the Gold Coast, by the report of some fighting having
occurred between the Ashantees and the native tribes. He
arrived there on the 18th, and writes from
' Cape Coast Castle : September 21, 1826.
' Everything here is perfectly quiet, and likely to con-
tinue so, for a victory was gained over the Ashantees by
the native kings and chiefs. There were a few guns, and
sixty men of the Royal African Corps present. The King
of Ashantee was supposed to be wounded. Sir Charles
Macarthy's head2 and a marquee formerly presented to him
were found in his camp. Colonel Purdon sent home the
head by a merchant- vessel before my arrival here. I hope
there will be no further trouble in the mediation, and that
the country will be permanently tranquillised.
' The country about Sierra Leone is the most picturesque
possible, like beautiful parts of Switzerland. While there
I rode six miles to see one of the African villages, and
back after breakfast, without any inconvenience.
' I do not expect to leave this for six weeks more.'
On October 10, Sir Neil Campbell paid a visit to both
the Dutch and Danish settlements at Accra, on the Guinea
coast, returning on the 18th.
His letters, even after a few months' experience of the
colony, continue as sanguine and hopeful as ever.
2 'On January 21, 1824, the totally defeated August 27, 1826,
Ashantees defeated about 1,000 by Colonel Purdon.' Haydn's Dic-
British under Sir Charles Macarthy tionary of Dates} 12th edit., Art.
at Accra, and brought away his skull ' Ashantees.'
with others as trophies. They were
140 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VU.
' Cape Coast Castle, November 12, 1826.
' You will be glad to hear that T have enjoyed excellent
health ever since my arrival in Africa ; and my firm con-
viction is, that the climate is fully as good as in the West
Indies. On my coming here, I found that the Ashantees
had returned to their own country after the victory gained
over them. It was grossly exaggerated in every way, and,
after the first day, no one followed them ; nor since then has
any one ventured to enter their territory. I hope that in
future our settlements may remain neutral, and that I may
be able to stay in the northern part of my government,
between Sierra Leone and the Gambia. There the steam-
boat will be very advantageous to me, but not here. There
is such a surf along the whole of this part of Africa, that
a vessel at anchor rolls most uncomfortably, and only the
canoes of the place can attempt a landing, except on very
rare occasions.
'I hope to leave this in a week at latest, and to be
about ten days on my voyage to Sierra Leone. This
climate, I am convinced, is not so bad as people think, and
certainly equal to the West Indies. Officers, when they
come out, are full of apprehension. Some live hard in
order to drown care ; while others lose the only time for
active exercise, which is early morning, and lay the seeds
of fever by remaining in bed to a late hour. Those who
survive exaggerate the dangers, in order to enhance the
value of their claim for promotion.
' This is a beautiful place. A fort close to the sea in
front, a town of mud-houses thatched, with a few better
ones occupied by the merchants ; then three towers
perched on different heights ; and beyond, again, hills
covered with wood. On one side of the town, and
about three-quarters of a mile distant from it is a lake,
separated only from the sea by a beach about a stone's
throw across. The lake is about a mile and a quarter in
length, and half a mile broad, surrounded by low heights
CHAP. VII. SCENERY AT GOLD COAST. 141
covered with wood, and patches of corn land. In any-
other part of the world the scenery would be very much
admired. The misfortune is that there is no cultivation
to be perceived. The people live almost entirely upon
corn, which they pound between two large stones, until by
adding a little water it becomes very adhesive like pud-
ding. In this state they boil it, and add salt. They never
cultivate the same spot longer than one year, at the end of
which time they go some miles further into the woods, and
erect some huts, fifteen or twenty in number, in a valley.
They cut down the bushes and trees, set fire to them, and
a week afterwards scatter about their corn. Each stalk
grows from five to six feet in height, when reaped a few
months afterwards. No trees or bushes are rooted out, so
that, by the following year, they grow up again, and no
vestige of cultivation is perceived.
* Slavery is still universal, although there is no expor-
tation from the vicinity of our settlements. All the head-
men have their slaves, now called servants. They work three
days alternately for their master and for themselves, and
carry their corn, with a few fowls and fruit, into the town.
* I have sent home to you (by my A.D.C., McMurdo
who is invalided upon medical certificate), some gold rings
of a very rough kind, belonging to the King of Ashantee's
wives, which were found upon the field of battle.'
Sir Neil Campbell was unsuccessful in arranging terms
between the native chiefs and their great enemy, the King
of Ashantee.
The * Freetown Eoyal Gazette ' states : ' We under-
stand that his Excellency the Governor, immediately on
his arrival at Cape Coast, assembled most of the Con-
federates, and proposed to give the King of Ashantee an
opportunity of opening a communicationj and of asking
for peace ; in which case his Excellency informed them,
that he would mediate a general pacification, in which
the Governors of the Dutch and Danish settlements very
142 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
cordially and frankly united. But such was the inveteracy
of these chiefs against the Ashantees, that they would
neither unite in any attempt to afford this opportunity to
that nation, nor permit any person from his Excellency to
pass through the cordon formed by them.'
During his residence at the Gold Coast, Sir Neil Camp-
bell devoted himself with characteristic zeal and assiduity
to the novel duties imposed upon him, such as inspecting
the accounts of the civil and military establishments (for
which the disbursements were out of all proportion, and
in which great redijctions were accordingly effected), and
generally endeavouring to render the forts what they were
intended for, a ( protection for our trade and for the gradual
advancement of the civilisation of the natives.' With the
same object in view,' ' the schools for educating the rising
generation received their due share of support and en-
couragement.'
Another important point to which he applied himself
most vigorously, was the general want of roads, and the
repair of those already existing.
' There are very few roads,' he notes, * excepting through
some of the valleys close to the town, and two only extend
for six or seven miles, but in so neglected a state, and so
overgrown with bushes, as to be almost impassable. The
mode of taking exercise is in a low phaeton drawn by
four bipeds. Two drag the pole, and two a rope, and with
a gentle descent, or along a flat, run very fast.'
From one of his letters at this period, we catch a
glimpse of some of the earlier explorers of interior Africa,
a ground trodden of late years by still more distinguished
travellers.
' There are only two very small horses here, like Shet-
land ponies, only slighter. They came from Katunga, or
Eyeo, where Captain Clapperton was in March last, and
where the gentleman who brought down these horses left
him, about 400 miles from the coast. No further accounts
CHAP. VII. RETURN TO SIERRA LEONE. 143
have been received from or of Captain Clapperton, but
there was every prospect of his joining his old friends. I
much fear from an account received in May last, that
Dr. Dickson and his servant were killed soon after they
left Dahomey.5
Sir Neil Campbell left Cape Coast Castle on November
15, and arrived at Sierra Leone on the 23rd. A notice,
dated two days' after, gives a key to the vehement com-
plaints which were soon being directed against him from
various quarters, both in the colony and at home, and were
continued without stint or remorse even after his death.
' Secretary's Office, Freetown, Sierra Leone,
' November 25, 1826.
'All persons holding situations under the government
of this colony, from which they derive fees of office, are
hereby desired to immediately transmit schedules of the
same (under cover to this office), for the information of
his Excellency the Governor-in-Chief.'
He who never spared himself was not likely to allow of
any malpractices, or neglect of duty, on the part of others,
while too his own line of conduct lay plain and straight
before him, viz. to endeavour, by every possible means, and
at the risk of any personal unpopularity, to reduce the
heavy load of expenditure which was weighing down the
infant colony.3
His activity never slackened, so long as health was
spared to him ; but there seems to have been little time
left either for letters or diary. One scanty note records,
' 1826 Decr 9 to Wellington,4 and back Decr 11. Decr 13
to Locco, and back Decr 16.'
3 ' A charter was granted in 1802 sions of the late African Company
to the Sierra Leone colony ; it was on the Gold Coast were annexed to
subsequently revised, and (with Sierra Leone.' Montgomery Mar-
some alterations) confirmed, first in tin, History of the British Colonies,
1808, when the settlement was ' Sierra Leone.'
transferred to the Crown, and finally 4 ' On Sir Neil Campbell's as-
in 1821, when the forts and posses- suming the government of the
144 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
On December 20 he was seized with fever; and al-
though, on that day month, the official announcement was
made of s the recovery of H. E. the Governor from his
late alarming illness,' more than one dangerous relapse
followed.
He writes from 'Kissey, near Freetown, March 3, 1827 :
* I have to ask your forgiveness for so long a silence,
but I have had three different illnesses, and could scarcely
write till now.
* On my return from the Gold Coast, I had a great many
roads and buildings to expedite, and rode a very hot English
horse daily from four till six. On one occasion I returned
in a violent perspiration when dinner was on the table, and
put on an entire change of linen, just taken out of a trunk.
The same thing, in the heat of summer, would have pro-
duced a fever in any country. On December 20 I was laid
on my back. After being convalescent, and being able to
go out in my phaeton, and to walk a few yards at a time
with the help of a stick, I was seized with ague, which
threw me back to as bad a state as before. Then again a
third attack reduced me more than either of the former
ones, accompanied by such violent salivation and sore
throat, that for four days I was almost suffocated. Still I
am convinced that climate had nothing to do with my
illnesses, and no bad effects remain from these beyond
debility, which compels me to lie on a sofa a great part
of the day, while I dictate my despatches.
' I have anticipated every wish of the Government in my
arrangements on the Gold Coast ; and in this colony, too, I
colony, he formed the villages of manee country. 2. The Central,
the liberated Africans into three or Mountain, District comprises
divisions : 1. Eastern, or River, Leicester, Gloucester, Regent (Wil-
District comprises Kissey, Welling- berforce), Batburst (Leopold),
ton, Allen Town, Hastings, Water- Charlotte, and Grassfield. 3. The
loo, and Calmont ; these villages Western, or Sea, District comprises
lie to the S.E. of Freetown, along York, Kent, and the Bananas.'
the eastern border of the colony on Gazetteer of the World, vol. vi.
the Bunnee river and in the Tim- Art. ' Sierra Leone.'
CHAP. VII. BATHURST TOWN. 145
have every assurance of fall approbation from Earl Bath-
urst for all my views and measures. I feel very sanguine
that the results at the end of a year will be such as to
remove from the minds of Ministers and Parliament (not
the West India Planters !) much of the prejudice against
this noble colony which has existed, and with justice,
from the gross mismanagement and expense.
' A friend in London engaged me at his house to dine
there at the end of three years, but I doubt whether I
shall wish to go so soon.
* This is a magnificent government. Two fine rivers from
the interior unite near this, with the flow of the tide for
sixty miles ! The scenery is not inferior to the finest in
Switzerland, for thirty or forty miles from Freetown ; and
a great part of this, which was only a horse-road, will in
a few weeks be fit for a carriage. The climate is fully
as healthy as the average of the West Indies.
'I have sent a medical man to make a report on the
town at the Gambia, the site of which, I fear, has been
badly chosen.'
On March 20, Sir Neil Campbell proceeded to inspect
Sherboro', an island forty miles lower down the coast, with
the view apparently of its being used as a sanatorium ;
returning to Freetown on April 5, and being again on the
move upon the 17th, when he set out for Bathurst, which
is 500 miles to the north.
He writes from ' Bathurst Town, on the Gambia,' April
30, 1827: *I arrived here three days ago in the steam-
vessel from Sierra Leone, which we left on the 17th.
With the voyage I find my strength quite returned, and
no illness whatever.
' In a few days I leave this again for Macarthy's Island,
350 miles up the river, in the steam- vessel ; and, if the
water is not too shallow, shall go higher. The steam-
L
146 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
vessel will afford me comforts which Patrick did not enjoy
in ascending the Magdalen a ! ' 5
Prom a short memorandum in his handwriting, it ap-
pears that his purpose was carried out, and that he must
have ascended the River Gambia for several hundred miles.
' May, 1827, 4th, left Bathurst ; 6th, Macarthy's Island ;
14th, Fatatendi ; 17th, left it, and arrived at Bathurst, 31st.'
At Bathurst he remained till June 16, when he set off
on his return to the seat of government.
The above was the last letter ever received by any of
his relatives at home. In the autumn of the same year,
after having waited anxiously for further tidings during
several months, they first learned through the public
prints the news of his death, which had occurred on
August 14.
The medical report ran as follows :
' After a febrile indisposition of several days, against
which he endeavoured to contend, H.E. Major-General Sir
Neil Campbell reluctantly submitted 6 to medical treatment
5 The reference is here to the the King's messenger (Krauss), and
following letter from Sir Neil with only my cloak, my carpet-bag,
Campbell's brother : — ' On arriving and my despatch -box in a small
at Carthagena from England, on the canoe (hollowed out of a tree)
2nd of February [1825], in order to without cover, and exposed for ten
negotiate the treaty with Colum- successive days and nights to the
bia, I found that as the Congress effects of a tropical sun and tropical
then sitting at Bogota would close rains. The messenger suffered so
before the end of the month, and much from the hardships and perils
that every treaty required by law of this voyage (for we were more
the ratification of that body, such than once in danger of being lost
ratification could not take place on some small rapids) that he was
until the meeting of Congress in obliged to return. I arrived at
the ensuing year, unless I should Bogota in time to conclude the
arrive at Bogota very speedily. I treaty, and to obtain its ratifica-
therefore resolved to leave the large tion, and it was despatched to Eng-
and comfortable vessel — in which land before the end of April.'
were Mr. Wood, Consul to Guaya- 6 ' Sir Neil Campbell, an officer
quil, Mr. Wall, Attache to the Le- of high reputation, said to the co-
gation, as also my servants and lonial surgeon, "Doctor, there are
baggage — and I proceeded up the two things I wish you to do : tell
River Magdalena, a distance of me when I am really in danger,
nearly 500 miles, accompanied by but give me no calomel whatever."
CHAP. VII. LAST ILLNESS AND DEATH. 147
on Monday the 5th inst., after which period he laboured
under the usual symptoms of intermittent fever. On the
morning of the 9th a remission took place, when H. E.,
contrary to the repeated and urgent solicitations of his
medical attendants, entered deeply into public business of
rather an agitating nature. On the same evening the
complaint returned, and was followed by an alarming loss
of mental power, which continued, and was accompanied
by gradual sinking of the bodily powers until the morning
of the 14th, when H.E. expired at nine o'clock.'
C0f course,' writes a naval officer upon the station,
( you have ere this received an account of the death of
the Governor, Sir Neil Campbell ; he seems to be univer-
sally lamented. Oh, this horrible climate ! '
He had never, however, allowed himself to think ill of
it, nor could he be persuaded to take the precautions
which were absolutely requisite. 'Whatever his hand
found to do, he did it with all his might,'7 and even over-
taxed his strength, both of mind and body.
An old and official friend, in a letter to Sir Neil Camp-
bell's brother in Columbia, thus wrote with characteristic
warmth and freedom :
' You may believe that I sympathise with you sincerely
on the loss of your amiable brother, and my long and
much-esteemed friend and playfellow of former days,
whom I had for so many years been accustomed to regard
with affection. His own anxious, zealous — I may add,
fidgety — disposition has deprived his family and relatives
A few months after assuming office the fatal plum-tree. Beside him
he was attacked with fever. The lie three other Governors, the tra-
surgeon immediately gave him veller Denham, Colonel Lunley,
twenty grains of calomel (disguised), and Major Temple. — Alexander's
and told his honour to keep the Colonies of West Africa, vol. i.
house. Next, day the surgeon saw p. 112.
him dressed, and out walking. But 7 'Agite pro viribus ' was his
the same night he was laid on his family motto,
bed, and was quickly transferred to
148 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
of a name they were proud of, and his country of a valuable
public servant. I assure you that that country, to whose
service he had been so long and honourably devoted, very
cordially and sincerely mourns his loss. He laboured
and fagged himself to death in the thankless endeavour
to cleanse that Augean stable. The gentleman who
brought home the account of his death tells me that " lie
took almost every department into his own hands. The
situation of clerks was a sinecure, and from sunrise to
sunset the pen was in his hands. Even at his meals
he was writing.'
' Some Sierra Leone merchants had waited on Mr. Hus-
kisson8 as Colonial Secretary, to complain of some of
Neil's measures, and accusing him of harshness. Mr. H.
said he was personally acquainted with Sir Neil, and that
he knew him to be mild and most gentlemanlike. If the
complaint was well-founded, the climate must have sadly
altered a very amiable disposition.
* Some of the rascals, whose peculation and plunder of
the public purse he had restrained, have attacked his
public conduct in the newspaper ; but they have met with
severe handling, even in the papers that published their
attacks on him. If you can get the " Times " of the 16th
and 18th you will see his memory done justice to.'
The former of the two leading articles here mentioned
concludes thus :
' We began this article by lamenting the sacrifice of Sir
Neil Campbell to the horrible service which had been
inflicted on him. It gives us but slender consolation to
add — what is due, nevertheless, to our* own personal feel-
lings, to the friends of that meritorious officer, and to his
own unblemished fame — that the British Army did not
boast a soldier more intrepid or more devoted to honour
8 The Right Hon. "William Hus- from August 8, 1827, to January,
kisson was Minister for the Colonies 1828.
in Lord Goderich's Government,
CHAP. VII. NOTICES IN THE 'TIMES.' 149
and to duty ; nor did society contain a gentleman whose
heart was more generous, affectionate, and true.'
A letter signed 'Africanus,' commenting unfavourably
on this article, while yet admitting that Sir Neil Campbell
was ( a brave soldier in the field and a perfect gentleman
in the drawingroom,' drew forth the following rejoinder
from the ' Times : '
' We have fulfilled our promise to a correspondent sign-
ing himself Africanus, by publishing his letter on the sub-
ject of Sir Neil Campbell and of Sierra Leone.
' In noticing the death of the late Governor of that pes-
tilential colony, we felt it a duty to truth, and to the
deceased, to state what we knew of our own knowledge
respecting him: 1st. That he was a most intrepid and
zealous officer ; 2nd. That he was a gentleman of kind
and excellent hea,rt.
' That the anger of this correspondent Africanus has
been moved in no small degree by the article wherein we
declared our sentiments of Sir Neil Campbell, as a soldier
and a gentleman, is sufficiently obvious, without our taking
the trouble to point it out. He begins his address to us by
observing, that our " panegyric upon the character of Sir
Neil Campbell affords a striking proof of the little de-
pendence that can be placed on newspaper authority in
such cases."
' And how does this writer bring out his proof of the
fallacy with which he charges us ? He talks of Sir Neil
Campbell — whether truly or falsely we are indeed quite
ignorant — as " being violent and arbitrary in his conduct
ever since he entered on his official duties at Sierra Leone."
Now, as we had not said or hinted a single word about
the public conduct of the late Governor, but merely praised
his private and professional qualities, — how, we should
like to ask, does the writer justify the unmannerly sen-
tences with which he has commenced his letter ? Has he
ventured to say that Sir Neil Campbell was not brave, or
150 MEMOIR OF SIR NEIL CAMPBELL. CHAP. VII.
not warm-hearted and honest ? — that he was not formidable
to his enemies, and dear to his friends ? — for these were
the only points of his character which we had touched
upon.'
• •••••
With these brief extracts from Articles written by a
genial and kindly though impartial pen, we close our
Memoir, — adding only for ourselves, that the remembrance
of the tall figure and pleasant presence of him, who has
been its subject, and whose unselfish and generous nature
endeared him to all, still lives on, fresh and green as ever,
in the hearts of his surviving relatives, and has made this
record of his ' Life and Services ' a very ' labour of love.'
A monument in Kilmartin Church, Argyleshire, records
as follows :
TO THE MEMORY
OF
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL SIE NEIL CAMPBELL, C.B.,
COLONEL OF THE EOYAL AFRICAN CORPS ;
GOVERNOR AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF SIERRA LEONE
AND ITS DEPENDENCIES J
SON OF NEIL CAMPBELL, ESQ., OF DTTNTROON AND OIB ;
BORN MAY 1, 1776;
WHO, AFTER ARDUOUS AND DISTINGUISHED SERVICES IN THE
WEST INDIES, SPAIN, PORTUGAL, GERMANY, THE NETHERLANDS, AND
FRANCE,
AT LENGTH FELL A SACRIFICE TO THE BANEFUL CLIMATE OF AFRICA,
«
ON AUGUST 14, 1827;
BELOVED, ADMIRED, AND LAMENTED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM :
THIS TABLET IS ERECTED
BY HIS SOLE SURVIVING BROTHER, PATRICK CAMPBELL,
LIEUT.-COL. ROYAL ARTILLERY,
HIS MAJESTY'S CONSUL-GENERAL IN EGYPT,
AS THE LAST TESTIMONY OF AFFECTION AND REGRET.
' Weep ye not for the dead, neither bemoan him : but weep sore for
him that goeth away : for he shall return no more, nor see his native
country.' (Jer. xxii. 10.)
JOURNAL
OF
SIR NEIL CAMPBELL
FROM APKIL 9, 1814, TO APBIL 1, 1815.
CHAPTEE I.
ARRIVAL IN PAKIS — APPOINTED BRITISH COMMISSIONER — INSTRUC-
TIONS FROM LORD CASTLEREAGH — GOES TO FONTAINEBLEATJ — FIRST
INTERVIEW WITH NAPOLEON — TREATY OF FONTAINEBLEAU — VA-
RIOUS ANECDOTES.
HAVING received two wounds upon the afternoon of March
25, 1814, at Fere Champenoise, near Vitry, I was pre-
vented from accompanying the Allied Armies on their
march to Paris, and did not arrive in the French capital
until April 9. Even then, being still unable to undertake
any duty, or to mix in society, I had no knowledge of
the important arrangements in progress regarding the
future destiny of Napoleon, except through the channel
of the daily newspapers.
I was therefore quite unprepared for a message from
Lord Castlereagh, which I received on the 14th, making
me the offer to accompany, in a day or two, the ci-devant
Emperor from Fontainebleau to the island of Elba, an
offer which I willingly accepted. For, although still very
unfit for travelling, and that it was entirely optional with
myself either to accept or to decline this duty, it yet
presented so many points of interest, that I resolved at
all risks to undertake it.
Upon the 15th, I received a second message to wait
on Lord Castlereagh the following morning at nine o'clock,
provided with my own means of conveyance, as it was
intended that my instructions should then be commu-
nicated to me, and that I should proceed direct from
154 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
his Lordship's house to Fontainebleau, in company with his
secretary, Mr. Planta.
These arrangements were put into execution. Lord
Castlereagh delivered to me a paper of written instruc-
tions, and informed me that an Austrian, Russian, and
Prussian officer,1 already at Fontainebleau, would proceed
with me to fulfil the duty explained in that paper ; that
the period of my stay at Elba would depend on Bonaparte's
wishes and my own management ; that the mission would
afford me many interesting and useful opportunities for
the observation of his character and proceedings, feelings
and position in his new residence.
His lordship's formal letter ran as follows :
'Paris, April 16, 1814.
4 SIR, — I have to acquaint you that you have been se-
lected, on the part of the British Government, to attend the
late Chief of the French Government to the island of Elba.
' You will be accompanied by an Austrian, a Prussian,
and Russian officer of rank ; you will act in entire concert
with them in the execution of this mission, and conduct
yourself, as far as circumstances will permit, with every
proper respect and attention to Napoleon, to whose secure
asylum in that island it is the wish of his Royal Highness
the Prince Regent to afford every facility and protection.
' Should you experience any interruption, either during
your progress, or after your arrival, from any of His
Majesty's officers by sea or land, you will explain to them
the nature of the service with which you are entrusted,
and that you are authorised by me to signify to them the
Prince Regent's commands, that they do respect and
conform to such orders as you may have occasion to issue
in futherance of this service.
' You will acquaint Napoleon, in suitable terms of atten-
1 The Prussian Commissioner, on the morning of April 17. —
however, did not arrive until early ED.
CHAP. I. ARRIVAL AT FONTAINEBLEAU. 155
tion, that you are directed to reside in the island till
further orders, if he should consider that the presence
of a British officer can be of use in protecting the island
and his person against insult or attack.
* You will correspond with me in the execution of this
service, and you will address yourself for assistance, so far
as circumstances may require it, to any of His Majesty's
servants, civil or military, in the Mediterranean.
' You will exercise your own discretion as to the mode
of communicating with His Majesty's Government.
'I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient
humble servant,
(Signed) ' CASTLEBEAGH.
'Col. Campbell, &c. &c.'
Mr. Planta and myself arrived at Fontainebleau after
dark 011 the evening of the 16th, crossing some picquets
of the French Guards in bivouac, and drove up to the
iron railings in front of the palace. An officer, who was
called by the sentinel, immediately came out from the
guard, and led us into the palace. After a short inter-
view with General Count Bertrand, le Grand Marechal
de la Cour, he offered us apartments in the palace,
stating that General Roller and Count Truchess-Wald-
bourg, the Austrian and Prussian Commissoners, had
already accepted a similar offer; but that the Russian
Commissioner, General Schuwalloff, had preferred to take
up his residence in the town.
Upon our expressing acceptance of this proposal, an
under-chamberlain and servants with lights attended us
to the suite of rooms prepared, and in about an hour after-
wards presented us with a very good supper, informing
us, at the same time, that the Commissioners would be ex-
pected to breakfast next morning, in company with Count
Bertrand and a few of the principal officers of the Emperor's
staff and household. We were further told that the usual
156 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
hours at the palace were 10 A.M. for dejeuner a la fourchette,
and 6 P.M. for dinner.
In the short conversation held by Mr. Planta and myself,
on our first arrival, with Count Bertrand (who was very
civil, but wore at the same time an appearance of great
dejection), he expressed himself in most melancholy terms
respecting the island of Elba ; that it was very small, very
barren, part of it extremely unwholesome from the exhala-
tions of the salt-ponds, and that there was very little wood
or good water to be had ; that ' the Emperor ' (which title
appeared to be repeated with studied formality) was very
anxious to quit Fontainebleau upon his journey, and to
travel as much incognito as possible, but wished to change
the place of embarkation from St. Tropez to Piombino, as
being the nearest point of Tuscany to Elba. The reasons
alleged for the anxiety to substitute Piombino for St. Tropez
appeared very puerile when connected with changes of such
vast importance as those of Napoleon's transfer from the
Empire of France to the petty sovereignty of Elba ! These
reasons were that the French officer who commanded in
Elba might refuse to receive us, and that while waiting off
the island, until that difficulty should be removed, the
vessel might be driven off by a tempest, &c. He further
expressed a hope that I would go to the island of Elba,
and even remain there until affairs were settled, for fear
of a landing by pirates. He appeared greatly soothed when
I told him that the instructions of Lord Castlereagh pre-
scribed to me to prolong my stay, if considered necessary
by Napoleon for his security.
On the following morning (April 17), the other Com-
missioners and myself assembled at breakfast, in company
with Generals Bertrand, Drouot, Lefebvre-Desnouettes, and
Flahault, three or four other Generals of the Guards, and
some junior Aides-de-Camp. As soon as the meal was
finished, Count Flahault informed us individually, that
the Emperor was then in the chapel, attending Mass, and
CHAP. I. INTERVIEW WITH NAPOLEON. 157
that immediately afterwards he wished to have separate
interviews with each of us. General Koller passed out of
the gallery, and saw him at his devotions. He described
him as appearing in the most perturbed and distressed
state of mind — sometimes rubbing his forehead with his
hands, then stuffing part of his fingers into his mouth,
and gnawing the ends of them in the most agitated and
excited manner.
We were presently conducted to an antechamber, and
called into Napoleon's room by an aide-de-camp, succes-
sively, in the following order :
First, the Russian Commissioner, who remained for
about five minutes, and had some ordinary question put
to him respecting the Emperor Alexander.
Next the Austrian Commissioner, whose interview was
of the same nature and duration.
Thirdly, myself, who had the honour of remaining for a
quarter of an hour.
Fourthly, the Prussian Commissioner, whom Napoleon
only detained for about one minute, putting to him some
very indifferent question, and then dismissing him with
a cold bow of conge.
It was a strange feeling that came over me, when the
aide-de-camp, after announcing my name, retired shutting
the door, and I found myself suddenly closeted with that
extraordinary man, whose name had been for so many
years the touchstone of my professional and national feel-
ings, and whose appearance had been presented to my
imagination in every form that exaggeration and caricature
could render impressive. I saw before me a short active-
looking man, who was rapidly pacing the length of his
apartment, like some wild animal in his cell. He was
dressed in an old green uniform with gold epaulets, blue
pantaloons, and red topboots, unshaven, uncombod, with
the fallen particles of snuff scattered profusely upon his
upper lip and breast.
158 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
Upon his becoming aware of my presence, he turned
quickly towards me, and saluted me with a courteous
smile, evidently endeavouring to conceal his anxiety and
agitation by an assumed placidity of manner. He first
asked me several questions about my wounds — which were
plainly observable from the bandages upon my head, and
my arm being carried in a sling — the circumstances under
which they were received, the period and occasions of my
service in the army, the particulars of my Russian orders
and British military decorations, upon what claims and
to what rank they had been accorded, what part of Great
Britain I was from. On my replying, from Scotland, he
inquired whether I, like himself, was an admirer of Ossian's
poems, adding here, ' Je les aime beaucoup, car il y a quel-
que chose tres-guerriere.' ' Oui, Sire,' I answered, ' on a dit
en Angleterre que Votre Majeste les aimait beaucoup.' 2
While speaking of my professional occupations, he was
led to remark upon the war in the Peninsula, and to con-
trast the characters of the Spanish and Portuguese people,
saying of the former, ( C'est un peuple de beaucoup de
caractere. Vous avez bien tire votre parti la.' 3
He referred to the defences of Ciudad Rodrigo, Badajoz,
and St. Sebastian, to the campaign in Egypt also, inquiring
whether I was personally acquainted with Lord Hutchin-
son.'* He spoke of the attack upon Bergen-op-zoom as
an affair which did honour to the General (Sir Thomas
Graham) who directed it, as well as to the British troops ;
but that we were quite misled as to the strength of the
French garrison, and that they were prepared for the
assault, having been made aware of our intentions.
2 ' I like them much, for there is to the command of the British army
something very martial about them.' in Egypt, upon the death of Sir
'Yes, Sire; it has been said in Ralph Abercromby at the battle
England that your Majesty ad- of Alexandria, March 21, 1801, and
mired them greatly.' was raised to the peerage as Baron
3 'They are a people of strong Hutchinson. In August 1825 he
character. You have acted your became second Earl of Donough-
part well there.' more. — ED.
4 General Hutchinson succeeded
CHAP. I. INTERVIEW WITH NAPOLEON. 159
He asked whether the great road which he had begun
from Bordeaux to Bayonne was finished, and then went on
to inquire anxiously as to the reports of an affair8 which
had occurred since the occupation of Paris between the
armies of Lord Wellington and Marshal Soult. He
passed high 'encomiums upon the former, inquired as to
his age, habits, &c. When I described his Lordship's
great activity, he observed, ' C'est un hoinme de vigueur
dans la guerre. Pour bien faire la guerre, il faut en avoir
comme cela.' 6
His conversation turned almost entirely upon military
subjects, and events connected with the British army, on
which he seemed to reflect with the deepest interest ; but
he did not once touch upon the operations of the other
allied armies.
He paid many compliments to the British nation for
their union and national feelings, in which, he considered,
they so much excelled the French. { Votre nation,' he said,
' est la plus grande de toutes. Elle est plus estimee par
moi que toutes les autres. J'ai ete votre plus grand en-
nemi, franchement tel, mais je ne le suis plus. J'ai voulu
aussi elever la nation fra^aise, mais mes plans n'ont pas
reussi. C'est le destin.' 7
Here he stopped short, seeming greatly affected, and
the tears were in his eyes.
After a pause, he asked whether Lord Castlereagh in-
tended to remain long in Paris, as he supposed it would
be necessary for him to return soon to England to meet
the Parliament, and then proceeded to inquire as to the
powers vested in me by his Lordship's instructions. He
expressed satisfaction at hearing that I was to accompany
5 The battle of Toulouse, fought any other. I have been your
April 10, 1814. — ED. greatest enemy — frankly such; but
6 ' He is a man of energy in war. I am so no longer. I have wished
To carry on war successfully, one likewise to raise the French nation,
must possess the like quality.' but my plans have not succeeded.
7 ' Yours is the greatest of all It is all destiny.'
nations. I esteem it more than
100 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
him to Elba, if lie so desired, and to remain in the island
so long as my services might be required. He was anxious,
he said, that a British man-of-war might convoy, as a
protection against Algerine pirates, the corvette ordered
by the French Government for his use ; and inquired
particularly what powers I would exert towards procuring
such an escort, or in obtaining a passage for him, should
he prefer embarking in a British man-of-war, or in case
the French vessel might not be ready at the place ap-
pointed.
' N'avez-vous pas le pouvoir de me procurer un batiment
de guerre anglais pour accompagner la corvette ? Car je ne
sais pas quand elle arrivera, et meme je voudrais peut-etre
en preference embarquer dans un batiment anglais.' 8
I stated the outline of my official instructions with
regard to affording him facilities and protection after his
arrival in the island of Elba ; but as these did not provide
precisely for the contingencies in question, he himself, and
afterwards the Duke of Vicenza9, requested me to solicit
from Lord Castlereagh exact directions, conveyed in such
terms as would secure their being complied with by any
British admiral or captains of His Majesty's navy, should
it be found necessary to apply for their assistance.
He concluded by saying, ' Eh bien, je suis a votre dis-
position ! Je suis votre sujet. Je depends entierement sur
vous.' l
And then, having been with him fully a quarter of an
hour, he made me a bow of conge, free from any assump-
tion of hauteur ; and my first interview with Napoleon
was ended !
I wrote in the afternoon of the same day to Lord
8 'Have you not the power of vessel.'
obtaining for me an English man- 9 Caulaincourt.
of-war, to accompany the corvette ? l ' Very well, I am at your dis-
For I do not know when the latter posal. I am your subject. I de-
will arrive, and perhaps I may even pend entirely upon you.'
prefer to embark in an English
CHAP. I. LETTER FROM LORD CASTLEREAGH. 161
Castlereagh for further instructions, and received in due
course the following reply :
'Paris: April 18, 1814.
' Sir, — I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of
your letter. My instructions furnish you with authority
to call upon His Majesty's officers, by sea and land, to give
all due facility and assistance to the execution of the
service with which you are entrusted.
' I cannot foresee that any enemy can molest the French
corvette, on board of which it is proposed that Napoleon
should proceed to his destination.
4 If, however, he should continue to desire it, you are
authorised to call upon any of His Majesty's cruisers, (so
far as the public service may not be thereby prejudiced,) to
see him safe to the island of Elba. You will not, however,
suffer this arrangement to be made a cause of delay.
* There can be no objection (if the accommodation on
board of the English ship-of-war is preferable) to Napo-
leon being received and conducted to his destination.
' I have the honour to be, Sir, your obedient humble
servant,
(Signed) ' CASTLE REAGH.
' To Col. Campbell, &c. &c., Fontainebleau.'
Immediately on receipt of the above, I made known its
contents verbally to General Count Bertrand.
Soon afterwards, we, the Allied Commissioners, as-
sembled together, and agreed to communicate frankly to
each other any circumstance worth knowing, of which
we might individually become apprised. It was then
that I was first made aware of the exact particulars of the
treaty between Napoleon and the Allied Powers, signed
at Paris upon April 11, of which each of the other Com-
missioners possessed a copy.
The reason of my ignorance appeared to be, that the
treaty had not as yet been signed by Lord Castlereagh on
M
162
SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL.
CHAP. I.
the part of England, on account of certain objections ; 2
and I therefore, as British Commissioner, had received no
official intimation of its existence.
This treaty, composed of twenty-one Articles, had been
signed by Prince Metternich and Count Stadion on the
part of Austria ; Count Easomouffsky and Count Nessel-
rode on the part of Russia ; Baron Hardenberg on the
part of Prussia ; and Marshal Ney and Caulaincourt,
Duke of Vicenza, on the part of Napoleon.
2 Viscount Castlereagh to Earl
Bathurst.
'On the night of my arrival
[April 10, 1814], the four Ministers
Lad a conference with the Prince
of Benevento on the subject of the
proposed convention, to which I
stated my objections, desiring, at
the same time, to be understood as
not urging them then, at the hazard
of the internal tranquillity of France,
nor the impeachment of what was
due, in good faith to the assurance
given, under the exigency of the mo-
ment, by Russia.
' The Prince of Benevento admit-
ted the weight of many of the ob-
jections, but declared that he did
consider it on the part of the Pro-
visional Government as an object of
the first importance to avoid any-
thing that might assume the cha-
racter of a civil war, even for the
shortest time. That he also found
some such measure essential to
make the army pass over in a
temper to be made use of. Upon
these declarations, and the Count
de Nesselrode's, that the Emperor
his master had felt it necessary, in
the absence of the Allies, to act for
the best in their name as well as
his own, I withdrew my further
opposition to the principle of the
measure, suggesting only some
alterations in the details. I desired,
however, to decline, on the part of
my Government, being more than
an acceding party to the treaty, and
declared that the act of accession
on the part of Great Britain should
not go beyond the territorial ar-
rangements proposed in the treaty.
My objections to our being unneces-
sarily mixed up in its forms, espe-
cially in the recognition of Napo-
leon's title under present circum-
stances, were considered as perfectly
reasonable, and I now enclose the
Protocol and Note, which will ex-
plain the extent to which I have
taken upon me to give assurances
on the part of my court.
'At my suggestion, the recogni-
tion of the Imperial titles in the fa-
mily were limited to their respective
lives, for which there was a prece-
dent in the case of the King of
Poland, when he became Elector of
Saxony.
[Enclosure —Protocol.]
' Lord Castlereagh, Minister of
His Britannic Majesty, declared that
England could not become a party
to the treaty, but engaged to notify,
as soon as possible, the accession of
his court to so much of that treaty
as concerns the free possession and
the peaceable enjoyment, in full
sovereignty, of the island of Elba,
and of the Duchies of Parma, Pla-
centia, and Guastalla.' — ED.
CHAP. I. TREATY OF FONTAINEBLEAU. 163
' Articles du Traite entre les Puissances Alliees et Sa Majeste
I'Empereur Napoleon.3
' ART. 1. — S. M. 1'Empereur Napoleon renonce pour lui,
ses successeurs et descendants, ainsi que tons les membres
de sa famille, a tout droit de souverainete et de domination,
tant sur 1'empire francais que sur le royaume d'ltalie et
tout autre pays.
( ART. 2. — LL. MM. PEmpereur Napoleon et Marie-
Louise conserveront leurs titres et rang pour en jouir
pendant leur vie. La mere, les freres, soeurs, neveux et
nieces de PEmpereur conserveront aussi, en quelque lieu
qu'ils resident, les titres de sa famille.
' ART. 3. — L'ile d'Elbe, que PEmpereur Napoleon a
choisie pour le lieu de sa residence, formera pendant sa
vie une principaute separee qu'il possedera en toute sou-
verainete et propriete. II sera en outre accorde, en toute
propriete, a PEmpereur Napoleon un revenu annuel de
deux millions de francs, qui sera porte comme rente sur
le grand livre de France, de laquelle somme un million
sera reversible a PImperatrice.
'ART. 4. — Les duches de Parnie, de Plaisance et de
Guastalla seront donnes en toute propriete et souverainete
3 ' Articles of the Treaty between retain, wherever they may reside,
the AUied Powers and His Majesty tne titles of princes of his family.
the Emperor Napoleon. <AET- 3.— The island of Elba,
adopted by His Majesty the Emperor
f ART. 1. — His Majesty the Em- Napoleon as the place of his resi-
peror Napoleon renounces for him- dence, shall form during his life a
self, his successors, and descendants, separate principality, which shall
as well as for all the members of be possessed by him in full sove-
his family, all right of sovereignty reignty and property ; there shall
and dominion, as well to the French be besides granted in full property,
Empire, and the kingdom of Italy, to the Emperor Napoleon, an annual
as over every other country. revenue of 2,000,000 francs, in rent-
' ART. 2. — Their Majesties the charge, in the great book of France,
Emperor Napoleon and Maria Lou- of which 1,000,000 shall be in re-
isa shall retain their titles and rank, version to the Empress,
to be enjoyed during their lives. The 'ART. 4. — The duchies of Parma,
mother, brothers, sisters, nephews, Placentia, and Guastalla shall be
and nieces of the Emperor shall also granted in full property and sove-
M2
164 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
a S. M. PImperatrice Marie-Louise. Ils passeront a son
fils et a ses descendants en ligne directe. Le prince son
fils prendra, a 1'avenir, le titre de prince de Panne, de
Plaisance et de Guastalla.
' ART. 5. — Toutes les Puissances s'engagent a employer
leurs bons offices aupres des Etats barbaresques pour faire
respecter le pavilion de Tile d'Elbe et a cet effet les rela-
tions avec ces Etats seront assimilees a celles de la France.
' ART. 6. — II sera reserve dans les territoires auxquels il
est, par le present, renonce a S. M. 1'Empereur Napoleon,
pour lui et sa famille, des domaines ou des rentes sur le
grand livre de France, produisant un revenu, libre de toute
charge ou deduction, de deux millions cinq cent mille
francs. Ces domaines ou rentes appartiendront en toute
propriete aux princes et princesses de sa farnille, qui pour-
ront en disposer comme ils jugeront a propos. Us seront
partages entre eux de maniere a ce que chacun d'eux ait
les revenus suivants :
Francs.
Madame Mere 300,000
Le roi Joseph, et sa femme . . . 500,000
Le roi Louis ....... 200,000
[Le roi Louis a rejete les avantages de cet article.]
reignty to Her Majesty the Empress leon for himself and his family,
Maria Louisa. They shall pass to domains or rent-charges in the
her son, and to the descendants in great book of France, producing a
the right line. The prince, her son, revenue, clear of all deductions and
shall from henceforth take the title charges, of 2,500,000 francs. These
of Prince of Parma, Placentia, and domains and rents shall belong, in
Guastalla. full property, and to be disposed of
1 ART. 5.— All the Powers engage as they shall think fit, to the
to employ their good offices to cause princes and princesses of his family,
to be respected by the Barbary and shall be divided among them
Powers the flag and territory 'of the in such a manner that the revenue
island of Elba, for which purpose Of each shall be in the following
the relations with the Barbary proportion : viz. :
Powers shall be assimilated to those Francs.
of France. To Madame Mere . . . 300,000
' ART. 6.— There shall be reserved Jo King Joseph and his Queen 500,000
• ,1 •••IT. ihe King Louis . . 200,000
in the territories hereby renounced
to His Majesty the Emperor Napo- [King Louis refused his portion.]
CHAP. I. TREATY OF FONTAINEBLEAU. 165
Francs.
La reine Hortense et son enfant . . 400,000
Le roi Jerome et sa femme . . . 500,000
La princesse Elise (Bacchiochi) . . 300,000
La princesse Pauline (Borghese) . . 300,000
* Les princes et princesses de la maison de 1'Empereur
Napoleon retiendront en outre leur propriete mobiliere et
immobiliere, de quelque nature que ce soit, qu'ils possede-
ront par droit public et individuel, et les rentes dont Us
jouiront comme individus.
' AET. 7. — La pension de 1'Iniperatrice Josephine sera
reduite a un million en domaines ou en inscriptions sur le
grand livre de France. Elle continuera de jouir en toute
propriete de ses proprietes personnelles, mobilieres ou im-
mobilieres, avec faculte d'en disposer conformement aux
lois de France.
'ART. 8. — II sera forme un etablissement convenable
hors de France au prince Eugene, vice-roi d'ltalie.
' AET. 9. — Les proprietes que 1'Empereur Napoleon pos-
sede en France, soit comme domaines extraordinaires,
soit comme domaines particuliers attaches a la couronne,
les fonds places par 1'Empereur, soit sur le grand livre de
Francs, the Empress Josephine shall be re-
Theueen Hortense and her ducedtQ 1)000,000 francs in domains
The' King Jerome and his or in inscriptions in the great book of
Queen .... 500,000 France ; she shall continue to enjoy
The Princess Eliza (Bac- in full her property moveable and
chiochi) .... 300,000 immoveable, with power to dispose
The Princess Paulina (Bor- of it conformable to the rrench
ghese) .... 300,000 ,
laws.
' The princes and princesses of the < ART. 8.— There shall be granted
house of the Emperor Napoleon to Prince Eugene, Viceroy of Italy,
shall besides retain their property, a suitable establishment out of
moveable and immoveable, of what- France.
ever nature it may be, which they < ART. 9. — The property which
shall possess by individual and the Emperor Napoleon possesses in
public right, and the rents of which France, either as extraordinary
they shall enjoy (also as indivi- domains or as private domains,
duals). attached to the crown, the funds
' ART. 7.— The annual pension of placed by the Emperor, either in the
166 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I
France, soit a la Banque de France, en actions des Forets,
ou de toute autre maniere, et que S. M. abandonne a la
couronne, seront reservees comme un capital, qui n'exce-
dera pas deux millions, pour etre employes en gratifica-
tions aux personnes dont les noms seront portes sur une
liste signee par 1'Empereur Napoleon et qui sera transmise
au gouvernement francais.
* ART. 10. — Tous les diamants de la couronne resteront
en France.
'ART. 11. — S. M. 1'Empereur Napoleon remettra au
Tresor public et autres caisses toutes les sommes qui en
auront ete prises par ses ordres, a 1'exception de ce qui a
ete approprie a la liste civile.
'ART. 12. — Les dettes de la maison de S. M. 1'Empereur
Napoleon, telles qu'elles existaient le jour de la signature
du present traite, seront payees sur 1'arriere du par le
Tresor public a la liste civile d'apres 1'etat qui sera signe
par une commission nominee a cet effet.
'ART. 13. — Les obligations du Mont Napoleon de Milan
(Mont de Piete) envers les creanciers fra^ais ou etran-
gers seront acquittees, a moins qu'il n'en soit autrement
convenu par la suite.
great book of France, in the Bank orders, with the exception of what
of France, in the actions des Forets, has been appropriated from the
or in any other manner, and which civil list.
His Majesty abandons to the crown, 'ART. 12. — The debts of the
shall be received as a capital, which household of His Majesty the Em-
shall not exceed two millions, to be peror Napoleon, such as they were
expended in gratifications, in favour on the day of the signature of the
of such persons whose names shall present treaty, shall be imme-
be contained in a list to be signed diately discharged out of the arrears
by the Emperor Napoleon, and due by the public Treasury to the
which shall be transmitted to the civil list, according to a list which
French Government. shall be signed by a commissioner
'ART. 10.— All the crown dia- for that purpose,
monds shall remain in France. ' ART. 13. — The obligations of the
' ART. 11. — His Majesty the Em- Mount Napoleon of Milan towards
peror Napoleon shall return to the all the creditors, whether French-
Treasury, and to the other public men or foreigners, shall be exactly
chests, all the sums and effects that fulfilled, unless there shall be any
shall have been taken out by his change made in this respect.
CHAP. I. TREATY OF FONTAINEBLEAU. 107
'ART. 14. — Tons les passeports necessaires seront de-
livres pour laisser passer librement S. M. FEmpereur Na-
poleon, 1'Imperatrice, les princes, les princesses et toutes
les personnes de leur suite qui voudraient les accom-
pagner ou s'etablir hors de France, ainsi que pour leurs
equipages, chevaux et effets. En consequence, les Puis-
sances AUiees fourniront des officiers et des troupes pour
1'escorter.
'ART. 15. — La Garde imperiale fran9aise fournira un
detachement de douze a quinze cents honimes de toutes
armes pour servir d'escorte a 1'Empereur Napoleon jusqu'a
St. Tropez, lieu de son embarquernent.
* ART. 16. — II sera fourni une corvette et les batiments
necessaires pour transporter S. M. 1'Empereur Napoleon et
sa maison ; et la corvette appartiendra en toute propriete
a S. M. 1'Empereur.
'ART. 17. — L'Empereur Napoleon pourra prendre avec
lui, et retenir comme sa garde, quatre cents hommes, offi-
ciers, sous-officiers et soldats volontaires.
'ART. 18. — Aucuns Fran9ais, qui auraient suivi 1'Empe-
reur Napoleon et sa famille, ne seront censes avoir perdu
leurs droits de Fra^ais en ne retournant pas dans le cours
14. — There shall be given 'ART. 16. — There shall be fur-
all the necessary passports for the nished a corvette and the necessary
free passage of His Majesty the Era- transport-vessels to convey to the
peror Napoleon, or of the Empress, place of his destination His Majesty
the princes and princesses, and all the Emperor Napoleon and his
the persons of their suites who wish household ; and the corvette shall
to accompany them, or to establish belong in full property to His Ma-
themselves out of France, as well as jesty the Emperor.
for the passage of all the equipages, ' ART. 17. — The Emperor Napo-
horses, and effects belonging to leon shall be allowed to take with
them. The Allied Powers shall in him, and retain as his guard, 400
consequence furnish officers and men, volunteers, as well officers as
men for escorts. sub-officers and soldiers.
' ART. 15. — The French Imperial ' ART. 18. — No Frenchmen who
Guards shall furnish a detachment shall have followed the Emperor
of from 1,200 to 1 ,500 men of all Napoleon or his family shall be held
arms to serve as an escort to the to have forfeited their rights as such
Emperor Napoleon to St. Tropez, by not returning to France within
the place of his embarkation. three years ; at least, they shall not
168 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
de trois ans ; au moins ils ne seront pas compris dans les
exceptions que le gouvernement francais se reserve de
faire apres 1'expiration de ce terme.
1 ART. 19. — Les troupes polonaises de toutes arines auront
la liberte de retourner en Pologne, en gardant leurs armes
et bagages, comme un temoignage de leurs services hono-
rables. Les officiers et soldats conserveront les decorations
qu'ils ont obtenues et les pensions qui j sont attachees.
*ART. 20. — Les Hautes Puissances Alliees garantissent
1'execution du present Traite, et s'engagent a obtenir qu'il
soit accepte et garanti par la France.
'ART. 21. — Le present acte sera ratifie, et les ratifica-
tions echangees a Paris dans deux jours.'
It appeared that all the arrangements in regard to
Napoleon's journey to, and future residence in, Elba had
been made between General Koller and Count Bertrand at
Fontainebleau, and that the former carried on a corres-
pondence with Prince Metternich, the Austrian Minister,
then at Paris, in reference to the necessary details.
During our meeting, Count Bertrand was announced.
He was the bearer of a protest from Napoleon against the
be comprised in the exceptions be ratified, and the ratifications ex-
which the French Government re- changed at Paris within two days,
serves to itself to grant after the or sooner if possible,
expiration of that term. ' Done at Paris, April 11, 1814.
< ART. 19.— The Polish troops of (L.S.) THE PRINCE DE MET-
all arms, in the service of France, TERNICH.
shall be at liberty to return home, J. F. COMTE DE STA-
and shall retain their arms and bag- DION.
gage, as a testimony of their ho- ANDRE COMTE DE RA-
nourable services. The officers and SOTTMOUF.FSKY.
soldiers shall retain their decorations CHARLES ROBERT
which have been granted to them, COMTE DE NESSEL-
and the pensions annexed to those RODE.
decorations. CHARLES AUG. BARON
' ART. 20. — The High Allied DE HARDENBERG.
Powers guarantee the execution of MARSHAL NET.
all the articles of the present treaty, CATJLAINCOURT.'
and engage to obtain that it shall be [Both the English and the French
adopted and guaranteed by France, copies are transcribed verbatim from
' ART. 21. — The present act shall Sir N. C.'s papers. — ED.]
CHAP. I. ORDERS FROM COUNT DUPONT. 169
removal of the guns and stores from the island of Elba, as
directed by the Minister of War in the following orders,
copies of which had arrived from Paris :
' Paris, le 18" avril 1814.
' Je vous adresse, M. le Commandant, un ordre d'apres
lequel vous remettrez a Napoleon Bonaparte, ci-devant
Empereur des Fran9ais, Pile d'Elbe, au moment ou il
debarquera dans cette ile. Cette disposition est conform e
aux intentions des Puissances Alliees, et rien ne peut
s'opposer a son execution. Les troupes qui se trouvent dans
Pile d'Elbe, et tous les effets appartenant a la France,
devront etre evacues, et il doit se dresser un acte qui con-
statera la remise de Pile a Napoleon.
* J'ai Phonneur, etc. etc.,
' Le Commissionnaire au Departement de la Guerre,
'LE GENEEAL COMTE DuPONT.4
' A Monsieur
' Le Commandant Superieui* de 1'ile d'Elbe.' 5
'Paris, le 18" avril 1814.
' Monsieur, frere du Roi, Lieutenant- General du Roy-
aume, ordonne que Pile d'Elbe sera remise a Napoleon
Bonaparte, ci-devant Empereur des Fra^ais, a son arrivee
dans cette ile.
4 ' If they [the French Cabinet] island of Elba, from the moment
had been gifted with far greater when he disembarks in that island,
practical sagacity and acquaintance This arrangement is in accordance
with men than they possessed, they with the wishes of the Allied
would have been shattered by the Powers, and nothing must oppose
unpopularity of General Dupont as its execution. The troops which
Minister of War ; an appointment are in the island, and all the stores
the most unfortunate that could belonging to France, must be re-
have been made, for it continually moved, and a formal act must be
reminded the army of the disaster drawn up declaring the transfer of
of Baylen.' — Alison, History of the island to Napoleon.
Europe, vol. x. ch. Ixxvii. — ED. 'I have the honour, &c., &c.,
5 ' Paris : April 18, 1814. (Signed) ' Commissioner of the
' I address to you an order, in ' War Department,
conformity with which you will ' G£N£RAL COMTE DTTPONT.
make over to Napoleon Bonaparte, , To the Chief Commandantof the j^a of
late Emperor of the French, the Elba.'
170 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
' Par ordre de Monsieur, Lieutenant-General du Roy-
aume, etc. etc.
* Le Commissionnaire au Departement de la Guerre,
<LE GENERAL COMTE
In addition to the formal note of objection, General
Bertrand made several verbal observations on the part of
Napoleon, stating that the Emperor would not voluntarily
quit Fontainebleau, unless the demand contained in the
above note was complied with ; that he placed reliance upon
the Emperor Alexander and the other potentates for grant-
ing his request, as the honourable execution of the treaty
made with him depended upon them, and not upon the
Minister of War or the Provisional Government ; that the
Commissioners of the Allied Sovereigns were the only
persons who ought to be empowered to decide upon all
the points which regarded his settlement in the island.
This communication was at once transmitted to the Al-
lied Sovereigns and their ministers at Paris by the Commis-
sioners. General Koller, upon whom the responsibility of
the travelling arrangements chiefly rested, complained that
fresh difficulties seemed continually suggesting themselves
to the mind of Napoleon regarding his journey, and that
every possible excuse was urged that could delay his de-
parture, which it was considered so important should not
be postponed beyond the 20th, the day on which he had
faithfully promised to set off.
With the exception of this last obstacle, all seemed to
have been surmounted. The line of route originally planned
by Prince Metternich, via Auxerre, and on which the
allied troops destined for the escort of Napoleon had been
6 ' Paris : April is, 1814. < By order of " Monsieur," Lieu-
'" Monsieur," brother of the King, tenant-General of the Kingdom,
Lieutenant-General of the Kingdom, &c., &c.
orders that the island of Elba shall (Signed) 'Commissioner of the
be given over to Napoleon Bona- ( War Department,
parte, late Emperor of the French, ' GfinrfiKAL COMTE DUPONT.'
on his arrival in that island.
CHAP. I. NAPOLEON AT FONTAINEBLEAU. 171
already stationed, had been just changed, at his request, for
the road by Briare and Moulins. The requisite authority
from the French Government to the post-masters of the
various stations along the route, to have relays of horses
in readiness, had arrived, and an inspector had been ap-
pointed to precede us with orders. But this new objection
raised by Napoleon seemed to render the projected start
upon the 20th again uncertain. However, General Koller
assured Count Bertrand that the Emperor's request would
without doubt be complied with by the authorities in Paris,
and that even if the answer had not arrived by the 20th,
he hoped Napoleon would not alter his intention of leaving
Fontainebleau that day.
Count Bertrand promised to make this representation,
and we anxiously awaited the result.
During my stay at Fontainebleau, Napoleon did not leave
the palace. He was constantly occupied in seeing officers
who came from the army, from Paris, and from Eambouillet,
where the Empress was then staying, and in making ar-
rangements for his departure. He sent off a number of
waggons with baggage, besides the regular convoy that had
previously been despatched with the escort ; but the chest
containing the treasure of the army, amounting to four
millions of livres (200,OOOL), he kept with himself. He
gave away books, manuscripts, swords, pistols, decorations,
coins, &c., to different officers present at Fontainebleau,
and directed others to be transmitted to various favourites.
He was in the habit of receiving regularly the ' Moniteur '
all the daily journals, and hearing everything that went
on at Paris ; and he felt very bitterly the sarcasms that
continually appeared in the newspapers about himself.
He seemed very jealous of the great influence that the
Emperor Alexander had, by his unvarying^ courtesy, ob-
tained over the minds of the Parisians.
After hearing of the visit of the Czar to the Empress
Josephine, he observed to a person in his room : —
172 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
' L'Empereur Alexandre a fait une visile a ma premiere
femme. Poll ! II a premierement dejeune avec Ney, et
apres cela il 1'a visitee a Malinaison. Qu'est-ce qu'il peut
tirer de cela ? II a aussi donne 1'ordre de St. Andre a La
Harpe, ce Jacobin. II fait 1'amitie an Roi. H flatte les
Parisiens et les Jacobins.' 7
He spoke also of the Emperor Alexander's visit to
Marie-Louise at Rambouillet, and said it was insulting
these women in their sorrow to appear before them as a
conqueror. ' C'est du Grec.' 8
Josephine has always been a great favourite with the
Parisians. La Harpe, a Swiss by birth, was formerly
tutor to Alexander, and a great leader amongst the Jaco-
bins.
After the formation of the Provisional Government, a
person was asked by Napoleon what he thought of his
situation, and whether he considered there were any
additional measures to be taken. When he replied in the
negative, Napoleon inquired what he would do in a simi-
lar situation. * Blow my own brains out,' was the reply.
Napoleon reflected for a moment. 'Oui, je peux faire
cela ; mais ceux qui me veuillent du bien, ils ne peuvent
en profiler, et ceux qui me veuillent du mal, cela les ren-
dra du plaisir.' 9
In a conversation with General Koller at Fontaine -
bleau, Napoleon remarked that he had need of more
courage to live than to die ; that he knew the world ex-
pected him to make away with himself; that he had
put himself in the way of losing his life often enough,
7 ' The Emperor Alexander has He flatters both the Parisians and
paid a visit to my former wife. Poh ! the Jacobins.'
He first breakfasted with Ney, and 8 ' It is Greek-like.'
after that, visited her at Malmaison. 9 ' Yes, I can do that ; but those
What can he hope to gain from who wish me well would not be
this ? He has also given the order of benefited, and it would give plea-
St. Andrew to La Harpe, that Ja- sure to those who wish me ill.'
cobin. He pays court to the king.
CHAP. I. NAPOLEON AT FONTAINEBLEAU. 173
particularly at Arcis,1 where lie bad four horses killed or
wounded under him.
This, however, does not agree with another statement I
heard ; for the groom, who used to follow him with led
horses, told me that he only had one horse wounded
there.
During the negotiations for his asylum, Napoleon de-
sired the Duke of Vicenza to announce to the Allied
Sovereigns, that if proper arrangements were not made
for his security, he should wish to go to England. And
afterwards, with reference to this point, he said to one of
his staif : ' C'est une grande nation. Je suis sur que je
serais en surete, et traite avec generosite ; ' adding how-
ever, presently, in his usual quick and abrupt manner,
' Mais dans mon ile je serai comme dans une rue de Lon-
dres.' 2
One day, while we were at dinner, the subject of
punishment by impaling, as practised in the East, was
mentioned. A French officer, present at table, said that
he would not like to inhabit such a country. General
Drouot observed : ( Ma foi ! Je ne compte pas de ne ja
mais le voir, et Alger aussi peut-etre ; ' 3 alluding, I sup-
pose, to the party being possibly captured by Algerine
pirates !
M. Fourreau, physician to Napoleon, (under whose medi-
cal charge I had passed for my wounds, now that I was out
of reach of Drs. Wylie and Crichton,) told me that Caulain-
court, Ney, and Macdonald4 were sent from Fontaine-
1 The battle of Arcis-sur-Aube, ' But in my island I shall be as if
between Napoleon and the Allies, in a street of London.'
continued for two days, March 20 3 ' Faith ! I am not so sure of
and 21, 1814. Sir Neil Campbell never seeing it, and Algiers also,
had himself been engaged in the may be ! '
action, serving with the corps of
the Russian General, Count Pahlen. 4 Viscount Castlereagh to Earl
— ED. Bathurst.
2 ' It is a great nation. I am ' Paris : April 13, 1814.
sure that I should be in security, ..... .
and treated with generosity. < Your Lordship has been already
174 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
bleau to negotiate with Alexander and the Provisional
Government ; that during the first interviews (of which
they had five in one day), Alexander told them that the
Allies would not make any peace with Bonaparte himself,
but they might do what they could in regard to his son,
or any other member of his family. After the fifth inter-
view, Alexander changed his language, and said that
Napoleon and his army were not in a situation to oppose
the Allies if he refused any such terms as they chose to
insist on. He then informed them of the capitulation en-
tered into with Marmont. They were obliged to confess
that they were not upon such an equality as they had
supposed.
In coming out, they met Marmont. Macdonald took him
by the arm, and said : * Miserable ! C'est vous qui avez
empeche que la dynastie de Napoleon regne.' 5 Marmont
asked him, * How so ? That he had acted for the best
for his country.' Macdonald then told him that Alexander
would have granted everything they asked for the Empress
and her son, had he not deserted from the army. That
alone prevented them from obtaining the terms they
wished. Marmont's answer was (with a sudden outburst
of remorse) that he would not for one of his members
that he had taken these steps. * Un de vos membres ! '
said Macdonald. ' Tout votre sang a present ne peut
le changer.'6 And then he went on to reproach Mar-
informed, by Lord Cathcart, of the the part of the Allies, with respect
Act of Abdication which was passed to the proposed arrangement. These
by Bonaparte on the 4th inst, and persons were also authorised to
of the assurance given him by the agree to an armistice, and to settle
Emperor of Russia and the Provi- such a line of demarcation as might
sional Government of a pecuniary be satisfactory to the Allies, and in
provision of six millions, with a safe the mean time prevent an unneces-
asylum in the island of Elba. The sary effusion of blood.' — ED.
Act in question was deposited in the 5 'Miserable man! It is you
hands of Monsieur de Caulaincourt who have prevented the Napoleon
and the Marshals Ney and Mac- dynasty from reigning.'
donald, to be given up upon the 6 ' One of your members ! All
due execution of engagements on your blood cannot change it now.'
CHAP. I. EMPEROR OF AUSTRIA AND MARIE-LOUISE. 175
mont for his desertion — lie who owed everything io
Napoleon !
Macdonald related this before all the officers in the
waiting-room at Fontainebleau, upon his return from
Paris.
The aide-de-camp of General Roller, the Austrian Com-
missioner, told me that he had accompanied the Em-
peror of Austria and Prince Metternich from Paris to
Rambouillet, when they first went there to visit Marie-
Louise.7 The former never called her ' Empress ' in
speaking of her, but always ' Ma fille,' or ' La Princesse.'
The aide-de-camp had been sent to Paris from Fontaine-
bleau as the bearer of Napoleon's proposition that he
should not proceed to St. Tropez, but go by way of Italy
to Piombino.
He was directed to accompany the Emperor and
Metternich to Rainbouillet, with the understanding that
he should receive the answer after their interview with
Marie-Louise. Upon their arrival there, the Emperor
was received by an antiquated, stiff, full-dressed lady,
who came out from the Empress's apartment through two
others, and saluted him with great etiquette. She was
proceeding with a speech, when the Emperor brushed
7 Viscount Castlereagh to Earl nual revenue of two millions for
Bathurst. herself and heirs, to be paid out of
' Paris : April 13, 1814. the funds placed by the Emperor
either in the great book, in the IBank
' To the arrangements in favour of France, in the actions des Forets
of the Empress, I felt not only no or in any other manner, all which
objection, but considered it due to funds His Majesty gives up to the
the distinguished sacrifice of domes- crown, the Plenipotentiaries of the
tic feelings which the Emperor of Allied Courts declared, that as the
Austria was making in the cause of Provisional Government of France
Europe. had refused taking, of itself, a de-
[Enclosure-Protocoi.] termination to this effect, their
' The Plenipotentiaries of His courts had engaged to employ their
Majesty the Emperor Napoleon good offices with the new sovereign
having demanded that Her Majesty of France, to grant to Her Majesty
the Empress Maria Louisa should the Empress Maria Louisa such
be allowed, in full property, an an- allowance.' — ED.
176 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. I.
past her, saying in German, * Who the d 1 are you ?
Let me see my daughter.' Marie-Louise met him at the
door. She kissed his hand, and screamed. He threw his
arms round her neck, and then led her to the couch ; on
which the door was shut. In about half an hour, the
Emperor inquired for the aide-de-camp, and told him to
inform General Koller that Napoleon's proposition for
going by laud to Piombino could not be granted, and
that if any change as to the arrangements should take
place, a courier would be despatched that same night to
Fontainebleau.
In visiting the apartments of the palace at Fontaine-
bleau, we were shown a room where Josephine had begged
Napoleon to spare the life of the Due d'Enghien. After
several ineffectual entreaties, s"he threw herself at his feet,
and, clasping his leg, declared that she would not quit
her hold until he had granted her request. He tore from
her, exclaiming, * Le diable ! Allez, madame, a vos af-
faires ; ne vous melez pas des miennes.' 8 We saw also
the suite occupied by the Pope, consisting of several large
apartments in the upper story.
The concierge who conducted us had been with Napo-
leon in Egypt as a storekeeper. I asked him whether it
was true that the Mameluke always lay at Napoleon's
door. He said, * Yes, on a inattrass, and armed with a
poniard.'
Napoleon experienced much heartlessness and ingrati-
tude during his short stay at Fontainebleau. Among other
instances was that of his favourite Roustan, the Mame-
luke just mentioned. This man, upon whom benefits of
all sorts had been showered by his indulgent master,
had arranged to accompany him to Elba, with the pro-
mise of receiving 8,000 francs a year as wages, with lodging,
lights, and firing. Napoleon gave him leave to go up to
Paris, in order that he might make arrangements for his
8 'Go, madam, to your own affairs ; do not meddle with mine.'
CHAP. I. DUKE OF BASSANO. 177
wife and children to accompany him, and he then received
25,000 francs, by way of arrears. He never returned, but
merely sent word that he had determined to remain in
Paris. The same night Napoleon's own valet de chambre 9
went off, without any notice, taking with him 5,000 francs.
Savary, the Minister of Police, had received the sum of
70,000 francs out of Napoleon's private purse, when he
was last in Paris, for the purposes of bribery and espion-
age in the case of any extraordinary tumult. After his
abdication, Napoleon sent to desire his presence, in order
that he might return the money. Savary not only refused
to obey the summons, but protested that, so far from
having in his hands any funds, public or private, he was,
on the contrary, rather in arrear.
On the 18th, the Duke of Bassano ' called to see Napo-
leon about the time of his dinner, and was invited to
partake.
' Eh bien, Bassano,' said Napoleon, ' on dit p, Paris que
c'est entierement ma faute qu'on n'a pas fait la paix ; que
je ne la ferais jamais, que je voudrais une guerre ex-
terminatrice. Des autres vous blament que vous m'avez
soutenu «dans cet avis, que vous n'avez pas voulu me
donner du conseil sage. Ah ! comment done arranger cela
entre nous ? Eh ! n'est-ce pas ma faute moi-meme? '2
The Duke of Bassano bowed, as if to acquiesce in that
which seemed to please him, that he always acted for
himself, without any advice.
1 Oui, oui, c'est cela, c'est moi-meme ! ' 3 Napoleon added
quickly.
9 Constant. He afterwards pub- for a war to the death. Others
lished his Memoirs, wherein he blame you, that you upheld me in
unblushingly related some of his this determination, that you were
own rogueries. — ED. not willing to give me sound advice.
1 Maret. Ah ! How shall we settle it be-
2 ' Well, Bassano, they say in tween us ? Eh ! Is it not my own
Paris that it is entirely my fault fault ? '
that peace was not made ; that I 3 ' Yes, yes, it is so, it is I my-
would never make it, that I wished self ! '
N
178 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
CHAPTER II.
MORNING OF DEPARTURE — CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON — PARTING
ADDRESS TO THE OLD GUARD — LEAVES FONTAINEBLEAU — INTERVIEW
WITH NAPOLEON AT BRIARE — INCIDENTS OP JOURNEY — MARSHAL
AUGEREAU — ARRIVAL AT FREJUS.
THE eventful morning of April 20th dawned, and at an
early hour all were astir in the palace. Although every-
thing was in readiness for the journey, we felt quite
uncertain as to whether Napoleon would really start.
The courier had not yet arrived from Paris with the answer
respecting the guns and stores at Elba. It was therefore
a relief when at nine o'clock General Bertrand announced
formally to the Commissioners that the Emperor would
set off in the course of the forenoon.
After interviews with the Duke of Bassano and other
officers, Napoleon sent for the Commissioners. .
General Koller, the Austrian, was first called forward,
and remained in close conversation for more than half an
hour.
Napoleon spoke warmly of his separation from the Em-
press Marie-Louise and the King of Rome, who he felt sure
were desirous themselves of joining him, and also com-
plained bitterly of the order from the French Minister of
War to the Commandant at Elba, for withdrawing the
guns and stores from the island, thus proposing to leave
him without means of security or defence. He said he
did not wish for a kingdom ; he had not asked for Corsica
for that reason. He wanted no power beyond that of se-
curing his own person against the States of Barbary, and
against pirates. If he had this assurance, * Je vivrai la
CHAP. II. GENERAL KOLLER. 179
comnie juge de paix.' l But lie would not remain, unless
the island were properly protected.
He had nothing to do, he said, with the Provisional
Government. His treaty was with the Allied Sovereigns,
and to them he looked for its fulfilment. He was not
even now destitute of means of continuing the war 2, but
it was not his wish to do so with certain ruin to France,
and in view of the many factions among the people. His
troops were as much attached to him as ever, and they
would be convinced that every effort which was possible
without dishonour had been made. They were not nu-
merous, but they would support him for a considerable
time.
General Roller endeavoured to persuade him that the
treaty would be fulfilled with honour. * Well,' replied
Napoleon, ' but there is no answer yet ; and what could
be said if I refused to depart ? ' ' Your Majesty alone,'
General Koller said, ' can decide on that point ; but I hope
you will follow your former intentions, and the expecta-
tions of your departure entertained at Paris. The answer
will no doubt overtake us on the road, and I am persuaded
it will be favourable.'
If, continued Napoleon, this treatment did not change,
and if an asylum were not afforded him in the manner
1 ' I shall live there like a justice sion of this act were the inconve-
of the peace.' nience, if not danger, of Napoleon's
remaining at Fontainebleau, sur-
2 Viscount Castlereagh to Earl rounded by troops who still, in a
Bathurst. considerable degree, remained faith-
1 Paris : AprU 13, 1814. ful to him, the apprehension of in-
• • • • • trigues in the army and in the
'A convention had been dis- capital, and the importance attached
cussed, and would have, in fact, by a considerable portion of the
been signed in the course of the day officers to some arrangements fa-
by the Russian Minister, had not vourable to their chiefs, in satisfac-
the approach of the Allied Ministers tion of their personal honour, before
been announced. The motives for they left him.'— ED.
accelerating the immediate conclu-
N 3
180 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
agreed upon, and understood by the treaty, he would
seek refuge in England. *Eh, pensez-vous qu'on me
re9oive ? ' ' Oui, Sire,' replied the Austrian ; ' car comine
vous n'avez jamais fait la guerre dans ce pays, la recon-
ciliation pourrait etre plus facile.' 3
During this conversation, a knock was heard at the
door.
Napoleon. — ' Qui est la ? '
A.D.C. — ' Aide-de-camp de service.'
Napoleon. — ' Entrez ! Que voulez-vous ? '
A.D.C. — ' Sire, le Grand Marechal m'a desire d'annoncer
a Votre Majeste que c'est deja onze heures.'
Napoleon. — ' Bah ! Voila de nouveau ! Depuis quand
est-ce que j'ai ete subordonne a la montre du Grand Mare-
chal? Peut-etre que je ne partirai jamais.'4
He felt himself Emperor and military chief to the last
with all those about him, and he also appeared more and
more averse to depart as the time approached.
After this Napoleon still pursued the conversation.
He spoke with regard of the Emperor of Austria, and
with esteem of England, but with bitterness of the Em-
peror of Russia, particularly in reference to his visit to
the Empress Josephine, and for taking with him the King
of Prussia.
He alluded to his own projects, and the various unsuc-
cessful negotiations for peace. General Koller, wishing to
explain that the Allies had on their side made every effort
to come to terms, pointed out the very favourable oppor-
tunity at Prague. Napoleon answered, ' J'ai eu tort peut-
3 ' Eh, do you think they will desired me to announce to your
receive me ? ' ' Yes, Sire ; for as Majesty that it is already eleven
you have never made war in that o'clock.'
country, reconciliation will become ' Bah ! This is something new !
the more easy.' Since when have I become subordi-
4 ' "Who is there ? ' nate to the watch of the Grand
< The aide-de-camp in waiting.' Marshal ? May be I shall not leave
' Come in ! What do you want ? ' at all.'
' Sire, the Grand Marshal has
CHAP. II. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 181
etre dans mes plans. J'ai fait du mal dans la guerre. Mais
c'est tout comme un reve.'5
In this, as in previous interviews which Napoleon had
held with General Koller, he expatiated largely on the
danger in which Austria was placed by the enormous
power of the Czar, and the false politics of Metternich,
in assisting to lower the influence of France, which should
be the natural ally of Austria, and act as a counterpoise
to the increasing weight of Russia. General Koller
replied, that ' present evils were more to be considered
than distant apprehensions.' Napoleon appeared much
struck by the frankness of the answer, and said, ' Je vous
estime pour la franchise de vos remarques. Si vous
parlez et agissez vers votre souverain avec autant, vous
etes un sujet inappreciable. Je n'ai pas ete si heureux.' G
He again referred to the separation from his wife and
child, and the tears actually ran down his cheeks. The
conduct pursued in regard to them, he insisted, was cruel
and faithless. The British Minister disapproved of it,
&c.
He continued to talk in this wild and excited style,
being at times greatly affected.
After General Koller had withdrawn, Napoleon called
me forward, and was as courteous as on my previous
interview with him, alluding likewise to much the same
subjects as before — my wounds, the military operations
in which I had been engaged, &c.
He praised the discipline and administration of the
British army, as being superior to those of the French ;
remarked on our system of fighting in two ranks ; said
that corporal punishment was necessary, but should be
applied as seldom as possible.
5 l I have been wrong, may be, and act in respect of your sovereign
in my plans. I have done harm with as much, you are a subject
in war. But it is all like a dream.' above price. I have not been so
6 ' I esteem you for the frank- fortunate.'
ness of your remarks. If you speak
182 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
Then he went on," ' J'ai ete tres-grand ennemi de votre
nation. J'ai ete franchement tel,. mais je ne le suis plus.
Je vous estime plus que toutes les autres nations. On me
separe de 1'Imperatrice, afin de me laisser a 1'ile d'Elbe
sans defense. Si on agit avec chicane vers moi, je deman-
derai uii asile en Angleterre. Croyez-vous qu'on me re-
9oive ? '
1 Sire,' I replied, ' je presume que le souverain et la
nation agiront toujours avec fidelite dans leurs engage-
ments, et avec generositeV
( Oui,' said Napoleon, 'je suis sur qu'on ne me refusera
pas.' 7
After pacing up and down the room for some time, he
at length added, ' Eh bien, nous aliens partir aujourd'hui.'8
During a short conversation with the Russian Commis-
sioner (although he paid very little attention either to
him or to the Prussian, scarcely speaking to either of
them, and being very cold and distant in his manner),
Napoleon asked if he had yet received a reply to the
question, as to whether he should proceed as far as Elba ;
and being answered in the negative, said, 'Ce n'est pas
de consequence, pourvu que 1'Anglais m'accompagne.'9
The Eussian and Prussian officers had, so far, instruc-
tions only to proceed to the place of embarkation, but had
written for further orders.
The Duke of Bassano, four or five generals, his aide-de-
camps, and fifteen or twenty other officers, were in the
7 ' I have been a very great ene- sume that the sovereign and the
my to your nation. I have been nation will ever act in the case of
frankly such, but I am so no longer, their engagements with fidelity and
I esteem you more than all the with generosity.' ' Yes, I feel sure
other nations. They separate me they will not refuse me.'
from the Empress in order to leave 8 ' Very well, we are going to
me in the island of Elba without leave to-day.'
defence. If they act with trickery 9 ' It is of no importance, pro-
towards me, I will ask for an asylum vided that the Englishman accom-
in England. Do you think they panics me.'
will receive me ? ' ' Sire, I pre-
CHAP. II. ADDRESS TO THE OLD GUARD. 183
antechamber. Upon coming out to the first room, there
were only Generals Belliard and Ornano ; when he arrived
there, the aide-de-camp suddenly shut the door, so that I
presume Napoleon was taking a particular leave of them.
The door then opened. The aide-de-camp called out,
* L'Empereur ! ' He passed us all with a salute and a smile
to the head of the stairs, descended into the court, and
proceeded towards his carriage, which was drawn up be-
tween two ranks of his Old Guards, then assembled the
officers and non-commissioned officers, and sending for us
to be present, he addressed them in the following speech
(as nearly as I could recollect the words, in conjunction
with the other Commissioners) : —
' Officiers, sous-officiers et soldats de la Yieille Garde ! l
' Je vous fais mes adieux. Depuis vingt ans je vous ai
trouves toujours braves et fideles, marchant dans le che-
min de la gloire. Toute 1'Europe etait reunie contre nous.
L'ennemi, en me derobant trois marches, etait entre dans
Paris. Je marchais pour Ten chasser. H n'y serait pas
reste trois jours. Je vous remercie du noble elan que vous
montrates a cette meme place dans ces circonstances. Mais
une partie de 1'armee, ne partageant pas vos sentiments,
m'abandonna et passa dans le camp de Fennemi. Des ce
moment la prompte delivrance de la capitale devenait
impossible. Je pouvais avec les trois quarts de 1'armee,
qui me restaient fideles, et aide de 1'assentiment et des
efforts de la tres-grande majorite de la population, me
1 ' Officers, non-commissioned thank you for the noble spirit you
officers, and soldiers of the Old have evinced in that same place
Guard ! under these circumstances. But a
' I bid you farewell. For twenty portion of the army, not sharing
years I have found you ever brave your sentiments, abandoned me and
and faithful, marching in the path passed over to the camp of the
of glory. All Europe was united enemy. From that moment the
against us. The enemy, by stealing prompt deliverance of the capital
three marches upon me, had entered became impossible. I could with
Paris. I was advancing in order to the three parts of the army which
drive them out. They would not remained faithful, and aided by the
have remained there three days. I sympathy and the effoits of the
184 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
porter sur la Loire, ou sur mes places fortes, et nourrir la
guerre pendant plusieurs annees. Mais la guerre etrangere
et civile eut dechire le territoire de notre belle patrie, et
pour prix de tous ces sacrifices et tous ces ravages,
pourrions-nous esperer de vaincre 1'Europe reunie, appuyee
de Pinfluence qu'exer9a la ville de Paris, qu'une faction
etait parvenue a dominer ?
' Dans ces circonstances je n'ai considere que les interets
de la patrie et le repos de la France. J'ai fait le sacrifice
de tous mes droits, pret a faire celui de ma personne, car
le but de toute ma vie a ete le bonheur et la gloire de la
France.
i Quant a vous, soldats, soyez toujours fideles dans le
chemin du devoir et de 1'honneur. Servez avec fidelite
votre nouveau souverain. La plus douce occupation de ma
vie sera desormais de faire connaitre a la posterite tout ce
que vous avez fait de grand, et ma seule consolation sera
d'apprendre tout ce que la France fera pour la gloire de
son nom.
1 Vous etes tous mes enfants. Je ne peux vous em-
brasser tous, mais je vous embrasserai tous dans la per-
sonne de votre General.'
great majority of the population, of all my rights, and am ready to
have fallen back upon the Loire, or make that of my person, for the aim
upon my strongholds, and have sus- of all my life has been the happi-
tained the war during several years, ness and the glory of France.
But a foreign and civil war had torn ' As for you, soldiers, be always
the soil of our beautiful country, faithful in the path of duty and
and at the cost of all these sacri- honour. Serve with fidelity your
fices and all these ravages, could we new sovereign. The sweetest oc-
hope to vanquish united Europe, cupation of my life will henceforth
supported by the influence which be to make known to posterity all
the city of Paris exercised, and that you have done great, and my
which a faction had succeeded in only consolation will be to learn all
mastering ? that France will do for the glory of
' Under these circumstances I her name.
have only considered the interests 'You are all my children. I can-
of the country and the repose of not embrace you all, but I will do
France. I have made the sacrifice so in the person of your General.'
CHAP. II. DEPARTURE FROM FONTAINEBLEAU. 185
(Here he embraced General Petitj and kissed him on
either cheek.)
* J'enibrasserai ces aigles, qui nous ont servis comme
guides en tant de perils et de journees glorieuses.' 2
(Here General Petit presented to him the standard,
which he embraced for half a minute.)
On quitting his hold, he lifted up his left hand, and
added, ' Adieu ! Conservez-moi dans votre souvenir ! ' 3
He then turned round, entered his carriage which had
been drawn up close by, and was carried off at a gallop.
Some of the officers and men wept, some remained silent
with grief, while others called out ' Vive 1'Empereur ! '
The order of march was as follows : —
One dozen of cavalry.
Carriage with General Drouot and superior officers.
„ with Napoleon and General Bertrand.
Fifty or sixty cavalry, followed by the four car-
riages of the Commissioners, and by eight of
Napoleon's carriages, which were occupied by
officers of his staff and household, and by ser-
vants.
The cavalry was of the Guard, and relieved every two
post-stations.
The horses (sixty) for the carriages were ready, outside
the town or village where the station happened to be.
We arrived at Briare, twenty-three leagues from Fon-
tainebleau, in the evening of the same day, and rested
there for the night in a large hotel (where all was duly
prepared for us), in order that some changes might take
place in the arrangement of the baggage. Napoleon
supped with General Bertrand ; while General Drouot and
2 'I will embrace these eagles, days.'
which have served us as guides in so 3 ' Farewell ! Preserve me in
many perils and on so many glorious your remembrance ! '
186 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
Lefebvre Desnouettes, and all the officers who had tra-
velled with us, joined our company.
On the morning of the 21st, two hours previous to our
departure from Briare, Napoleon sent for me. He kept
me in conversation, on indifferent subjects, until the ser-
vant had prepared the table, when he told him to lay
another cover, saying to me, with a polite smile of invita-
tion, ' Yous resterez dejeuner avec moi ? ' 4 There was also
a place reserved for General Bertrand. He asked me who
commanded in the Mediterranean. I replied that I did
not know, but that I believed Sir Sidney Smith was one
of the admirals. He seemed to be moved by this, but
quickly laughed it off; and when General Bertrand sat
down, he said to him, smiling, ' Que pensez-vous ? Sid-
ney Smith est amiral dans la Mediterranee.' 5 He then
related that while on the coast of Syria, Sir Sidney Smith
threw several thousand shots from his ships to the shore,
without killing a single man. It was, Napoleon said, his
great resource, for he paid so much to every man for col-
lecting and bringing to him the spent balls. 'H m'a
envoye des parlementaires, comme un second Marlbro' ;
mais je les ai renvoyes. J'ai place dans mon ordre du
jour que le commandant de vaisseau anglais etait fou.' G
Here he laughed heartily. ' II a voulu me traiter tout a
fait comine egal.' 7
After breakfast, an officer named Laplace, son of a
senator, was introduced from Rambouillet. He proceeded
to comment on the means that were still at Napoleon's
disposal — the attachment of the army, the excesses of the
Allies, &c. As to the latter, he did not believe that they
4 ' You vrill remain to breakfast back again. I put in my order of
with me ? ' tlie day that the English naval
5 ' What do you think ? Sidney commander was mad.'
Smith is admiral in the Mediter- 7 ' He wanted to treat me alto-
ran ean.' gether as an equal.'
6 ' He sent me challenges, like a
second Marlbro' ; but I sent them
CHAP. II. VISIT OF M. LAPLACE. 187
had any idea of quitting France, in spite of all their pro-
fessions.
He then endeavoured to excuse the Senate; for,
situated as they were, what could they do ? But Napo-
leon interrupted him hastily, and inveighed bitterly
against them. They were dishonoured ; there was not the
like act recorded in history. They were not obliged to
assemble, because there were 200,000 bayonets over them.
They could no longer act. Their sitting was illegal. What
had they to expect, too, looking only to their own inte-
rests ? Ten of those very men had actually voted the death
of Louis XVI. As to the military resources he had left,
even after the enemy had possession of Paris, what could
have opposed them ? He knew the cautious operations of
Prince Schwartzenberg would never have allowed him to re-
main between Paris and the French army, but he would
have retired to Montmartre. He (Napoleon) would have at-
tacked the Allies, and although the action would not be a
victory, yet he would destroy so many of his enemy, as to
prevent them from remaining so advanced. He knew
well what the Russians and Austrians were capable of,
notwithstanding their superiority of numbers. He would
amuse them for two hours, and then advance with his
thirty battalions of guards and eighty pieces of cannon
upon one point, himself at the head, and he knew nothing
could oppose them. After this he would increase his
force by means of the population of the country, marching
either upon the Loire or the fortresses. All this he could
easily have done ; but, he added, plaintively, it was not his
wish to ruin his beloved France by a civil war. Although
'Napoleon said that Sir Sidney grave, but that in the meantime
was a madman, and, if his story be any one of his grenadiers would
true, Sir Sidney challenged him to willingly give the challenger such
single combat ; to which he made satisfaction as he was entitled to
answer, " that he would not come demand." ' — Lockhart's Life of
forth to a duel unless the English Napoleon, vol. i. p. 150. — ED.
could fetch Maryborough from his
188 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
it was but a faction which declared against him, he pre-
ferred the steps he had taken, to continuing a contest for
his rights, with certain misery to his country, when his
yielding could afford comparative tranquillity.
I remained during all this time, as when I was preparing
to leave the room, he told me to stop. At length he said,
4 Nous aliens partir ! ' It appeared to me he had no great
opinion of M. Laplace's sincerity.
The night of the 21st we slept at Nevers. In coming
into the town, I heard a non-commissioned officer call out
to the other soldiers, ' Criez vive 1'Empereur ! '
Having met at Nevers with Lieutenant- Colonel Pelley,
who had been prisoner at Moulins, and was proceeding to
Paris, I availed myself of the opportunity to send a des-
patch to Lord Castlereagh, with the particulars of our
journey.
An escort of French cavalry, relieved at short distances,
had accompanied us hitherto. The inhabitants saluted
Napoleon with the usual acclamations of ' Yive 1'Empe-
reur ! ' mixed with cries of ' Yive la Mort ! ' In some places
they allowed him to pass without any compliment, although
incited thereto by the soldiers of the guard, who are can-
toned upon this route. I am told that they prevent the
inhabitants from wearing the white cockade, and from
other demonstrations of the satisfaction they feel at the
change of sovereignty.
About 7 o'clock, on the morning of the 22nd, we pro-
ceeded towards Lyons till we reached Eoanne, a distance
of forty leagues, where we determined to rest. Our three
last stages had been performed without any escort, but from
thence we were to be attended by Austrian detachments.
In the course of this day Napoleon hinted to me his
wish that I should proceed in advance, in order to arrange
for a British man-of-war to convey him to Elba, and also
begged that I would write immediately to Admiral Eme-
rian at Toulon, to expedite the French corvette. He
CHAP. II. MARSHAL AUGEREAU. 189
then sent off express to Auxerre, to order his heavy baggage
with the escort of 600 guards and horses to go by land to
Piombino, in order to diminish the distance of the sea
voyage, or, if that was not feasible, to proceed at once to
Lyons and drop down the Rhone.
At night the Austrian officer who had been sent to
Paris with the note containing Napoleon's protest against
the removal of the guns and stores from the island of
Elba, overtook us with the decision of the Allied Sove-
reigns, acquiescing in his demand.
Madame Mere and Cardinal Fesch were in the neigh-
bourhood of Roanne, at a chateau belonging to the latter,
about a mile off the road, but we could not learn that they
had any communication with Napoleon.
At the moment of quitting Roanne, on the morning of
the 23rd, Napoleon (as I expected from his hint on the
previous day) requested me to proceed, if possible, with-
out a halt to Aix, and from thence to transmit through
Marshal Massena an application to the admiral command-
ing off Toulon for a British ship-of-war. The reason
alleged for preferring this to a French vessel was, to avoid
any unpleasant observations which might be made by the
crew of the latter. It was my wish to obtain this demand
in writing, but as Napoleon immediately stepped into his
carriage, I had no opportunity of doing so.
In the course of this journey, while in advance of the
cortege, at a short distance from Valence, I met Augereau,
and told him that Napoleon was coming on. He appeared
to be disconcerted, thinking that Napoleon was to pursue
the other road by Grenoble. He abused Napoleon's ambi-
tion and waste of blood for personal vanity. He did not
show himself at last, as he ought to have done, and as
many expected. ' C'est un lache ! Je 1'ai cru toujours tel.
II aurait du marcher sur une batterie, et se faire tuer.' 8
8 ' He is a coward ! I always have marched full upon a battery,
thought him such. He ought to and put an end to himself.'
190 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
Augereau showed me that he had taken off all his orders,
and simply wore the red ribbon of the Legion of Honour.
He said that if Napoleon gave him an opportunity, he
would tell him his mind.
Hearing at Aix that a British ship was at Marseilles, I
proceeded there, arriving on the 25th, and found H. M.
frigate ' Undaunted,' commanded by Captain Usher, who
immediately complied with my application that he should
proceed to Frejus Bay, either to convoy or to carry
Napoleon to Elba. On his way (as I afterwards heard) he
fell in with Admiral Sir E. King, who approved of the
step he had taken, and gave him a written order to execute
the service.
I then returned to Aix, and from thence went on to
Frejus, which I reached at 7 A.M. on the 27th. At 10 A.M.
Napoleon and his suite arrived. They had rested for some
hours at the residence of the Princess Pauline, which was
near the town. She had been there for some weeks past,
and proposed soon to follow her brother to the island of
Elba.
After I parted from them at Roanne, the Commissioners
informed me they had met Augereau. It was on the
road between Lyons and Valence. When his carriage ap-
proached, Napoleon and he both stopped, alighted, and
embraced. Napoleon pulled off his hat, but Augereau only
touched the forage-cap which he wore, and scarcely re-
turned the embrace. They walked aside, and conversed for
about ten minutes. The dialogue seemed to become more
earnest as it drew to a conclusion. Napoleon embraced
and saluted before parting, but Augereau returned the com-
pliment in a cold and formal manner.
The enmity of the inhabitants against Napoleon in-
creased in violence as he travelled southwards. This
feeling was not confined to the lower orders only. All
classes and ages, and both sexes, united in cries of hatred
and insult.
CHAP. II. INCIDENTS OF JOURNEY. 191
At Orange the women and boys climbed upon the car-
riage, and it was with difficulty that the Commissioners and
attendants forced them off, there being at that point of the
journey no escort. They called out the most opprobrious
epithets, and with shouts of derision and excited gestures
exclaimed, 'Nous ne ferons pas de mal au monstre, mais
nous voulons seulement lui montrer combien nous Pai-
rnons.'9 Meanwhile Napoleon sat within the carriage with
General Bertrand, apparently very much frightened, with-
out attempting to stir from the corner. Several large stones
were thrown at the carriage, but happily without effect.
As soon as the carriages were able to force their way
through the crowd of assailants, the post-boys set off at
full speed, and when they had got to a safe distance from
the town, Napoleon quitted his carriage, mounted one of
the horses, and, dressed in a plain great coat, wearing too
a Russian cloak and a common round hat with a white
cockade, rode on in advance of the carriages, accompanied
only by a courier. He related that when he arrived at the
first post-house in his disguise, he held a conversation
with the landlady, who enquired of him when Napoleon
would pass, and abused him. When the rest of the party
came up, and found Napoleon already there, General
Bertrand requested that no sort of compliments might be
paid which could possibly lead to the Emperor's being
recognised at the inn. The Commissioners remarked that
O
he threw the wine out of his glass, and that he neither
swallowed his soup nor ate any meat. During the re-
mainder of the journey he changed caps and coats with the
Commissioners, assumed alternately the names of Colonel
Campbell and Lord Burghersh, mixed with the members
of his household in going in and out of the room, and his
carriage did not, as heretofore, occupy the place of honour
in the procession.
9 ' We will do no harm to the monster, but we only want to show
him how much we love him.'
192 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
Upon every occasion he evinced, by the finesse to which
he had recourse, much anxiety to save his life, whenever
he considered it to be in danger.1
At Avignon some carriages which preceded with
officers of the household were stopped, and the eagles de-
faced. One of the servants was threatened with instant
death if he did not call out ' Vive le Eoi ! ' It was Sunday.
The people had a fete to celebrate the accession of Louis
XVLTL ; and as many of them were intoxicated, had
Napoleon himself been there, he would certainly have been
killed. He however passed quietly the following day, by
going round the town, and changing horses outside.
At Orgon an effigy was prepared in uniform, repre-
senting Napoleon, smeared all over with blood, and pla-
carded with the words, ' Voila done 1'odieux tyran ! Tot
ou tard le crime est puni.' 2
The place of embarkation had been changed from St.
Tropez to Frejus, in consequence of the latter being easier
to approach by land ; and as they were both situated in the
same bay, this deviation was considered admissible by the
Commissioners.
Soon after Napoleon's arrival at Frejus, the following
paper was put into my hands : —
' N'ote pour le Colonel Campbell, Commissaire de S. M.
britannique, adressee par le Comte Bertrand.3
( L'Empereur Napoleon desirerait connaitre quel est le
pavilion de Tile d'Elbe, pour le faire arborer dans File.
1 ' Bonaparte was still at Fon- bonists, lie actually rode as courier
tainebleau when we came to Paris, ahead of his own carriage, with a
and Lord Castlereagh had daily round livery hat and white cockade
reports from Sir Neil Campbell on his head.' — Reminiscences of a
(the English officer appointed to Septuagenarian, p. 79. — ED.
attend him to Elba) of his conduct 2 ' There, then, is the hateful
while there, and on his journey to tyrant! Sooner or later crime is
Cannes. All his courage and nerve punished.'
seemed to have forsaken him ; so 3 ' The Emperor Napoleon would
much so that in one part, where lie wish to know which is the proper flag
believed the inhabitants were Bour- of the island of Elba, in order that
CHAP. II. NOTE FROM COUNT BERTRAND. 193
II en serait dresse proces-verbal par le Colonel Campbell
et MM. les Commissaires. Cela serait envoye a la croi-
siere anglaise a Livourne, et la ou il serait necessaire.
' La Princesse Pauline, soeur de 1'Empereur, desire venir
a File d'Elbe, mais comme elle est incommodee, elle ne
peut partir de Frejus que dans cinq ou six jours. S. M.
desirerait qu'une fregate anglaise vint la prendre et la
conduire dans 1'ile.
6 Les equipages de 1'Empereur et le bataillon d'escorte
doivent arriver le 30e a Lyon. II serait a desirer qu'on le
dirigeat par le Mont Cenis sur Savone, ou on les embar-
querait. Si Pamiral anglais veut pousser la complaisance
jusqu'a charger une fregate de ce transport, on enverrait
des ordres a Lyon pour que les equipages se dirigeassent
en consequence. Ils arriveraient le 19 mai a Savone. On
joint ici 1'etat des personnes, chevaux et voitures a em-
barquer.
' Si la fregate pouvait se faire rallier de quelque aviso
ou brick, cela serait une chose agreable.
' L'Empereur desirerait, quand nous sommes a la
hauteur de Livourne, expedier quelqu'un de sa maison
pour faire quelques emplettes et porter une lettre au Eoi
it may be hoisted in the island, desirable that they should be di-
In testimony thereof, a proces-verbal rected by Mount Cenis upon Savona,
shall be drawn up by Colonel Camp- where they will be embarked. If
bell and the other Commissioners, the English Admiral would be so
It shall be sent to the English far obliging as to charge a frigate
cruising-ground at Leghorn, and with their transport, orders shall
wherever else may be necessary. be sent to Lyons, in order that the
' The Princess Paulina, sister of equipages may arrange their route
the Emperor, is anxious to come to accordingly. They will arrive at
the island of Elba, but as she is in- Savona on the 19th of May. There
disposed she cannot leave Frejus for is attached hereto a return ofper-
five or six days. H. M. would wish sons, horses, and carriages to be eni-
for an English frigate to come and barked.
fetch her, and convey her to the ' If the frigate could attach to
island. itself some despatch-boat or brig,
' The equipages of the Emperor it would be a convenience,
and the battalion of escort ought to ' The Emperor would wish, when
arrive at Lyons on the 30th. It is we are off Leghorn, to despatch some
194 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
de Naples. Cette recommandation sera tres-pressee, vu
que 1'Empereur n'a rien de ce qui pourrait lui etre com-
mode a 1'ile d'Elbe, et que le Roi de Naples pourrait lui
envoyer beaucoup de choses. Le General Koller pour-
rait charger un officier autrichien d'accompagner la per-
sonne que 1'Empereur enverrait.
' L'Empereur desirerait faire partir le General Drouot,
avec le Colonel Clam 4 et un officier anglais, pour prendre
possession de File d'Elbe. II faudrait pour cela un aviso,
afin qu'ils puissent arriver vingt-quatre heures avant nous,
de maniere que 1'Empereur debarquerait dans Pile lorsqu'il
en aurait deja pris possession en son nom.
( La Garde de 1'Empereur ne devant arriver que dans
quelque temps a Pile d'Elbe, il serait possible que FEin-
pereur eut besoin dans les premiers jours d'une centaine de
marins anglais pour la garder. L'Empereur desirerait
savoir, si au besoin il peut compter sur cela.
(Signe) ' LE COMTE BERTRAND.
' Frejus : le 27e avril 1814.'
' Etat des troupes, cbevaux et voitures composant la
one of bis household to make some For that there will be required a
purchases, and be the bearer of a despatch-boat, in order that they
letter to the King of Naples. This may arrive twenty-four hours before
latter request is of a very pressing us, so that the Emperor will be able
character, seeing that the Emperor to disembark subsequently to the
has nothing of any sort which can island having been taken possession
be suitable for his use in the island of in his name,
of Elba, and that the King of Naples ' The Guard of the Emperor not
will be able to send him many ar- being expected to arrive for some
ticlea. General Koller can, if he so time in the island of Elba, it is
pleases, commission an Austrian possible that the Emperor may re-
officer to accompany the person who quire, in the early period of his
may be sent by the Emperor. residence there, a body of one hun-
'The Emperor would wish to dred English marines for its pro-
expedite the departure of General tection. The Emperor wishes to
Drouot, in company with Count know whether in case of necessity
Clam and an English officer, to take he can depend upon that,
possession of the island of Elba. (Signed) ' LE COMXE BERTRAND.'
4 Aide-de-camp du Prince Schwartzenberg, qui accompagnait le coni-
missaire autrichien.
CHAP. II. DOCUMENTS RELATING TO ELBA. 195
colonne du General Cambronne, et destines a etre em-
barques a Savone pour se rendre a 1'ile d'Elbe: —
Homines. Chevaux. Voitures.
Fourgons . . . . .8
Voitures . . . . .8
Chevaux de selle . . 18
Chevaux de voiture . . 24
Mulets ... 5
Gens de la maison . 35
Cavalerie . .80 80
Infanterie . . 600
Total . . .715 127 16
In consequence of Napoleon's request, as above stated,
the other Commissioners and myself held a meeting, and
drew up the two following documents : the one being a
letter addressed to the commandant at Elba, enclosing
Count Dupont's order with reference to the guns and
stores ; the other accrediting Count Clam as the bearer
of our despatch, and authorising him to proceed with it
immediately to the island.
At first I felt some reluctance in affixing my signature
to these documents, inasmuch as they were founded upon
a treaty which had never been formally exhibited to me,
and as to which I had received no instructions from Lord
Castlereagh.5 But as my refusal would have prevented
5 As a fact, it was not till this to the person and family of Napo-
very day, April 27, that Lord leon Bonaparte, the possession in
Castlereagh gave a qualified ac- sovereignty of the island of Elba
cession to certain portions of the and the duchies of Parma, Placentia,
Treaty of Fontainebleau. and Guastalla, for other purposes,
[Enclosure.] which treaty has been communi-
' Whereas their Imperial and cated to the Prince Regent of the
Royal Majesties, the Emperor of United Kingdom of Great Britain
Austria, King of Hungary and Bo- and Ireland, by the Ministers of
hernia, the Emperor of all the their Imperial and Royal Majesties
Russiaa, and the King of Prussia, the Emperor of Austria, King of
have entered into a treaty, con- Hungary and Bohemia, the Em-
cluded at Paris on the llth of April peror of all the Russias, and the
of the present year, for the purpose of King of Prussia, who, in the name
granting, for such respective periods of their respective sovereigns have
as in the said treaty are mentioned, jointly invited the Prince Regent
o 2
196 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. II.
the embarkation of Napoleon, and put a stop to the whole
of the proceedings connected with it, I considered it my
duty not to offer any further objection. This course ap-
peared to me consistent with the spirit of my instructions,
and there was likewise no possibility of evading the diffi-
culty by delay.
'(I.)
' Nous soussignes, Commissaires des Hautes Puissances
Alliees, charges d'accompagner Sa Majeste FEmpereur
Napoleon dans son voyage, autorisons par la presente
Monsieur le Comte de Clam, Chambellan de S. M. 1'Em-
pereur d'Autriche, Major et Aide-de-camp du Marechal
Prince de Schwartzenberg, Chevalier de 1'Ordre Imperial
de Russie de Ste. Anne de la seconde classe et de 1'Ordre
Militaire de Baviere de Max-Joseph, de se rendre de suite
a la dite ile d'Elbe, de remettre au Commandant Superieur
de File 1'ordre du Ministre de la Guerre, en consequence
duquel la dite ile doit etre remise a S. M. 1'Empereur
Napoleon en toute souverainete et propriete, ainsi que le
materiel d'artillerie et les munitions de guerre qui s'y
trouvent, d'assister a la remise de cette He entre les
mains de Monsieur le General de Division Comte Drouot,
nomme de la part de S. M. FEmpereur Napoleon, en
qualite de Commissaire a cet effet, et d'en dresser proces-
verbal.
'Fait a Frejus, le 27e avril 1814.
to accede to the same, in the name sidered, by this act of accession, to
and on the behalf of His Majesty : have become a party, in the name
' His Royal Highness the Prince of His Majesty, to any of the other
Regent, having full knowledge of pro visions and stipulations contained
the contents of the said treaty, therein.
accedes to the same in the name ' Given under my hand and seal,
and on the behalf of His Majesty, at Paris, this 27th day of April, in
as far as respects the stipulations the year of our Lord 1814.
relative to the possession in sove- 'By command of His Royal High-
reignty of the island of Elba and ness the Prince Regent, acting in
also of the duchies of Parma, Pla- the name and on the behalf of His
centia, and Guastalla. But His Majesty.
Royal Highness is not to be con- (Signed) ' CASTLEREAGH.' — ED.
CHAP. II. COMMISSIONERS OF ALLIED POWERS 197
'(II.)
1 Les Commissaires des Hautes Puissances Alliees sous-
signes ont Phonneur d'envoyer a Monsieur le General
Fra^ois, Commandant de Pile d'Elbe, les ordres du
Ministre de la Guerre pour que la dite ile, tout le mate-
riel d'artillerie et toutes les munitions de guerre, qui j
existent actuellement, soient remis a la personne chargee
par S. M. 1'Ernpereur Napoleon d'en prendre possession,
et qu'en consequence Monsieur le General Commandant
de Pile n'en fasse evacuer aucun effet d'artillerie, le tout
conclu en execution du traite entre les Puissances sus-
clites, la France et PEmpereur Napoleon, dans lequel il est
stipule que la souverainete de Pile d'Elbe formera, sa vie
durant, une principaute separee, qui sera possedee par lui
en toute propriete, et que son pavilion, qui y sera arbore,
sera respecte, et jouira des prerogatives qui y sont attachees.
' Monsieur le General de Division Comte Drouot, Com-
missaire de S. M. PEmpereur Napoleon, se rendant a Pile
d'Elbe pour en prendre possession au nom de S. M., les
Commissaires des Puissances Aluees soussignes ont de-
signes M. le Major le Comte Clam, Chambellan de S. M.
PEmpereur d'Autriche, et M. Thomas Hastings, Lieute-
nant de Marine de S. M. britannique, de la fregate
" Undaunted," pour assister a la prise de possession de Pile
d'Elbe, faire arborer le pavilion de cette ile et en dresser
proces-verbal.
' Fait a Frejus, le 27° avril 1814.
' Le BARON DE ROLLER, Lieutenant-General autri-
chien et Aide-de-camp des Armees.
' Le COMTE DE SCHUWALLOFF, Aide-de-camp-General
de S. M. PEmpereur de toutes les Eussies.
' Le COMTE DE WALBOURG-TRUCHESS, Colonel-Ge-
neral de S. M. le Eoi de Prusse.
' NEIL CAMPBELL, Colonel au service de S. M. bri-
tannique.'
198 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. Ill,
CHAPTEE III.
NAPOLEON EMBARKS ON BOARD H.M.8. ' UNDAUNTED ' — INCIDENTS
OF VOYAGE — NOTES OF CONVERSATIONS — ARRIVAL AT ELBA — EX-
CURSIONS IN THE ISLAND WITH NAPOLEON — VARIOUS CONVERSA-
TIONS— GENERAL KOLLER LEAVES PORTO FERRAJO — NAPOLEON
HOLDS A DRAWING-ROOM — STATISTICS RELATING TO ELBA.
THE 'Undaunted' anchored off Frejus at midday on the
27th. Captain Usher came on shore to be presented to
Napoleon, and the baggage was sent off at once for em-
barkation. Soon afterwards the French frigate ' Dryade,'
in company with a corvette and a transport, arrived in the
bay. The officer commanding stated that his orders were
to embark the Emperor in the corvette, the frigate forming
the escort. This displeased Napoleon extremely, as he
considered it should ha?e been optional with him to choose
in which of the vessels he should make his voyage, and he
was by this incident confirmed in his resolve to embark on
board the English frigate. Such a plan of course greatly
offended the French officers, who tried, though in vain, to
persuade him to decide in favour of the corvette.
In contrast with the treatment he had received from
the Provisional Government of France, he spoke in grate-
ful terms of the liberal disposition evinced towards him by
the Ministers of H. E.. H. the Prince Regent, although
he had always been the avowed enemy of the British na-
tion.
At sunset, on April 28, Napoleon and his suite left
the inn at Frejus in carriages, which conveyed them to
the beach, distant about an English mile. Here a small
wharf had been prepared, at the extremity of which was
the barge of the ' Undaunted.' He embarked with Captain
CHAP. III. EMBARKATION AT FREJUS. 199
Usher and General Bertrand, and on his arrival on board
the frigate was received with a royal salute of twenty-
one guns.
Some little difficulty had arisen with regard to this
salute, as instead of Napoleon proceeding on board in the
forenoon, as had been intended, he was prevented by a
temporary indisposition from leaving the inn until much
later. It yas represented to him that it was not customary
to salute after sunset, in the hope that he would dispense
with the compliment ; but this he decidedly objected to,
and desired General Drouot to say to me he would postpone
the embarkation till the following morning, as, on account
of the impression it would make on the inhabitants, he
particularly wished to be received with a royal salute.
As it was very important that there should be no unneces-
sary delay in Napoleon's reaching his new sovereignty, I
urged Captain Usher strongly to waive on this occasion
the usual etiquette; and in consequence Napoleon was
persuaded to embark on the day originally fixed, and was,
as related above, received with the honours he so much
valued.
The Russian and Prussian Commissioners accompanied
the rest of the party on board the ' Undaunted,' but they
took leave of Napoleon, and quitted the ship before she
weighed anchor, as their instructions did not allow of
their proceeding farther.
Napoleon had the whole of the after-cabin to himself,
and his two generals slept in the half of the captain's,
which was screened off. In the other half he breakfasted
at ten, and dined at six, in company with General Koller,
Count Clam, Generals Bertrand and Druot, Captain Usher,
and myself. Throughout the voyage Napoleon conducted
himself with the greatest condescension and cordiality
towards us all. He remarked himself that he had never
felt in better health, and officers of his suite observed that
they had never seen him appear more at his ease. It
200 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
seemed to me that one great source of his happiness and
satisfaction arose from the security of his person ; for it
was evident, during his stay at Fontainebleau and the fol-
lowing journey, that he entertained great apprehensions
of attacks upon his life, and he certainly exhibited more
timidity than one would have expected from a man of his
calibre.
Although at Fontainebleau he expressed his. desire to
pass the remainder of his life in retirement at Elba, study-
ing the arts and sciences, he inadvertently gave fre-
quent proofs in his subsequent conversations on board the
* Undaunted ' of the active restlessness of his disposition,
and indicated his expectation of opportunities arising,
which would once again afford scope for the exercise of
his ambition.
He evidently persuaded himself that the greatest portion
of the population in France remained favourable to him,
although this feeling did not extend to the coast. He
explained this by observing, that France in former times
had always made treaties of commerce with Great Britain,
which were extremely discouraging to her internal industry,
though beneficial to Marseilles, Bordeaux, Nantes, &c.,
whose chief interest lay in peace with that nation. But
•„ as his system went to encourage the manufactures of
France, Lyons, Tarare (a manufacturing town between
Lyons and Roanne), and all others similarly situated,
were attached to him, and had given proofs to that effect
on his journey. Such demonstrations, however, had not
been perceived by the Commissioners !
General Bertrand has likewise told me that he considers
a great part of France still for Napoleon ; that Augereau's
troops were so, and the Marshal's life was in danger for
the part he took against his old master ; that Napoleon
had often been told Augereau would betray him ; that, near
Lyons and other towns, many inhabitants informed them
as they passed along, it was for fear of the Austrians they
CHAP. III. NOTES OF CONVERSATIONS. 201
carried the white cockade. At Valence the French soldiers
held up the tri-coloured cockade clandestinely in their
hands, shaking their heads at the same time, and even
shedding tears.
Addressing himself particularly to me one morning at
breakfast, General Koller, Count Clam, Captain Usher,
and General Bertrand being likewise present, Napoleon
said:
That England had, ever since the time of Cromwell, set
up her extraordinary pretensions of domination on the
sea. (I here remarked that, since the French Revolution,
she had found it necessary, in order to preserve her very
existence.)
That her finance was now on such a footing, that she
could not exist excepting by having sale without limits
for all her manufactures.
That, if she had not this extraordinary commerce with
all the world, she would still be a respectable nation, in
power and riches, from her ordinary means, population,
and institutions, but she would be greatly diminished.
That, after the Peace of Amiens, Lord Sidmouth1 wished
to renew the former treaty of commerce, which had been
made by Yergennes 2 after the American War ; but he
[Napoleon] was anxious to encourage the interior industry
of France, and therefore expressed his readiness to make a
treaty, though not like the former (which was known by
the portfolios of Versailles to be injurious to France), but
upon terms of reciprocity. Thus, if France receives so
many millions of English imports, England must take
away an equal quantity of French productions. Lord
1 Prime Minister, as Mr. Adding- to February 1787, when he died,
ton, from March 1801 to May 1804. The Peace between France and
Created Viscount Sidmouth, Jan- Great Britain, called the Peace of
nary 1805. The Peace of Amiens Versailles, was signed Februaiy 20,
only lasted from March 1802 to 1783. In consequence of the cen-
April 1803.— ED. sure passed upon it, the Shelburne
2 He was Prime Minister under Ministry was dissolved on February
Louis XVI., from November 1781 26, 1783.— ED.
202 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
Sidinouth said, I cannot make a treaty on these terms ;
this is totally new. Yery well, replies Napoleon, I cannot
force you to a treaty of commerce any more than you can
force me ; but we must remain as we are. Then, says
Lord Sidinouth, there will be war ; for, unless the people of
England have the advantages of their commerce upon the
terms they have been accustomed to, they will force me
to declare-war. As you please, rejoins Napoleon. It is my
duty to study the just interests of France, and I shall not
, form a treaty of commerce on other principles than those
I have stated. England under Mr. Fox (1806) was certainly
not prepared for the steps which he took in retaliation for
her blockading an entire line of coast from the Elbe to
Brest.3 It was that which forced him to the continental
system.
Then England made pretences about Malta, but all
the world knew that was not the cause of quarrel. He
was sincere in the desire for peace ; as a proof of which
he sent his expedition to St. Domingo. I told him our
Ministers thought him not sincere, both from his refusing
the treaty of commerce, and likewise sending consuls to
Ireland in company with engineers, for the purpose of
examining the harbours.4 He laughed at my remark, and
said, 'Oh! that was not necessary, for every harbour in Eng-
land and Ireland was known.' General Bertrand added,
that every ambassador or minister to another country was
a spy.
3 ' The British, who, by Mr. Fox's gentlemen endeavoured to execute
order, declared the coast from the their commission with all possible
Elbe to Brest in blockade.' — Ali- privacy, but the discovery of their oc-
son, History of Europe, vol. x. ch. cupation was soon made; they were
Ixxvi. — ED. sent back to France without cere-
4 ' Under pretence of establishing niony, and this treacherous measure
French consuls for the protection of of their Government was openly de-
commerce, he [Napoleon] sent per- nounced as a violation of every rule
sons, chiefly of the military profes- of international law, and a plain
sion, who carried orders to make symptom of warlike preparation.' —
exact plans of all the harbours and Lockhart's Life of Napoleon, vol. i.
coasts of the United Kingdom. These pp. 264-6. — ED.
CHAP. III. NOTES OF CONVERSATIONS. 203
Napoleon observed that Spain was the natural friend of
France and the enemy of Great Britain ; that it was for
their mutual interest to ally themselves in support of their
commerce and foreign possessions, which were equally
offensive to England ; that it was a shame to Spain to
allow us to hold Gibraltar : it needed only to bombard it
from the land night and day during a year, and it must be
worn out. (Here he asked, whether we still held Ceuta.)
He did not invade Spain in order to put one of his own
family on the throne, but to revolutionise her ; to make
her a kingdom en regie ; to abolish the Inquisition, feudal
rights, and the inordinate privileges of certain classes.
He spoke also of our attacking Spain without a declara-
tion of war, and without cause. I told him we knew for
a certainty that the Spanish Government intended to make
common cause with him, as soon as the treasure amassed
in America for a long time should arrive. He replied
that he did not want it : all he needed was five millions a
month to Frenchify it (' pour la francifier : ' he used this
term repeatedly).
The Treaty of Utrecht, he said, directs that the board-
ing of vessels shall be done out of gunshot. America
behaved with spirit in the matter of search. I asked
here whether America showed hostility to Great Britain
upon principles of right, or whether the President engaged
in war in order to force the people to form a navy and
army, so that the protection of his trade was a mere
excuse. To this question he made no direct reply, but
only laughed while saying, ' Ah ! vous traitez les Ame-
ricains toujours comnie s'ils etaient encore vos sujets.'5
He thought their state correspondence with us was
very well written, and contained much sound reason-
ing. I told him I was not sufficiently master of the
general question to judge of that ; but as to the original
5 ' Ah ! you always treat the Americans as if they were still your
subjects.'
204 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
ground of quarrel — the boarding their men-of-war —
that was only the aggression of a single officer, which
was disavowed by our Government, and for which they
offered to make any proper atonement.6 As to their
style of writing, we found in it great imperfection. Whe-
ther it was a State-paper, a naval or military despatch,
although the words themselves were the same, the lan-
guage appeared totally different in meaning from our own.
Napoleon went on to say, that the Americans acknow-
ledged the justice of his principles of commerce. Formerly
they had brought some millions of cotton and tobacco, and
taken away the payment in specie from France. Then
went light to England, and from thence conveyed British
manufactures. But afterwards he would not admit their
tobacco and cotton, unless they took away an equal value
of French productions. They yielded to his system as
being just. But now England has no power which can
oppose her system, and she may pursue it without limits.
She may impose upon France any treaty she pleases.
( Les Bourbons, pauvres diables ! ' Here he seemed to
check himself, but presently added : ' Us 7 sont de grands
seigneurs, qui sont contents d'avoir leurs terres et leurs
chateaux. Mais si le peuple de France devient mecontent
6 ' The " Chesapeake," American proclamation, ordering all British
fiigate, was cruising off Virginia ships-of-war to leave the harbours of
(June 23rd, 1807), and was known the United States ; but the English
to have some English deserters on Government disavowed the act, re-
board, when she was hailed by called Captain Humphries, and
the " Leopard " of 74 guns, Captain offered to make reparation, as the
Humphries, who made a formal re- right of search, when applied to
quisition for the men. The American vessels of war, extended only to a
captain denied he had them, and re- requisition, but could not be carried
fused to admit the right of search, into effect by actual force.' — Alison,
upon which Captain Humphries History of Europe, vol. x. ch. Ixxvi.
fired a broadside, which killed and — ED.
wounded several on board the " Che- 7 ' They are like great nobles,
sapeake," whereupon she struck, and content as long as they enjoy their
the deserters were found on board, estates and their mansions. But if
taken to Halifax, and one executed, the people of France become dis-
The President, upon this, issued a satisfied with that, and find that
CHAP. III. STATE OF AFFAIRS IN CORSICA. 205
de cela, et trouve qu'il n'y a pas 1'encouragement pour
ses manufactures dans Pinterieur qu'il devrait avoir, ils
en seroiit chasses en six mois ! '
Here lie again checked himself, as if seeming aware of
his own indiscretion, and soon afterwards rose from table,
breakfast being finished. He evidently possesses no com-
mand over himself while in conversation.
Upon April 29 we communicated with H. M. brig
' Merope,' Captain Roberts, which remained in company
all day. This officer came on board and dined with
Napoleon ; and I took the opportunity of writing by him
to Admiral Sir Edward Pellew, then at Genoa, enclosing
likewise a letter for Lord William Bentinck, and sending
to each copies of Lord Castlereagh's instructions with re-
gard to my present mission.
At table one day Napoleon showed us his snuffbox, on
which is a portrait of the Empress, with a date set in
diamonds. This led, him to produce another, on which
was the figure of a naked infant, representing the King of
Rome. He did not seem at all affected in referring to the
Empress, but of the other he spoke with some feeling, and
mentioned that the child did not wish to quit Paris when
the family were going to Orleans ; that he held by his
hands on to the table, and they were obliged to tear him
away by force. Napoleon called him ' Le pauvre diable ! '
When off Calvi in Corsica, May 1, we passed H.M.S.
' Berwick,' having on board Commodore Brisbane and
General Montresor, in command of a force destined for
that island, the frigates ' Aigle ' and * Alcmene,' with six
sail of transports bound for Ajaccio. The captains of the
two frigates, Sir I. Louis and Captain Coghlan, came on
board, and dined with Napoleon. He was extremely
anxious to know the state of affairs in Corsica, whether
there were any armed parties in the interior, whether the
they have not such encouragement rior as they ought to have, they
for their manufactures in the inte- -will be driven out in six months.'
206 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
Deputation sent to Genoa, requesting the presence of a
naval and military force, came only from Bastia, or also
from the whole island.
Napoleon was informed that General Count Berthier
commanded at Ajaccio ; that British troops and colours
were at St. Florenzo, Calvi, and other places, in compliance
with the wish of the inhabitants ; that this occupation had
taken place previously to the arrival of the officer from
Paris, with the news of Louis XVIII. having been declared
by the Provisional Government ; and that General Berthier
and his troops had taken the oath of allegiance. General
Bertrand requested that I would ask one of the English
officers to take charge of an open letter to General Berthier
at Ajaccio, and another addressed to an individual in
Corsica, adding the assurance that the Emperor refrained
from all interference in public affairs, and that these
letters were merely of a private nature. I told him that
the letters should be delivered to General Montresor and
Commodore Brisbane, who would no doubt take care that
they reached their destination.
. The abdication of Napoleon appeared to be unknown to
these officers ; I therefore acquainted them with the exact
state of affairs ; and as one of the frigates was returning
to Genoa, I again wrote to the Admiral and to Lord Wil-
liam Bentinck, to inform them of several fresh demands
which had been made to me by General Bertrand on the
part of Napoleon, enclosing at the same time a letter to
Lord Castlereagh, in which I begged for further instruc-
tions.
General Bertrand had constantly impressed upon me,
that as the island of Elba does not afford the supplies
necessary for Napoleon's table, and as he has only with
him the baggage which accompanied him in the campaign,
he was in want of many things, which would oblige him
to have recourse to the Continent. Although Napoleon
could himself have ordered them, yet, in order to show his
CHAP. HI. PLAN FOR NAVAL CONSCRIPTS. 207
confidence in the Commissioners, he had directed his inten-
tions to be fully detailed in a note ; it was to the same pur-
port as that before given, and sent to Lord Castlereagh.
Napoleon is perfectly conversant with all the details of
naval affairs,8 such as the cost and daily expense of a ship-
of-war, the number of rounds for service on board, the dif-
ference between French and British line-of-battle- ships,
the ropes in the case of the former being worked upon the
upper-deck, so that more men were exposed.
He is extremely inquisitive as to all points respecting
our navy, its establishment, discipline, &c., and General
Bertrand daily puts similar questions to Captain Usher
and myself, which are doubtless desired by Napoleon ; for
on other occasions it has been evident that the General
himself has no curiosity or interest in anything connected
with naval affairs.
One morning Napoleon described to Captain Usher, by
my interpretation, the system for his marine conscripts,
which he was persuaded would succeed. It was immate-
rial to him whether the youth was from a seaport or from
the interior. He went into the navy at fourteen. For a
certain number of years he remained in harbour, in order
to practise getting under weigh and anchor-ing, which
were considered the most difficult parts of a seaman's
duty, then to run out on a voyage of four or five months,
8 ' There are hundreds of letters one totally unacquainted with the
from Napoleon on naval matters, sea to speak so authoritatively, and
many of which relate to his pro- the frequent reverses which his
jected invasion of England. In fleets suffered go far to corroborate
these he not only gives the minutest this first impression. At any rate,
directions respecting the flotilla at one would naturally take for grant-
Boulogne, but he issues the most ed that he spoke, if not by the ad-
positive orders to his fleets in all vice, at least with the concurrence,
parts of the world, as to the conduct of his Minister of Marine. There
to be pursued under every possible are, however, undeniable proofs that
circumstance. We confess ourselves this was not the case.' — Edinburgh
incompetent to criticise his plans Review, No. 258, October 1867,
of naval warfare ; but on the very Art. I., ' The Napoleon Correspon-
face of the thing it certainly argues dence/ pp. 336-7. — ED.
great presumption on the part of
208 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
and home again. This was every preparation necessary
for manning a fleet, which would next proceed out in
squadrons to manoeuvre and fight the enemy. In this
way he would have had, within three or four years, a fleet
of 300 sail of the line. It was this system which made it
requisite for him to possess himself of Holland, the Zuy-
der Zee being useful to his great plan for forming seamen.
Not that he wanted the Dutch ships, which were only fit
to carry horses. He found it necessary to send them
artists of all kinds for construction.
He spoke of the bad behaviour of several of his frigates,
particularly the ' Clorinde,' near Madagascar.9 ' J'ai fait
tout ce que je pouvais pour couper la tete au capitaine ;
mais on 1'a seuleuient condamne a prison pendant trois
annees.' l
He praised Admiral Villeneuve's dispositions at Tra-
falgar, but said that the Admirals on the two flanks did
not follow his signals, so as to close in rear of Nelson,
when he pushed to the centre.2
He thought the policy of England was mistaken in
making the attack on Copenhagen, for, in consequence of
it, Denmark, from being a sincere friend to us, had become
a decided enemy. I alluded to the secret article in the
Treaty of Tilsit. He said, that although Denmark might
be forced to declare war against England, she would not
carry it on sincerely, and a few ships more or less could
be no object to England.
9 The action between the ' Clo- 1 ' I did all I could to get the
rinde,' of 44 guns, and the ' Eurota?,' captain's head cut off; but they
under Capt. Philliinore, of the same only condemned him to prison for
force, commenced February 25, three years.'
1814. The next day, when they 2 The only other French Admiral
were again nearing each other, two was Rear- Admiral Dumanoir. Ad-
more British vessels, the ' Dryad ' miral Gravina commanded the
and the ' Achilles,' appeared, and Spanish fleet, and was mortally
the ' Clorinde ' then struck. Out of wounded, returning to Cadiz to
a ciew of 360 men, she had 120 die.— ED.
killed and wounded. — ED.
CHAP. III. NOTES OF CONVERSATIONS. 209
The expedition against Antwerp,3 under Lord Chatham,
was on too great a scale to be rapid. It must be car-
ried by a coup de main of 10,000 men with artillery, who
would land at Williamstad, execute their object, and be
off" again before a large force could be assembled to op-
pose them. He wrote from Vienna to warn the authori-
ties in France of that expedition being destined against
Antwerp.
England could not hold Walcheren without 14,000 men,
and half of these would be lost by disease annually. Even
if she had got possession of Antwerp, he had such re-
sources in its neighbourhood as to be able to attack it
suddenly with great superiority of numbers, and then it
must fall. France would be nothing without Antwerp, for
while Brest, Toulon, and other ports were blockaded, a fleet
could be equipped there with wood brought from Poland.
He never would consent to give it up, having sworn at his
coronation not to diminish France. He told me that the
smugglers carried on an unceasing espionage, bringing
him immediate information of any expedition being pre-
pared, copies of our newspapers, and quantities of guineas.
They took back the productions of the Continent. They
were admitted only to Gravelines, and assembled under
certain regulations. His system of espionage in England
cost him five millions of livres (250,000^.).
Besides what he had mentioned, the smugglers, Napo-
leon said, had offered to be of service to him in various
wavs. One of them, for instance, proposed to carry off
General Sarrazin,4 but he did not want him, ' C'est un fou,
un hoinme qui ne valait la peine, et dont je n'avais pas
3 The ' Walcheren expedition,' cuated December 23, 1809.— ED.
which proved so disastrous a failure, 4 He had escaped from Boulogne
sailed from England July 28, 1809, to England in 1810, in a small
and was composed of 40,000 troops boat, leaving behind him his wife,
with 35 ships of the line and 200 who was an Englishwoman. Where-
smaller vessels, principally trans- upon she wrote a letter, which was
ports. The island was finally eva- published by order of Napoleon,
210 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
besoin.' 5 As much as to say, that such means would al-
ways be resorted to, if there was an object to serve of
sufficient interest.
He had the Elbe sounded carefully by engineers, and
found it was as favourable as the Scheldt for the erection
of great naval establishments near Hamburgh. It sur-
prised him this was not known before. He would have
built ships of the line there with wood from Poland.
He described to us, on a plan of Cherbourg, a basin cut
out of the solid rock, with docks for twenty-five ships of the
line, as executed under his orders. He drew with a pencil
a line of fortifications erected for its protection against any
expedition from England, which he always expected. The
Empress Marie-Louise visited Cherbourg last year, when
he was at Dresden, upon the completion of the work.
Had we landed there, he would have destroyed the mouth
of the basin by which we entered by means of mines, so
that not a man could have escaped after they'had once
got in with their fine ships.
He intended to form establishments for shipbuilding at
Bouc, so that materials might come there directly by the
Rhone. A canal was already cut to join the two. Toulon,
in that case, would only be used as a shelter for his fleets.
He had found great inconvenience in being obliged to
complete the provisions and stores of his men-of-war after
they went out of the inner harbours, as it gave informa-
tion of his intentions to the British cruisers. They were
giving out that her husband had hand, observing a vessel cruising at
been deranged for seven years, some distance, enquired what it
Sarrazin replied by a series of letters was, and was told it was English,
addressed to the Times, proclaiming Seeing five others in the harbour,
his own sanity and violently abusing she asked why they did not go out,
Napoleon. ' General Sarrazin (an and take it. Snatching the glass
anecdote relates) was on duty when out of her hand, Napoleon said,
Napoleon and his newly-married 'Because the wind is not fair !'
wife arrived at Boulogne. After — ED.
viewing the fortifications, they went b ' He is a madman, a man who
upon the heights overlooking the was not worth the trouble, of whom
sea. The Empress, telescope in I had no need.'
CHAP. III. OPERATIONS AT TOULON. 211
tlien on the watch, and either blockaded or cut them out.
To avoid a similar difficulty, he contrived so as to send the
4 Kivoli ' 6 out in a few hours from her original station at
Venice towards Corfu, where, however, she was taken.
He fixed chameaux (camels) on either side, which prevented
her from sinking in the water in proportion as her weight
increased. With these she was floated out. They were
then cut away, sail was made, and the voyage pursued.
He referred to a map of Toulon harbour, and went
over the whole of the operations against Lord Hood and
General O'Hara. At this time he commanded the artil-
lery there with the rank of Major. All the other French
officers were for a regular siege. He gave in a memoir
for the purpose of showing how to drive off the fleet from
the opposite side, and that the English would not hazard
the total loss of their garrison. The event justified his
belief.
He related an anecdote of one of the Representatives of
the People, who ordered his battery to fire, which un-
masked it too soon. The only time he was ever wounded
was by an English gunner at Toulon, who ran a pike into
his thigh. He was endeavouring to enter a battery by the
embrasure. His people got round by the rear, and entered
at the same moment. It was at this period also that,
while Junot was in the act of writing, a cannon-ball
struck and spattered the ground all about his party ; on
which he remarked that it was sand for the letter.
Captain Usher here asked him, whether it was true that
he had charged at the head of a column across the bridge
of Lodi. He said it was.
With reference to caricatures, I told Napoleon that no
one in England was exempt from them, neither our Sove-
6 The ' Rivoli,' an eighty-four- seventy-four, Captain John Talhot,
gun ship, had been built at Venice, on March 21, 1812, oft' the point of
and was captured, after a severe Grao in Istria. — ED.
engagement, by the 'Victorious/
p2
212 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
reign nor the Ministers. Napoleon remarked that there
were plenty of him, at any rate in England, and that no
doubt his present voyage would form a fertile subject for
them. Captain Usher said it would immortalise the ' Un-
daunted.' General Bertrand observed, that it was most
unaccountable to him. how ' The Spirit of the Book ' — a
libel on the Princess of Wales — could have been published
by the bookseller of the Prince, as expressly stated on the
title-page.
Napoleon asked Captain Usher and myself whether we
belonged to the Opposition. Captain Usher said, he did.
I told him that I did not approve of all that Ministers had
done in former times, but that latterly my opinion of their
policy had become much more favourable. He inquired
of me in what estimation Sir Francis Burdett was held. I
replied that, in his private character, he was considered
very amiable, but his influence over the minds of the
people had been much diminished since he escaped clan-
destinely from the Tower.
Captain Usher told Napoleon that the Duchess of Bed-
ford, who had been presented to him at Paris as Lady
Georgiana Gordon, was now in the Mediterranean. He
said he recollected her ; she was a great dancer, and often
danced with the Viceroy of Italy. Her mother was a large
woman.7
On the 2nd May we were becalmed oft St. Florenzo.
Napoleon seemed very anxious to learn the news of the
island, and frequently proposed to send on shore. Seeing
a fishing-boat, he said jocularly, ' Allons, faites venir ici ce
pecheur ! ' 8 Captain Usher said to me that he was sur-
7 ' I knew Jane Duchess of Gor- body." '—Rogers' Table Talk, p. 143.
don intimately, and many pleasant Her fifth and youngest daughter,
hours have I passed in her society. Georgiana, married John sixth Duke
She used to say, " I have been ac- of Bedford, on June 23, 1803.—
quamted -with David Hume and ED.
William Pitt, and therefore I am 8 <QO and mftke that
not afraid to converse with any- come here ! '
CHAP. III. OFF CORSICA. 213
prised to hear Napoleon propose to stop a fishing-boat, an
interruption upon the high seas so contrary to his system.
I did not choose to communicate the remark, but he de-
sired me to translate it. On this being done, he laughed
and patted Captain Usher on the back, saying, ' Ah, capi-
taine ! ' The Austrian Commissioner said to me, aside,
that he was so accustomed to seize, that he could not yet
abandon his old tricks.
Before sunset a small tartane was seen standing in for
St. Florenzo, and the master was brought on board. Na-
poleon asked him fifty questions in rapid succession,
speaking Italian, and then left him abruptly. These had
all reference to Corsica, and in answering them the man
exulted in the present change of affairs, the British flag
flying everywhere, and so large a force of English being
at Genoa. On being informed who it was he had been
speaking to, the man stared hard at Napoleon; but
when, as he was passing along the deck, the latter put
to him some further questions, he replied with much
less respect than before, on which Napoleon left him,
and asked Captain Usher to send him away. The tar-
tane was on its way to Sardinia from Genoa, where, the
man told us, the King of Sardinia was, as well as Sir
Edward Pellew and Lord William Bentinck.
On the morning of May 3, a boat came off to the frigate
from Capraja, an island between the northern point of
Corsica and Elba, conveying a deputation of several of the
inhabitants, one of whom represented himself as the pre-
sident of a municipal council lately formed. They sta'ted
that, two weeks before, they had revolted against the
French garrison and sent them to Corsica ; that they had
forwarded an address to Lord William Bentinck on the
24th April, requesting to be taken under British protec-
tion. Captain Usher sent an officer on shore, to remain
with them, for the purpDse of signing passports for their
boats, until superior orders should be received.
214 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOUENAL. CHAP. III.
The same afternoon we were off Porto Ferrajo in
Elba, it being too calm for the frigate to enter the har-
bour. General Drouot with Count Clam and Lieutenant
Hastings were sent on shore to take possession. I ac-
companied them. The inhabitants appeared to view us
with great curiosity. We were conducted, in the first
instance, to the house of General d'Alhesme, senior officer,
who informed us that, two days before, an officer had
arrived from Paris with orders dated April 1 8, for the em-
barkation of all stores, and notifying the appointment *of
the Provisional Government ; in consequence of which the
General and his troops had given in their adhesion to
Louis XVIII., and mounted the white flag. At the same
time the General expressed his desire to do whatever
should be agreeable to Napoleon.
In reading out quotations from his instructions in my pre-
sence, General Drouot stated to General d'Alhesme, on the
part of Napoleon, that he should wish to receive the names
of all officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates, who
might be willing to enter his service. Napoleon said last
night that the whole force in the island amounted to only
about 250 ; but I am informed that there had been more
than 2,000 troops in all, although "by desertion, and the
discharge of discontented foreigners, they are now reduced
to 600 or 700. There are two small vessels of the French
marine in the harbour, the crews of which have deserted,
and Napoleon intends, I believe, to retain them also.
General Drouot likewise desired a deputation of the
principal inhabitants to come off in the course of the
evening. They arrived about 8 P.M., consisting of all the
civil and military authorities, and the frigate anchored at
the same time.
For several weeks the inhabitants had been in a state
of revolt, in consequence of which the troops occupied
only the fortifications which surround the town of Porto
Ferrajo. The General had discharged all foreign soldiers
CHAP. III. ARRIVAL AT ELBA. 215
and landed them, on the Continent, on account of their dis-
affection. The spirit of the inhabitants is very inimical
to the late Government of France, and personally to
Napoleon, so that he will certainly require the French
troops for his protection until his Guards arrive from
France. He has also so strongly urged Captain Usher
and myself to land the marines, that we could not refuse ;
— although, as I told him last night, I presume that will
not be necessary, so long as the French troops remain in
the island.
During the night, by Napoleon's request, the Aide-de-
camp of General Roller was sent off to Piombino, to
notify his having taken possession of the island of Elba
in virtue of a treaty concluded with the Allies, and also
to invite a renewal of communications for purposes of
commerce, news, &c. The Austrian officer was the bearer
of a letter to this effect, addressed to the Commandant,
and signed by us the Commissioners. He however politely
declined the proposal, until he had received the permission
of the King of the Two Sicilies, to whom he had referred.
At daylight, May 4, Napoleon was on deck with the
Captain of the port, and remained there for two hours,
conversing with various officers, and making inquiries as
to the anchorage, fortifications, &c.
At 8 A.M. he asked for a boat, and embarked, wearing
his great coat and round hat. Count Bertrand, Captain
Usher, Colonel Vincent the chief engineer, and myself ac-
companied him. When we were half-way across the har-
bour, he remarked that he was himself without a sword.
Soon afterwards he asked whether the peasants of Tuscany
were addicted to assassination. Evidently he is greatly
afraid of falling in this way.
His purpose in crossing the harbour was to look at a
house of imposing appearance near the beach. We re-
mained there for nearly two hours, walking about and
waiting for the keys.
216 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
Returning on board, he fixed upon the flag of Elba, and
ordered two to be made immediately, in order that one
may be hoisted upon the fortifications at 1 P.M., while he
himself will disembark with another at 2 P.M. The flag is
white, with a red stripe diagonally, and three bees on the
stripe. It is as nearly as possible one of the flags of
ancient Tuscany, and the bees formed part of his own
arms as Emperor of France.
At 2 P.M. he landed, Count Bertrand, General Roller,
Captain Usher, and myself being in the same boat with
him. There were boats with officers upon either quarter,
and others filled with musicians and inhabitants of the
island. The yards of the frigate and of the two French
corvettes were manned, and royal salutes fired. At the
beach he was received by the prefect, clergy, &c., and the
keys were presented upon a plate amid acclamations of
' Vive 1'Empereur ! ' We next proceeded to the church in
procession, and from thence to the H6tel-de-Ville, where
all the authorities and principal inhabitants were as-
sembled, with each of whom he conversed. After this he
mounted his horse, attended by about a dozen persons,
and visited part of the fortified outworks. Dinner was
at 7 P.M.
May 5. — From daylight to breakfast at 10 P.M. Napo-
leon was on foot, inspecting the castles, storehouses, and
magazines.
At 2 P.M. he went into the interior on horseback, a
distance of two leagues, and examined various country-
houses.
May 6. — At 7 A. M. he crossed the harbour in Captain
Usher's boat, proceeded on horseback across the island
to Rio, and examined the mines, then ascended a number
of hills and mountain-tops upon which there are ruins.
After a ' Te Deum ' in a chapel, we had breakfast. On
our return we re-embarked in Captain Usher's boat, but,
instead of returning direct, Napoleon visited the watering-
CHAP. III. LANDING OF NAPOLEON. 217
place, the height opposite the citadel on which he proposes
to establish a sea-batter y, and a rock at the mouth of the
harbour on which he also thinks of placing a tower.
In talking at dinner of his intention to take posses-
sion of a small island without inhabitants, which is about
ten miles off the coast of Elba, Napoleon said, 'Toute
1'Europe dira que j'ai fait une conquete deja.'9 He laughed
at this.
Already he has all his plans in agitation ; such as to
convey "water from the mountains to the city, to prepare a
country-house, a house in Porto Ferrajo for himself, and
another for the Princess Pauline, a stable for 150 horses,
a lazaretto for vessels to perform quarantine, a depot for
the salt, and another for the nets belonging to the fishery
of the tunny.
May 7. — From 5 to 10 A.M. Napoleon visited other parts
of the town and fortifications on foot, then embarked
in boats, and visited the different storehouses round the
harbour.
In making the excursions into the country, yesterday
and the day before, he was accompanied by a dozen officers.
A captain of gendarmes and one of his Founders de Palais
always rode in front ; and, on two occasions, a sergeant's
party of gendarmes-a-pied went on about an English mile
before.
On taking our places in the boat, some of us, following
Bertrand's example, kept off our hats ; on which he told
us to put them on, adding, ' Nous sommes ici ensemble
en soldat ! ' l
The fishery of the tunny is carried on by the richest
inhabitant of the island. This person, by his own industry,
has, out of a state of extreme poverty, amassed a fortune.
He employs a great proportion of the poor, and has much
influence. The removal of the stores by Napoleon to a
9 ' All Europe will say that I have 1 ' We are here together as sol-
made a conquest already.' diers.'
218 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
very inferior building, merely for the convenience of his
horses, is likely to cause disgust ; but this shows how little
Napoleon permits reflection to check his desires.
May 8. — Before landing from the frigate, Napoleon
requested that a party of fifty marines might accompany
him to remain on shore. This intention was afterwards
changed ; and one oflicer of marines and two sergeants, to
act as orderlies, together with a lieutenant of the navy,
were sent.
One of the sergeants, selected by himself, sleeps outside
the door of his bedchamber, upon a mattrass, with his
clothes on, and a sword at his side. A valet de chambre
occupies another mattrass at the same place. If he lies
down during the day, the sergeant is called to remain in
the antechamber.
May 9. — Napoleon has requested General Koller and
myself this day to sign a passport for one of his valets, to
proceed to Genoa in His Majesty's ship * Curacoa,' Cap-
tain Tower, and from thence to the Viceroy of Italy. The
motive alleged to us by Count Bertrand is to receive a
quantity of furniture, his own private property, which is
in the palace at Milan. I have considered it my duty to
notify the circumstance to Lord William Bentinck, by
General Koller, who goes in the same ship on his way to
Paris, and I have requested him to wait upon his Lordship,
in order to give every information in his power regarding
Napoleon, and all occurrences since our departure.
The Commandant at Piombino has permitted every
intercourse by order of the General in command of that
province, and Napoleon has profited by it to send over to
a palace of the Grand Duchess of Tuscany, to bring over
furniture which he alleges to be his private property.
Napoleon visited Longono, and was received with vivas
and acclamations. Many old women presented petitions ;
others fell on their knees across the road to ask charity ;
while others again laid hold of his hand to kiss it. He
CHAP. III. VISIT TO LONGONO. 219
appeared to be displeased at their importunate manner.
After quitting the town, a young lad fell on his knees at
the side of the road — I am not certain whether to ask
charity, or only to mark his respect. He took no notice
of it to the lad, but turning away towards me, said : ' Ah !
je connais bien ces Italiens. C'est 1'education des moines.
On ne voit pas cela parmi les peuples du Nord.'2
On proceeding a little farther we met two well-dressed
women, who saluted him with compliments. One of them,
about twenty-five years of age, told him, with great ea.se
and gaiety, that she had been invited to the ball at Lon-
gono two days before, but, as the Emperor did not come,
as was expected, she remained at home.
In place of returning by the same road, he turned off by
goat-paths to examine the coast, humming Italian music,
which he does very often, and seemingly quite in spirits.
He expressed to me his fondness of music. Soon after-
wards he told me that it all reminded him of passing the
St. Bernard, and of a young peasant with whom he entered
into conversation. The man did not know who he was,
and spoke of the happiness of those who possessed a good
house, a number of cattle, sheep, &c. He made him
enumerate his greatest desires, afterwards sent for him,
and gave him enough to purchase all that he had described.
' Cela m'a coute 60,000 francs.'3
After his return from Longono at 8 p. M., he made
General d'Alhesme and myself remain to dinner. During
the meal he entered upon the operations of the armies at
the conclusion of the last campaign, and continued the
conversation for half an hour until we got up from table.
The actions against the Allies, he said, were always in his
favour, whenever the numbers were in any equal propor-
tion. In the affair against the Prussians near Chateau
2 ' Ah ! I know well these among the people of the North.'
Italians. It is the education of s 'That cost me 60,000 francs.'
the monks. One does not see this
220 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. 111.
Thierry he had only 700 infantry en tirailleurs with
2,000 cavalry, and three battalions of his Guards, in re-
serve against double their number. The instant these old
soldiers showed themselves, the affair was decided, and
yet the Prussians were infinitely the best of all the Allies.
He paid many compliments to Marshal Blucher : f Ce vieux
diable m'a attaque toujours avec la meme vigueur. S'il
etait battu, 1'instant apres il se inontrait encore pret pour
le combat.'4
He then described his last march from Arcis to Brienne ;
said that he knew Schwartzenberg would not stand to
fight him, and he hoped to destroy half his army upon
his retreat. He had already taken immense quantities of
baggage and guns, when it was reported to him that the
enemy's army had crossed the Aube to Vitry. This in-
duced him to halt. He would not credit it, but General
Gerard assured him that he saw 20,000 infantry. He was
overjoyed at this news, and immediately returned by St.
Dizier, where he attacked Witzenrode's cavalry, which he
considered to be the advance of Schwartzenberg's army.
He drove them before him a whole day — the 25th or 26th
of March — like so many sheep, at a full gallop ; took from
1,500 to 2,000 prisoners, and a quantity of light artillery.
To his surprise, he could not perceive any army, and again
halted. His best information led him to believe that,
instead of retreating to Langres, they had returned to
Troyes. He marched in that direction, when he ascer-
tained, after a loss of three days, that the Allied Armies of
Schwartzenberg and Blucher had marched upon Paris.
He ordered forced marches, and went forwards himself on
horseback, and accompanied by his suite in carriages, day
and night. Never were he and all his friends more gay.
He knew that all the workmen of Paris would fight for
4 ' That old d 1 always at- wards he showed himself ready as
tacked me with the same vigour, ever for the fight.'
If he was beaten, the moment after-
CHAP. III. EVENTS OF LAST CAMPAIGN. 221
him ; and what could the Allies do against such a force,
with the National Guard beside them ? Barricade all the
streets with casks, and it would be impossible for the
enemy to advance before he arrived to the support of his
party. At 8 A.M., while a few leagues from Paris, he met
a column of stragglers, and they mutually stared at each
other. ' Qu'est-ce que c'est cela ? ' he demanded. They
stopped, and seemed stupified. ' Quoi ! FEmpereur ? ' They
informed him that they had retreated through Paris. He
was still, however, confident of success. The army were
burning with desire to attack the enemy, and drive them
out of the capital. He knew well the composition of the
AUied Army as compared with his own, and that Schwartz-
enberg would never hazard a battle with Paris in his
rear, but would take up a defensive position on the other
side. He would have engaged the enemy at various points
for two or three hours, and then have marched with his
thirty battalions of Guards and eighty pieces of cannon
upon one part of their line. Nothing could withstand
that attack ; and although his inferiority of numbers
could not enable him to hope for a complete victory, he
would yet kill so many of the enemy, with much less loss
to himself, as to force him to abandon Paris and its neigh-
bourhood. What he would afterwards do must depend
upon various circumstances.
Who could have supposed that the Senate would have
dishonoured themselves by assembling under the force of
200,000 of the enemy's bayonets? — a timidity unexampled
in history ! And then, that Marmont, a man who owed
everything to him — who had been his aide-de-camp, and
attached to him for twenty-one years — should have be-
trayed him ! Still it was but a faction which ruled Paris
under the influence of a foreign force. The rest of the
nation was for him. The army, almost to a man, would
continue to fight for him ; but with so great an inferiority
of numbers it would be the certain death of many of his
222 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
friends, and a civil war to last for years. He preferred
rather to sacrifice his rights, although the army wished to
support him in them. It was not for the sake of a crown
that he had continued the war, but for the glory of his
country, for plans which he now saw no prospect of
realising. He wished to have made France the first na-
tion in the world, but now it was at an end. ' J'ai abdique.
A present je suis un homme mort.'5 He repeated this
latter expression several times.
In remarking on his confidence in his own troops, par-
ticularly his Old Guards, and the inefficiency of the Allies,
he referred to me to say candidly if it was not so. ' Dites-
moi, Combell,6 franchement; n'est-ce pas vrai? '7 I told
him it was; that when with the Allies,! never yet saw a con-
siderable portion of his army, but everyone spoke of ' the
Emperor and his Guards,' 8 as if there was something in
them more than human to be dreaded — that the inferiority
which he conceived of Schwartzenberg's army was justly
founded. There was no confidence in themselves or in their
Allies. Each party thought he did too much, and his Allies
too little ; and they were half beaten before they closed
with the French. However, in assenting to his character of
the Allies, I requested him not to include Wellington's
army ; and I added, that the French officers of the army
from Spain did us ample justice in this respect*
He sneered at Marmont's anxiety for his life. ' Jamais
chose avec telle naivete que cette capitulation ! ' 9 He
wished to protect his own person, and so he deserted,
leaving the whole of his comrades open to the surprise of
the enemy, for it was his corps which covered the whole
front of the army. The night before his desertion he told
5 ' I have abdicated. Now I am is it not true ? '
a dead man.' 8 Napoleon's last campaign in
6 Sic in MS., apparently to France was often called the ' Cam-
snow how Napoleon pronounced paign of the Imperial Guard.' — ED.
the name. — ED. 9 ' Never was anything so absurd
7 ' Tell me, Campbell, frankly ; as this capitulation.'
CnAP. III. MARMONT'S DEFECTION. 223
Napoleon, ' Pour mon corps d'armee, je reponds : ' ' and so
he might, for the officers and soldiers were enraged when
they found what had been done. 8,000 infantry, 3,000
cavalry, and 60 pieces of cannon ! ' Voila 1'histoire ! ' he
said to General d'Alhesnae. He animadverted also on
Marmont's conduct before Paris, saying, ' Who ever heard
the like ? — 200 pieces of artillery in the Champ de Mars,
and only six on the heights of Montmartre!' General
d'Alhesme asked whether Marmont had not fought with
vigour there ; but he gave no answer to this question.
This was nearly what passed at table. After accom-
panying him to another room, he resumed the story of
his campaigns, enlarging upon the politics of France, the
incapacity of the Bourbons, and the antipathy of the
nation to them ; and continued the conversation with great
agitation of manner until midnight, having then been for
three hours on his legs ! He seemed to regret his abdica-
tion. Had he known that it was owing to the treachery
of Augereau only that that part of his army fell back
behind Lyons, he would have united his own army to it,
even after Marmont's capitulation. He animadverted
strongly upon Augereau, having met him with all the
kindness of a friend. The first idea of his treachery was
after separating from him on the road between Valence
and Lyons. General d'Alhesme expressed his surprise at
Augereau's duplicity, and asked Napoleon whether he
had seen the Marshal's proclamation. Napoleon said he
had not — that the spirit of the troops was such that
Augereau dared not remain among them for his arrival
— that many old officers and soldiers came up to him
weeping, and said that they were betrayed, and requested
that he would put himself at their head. (If this were so,
it could only be one or two in a very quiet way, for none
of the Commissioners observed it, and Napoleon only
changed horses at the spot.) He had a body of 30,000
1 ' I can answer for my division of the army.'
224 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
fine troops there, many of them of the army of Spain,
which ought to have held its ground against the Aus-
trians.
He again spoke of Marmont's defection ; that it was
reported in the morning, but he did not believe it. He
rode out, and soon afterwards met Berthier, who confirmed
the fact from undoubted sources.
He referred to the armistice between Lord Castlereagh
and Talleyrand. He thought the Allies failed in their
own policy by reducing France so much, for it would hurt
the pride of every man in France. The French people
might have been left much more without any risk, and
without being on an equality with several other Powers.
They had no longer any fleet or colonies. A peace could
not restore either ships or St. Domingo. Poland no longer
remained to them, nor Venice. These were aggrandise-
ments to Russia and Austria. Spain, which was the natural
enemy of Great Britain, even more so than France, was
now incapable of doing anything as an ally. If to these
sacrifices was added that of a disadvantageous treaty of
commerce with England, the people of France would not
continue tranquil under it — 'pas six mois apres que les
Puissances etrangeres quittent Paris.' 2 He then remarked
that already a month had passed, and the King of France
had not yet come over to the people who had placed him
on the throne. England, he said, did now as she pleased ;
the other Powers were nothing in comparison, ' Pour vingt
annees au moins aucune Puissance ne peut faire aucune
guerre contre 1'Angleterre, et elle fera comme elle veut.'3
Holland would be entirely subservient to her. The ar-
mistice gave no information as to the ships at Ant-
werp, or in the Texel. ' Le brave Verhuell 4 se defend
2 Not for six months after the 4 On the Russians, under Bulow,
foreign Powers leave Paris.' overrunning Holland in November
3 ' For twenty years at least no 1813, Admiral Verhuell, Dutch by
Power can make war against Eng- birth, but a naturalised Frenchman,
land, and she will do as she likes.' threw himself into the forts of the
CHAP. III. EXCURSIONS IN THE ISLAND. 225
toujours.' 5 He enumerated the ships he had in each of
these ports, and besides them, in three or four years, he
would have had three hundred sail of the line. ' Quelle
difference pour la France! '6 He continued in this strain ;
upon which I said, ' Mais nous ne savons pas pourquoi
Votre Majeste a voulu nous aneantir ! ' 7 He laughed, and
replied, ' Si j'avais ete Ministre d'Angleterre, j'aurais tache
de la faire la plus grande Puissance du monde.' 8
May 10. — Napoleon rode nearly to the summit of the
highest hill above Porto Ferrajo, from whence we could
perceive the sea in four different quarters, and apparently
not an English mile in a straight line to each, from the
centre where we stood. After surveying the scene for some
time, he turned round to me and smiled ; then shaking
his head, he observed, ' Eh ! mon ile est bien petite.' 9
On the top of this hill is a small chapel, and a house
where a hermit resided until his death. I remarked that
it would require more than common devotion to induce
persons to attend service there. ' Oui ! ' Napoleon said,
* ici le pretre peut dire autant de betises qu'il veut.' l
This day, during dinner, General Drouot reported the
arrival of some vessels, one of them having on board an
aide-de-camp of the King of Naples, who had been sent
to Marseilles in charge of Frenchmen on Murat declaring
Texel, and only surrendered them Honour:
by express order of Louis XVIII. 'Promotion du 11 juin 1806, M.
He had previously shown his fidelity le comte Ver-huell, vice-aniiral.' —
to Napoleon in 1805, by bringing ED.
the Dutch flotilla in safety from 5 ' The brave Verhuell still holds
Dunkirk to Ambleteuse, near Bou- out.'
logne, although exposed all the 6 ' What a change for France ! '
way to the attacks of the British 7 ' But we do not know why
cruisers under Sir Sidney Smith, your Majesty has wished to anni-
When the throne of Holland was hilate us ! '
offered to Louis Napoleon, Verhuell 8 'If I had been Minister of Eng-
formed one of the deputation, and land, I should have tried to make her
was appointed Minister of Marine, the greatest Power in the world.'
In the ' Almanach de la Cour' of 9 ' Eh ! my island is very little.'
1819, his name appears among the l ' Yes ; here the priest can talk
' Grands-Croix ' of the Legion of as much nonsense as he likes.'
226 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
war, and was now returning to Naples. Although General
Drouot twice repeated the fact of the Neapolitan vessel
having arrived, Napoleon would take no notice, but kept
on speaking of the British frigate. This shows that he
wishes any communication he may hold with the King of
Naples to be unknown.
The Austrian General Stahremberg, who has come from
Leghorn to Piombino for the purpose of taking possession
of that place, as well as of Lucca, on the part of the
Grand Duke of Tuscany, informs me that Count Clam,
the Austrian A.D.C. who was sent to notify Napoleon's
arrival at Elba, was charged with letters to the King of
Naples and the Viceroy of Italy. He opened them both,
and they ran in the same terms as follows : — ' L'Empereur
Napoleon a 1'honneur d'informer \le Eoi de NaPles»
tie Vice-Eoi d'ltalie,
qu'il est arrive a Pile d'Elbe. II aura plaisir de savoir de
leurs nouvelles.' 2
I cannot account for General Koller's having concealed
the fact of these letters having been sent, as we were in
hourly communication, and it was reciprocally arranged,
among the Four Commissioners at Fontainebleau, that
every occurrence and conversation should be equally made
known to each of us.
While General Koller was here, Napoleon never lost an
opportunity of endeavouring to point out that Austria had
mistaken her own policy in joining against France in a
coalition, which would aggrandise Russia, and compromise
the safety of Austria.
May 11. — At breakfast Napoleon told Bertrand that
he had a few thousand livres at Venice. ( H reste a voir
si mon bon beau-pere les rendra.' 3
* f The Emperor Napoleon has to hear from them.'
the honour to inform the King of 3 ' It remains to be seen whether
Naples, and the Viceroy of Italy, my good father-in-law will give
that he has arrived in the island of them up.'
Elba. It would give him pleasure
CHAP. III. SIEGES AND ASSAULTS. 227
In talking of sieges I remarked that a regular fortifica-
tion did not seem so difficult of escalade if it had not a
wet ditch, or some other physical obstacle. If the attack-
ing party was in sufficient force to make various attacks,
and the defending party not very strong in proportion to
the extent of the works, probably one or two of the attacks
would succeed. The main breach appeared to me capable
of being made the strongest point at all times, and there-
fore the difficulties might be considered to remain very
much in their original state.
Napoleon replied : * Avec assez de canons, un bon com-
mandant et de bonnes troupes, une escalade ne doit que
reussir. Si la partie qui attaque soutient le feu avec
beaucoup de petits mortiers sur la breche, toutes les
defenses et retrancheinents de 1'autre doivent etre si com-
pleternent detruits que personne ne puisse se mon-
trer. Vos ingenieurs ont montre une ignorance de cela a
Badajoz, car les breches avaient des defenses completes
quand vous avez fait vos assauts ; ce qui ne doit jamais
avoir lieu. Si vous placez beaucoup de mortiers qui
jettent des bombes ' (I think he said 60 mortars), f c'est im-
possible qu'ils travaillent, et la breche doit etre si complete
que les soldats montent facilement a 1'assaut.' 4
Napoleon entered into a long conversation with General
Drouot, who was with Yilleneuve in Sir Eobert Calder's
action, as to that Admiral's operations.5 General Drouot
4 ' With enough, guns, a good ' If you place a great many
commander, and good troops, an mortars that throw shells, it is
escalade cannot fail to succeed. impossible that they can keep on
' If the attacking party keep up working, and the breach ought to
the fire with a great many small be so complete, that the soldiers
mortars upon the breach, all the can mount easily to the assault,
defences and retrenchments on the 5C At Portsmouth, Nelson at length
other side ought to be so completely found news of the combined fleet,
destroyed that no one could show Sir Robert Calder, who had been
himself. Your engineers showed sent out to intercept their return,
ignorance of this at Badajoz, for had fallen in with them on the 22nd
the breaches had complete defences of July [1805], sixty leagues west of
when you made your assault ; this Cape Finisterre. Their force con-
ought never to be. sisted of twenty sail of the line, three
Q2
228
SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. HI.
said that he did not want either zeal or talents, but
he was extremely nervous, and impressed with a great
fear of the British navy ; that, after the action, he was
entreated by all his officers to pursue the British squadron
and re-engage them, having a superiority of numbers.
May 12-14. — Napoleon has frequently spoken to me of
the invasion of England, and stated that he never in-
tended to make the attempt without a superiority of fleet
to protect the flotilla.6 This superiority would have been
obtained for a few days by leading our fleet out to the
West Indies, and suddenly returning. If they arrived
three or four days before ours in the Channel, it would be
fifty-gun ships, five frigates, and two
brigs : his, of fifteen line-of-battle
ships, two frigates, a cutter, and a
lugger. After an action of four
hours, he had captured an eighty-
four and a seventy-four, and then
thought it necessary to bring-to the
squadron, for the purpose of secur-
ing their prizes. The hostile fleets
remained in sight of each other till
the 26th, when the enemy bore
away.' — Southey's Life of Nelson,
ch. ix. p. 318.— ED.
6 Edinburgh Revieiv, No. 258,
October, 1867, Art, I. 'Napoleon
Correspondence,' p. 337. ' During
the whole month of August, 1805,
Napoleon remained at the camp of
Boulogne, awaiting impatiently the
arrival of Admiral Villeneuve from
Spain and Ganteaume from Brest
with their respective squadrons.
The presence of the two Admirals
in the Channel, with the combined
fleets of Spain and France, would
be sufficient, in the opinion of the
Emperor, to protect the passage and
landing in England of his invading
army. But while Napoleon was
waiting at Boulogne, Villeneuve,
instead of joining Ganteaume at
Brest, and from thence making sail
with him for the Channel, had gone
to Cadiz. When he left that port
in October he was destined, as
everybody knows, to encounter
Nelson and suffer defeat at Trafal-
gar. Now let us see how events
appear in the correspondence. We
find there twelve letters for one
single day, August 22, 1805, six of
which are addressed to Decres, the
Minister of Marine, though he was
at Boulogne at the time, within two
miles of his master. One of the
letters is addressed to Ganteaume
at Brest. It contains an order to
appear in the Channel as soon as
possible with Villeneuve and their
combined forces, and ends thus : —
' " Partez et venez ici. Nous avons
venge" six siecles d'insultes et de
honte. Jamais pour un plus grand
objet mes soldats de terre etde nier
n'auront expose leur vie."
'To Villeneuve he writes : ''Mon-
sieur le Vice-Amiral Villeneuve, —
J'espere que vous etes arrive a Brest.
Partez, neperdez pasun moment, et,
avec mes escadres re"unies, entrez
dans la Manche. L'Angleterre est a
nous. Nous soinmes tous prets, tout
est embarque. Paraissez vingt-
quatre heures, et tout est termiue." '
—ED.
CHAP. III. INVASION OF ENGLAND. 229
sufficient. The flotilla would immediately push out ac-
companied by the fleet, and the landing would take place
on some part of the English coast. As he should march
immediately to London, he should prefer landing on the
coast of Kent ; but this must depend upon wind and
weather. He would place himself at the disposal of the
naval officers and pilots, so as to land the troops wherever
they thought they could arrive with the greatest security
and in least time. He had 100,000 men in all. Each of
the flotilla had her own boats to land her men. Artillery
and cavalry would have soon followed, and the whole
would have arrived in London in three days. He armed
the flotilla merely to deceive the English, and lead them
to suppose that he intended them to fight their way across
the Channel.
I told him that we expected to be treated with great
severity in case of his succeeding, and many of us to be
transported to France. I also asked him what he pro-
posed to do after arriving in London. He replied that it
was difficult to answer that question, for a people with
spirit and energy like the English was not subdued even
by taking possession of their capital. He would certainly
have separated Ireland from Great Britain, and the occu-
pation of the capital would have been a deathblow to our
funds, credit, and commerce.
He asked me to tell him frankly whether we were not
alarmed at his preparations for invasion. I told him that
the Ministers, as well as the army and navy, viewed them
far more seriously than other persons, but never expected
that he would be able to subdue us. We knew how con-
fident he and the French were, the more from their suc-
cesses against the people on the Continent, and that a
regular army had a great superiority over inexperienced
militia and volunteers ; but that the greater part of the
people in England were of opinion that nothing could
overcome the latter, fighting for their homes and families.
I also told him that he was not aware of the numerous
230 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
casualties attending an expedition by sea. This he would
not admit. He had made all his calculations, and re-
duced his landing to a perfect certainty. After that it
was like any other operation. I told him that many
thought he intended first to take Dover, and establish
himself there as a sort of tete-de-pont. He said he had
no such plan. To land soon and march at once to London
was the only plan he had formed.
I told him that many were of opinion he never intended
to attempt an invasion of England at all; that it was
merely to intimidate our Ministers, to shake our credit,
and prepare his army for other operations which were
thereby masked. Others thought he was glad of the
excuse to march against the Austrians, being convinced
an invasion was impracticable. He denied this, and said
he certainly intended to put his plans into execution,
being only diverted from them by the Austrians.
May 15. — The feeling of the inhabitants had pre-
viously been very inimical to the late Government of
France, and personally to Napoleon, so that he certainly
required the French troops for his protection, until his
Guards arrived from France. My present information
induces me to believe that the spirit of dislike towards
Napoleon has subsided. The eclat given to him on land-
. ing, by the salute of His Britannic Majesty's frigate,
and other marks of attention and protection which he
has evidently sought for all along, on purpose to make
an impression on the minds of the people, have con-
tributed materially to the change of feeling. The prin-
cipal inhabitants have also been impressed with the opinion,
that the possession of the island by Napoleon will afford
them extraordinary resources and advantages ; which
opinion has extended itself to all classes, and they ascribe
to his residence the communications which have already
been opened with the mainland.
May 16. — I inquired of Count Bertrand the history
CHAP. HI. DRAWING-ROOM. 231
of the Order of the Three Golden Fleeces — ' 1'Ordre des
Trois Toisons d'Or.' He told me that it was never carried
into effect — in consequence of the Emperor's last mar-
riage— for fear of giving offence to Austria. The Duke
of Burgundy had first instituted the Order, and his
daughter married into the family of Austria, who kept it
up. It was afterwards established in Spain after the War
of Succession. Napoleon thought France had a prior
right to either Austria or Spain, and therefore meant to
institute it with an inscription commemorating his entry
twice into Vienna and once into Madrid ; from which he
termed it * Les Trois Toisons.' He intended to have es-
tablished the Order in every regiment. No person could
receive it unless he had been wounded three times in
three different actions.
In the evening of this day a drawing-room, ' cercle de
dames,' was held at Napoleon's house. About fifty or
sixty females assembled in their best dresses, and placed
themselves on each side of the saloon in chairs, with the
gentlemen standing behind them. When Napoleon en-
tered they stood up. Accompanied by the chief of the
National Guard and the Prefet, he went round the whole
party, asking a question of each female after her name
was announced — if unmarried, as to her father ; if married,
how many children she had. After this farce was played
off he spoke to two or three of the gentlemen who were
nearest him at the end of the room, and at last walked
off, apparently impressed with the ridiculous nature of the
scene. The ladies were then handed off by their beaux.
I recognised close to me a young girl, in company with
her two sisters, whom I had seen at their house a few days
before, having employed them to work embroidery upon a
uniform coat.
The wives of the two French Generals were there, but
those of several other French employes are reserved for a
similar invitation some days following. This has given
232 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
great offence to the latter. They say that the inhabitants
of Elba are very jealous of their receiving places in the
new administration of the island, and that Napoleon is
forgetful of his former friends. This neglect seems in-
consistent, if he hopes to resume his influence in France.
A Council of State has been formed, consisting of the
twelve principal inhabitants, Generals Bertrand and
Drouot, and the Intendant-General.
There are six officers of the rank of captain and sub-
altern, as orderly officers (ojfftciers d'ordonnance), two of
whom are on duty daily. If Napoleon walks or rides
abroad, they accompany him, and one always sleeps at his
door, ' in case of despatches arriving during the night.'
Four chamberlains are named, consisting of the mayors
of Porto Ferrajo and Rio, the commandant of the National
Guard, and another principal inhabitant of the island.
All the soldiers composing the garrison of Elba, who
are not Frenchmen, such as Tuscans, Italians, &c., have
been discharged, and sent to Piombino. General Duval
likewise sailed for Marseilles last week with the small re-
mainder of the French garrison, excepting the gunners, who
remain here until the arrival of the Guards, who reached
Savona upon the 13th. From thence they are to be con-
veyed to Elba in transports sent out from Genoa this day
by Sir E. Pellew. The military of the island will ulti-
mately consist of the 600 volunteers of the French Guards,
and 1,200 of a sort of militia, called the Corps Franc,
which formerly existed. One half of this corps is to be 011
permanent duty, receiving daily pay ; the other half will
parade on Sunday only.
May 17. — H.M.S. 'Undaunted,' Captain Usher, sailed
for Frejus to-day, to bring back the Princess Pauline.
Napoleon told me that, in his opinion, the Russian Army
has never recovered from its losses at the battle of Boro-
dino, where he killed an immense number of their best
troops— 50,000 of them.
CHAP. III. EXCUKSIOXS. 233
In speaking of some of his successes against the Allies
in the last campaign, with very inferior forces, he told me
smiling, with an air of triumph, ' J'ai commande en quatre-
vingt-cinq batailles rangees et plus de six cents combats.' 7
May 18. — Napoleon went upon a tour of the greatest
part of the island, accompanied by two chamberlains,
two officers of ordnance, one captain of gendarmes, the
intendant-general and mayor, the president of the law-
court and his secretary, General Bertrand, a lieutenant
of the British Navy, the Austrian aide-de-camp, and
myself. We visited, among other places, Marchiana di
Marina, where there was a ' Te Deuin.'
May 19. — Visited Marchiana, Pogio, Campo, and a
chapel of the Virgin on the summit of a hill. At each
of these four places we had Divine Service. At dinner
Napoleon said to me, ' A present vous allez si souvent a
1'eglise que vous deviendrez devot.' 8
During all these visits he was received with firing of
musketry and cannon, triumphal arches with inscriptions,
processions of priests bearing a canopy, and accompanied
by young girls and children strewing flowers, who led him
into the church. He breakfasted and dined with half a
dozen select persons. In the evening there was a ball,
which however he did not attend.
May 20. — To an island, Pia Nosa, which Napoleon took
possession of as a dependency of Elba. He carried two
horses with him, and rode out at two different times to
examine every part of the island. We dined altogether
on the grass under a sail, he at one extremity, seated at
a small table with his hat on.
In returning he visited a small rock about musket-shot
from the harbour of Pia Nosa. He was informed that the
* Sea-Horse ' frigate, when she attacked this place, had
7 ' I have commanded in eighty- 8 ' You now go so often to church
five pitched battles, and more than that you will become a devotee.'
six hundred combats.'
234 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
mounted two guns upon the summit. He attempted to
ascend it, but after getting up half-way, although assisted
occasionally both by the lieutenant of the Navy and
myself, was obliged to desist. Indefatigable as he is, his
corpulency prevents him from walking much, and he is
obliged to take the arm of some person on rough roads.
We left Pia Nosa at sunset, supped at Campo, and
arrived at Porto Ferrajo after midnight.
May 21. — The valet de chambre, sent in the ' Cura9oa '
on the 9th, charged with a letter for the Viceroy of Italy,
returned here some days ago. He told me that he did not
think it consistent with his own personal safety to pro-
ceed farther than Genoa, having been advised to change
his dress, and not inform who he was. He had therefore
gone on to Leghorn, and returned here, bringing back the
letter for Beauharnais. I suspect that part of his mis-
sion was to obtain information with respect to furniture
in a palace near Leghorn (public property), which had
been placed at Napoleon's disposal, and which he had
requested Captain Usher to allow one of his officers to
convey here in the British frigate. With this demand
Captain Usher and myself did not judge it advisable to
comply.
I have reason to believe that a Neapolitan officer has
been here privately ; for a person in that uniform was
seen to enter Napoleon's house about two weeks ago, and
from my not being able to trace him, it appears that pains
have been taken to conceal the circumstance.
I had already remarked the early anxiety which Napo-
leon evinced to place himself in communication with Murat
and Beauharnais, and shall direct my attention to it.
In a conversation with General Bertrand, in which he
vaunted the great qualities of Napoleon, he — without any
hint on my part — said that Napoleon was not sanguinaiy,
but acted solely from motives of -patriotism; that the
death of the Due d'Enghien was not from personal enmity,
CHAP. III. MILITARY UNIFORMS. 235
but was necessary to secure Ms crown ; and that similar
steps had been taken by other sovereigns at all periods.
I made no reply. General Bertrand then commented
upon Napoleon's military genius ; that nothing could with-
stand the rapidity of his movements and the justness
of his combinations, by which he assembled his corps in
the rear of his enemy without giving him time to oppose
the unexpected attack ; that the same manoeuvre took
place at Jena and several other of his principal actions.
May 22. — Napoleon told me that he had taken Malta by
a coup de maw;9 that the inhabitants were so intimidated
* par le nom de ces republicains, mangeurs d'hornmes,' l
that they all took refuge within the fortifications, with
cattle and every living animal in the island. This created
so much confusion and dismay, that they were incapable of
opposition.
He requested me to write to the consul at Algiers, to
secure the respect due to his flag, agreeably to the treaty.
May 23. — I have received a letter from the Admiral,
dated Genoa, May 19, in which he states that he had sent
transports to Savona for the Guards, of Napoleon. He
expects to be off this place in a few days, on his voyage
to Sicily, with Lord William Bentinck on board. I shall
take that opportunity of waiting upon them, to give every
information in my power, and to obtain the advantage of
their counsel.
May 24. — Four officers of the 20th Dragoons, 'of whom
two were in the former uniform of their regiment, were
presented to Napoleon by me. After separating from
them he remarked this difference, and I informed him
that great changes had taken place in the British uniforms,
which were generally ascribed to the Duke of Cumberland.
He told me that at Tilsit he was surprised to find the
9 June 12, 1798, the island being Jerusalem. — ED.
then under the dominion of the x 'By the name of those repub-
Knights of the Order of St. John of licans, man-eaters.'
236 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
minute attention which the Emperor Alexander and the
King of Prussia gave to uniforms. They counted the
number of buttons upon his coat, and knew more con-
cerning the French uniforms than he did himself. ' Tous
ces changements font beaucoup de depenses inutiles aux
officiers, et fatiguent les esprits des soldats. Je ne me
suis jamais occupe de cela. A Potzdam j'ai trouve dans
la bibliotheque au moins vingt shakos de differentes es-
peces rassembles la par le Roi de Prusse ! ' 2
H. M. brig * Swallow,' Captain James, arrived. After
presenting him to Napoleon, I acquainted the latter with
the fact that many of the ships of the fleet were already
sent home. ' Ah ! a present il faut diminuer les dettes,'3 he
observed, laughing.
When I informed him that some regiments were about
to be sent to America,4 he inquired whether it was intended
to conquer a part of the American States. I told him that
perhaps our Ministers might consider it right to add to our
possessions in Canada. He observed that he thought it
probable they would take possession of Louisiana, as a
barrier against any encroachment which the Americans
might make from that side upon the Spanish colonies,
and in view of disturbances which might facilitate such
possession.
May 25. — Arrived H.M.S. 'Undaunted,' Captain Usher.
He states that, on his arrival at Frejus, he found that the
Princess Pauline had some days before sailed for Naples,
with a Eear- Admiral of the King of Naples' Navy. The
f Cura9oa ' was anchored at Nice, and Captain Tower
2 ' All these changes cause much 3 ' Ah ! now it is necessary to
useless expense to the officers, and lessen the public debt.'
tire out the spirit of the soldiers. 4 ' Three regiments of Welling-
I have never troubled myself with ton's army, the 4th, 44th, and 85th,
that sort of thing. At Potzdam I were embarked at Bordeaux on the
found in the library at least twenty 2nd of June [1814].' — Alison, Hist.
caps of different kinds, brought to- of Europe, vol. x. ch. Ixxvi.— ED.
gether there by the King of Prussia.'
CHAP. III. NEWS FROM FRANCE. 237
had gone by land to Frejus for the same purpose (to con-
vey the Princess to Elba), but he also was too late.
In passing the forts the frigate was liailed, to know
whether the Princess Pauline was on board.
Captain Usher, Captain James, and myself went up to
Napoleon's house, where we found him with a chess-board
playing with General Bertrand. The two chamberlains
were looking on apparently very sulky. Those two men
were interrupted from attending to their private affairs, or
being with their families, for 1,200 livres a year.
Napoleon only asked two or three formal questions of
Captain Usher, when he invited him and me to walk with
him, and passed through several apartments to the garden.
As it was very dark and rainy — by the bye, he would not
have trusted himself there with everyone — he returned to
the house, and went into his bedchamber.
He then inquired with great eagerness, What was the
news ? What was passing in France ? What said the people
at Frejus ? Did he see any French troops, or troops of
the Allies ? One question was scarcely answered before
it was succeeded by another.
Captain Usher stated that there had been riots at Nice
between French and Austrian officers ; that many persons
at Frejus inquired anxiously for His Majesty ; that some
commercial arrangements were going on, in order to give
France the advantage of the duties immediately; and
that the manufacturers of France had made representa-
tions with regard to the encouragement wanting to them,
which proved the justice of H. M.'s statements on that
subject, and the observations he had often made. He
showed the strongest exultation at all this, and chuckled
with joy.
Captain Usher informed him of the remark of the King
of France, that he did not expect any war, but that if
there was, goutified as he was, he would put himself at
the head of his marshals. He laughed heartily. ' Ha !
238 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
ha ! Les marechaux et 1'armee se trouveraient bien com-
mandes.'5
Napoleon inquired whether the Prince Regent was
coming to Paris, and on being informed that it was under-
stood to be his own desire, but that the consent of Par-
liament had not yet been obtained, he said, * Oh ! je ne
crois pas qu'il vienne. Le peuple d'Angleterre ne sera pas
trop content que son Souverain ait trop de connaissance
de ces autres rois d'Europe.'6 He inquired whether Lord
Castlereagh was still in Paris, and whether the Parliament
had yet assembled ?
Captain Usher remarked that he thought the people of
France had shown great ingratitude towards him. He
said, ' Oh ! c'est un peuple leger.'7
Captain Usher informed him that Antwerp was oc-
cupied by a British garrison. ' Ah ! vous trouverez la 40
vaisseaux et 4,000 pieces de canon.'8 I told him that
it would be decided at the general treaty, what was to
become of Antwerp. The possession would only be for the
moment. He replied, smiling, * Oh ! ils sont a vous, ils
sont dans vos mains.'9
Captain Usher said that, at the peace, France would
only retain thirteen ships of the line and twenty frigates.
Napoleon remarked that all the other Powers were in-
creased, while France was now reduced beyond all propor-
tion. ' Mais meme cela ne fait pas autant de tort a la nation
que son deshonneur — de recevoir un roi de ses ennemis ! ' l
When informed that there was a misunderstanding
about the laurels worn in France by the Allies, and that
5 ' The marshals and the army 8 ' Ah ! you will find there 40 ves-
will find themselves well com- sels, and 4,000 pieces of cannon.'
manded ! ' 9 ' Oh ! They are yours. They
6 ' Oh ! I do not think that he will are in your hands.'
come. The people of England will 1 'But even that is not doing
not be over-pleased at their sove-^ such a wrong to the nation as their
reign having too much acquaintance dishonour in receiving a king from
with those other kings of Europe.' their enemies!'
7 ' Oh ! they are a fickle people.'
CHAP. III. AMERICAN WAR. 239
they had been taken out by order of Alexander in presence
of the King of France — he laughed with a contemptuous
smile, and spat on the floor, adding that certainly that
settled the question. ' Mais qu'est-ce que sont ces lauriers
des Autrichiens ? Hs les ont portes toujours en Italie, au
moment que je les ai battus et chasses partout.' 2
Captain Usher told him that the people at Frejus said,
no one believed the frigate had carried him to Elba. I
remarked that the officers of the Navy sent from Toulon
said the same. He laughed, and inquired what they
thought had become of us ? Did they suppose we had
carried him to England? Captain Usher told him that
the people of Frejus said we had seduced him, for he pre-
ferred going in our frigate. He took this in good part.
' What ! did they say I had now become an Englishman ?'
On it being remarked that he had many adherents
still in France, he said, ' Oh ! 1'Empereur est mort. Je
ne suis plus rien.' 3 However, immediately afterwards he
told us, that not one of his Guards had deserted him;
that at Lyons hundreds of persons had gone out to meet
them ; and that the Austrians found it prudent to be under
arms.
He was extremely inquisitive as to the force sent to
America. When Captain Usher told him that 25,000
men were sent from Lord Wellington's army, and tha.t
the Americans had lost in him their best friend, he asked
whether it was intended to- subjugate them entirely, for
such a force could not be meant only to oblige them to
make peace. He again expressed his opinion, that our
Ministers intended to take Louisiana and Florida.
Napoleon, as usual, blended his observations with some-
thing amusing. He asked, for instance, what the old
2 'But what do these laurels of and driven them away in every
the Austrians mean ? They wore direction.'
them always in Italy, at the very 3 ' Oh ! the Emperor is dead. I
moment when I had beaten them, am no longer anything.'
240 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
King of England would now say to the new American war ?
Was he in such a state as to reflect upon it ? If he
was, no doubt he would exult at the humiliation of the
Americans.
He asked whether there were any accounts from Corfu ;
and whether we had not sent an expedition against it ? 4
He had certainly heard so, or supposed so, for he affected
to ask the question with an assurance of our conviction
that such expedition had taken place.
The French frigate ' Dryade ' and the brig ( Inconstant '
arrived here to-day from Toulon. The former will return,
but the brig remains, conformably to the treaty.
May 26. — This morning, at 6 A.M., Napoleon went quite
unexpectedly on board of the French frigate ' Dryade,'
and the crew hailed him with cries of l Vive 1'Empereur ! '
This, I ani told, placed the captain in a very awkward
situation. It was not a visit to the captain personally,
for he had anchored on the preceding afternoon, and then
Napoleon declined seeing him, when he waited upon him,
until the following morning at 10 A.M. So that it was
certainly done to try the disposition of the Navy, and to
keep up a recollection of him in France.
Napoleon also visited the British frigate ' Undaunted,'
and made a speech to the crew. He thanked them for
the good-will with which they had performed their duties
during the voyage, said that he felt himself under obliga-
tions to them for the period he had been on board, which
he had passed so happily, and that he wished them every
success and happiness. He sent them, in the course of the
day, 1,000 bottles of wine and 1,000 dollars, and presented
4 ' In 1807, General Berthier, manded until the arrival of the
with a French force of 17,000 men, British in 1814, when Corfu sur-
arrived at Corfu, and drove out the rendered to our arms on conditional
Russians, or, as some say, occupied terms.' — Montgomery Martin, Hist.
it under the connivance of Alexan- of British Colonies, vol. v. ch. iii. —
der ; he was shortly after relieved ED.
by General Donzelot, who com-
CHAP. III. ARRIVAL OF GUARDS. 241
Captain Usher with, a box containing his portrait set in
diamonds. Napoleon speaks most gratefully to everyone
of the facilities which have been granted to him by the
British Government; and to myself personally he con-
stantly expresses the sense he entertains of the superior
qualities which the British nation possesses over every
other.
Five British transports arrived here this morning from
Savona, with about 750 volunteers of Napoleon's Guards,
his horses, and baggage.
To-day I informed General Bertrand that, in case either
Napoleon himself or others might ascribe any underhand
motive to my remaining here, I was ready to quit the
island at once, should such be his wish ; that I had only
remained after the other Commissioners in order to pro-
cure for him those facilities which he had requested,
through me, from the British Admiral.
After repeating my conversation to Napoleon, General
Bertrand was directed to assure me that my remaining
with him after the departure of the other Commissioners
was indispensable for his protection and security, in obe-
dience to Lord Castlereagh's instructions ; that even after
the arrival of his troops and baggage, there was another
article of the treaty not fulfilled, although guaranteed by
the Allied Sovereigns, and the execution of which depended
entirely upon His Britannic Majesty's ships in the Mediter-
ranean, viz. the security of his flag against insult from
the powers of Barbary ; that it would be necessary for
me to communicate with the Consul at Algiers and the
Admiral, as soon as possible, for that object. I requested
that he would address the application to me in writing,
and stated that I would prolong my stay in the hope of
receiving further instructions from Lord Castlereagh, not
having heard from his lordship since I left Fontainebleau.
May 27. — To-day I received the following note :
B
242 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
' Note adressee au Colonel Campbell par le Comte Bertrand.
' Le Colonel Campbell est prie de vouloir bien envoyer a
Alger le pavilion de Pile d'Elbe, en faisant connaitre au
Consul de S. M. britannique que les Puissances alliees se
sont engagees a faire respecter ce pavilion, et qu'il doit etre
traite par les Puissances barbaresques a 1'egal de celui de
la France.
* La presence du Colonel Campbell a Porto-Ferrajo
parait indispensable, vu la grande quantite de batiments
anglais de guerre, de transport et de commerce, qui vien-
nent mouiller dans 1'ile.
'A cette occasion je ne puis que re*iterer au Colonel
Campbell combien sa personne et sa presence sont agrea-
bles a I'Empereur Napoleon.3
(Signe) <LE COMTE BEETEAND.
• Porto-Ferrajo, 27e mai 1814.'
I at once despatched a copy of the above to Lord
Castlereagh, stating at the same time that I awaited his
lordship's commands in regard to the prolongation of my
stay.
Napoleon sometimes, in conversation with me, while
remarking on public affairs, throws off all restraint, and
expresses himself so openly as to leave no doubt of his
expecting that circumstances may yet call him to the
throne of France. He says that France is humiliated
even beyond what, in his opinion, the interest of the Allies
5 ' Colonel Campbell is requested bell at Porto Ferrajo appears indis-
to be good enough, to send to Algiers pensable, seeing the great number of
the flag of the island of Elba, in- English ships of war, of transport,
forming the Consul of His Britannic and of commerce, which come and
Majesty that the Allied Powers anchor in the island,
have engaged among themselves to f On this occasion I can only reite-
have that flag respected, and that rate to Colonel Campbell how much
it ought to be treated by the Bar- his person and his presence are
bary Powers upon an equality with agreeable to the Emperor Napo-
that of France. leon.'
' The presence of Colonel Camp-
CHAP. III. NAPOLEON'S MARSHALS. 243
should have prescribed; that more might have been left
to her with equal security towards her neighbours, and
without the risk of exasperating the people ; that the
family of the Bourbons will be driven out in six months,
on account of the disadvantageous treaty with Great
Britain. In addition, the minds of the people are very
unsettled. If a portion were for the Bourbons, it was only
the emigrants, and persons of ancient titles and property ;
while the greater number of the population and the whole
of the army are for himself. The Guards had received un-
equivocal proofs of this on the march, particularly at
Lyons, where 2,000 of the inhabitants came out to welcome
them. Napoleon certainly regrets that he gave up the
contest, and has almost declared to me that, had he known
the spirit and power of Augereau's army, and that its
exertions were only paralysed by the defection of that
Marshal, he would have joined it, and carried the war into
Italy.
However, his ties of esteem towards all his marshals
appear to have diminished. A few days ago he described
to me their respective good and bad qualities. St. Cyr and
Massena ranked highest in his list. He regretted that
he had not left his marshals unemployed (for they were
tired of war), and sought for younger chiefs among his
other generals and colonels : this, he said, was his ruin.
I have never seen a man in any situation of life with so
much personal activity and restless perseverance. He
appears to take so much pleasure in perpetual movement,
and in seeing those who accompany him sink under fatigue,
as has been the case on several occasions when I have
accompanied him. I do not think it possible for him to
sit down to study, on any pursuits of retirement, as pro-
claimed by him to be his intention, so long as his state of
health permits corporeal exercise. After being yesterday
on foot in the heat of the sun, from 5 A.M. to 3 P.M., visit-
ing the frigates and transports, and even going down to the
R 2
244 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
hold among the horses, he rode on horseback for three
hours, as he told me afterwards, ( pour se defatiguer ! '
These details show, that if opportunities for warfare upon
a great scale and for important objects do not present
themselves, he is likely to avail himself of any others, in
order to indulge this passion from mere recklessness. His
thoughts seeni to dwell perpetually upon the operations
of war.
Napoleon appears very anxious to know the extent of
the British forces reported to be lately sent against
America. When informed by an officer of the Navy, that
25,000 men were sent from Spain, he said that this must
be intended against Louisiana or Florida ; that he had
no doubt of a civil war in Spain, that her provinces in
South America would separate from her, and that these
would form a sort of barrier for Great Britain to prevent
the encroachments of the United States.
Upon landing here, Napoleon's plan was to prepare a
very large house in the town for his residence. He after-
wards changed to a very small one, requiring much less
labour, which he already inhabits. He has not made any
such arrangements as evince any expectation of his being
joined by Marie-Louise, nor has he mentioned her name
in any way.
The small island, called Pia Nosa, which Napoleon has
taken possession of, is about fifteen English miles south
of Elba, and has generally been considered a dependency of
it. There are no inhabitants at present, but Napoleon
means to place some upon it for the cultivation of grain,
with a small garrison to protect them against pirates.
May 28. — Went to sea with Captain James, of H. M.
brig ' Swallow/ in hopes of seeing Lord William Bentinck
and Admiral Sir Edward Pellew, as the latter had directed
him to look out for him near Porto Ferrajo in the beginning
of June, but unfortunately they passed on their way from
Genoa to Sicily without being seen by us.
CHAP. III. QUARANTINE. 245
May 29-31. — Upon my return to Porto Ferrajo, I found
at anchor the Neapolitan frigate, 'Letitia,' which had
arrived the day before with Napoleon's sister Pauline, wife
of Prince Borghese, and three persons of her household.
They had been forced to put into Villa Franca, near Nice,
soon after their departure from Frejus, and had come
direct from thence. After remaining for twenty-four hours
at Elba, they sailed for Naples. They were at pains to state
that the Neapolitan frigate had been sent by the Queen
of Naples of her own accord for her sister. Napoleon went
on board the frigate on her arrival, when he was received
with cries of 'Vive PEmpereur !' and the yards were manned.
June 1. — M. Ricci, who was formerly British vice-
consul at the port of Longono, under an appointment
from Mr. Davenport, consul-general at Naples, has lately
returned here, and has applied for permission to resume his
functions. He has produced unquestionable testimony
favourable to his character, as well as proof of his having
suffered oppression at the hands of the French Govern-
ment in consequence of the appointment he formerly held,
being thus reduced from affluence to poverty, with a nume-
rous family. After very minute inquiries relative to these
circumstances, I submitted his name to Lord Castlereagh
for the appointment of consul in the island of Elba.
June 2. — A British merchant- vessel from Malta, bound
to Leghorn, was captured by a privateer of Porto Ferrajo,
and brought in there on April 14. As soon as the com-
munications with Elba were opened after Napoleon's
arrival, the Board of Health at Leghorn applied to the
public authorities at Elba to send over the captured vessel
to perform quarantine. A lazaretto had been established
at Leghorn for many years, and it is one of the few places
where persons or property arriving from ports infected
with the plague can be purified. Instead of complying,
the cargo was disembarked, and placed in a retired part
of the fortifications close to the sea, under a guard. The
246 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
governor of Leghorn, General Spannochi, who is also pre-
sident of the Board of Health, accordingly put Elba into
a quarantine of twenty-five days, which still continues ; and
this has been followed by Genoa, Marseilles, and Corsica,
and probably by every other port of the Mediterranean.
After Corsica had put Elba in quarantine of ten days
in deference to Leghorn (as is the custom with all minor
places), Napoleon retaliated by laying the same upon Cor-
sica, but withdrew it in a few days. His alleged motive
was a fever which raged there, but of which no other
person ever heard.
Napoleon, a few days after his arrival here, at the
suggestion of some person devoid of reflection and infor-
mation, selected a spot in the harbour of Porto Ferrajo, in
an insulated position, and directed it to be immediately
prepared for a public lazaretto, alleging that vessels would
come there in preference to Leghorn to be purified by qua-
rantine, as the locality was so favourable ; that this would
occasion a great assemblage of vessels, and consequently
become a considerable source of revenue. He therefore
ascribes the measures pursued by Leghorn as arising from
jealousy of his projects, and from commercial intrigue. So
General Bertrand and he himself told me. And he per-
sists in refusing compliance with long-established practice,
although it cuts off his communication with every other
part of the world, except by clandestine means, to his own
loss and inconvenience, as well as that of every other
person in this island.
June 3. — At Napoleon's request I went to Leghorn in the
' Swallow ' brig, to convey an application from the Inten-
dant- General of Elba to the Board of Health. This I was
enabled to do under the usual precautions, without landing.
From their explanations and those of the British men-of-
war stationed there, I ascertained, to my perfect conviction,
that Napoleon's suspicions of commercial intrigue are
without the slightest foundation ; that it is against the
CHAP. HI. ANNIVERSARY OF KING'S BIRTHDAY. 247
interest of Leghorn to be deprived of open communication,
for the supplies of every kind required by Elba are de-
rived from thence. Leghorn too, being a mercantile town
of considerable importance, the credit given by every other
port in the world to the honour and probity of the Board
of Health is in proportion to that consequence. And
therefore Porto Ferrajo cannot vie with Leghorn until its
commercial importance becomes superior, and the laza-
retto shall be transferred there in accordance with the
unanimous opinion of the mercantile world. I did not
interfere in the question further than by affording the
means of communication between the two parties, and
ascertaining for my own information, from the best sources,
the real state of the case, which I candidly submitted to
Napoleon on my return.
Since that, General Bertrand has assured me that
Napoleon never interfered in the matter, leaving it to the
public authorities to act according to their judgment and
experience. This, I trust, may be considered as a proof of
his being inclined to concede.
June 4. — This being the anniversary of His Majesty's
birthday, it was celebrated by the two captains of the British
ships, ' Cura9oa ' and ' Swallow,' in the harbour of Porto
Ferrajo. A royal salute was fired, the yards were manned,
and three cheers given. The royal standard was hoisted on
the main, the flag of Louis XVIII. on the fore, and that of
Elba on the mizen. The French frigate ( Dryade,' which
was in. harbour for the purpose of conveying . General
d'Alhesme and the remainder of the garrison to France,
displayed the British ensign at the fore, and Napoleon's
brig did the same during the whole of the day. In the
evening a ball was given on board the ' Cura9oa,' where
Generals Bertrand, Drouot, and Cambronne, of Napoleon's
household, as well as the principal inhabitants, attended.
About nine at night, during the festivities, it was an-
nounced that Napoleon was approaching in his barge. He
248 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. HI
remained for an hour, and visited every part of the
ship.
June 5-12. — Napoleon continues in the same state of
perpetual movement, busy with constant schemes, none of
which, however, tend to ameliorate the condition of his
subjects. He has ordered several pieces of road to be im-
proved for the conveyance of his carriage, without any
other object, and new ones to be executed, limiting the
period to a particular hour by which they were to be
finished, and appropriating no funds for the payment of
the peasants who have been hastily assembled on the re-
quisition of the mayors.
He has even employed his own Guards, who came from
France, on fatigue duties, such as destroying houses for
the improvement of his own residence, and working upon
the pavement of the streets. This has given great dis-
gust.
He has demanded of the inhabitants to pay, in the course
of this month, the contributions from September 1, 1813,
to May 1, 1814. This has occasioned unusual outcry and
supplications, but without avail. Such is the poverty of
the inhabitants, that most of them will be obliged to sell
their houses, furniture, and clothing, in order to raise
money.
In riding lately near a village, I saw a collection of the
inhabitants insulting the tax-gatherer with shouting and
the sound of horns. He has been informed that he will be
again sent back very soon to levy the contributions, and
that 100 of the Guards are to accompany him, to live
upon the inhabitants at free quarters until the required
sum is paid.
Napoleon appears to become more unpopular on the
island every day, for every act seems guided by avarice
and a feeling of personal interest, with a total disregard
to that of others. The inhabitants perceive that none
of his schemes tend to ameliorate their situation, and
CHAP. III. M. PONS. 249
that while the blessings of peace have restored to their
neighbours commerce, a ready sale for the produce of
their labours, exemption from contributions and from
military service, they derive none of these advantages by
Napoleon's arrival among them. The cries of ' Yive 1'Em-
pereur ! ' are no longer heard, notwithstanding the study
to give popular effect to every movement, and the form-
ation of a court from among the principal inhabitants.
People exclaim against his oppression and injustice, — so
much so that if his restlessness is not tempered by more
discretion, nothing but tne military force of his Guards will
prevent the inhabitants from rising against him.
I am likewise of opinion, that even the attachment of
his Guards to him diminishes daily. They will soon tire
of having expatriated themselves ; and as all the officers
were confident of his being called to the throne of France
in a very few months, they perceive daily that there is less
prospect of realising the expectations formed upon these
grounds. One of the private soldiers some days ago said
in my hearing, upon being asked how he liked the island
of Elba, ' C'est un bon refuge pour un renard ;' another said
it was a desert ; a third, who was destined to go to the
uninhabited island of Pia Nosa with the first detachment,
said to me that, rather than remain there according to
Napoleon's scheme (marrying and cultivating a piece of
ground), he would blow his brains out. This expedition,
consisting of thirty men of the Guards and ten of the
Free Corps, was sent from Elba upon the 9th instant, with
several pieces of cannon, one mortar and ammunition, and
with fascines to form fortifications in case of an attack
from the Algerine pirates, which is to be apprehended.
M. Pons, a Frenchman, who formerly served in the
army as a chef de bataillon, has for some years past held
the management of the iron mines in Elba,6 the produce
6 <llva
An isle renowned for steel and unexhausted mines.'
Dryden's VirgiTs JEneid, x. — ED.
250 . SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
of which netted annually to Government about 350,000
livres. His appointment, his character, and talents justly
entitled him to the first consideration in the island. He
paid every tribute of respect to Napoleon upon his ar-
rival, and having a wife and children, it was his inten-
tion to have remained in the administration of the mines
until the state of France was more established. But he is
so disgusted with Napoleon's proceedings, that he now
intends to return at once.
Napoleon applied to M. Pons for payment of money
derived from the mines previous to his arrival. This
demand was evaded, then declined, and afterwards peremp-
torily refused. The conversation became so loud that it was
heard in the adjoining rooms. At length M. Pons told
him : ' Sire, cet argent n'est pas a ma disposition ; il ap-
partient a la France, et trois cent mille baionnettes ne
me forceront pas de le rendre en d'autres mains.'7
The poor peasants employed at the mines work until
midday, and, having small wages, are allowed patches of
ground, which they cultivate for the rest of the day upon
their own account. Napoleon wished to employ them upon
the roads after their labour in the mines was finished.
This M. Pons refused to allow, although repeatedly urged.
Napoleon gave orders to send a vessel with iron ore to
the United States of America, but this has not been exe-
cuted. What renders the proposition more absurd is, that
it is not iron which is exported from Elba, but the ore
precisely in its original state. There are no furnaces for
extracting and fabricating the iron, on account of the want
of fuel. The wages of all the superintendents of the mines,
as well as of many other persons holding inferior appoint-
ments in the island, have been reduced one-fourth, without
any regard to age or other circumstances.
7 l Sire, this money is not at my shall not force me to give it into
disposal ; it belongs to France, and other hands.'
three hundred thousand bayonets
CHAP. III. GENERAL DKOUOT. 251
As the whole of the island was in revolt against the
Government of France previously to Napoleon's arrival,
M. Pons removed his wife and family to Porto Ferrajo,
within the fortifications. Upon their return lately to
their residence at the mines, the workmen and others met
them in procession, strewed the road with flowers, and
accompanied M. Pons to his house, which had been care-
fully preserved during his absence. This was reported to
Napoleon, who sneeringly took notice of it the first time
he saw M. Pons, and told him, ' Yous avez ete re9u
comme monarque.'8 The other replied, 'Comme pere,
Sire.'9 About the same time Napoleon received M. Pons
and his wife to dinner, as he has done lately a few
of the principal inhabitants. Madame Pons being in
mourning, he inquired for whom she wore that dress.
Being told for a parent, he laughed and said, ' Celles sont
de belles choses.' l
All these circumstances were related to me by M. Pons
himself, or derived from other sources ; and I have every
reason to credit them. I notice them as tending to throw
light upon the character and conduct of this extraordinary
man in his new situation, which do not seem to have
altered the least by a change of circumstances. The more
he is brought upon a level with others, and the more the
opportunities of observing him, the more unfavourably
does he appear.
General Drouot, a man of talent and merit,2 who com-
manded the artillery of the Guards, and accompanied
Napoleon here, applied some time ago for leave to resign
8 ' You have been received like a nied him in his escape. — ED.
monarch.' 3 It is related of Drouot that
9 ' As a father, Sire.' f he always carried a bible with
1 ' Those are fine things.' him. It was on his person in battle,
Napoleon, however, must even- and the reading of it constituted his
tually have succeeded in attaching chief delight. He made no secret
M. Pons to his interests, as the of this among the staff of the Em-
name will be observed amongst peror, which showed more courage
those of the persons who accompa- than to face a battery.'— ED.
252 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
the situation of governor, to which he was appointed
on his arrival, stating in his letter that he had followed
him to his retreat merely from attachment, that his in-
come was sufficient without the emoluments of governor,
and that he was desirous of prosecuting his studies. This
desire has been refused, on account of which and his
disapproval of the way in which matters are carried
on, it is his intention to make some pretext soon for
going to France. Several of Napoleon's servants have
already returned to France, disgusted with the island and
with their treatment. M. Pellard, the principal valet
de chambre, has also left this ; but as it was on good
terms, with the promise of returning again, he may perhaps
have been sent on some mission to Paris, which he told
me was his destination. M. Gatte, apothecary to Napo-
leon, who accompanied us from Fontainebleau to Elba,
has lately disappeared. They give out that he went to
Leghorn in quarantine to purchase medicines. I shall
probably be able to ascertain this.
The organisation of the military force does not keep
pace with Napoleon's wishes. Most of the Free Corps
of the island have either sold or lost their arms, accou-
trements, and clothing ; and very few have come forward
to serve since the first inspection, upon which occasion the
new terms of service were made known to them. About
thirty or forty officers of the French garrison, belonging
to the 35th Regiment of Infantry and the 3rd Regiment
of Etrangers, have remained here in consequence of offers
of service from Napoleon. Since their comrades left, they
have been informed that they must go to Italy, or the
islands adjoining, to obtain recruits, otherwise that their
pay will be stopped. Some of them, who are natives of
Corsica, have already gone there. Of this I have given
information to General Montresor.
June 13. — General Bertrand showed me, in one of
the French journals, a paragraph, wherein it was stated
CHAP. HI. STATISTICS OF ELBA. 253
that the rank of colonel on the Continent and in Elba has
been conferred upon me. I am induced to believe that
this may have been copied from the ' London Gazette,' and
that therefore my remaining here is the pleasure of the
Prince Regent, although I have not received any orders to
that effect. General Bertrand remarked at the same time,
that the appointment would be very agreeable to Napo-
leon, who continues to show it by his civilities and marks
of attention.
STATISTICS RELATING TO THE ISLAND OF ELBA.
I. STATE OF THE REVENUE.
1. Administration of tJie Mines.
The only mine which is wrought in the island is one of iron
at Bio, opposite to the coast of Italy. This is managed by an
administrator, who directs the whole establishment, a treasurer,
two storekeepers, and four superintendents of the workmen.
This is the most valuable source of revenue in Elba, and it
nets annually the sum of 500,000 francs.
The emoluments of the persons employed are as follows :
The administrator, 15,000 francs a year, and 6,000 francs for
his table, on account of expenses from travellers.
The treasurer, 4,000 francs. The two storekeepers, 1,000 francs
each.
The four superintendents, 900 francs each, a year.
The other expenses consist of the wages of the workmen, who
dig out the iron, and transport it to the sea, for which there are
employed 400 men, with 100 horses and oxen. These workmen
receive daily 1 franc 20 centimes. They labour from daylight
till midday. The rest of the day is at their own disposal, and
they employ it in tilling small patches of ground appropriated
to their vines and vegetables. Napoleon wished to curtail this
time. There are likewise 40 invalids, either superannuated, or who
have been disabled at the mines. These have wages and ground,
equally as if in active employment.
Loadstone is found in some parts.
254 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
2. Tunny Fisheries.
There are two fisheries of the tunny, one in Porto Ferrajo,
the other near Marchiana. These net annually 24,000 francs.
3. Salt Ponds.
The only salt ponds now in use are at Porto Ferrajo. These
net annually 50,000 francs. Those at Longono have not been
permitted for many years, in consequence of the insalubrity pro-
duced by them ; but Napoleon has ordered them to be re-esta-
blished.
4. Contributions directes.
This is a tax paid upon the productions of the soil by every
inhabitant, chiefly upon wine and oil. It nets about 25,000 francs
annually. The person who levies this duty receives two per
cent upon the whole sum which he collects.
5. Droits d' Enregistrement et du Timbre.
This source of revenue yields annually about 30,000 francs,
and consists of sums paid for all acts and transactions which are
rendered valid by a public registrar.
6. Administration sanitaire. (Administration of Health.)
This administration is under the direction of the intendant of
the island, formerly called sous-prefet. In each port there are
two deputies, who collect from all vessels a fixed sum, according
to their tonnage. This tax nets about 15,000 francs.
7. Productions.
The chief productions are wine and fruits, which are cultivated
in the valleys, and on the lower slopes of the hills, for the upper
parts are incapable of cultivation, being rocky, with very little
soil of a poor quality. The produce in wine is, at an average,
about 150,000 barrels yearly, each barrel weighing about 120 Ibs. .
Tuscan of liquid, but too delicate for foreign exportation.
II. ADMINISTRATION.
Previously to the arrival of Napoleon, the island was con-
sidered an arrondissement or district, directed by a sous-prefet,
who superintended the administration, and the execution of all
laws. There was a council which regulated the contributions.
CHAP. III. STATISTICS OF ELBA. 255
The sous-prefet's salary was 4,000 francs annually. Since the
arrival of Napoleon, the sous-prefet assumes the title of in-
tendant- general.
III. JURISDICTION.
There is a tribunal composed of a president, a procureur im-
perial, and two judges. The salaries of the two former are
3,000 francs a year, and of the two latter 2,000 francs each.
IV. MILITARY FORCE.
The Imperial Guards, who volunteered to accompany Na-
poleon from France, consist of about 600 infantry, with officers
in proportion.
There is also a battalion composed of inhabitants of Elba,
formed into five companies of 80 men each, including officers, or
400 in all. Their pay is understood to be as follows :
Chef de Bataillon ..... 2,000 francs a year.
Capitaine 1,200 „
Lieutenant 1,000 „
Sous-Lieutenant ..... 900 „
There are several officers at Longono engaged in the formation
of this battalion. They are chiefly Corsicans. Five of them left
Longono on June 6, for Corsica, to procure recruits. Their
names are, Salerni (Captain), Moltedo (Lieutenant), Gabrielli
(Lieutenant), Caviglioli (Lieutenant), Bestorien (Sub-Lieu-
tenant) .
The corps is to be completed to 1,000 men.
ABSTRACT.
Revenue : Francs.
Iron Mines 500,000
Tunny Fisheries 24,000
Direct Contributions 25,000
Kegisters 30,000
Administration of Health 15,000
Salt Ponds 50,000
Total revenue . . . 644,000
256
SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. III.
To be deducted for Public Charges : Franca.
Salary of Intendant-General ..... 4,000
„ President, Procureur, &c 10,000
Free battalion (without men) : Francs.
Chief 2,000
5 Captains at 1,200 francs . . 6,000
5 Lieutenants at 1,000 „ . 5,000
5 Sous-Lieutenants at 900 „ . . . 4,500
Total expenses
17,500
31,500
If the battalion is increased to 1,000 men :
Double the pay of officers 17,500
Pay of 1 ,500 men, (in round numbers, including the
Guards,) •with rations, but without clothing . . 1,095,000
Total .... 1,144,000
The pay of the Guards is 30 sous, or 1^ franc a day, and,
with bread, say in all, 2 francs.
In the preceding estimate, the pay of three Generals, and all
the officers of the Guards, the chamberlains of the household,
&c., are not included.
CHAP. IV. VISIT TO FLORENCE.
CHAPTEE IV.
FLORENCE— COUNT STAHREMBERG — ROME — INTERVIEWS WITH THE
POPE — RETURNS TO LEGHORN — DISCOVERY OF NAPOLEON'S SECRET
AGENTS — ESCORTS MADAME MERE AND SUITE TO ELBA.
JUNE 30. — Florence. Having obtained an opportunity of
evading the quarantine, I thought it advisable to come to
Leghorn, and then to this place, in order to establish an
acquaintance with Mr. Grant, the late British Vice-consul,
and Mr. Felton acting pro tempore, for the security at once
of my correspondence and for information.
I have likewise made a short detour to the baths of
Lucca, on account of increasing deafness and general de-
rangement of health, caused by the wounds in my head
and back. Of late I have had an immensity of correspond-
ence in a public way, keeping my journal to assist my
memory, writing my despatches, and taking copies of them,
obtaining information from a variety of parties in Italy.
I have no one to assist me, and when I write long, there is
a wearisome feeling which becomes very unpleasant, from
the muscles in my back not having yet acquired their tone.
This tour to Florence and Rome will relieve my mind, and
prove a very acceptable release from the sultry confinement
of Elba, besides assisting me in my public duties, which
luckily do not require my banishing myself entirely in that
island.
After establishing Napoleon there, according to Lord
Castlereagh's instructions, I have still considered it my
duty to prolong my stay, in order to judge of his inten-
tions, and not to quit Elba until directed by His Majesty's
Ministers. Besides, my remaining is in compliance with
258 Sill NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
Napoleon's own request, communicated to me both verbally
and by means of a formal note from Count Bertrand.
Various constructions, I find, have been attached by the
agents of the different Governments in Italy to my con-
tinuing at Elba after the other Commissioners. The evi-
dent restlessness of Napoleon's disposition, his plans for
sending out officers to various parts of Italy in order to
recruit soldiers clandestinely, there being no British
Minister in Italy, and indeed scarcely a public and recog-
nised agent between Vienna and Sicily, — all this made me
anxious to compare my suspicions with what information
I could obtain on the Continent.
My visit here has gained me important advantages,
more particularly with respect to General Count Stahrem-
berg, of the Austrian service, who commands all the mili-
tary force of Tuscany, Lucca, Piombino, &c., and who is also
civil governor of all the country except Tuscany. I have
found him extremely frank and perfectly unreserved. He
showed me the reports which are regularly transmitted to
him from Elba, so that my absence is of less consequence.
He has also promised to write me if there is any particular
occurrence within his command, connected with Napoleon,
after my return to Elba.
The Princess Eliza and her husband General Bacchiochi,
in evacuating their possessions, carried off most of the
plate and furniture from several of the palaces. These
were already on the road to Bologna, whither the entire
family had fled, when Count Stahremberg, on his first
arrival, ordered the whole to be transported back to this
place, in order that the articles might be examined, ve-
rified, and restored to the several palaces, as might bo
found most just, to await the coming of the Grand Duke
Ferdinand. After several letters had been written by the
Princess Eliza, she likewise called to her aid the well-
known Marquis Lucchesini,1 formerly Minister of the King
1 'It is said that the first idea the breast of Napoleon on wit-
of the Legion of Honour arose in nessiug one day, from a window at
CHAP. IV. PRINCESS ELIZA. 259
of Prussia, but finding all of no avail, she set off from
Bologna to Vienna in order to see the Emperor of Austria.
When within three posts she was prevented from proceed-
ing on her journey, and it is said she is gone to Gratz in
Styria to visit her brother. Marshal Bellegarde was much
surprised and displeased when he was informed by the
Austrian General commanding at Bologna that he had
permitted her to go towards Vienna. His excuse was a
letter from the Empress Marie-Louise to the Princess Eliza,
inviting her, which the latter showed. The discarded
favourites of the Bacchiochi family, who are scattered over
Italy, triumphed over the other party, and gave out that
the princess had been sent for by the Emperor of Austria
to treat for an indemnification. At the head of the Bac-
chiochi party is the Marquis Lucchesini, who returned to
Lucca, the place of his nativity, after quitting Prussia
several years ago, and attached himself upon the most
intimate terms to the household of that family. His son,
a favourite of the Princess Eliza, accompanied her to
Bologna.
' Napoleon carries on a constant correspondence with his
sister Eliza, as well as with Naples. Count Meyer, the
Austrian Minister at Naples, lately sent to Count Stahrem-
berg a letter from the Queen of Naples, and one from her
sister the Princess Pauline, addressed to Napoleon, which
they had requested him to forward. They were opened by
the Count, and then sent on to their destination. They
contained nothing worthy of remark, but the Count is
convinced they were sent merely to blind their other corre -
spondence, carried on through more direct and clandes-
tine channels. Two couriers have for some time past
been stationed by Napoleon at Piombino. They receive
the Tuileries, the admiration with sador of Prussia, as he descended
which the crowd before the Palace from his carriage.' — Lockhart's Life
regarded the stars and crosses worn of Napoleon, vol. i. ch. xvii. — ED.
by the Marquis Lucchesini, ambas-
s 2
260 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
his letter-bag separately from the other sent over in the
packet-boat from Elba. These couriers carry his letters
to Leghorn, where his agent transmits them to their
various destinations. The Count has ordered that in future
Napoleon's letters shall be received by the postmaster at
Piombino only, and by him transmitted to the postmaster
at Leghorn, where no doubt they will receive that inspection
which is made no secret of here !
The reports from Elba since my departure state that
Napoleon continues the same sort of life as before, engaged
in perpetual exercise, and busy with projects of building,
which, however, are not put into execution. Many artists
have been flattered by expectations of employment, and
have gone over from Italy to Elba, but are now starving
in quarantine. It is said Napoleon wishes to change the
name of Porto Ferrajo to Cosmopoli, City of the World;
an equivocal use of the ancient name Cosimopoli, so called
after Cosimo, one of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany.
Count Stahremberg informed me that Murat keeps up
the most active military preparations, and that he has
certainly increased his army by more than 15,000 men
since his return to Naples. He has several persons em-
ployed to induce the Austrians to desert, but although the
fact is certain, the proof is not yet suflicient to detect
these agents. A non-commissioned officer and fifteen
privates, Austrians, lately deserted to him from Rome.
Officers non-commissioned, and soldiers from France, Pied-
mont, and Italy, as well as other adventurers, are con-
stantly passing through this place to join his army.
The public spirit in this part of Italy is not tranquil ;
for, notwithstanding there was an universal and violent
dislike to the government of Bonaparte, the people view
it now, when past, with less horror. In these States
there was always an exemption from conscription ; and
besides, in consequence of ecclesiastical power having re-
turned with the new order of things, many other impedi-
CHAP. IV. STATE OF ITALY, 261
ments to the equal exercise of talent and privilege have
been raised up. The civil governor of Tuscany is Prince
Rospigliosi, a man of respectable talents and excellent
private character, who was formerly chamberlain to the
Grand Duke Ferdinand, but without experience in govern-
ment and a bigot, a slave to religious ceremonies, and
surrounded by priests. His system is to establish every
regulation and institution which existed in the time of
the Grand Duke, upsetting at the same time all changes
which were introduced by the Queen of Etruria as well
as by the Princess Eliza.2 No provision is made for those
who are removed from their situations. The Museum
of Natural History, which was a private collection in the
time of Ferdinand, received under the Queen of Etruria
four professors to give lectures and instruction. These
have received their dismissal, and no successors are to be
appointed.
Priests and ecclesiastics of all descriptions have nocked
here to resume their ancient customs, and claim their
property. There are religious processions, church festivals
and illuminations, three or four times a week, during which
no labour is performed. One church contained 7,000 wax-
candles of eighteen inches each in length. All orders and
ages are mixed together in the crowds which throng the
streets, the greater part of whom, however, attend for pur-
poses of curiosity and intrigue. The works of Machia-
velli and of several other writers, which were formerly
considered improper for circulation, are again subjected to
the same restrictions, and forbidden to be sold. Masonic
* The kingdom of Etruria was Don Louis having died in the mean-
carved by Napoleon, after the time, the Queen of Etruria and her
Treaty of Luneville, February 1801, son were expelled by order of Napo-
out of the Grand Duchy of Tus- leon, and the restored Grand Duchy
cany, and bestowed upon Don of Tuscany was given by him to
Louis, eldest son of the Duke of his eldest sister, the Princess Eliza,
Parma, who had married the In- wife of General Bacchiochi, in ad-
fanta Maria Louisa, daughter of dition to those of Lucca arid Piom-
Charles IV. of Spain. In 1807, bino.— ED.
262 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
meetings are prohibited. The masters of the different
eating-houses are directed to register the names of all
such inhabitants as eat articles of food forbidden on certain
days by the Roman Catholic religion. All this is criticised
and disliked by the greater part of the people, who remark
at the same time that the imposts are not diminished,
notwithstanding the peace and the general expectations
thereby excited.
The Austrians do not appear to be well liked by the
Italians, and reports are constantly set afloat with regard
to the neighbouring kingdom of Naples, as well as other
parts of the country, which tend to prevent confidence and
tranquillity. Thus it is said, that Napoleon is to possess
Sardinia as a sovereignty ; that the Allied Sovereigns have
agreed to restore to the Princess Eliza and the Bacchiochi
family all their palaces and places of residence at Lucca ;
that large bodies of Austrian troops are marching in this
direction from the northward, supposed to be directed
against Murat ; that the British and the Sicilians are im-
mediately to unite with them in an attack upon Naples.
I propose to mention these matters in my next despatch
to Lord Castlereagh, for although they are foreign to my
mission, yet as there is no person accredited by His Ma-
jesty's Government in this part of Europe, I think it my
duty to state to his lordship all information connected
with public affairs which comes within my own know-
ledge. To obtain this, with the opportunity also of es-
caping from quarantine, was one of my motives for absent-
ing myself for a short time from Elba, and will, 1 trust,
appear justifiable in his lordship's eyes. The period of
quarantine to be performed by vessels from Elba to Leg-
horn is now reduced to fifteen days.
I am also in daily hopes of receiving instructions from
Lord Castlereagh, containing his pleasure as to my re-
maining at Elba agreeably to Napoleon's wish.
July 1. — To-day I met, at the Countess of /.Ibany's,
CHAP. IV. MARQUIS LUCCHES1NI. 263
witli Lucchesini, formerly friend of Frederick the Great
of Prussia, and afterwards minister to the present King.
He retired to Lucca after the campaign of Jena, whether
of his own accord, or driven away by the King for in-
sincerity, I know not. He then became the chief director
of the household of the Princess Eliza. The Swedish
Consul proposed to introduce him to me, but I declined.
Countess Albany is the widow of the Pretender, and
resides here entirely. She is a charming, clever old lady,
and receives the best company for conversation every
evening.
July 2-10. — Again met, at Countess Albany's, Marquis
Lucchesini and his wife. He placed himself close to me,
and then entered into conversation about Napoleon. He
did not express any kindness towards him ; observed that
he was great in a battle, and, wherever he went with his
troops, that point would be carried, but that in other ways
there were many men more capable.
He related to me the circumstances respecting the exile
of General Grouchy from Paris. One day at court he re-
presented to the Duke de Berri the hardship of depriving
himself and the other colonels of the different arms of
their appointments. The Duke told him, that although
the titles of colonel were given to himself and the other
Princes of the Blood, yet he (Grouchy) and the other in-
spectors-general would be the executive persons, and enjoy
all the patronage and direction. During this conversation
Marshal Marmont happened to approach, and joined in the
remarks made by the Duke de Berri. General Grouchy told
him pointedly, that he did not address himself to him.
Marmont, however, continued in the same strain ; on which
General Grouchy repeated his observations, adding, ' Je
vous ai deja dit, ce n'est pas a vous que je m'adresse — vons
qui avez le mepris de toute Parmee ! '3 An officer was there-
3 ' I have told you already, it is — you that have the contempt of the
not to you I am addressing myself whole army.'.
264 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV,
upon sent from the King to inform General Grouchy, that
he must know that, after the conversation which had passed,
it was impossible for him to appear again at court, and
therefore that he ought to quit Paris. He told the officer
that this was not necessary in order to prevent a meeting
between himself and Marmon't : ' Car ce n'est pas avec lui,
avec tel que le Marechal Marmont, qu'on se rencontre.' 4
Lucchesini appears about fifty, a thin man, about five
feet nine inches in height, with a remarkably keen eye
and acute physiognomy. His wife, a Prussian, is a very
majestic, fine-looking woman, apparently striving to show
her dignity from fear that circumstances may have dimi-
nished it. Lucchesini told a friend of mine that it gave
him great pleasure to hear that the conduct of the Prus-
sian army was so extolled by me.
Count Stahremberg had a parade of the troops, with
a Te Deuni. After the parade they were formed into
a square, and he desired one of the Hungarian officers to
address them with regard to their services and conduct.
On the conclusion of this harangue, he gave out a cheer
for the Emperor of Austria, and then, by way of com-
pliment, one for England.
In the evening there was a ball, in the course of which
Count Stahremberg received a despatch by courier from
Vienna, acquainting him that the Emperor had ordered
away the Princess Eliza when close to that city, and that
she was gone to Gratz in Styria.
The Swedish Consul here told me that he had seen a
letter written by Prince Metternich from Paris to the
Princess Eliza in the strongest terms of kindness, and
assuring her of the Emperor of Austria's protection. The
contents were studiously propagated by her friends.
General Boulaschoff, of the Eussian service, has arrived
here from Naples on his way to Milan. Count Stahrem-
4 ' It is not with him, with such as the Marshal Marmont, that one can
have a meeting.'
CHAP. IV. NAPOLEON GENEALOGY. 265
berg told me he was going there in hopes to obtain
from Marshal Bellegarde certain information, where a
despatch would reach the Emperor Alexander. He was
with Murat during the last campaign, and was directed to
sign the treaty on the part of the Emperor of Eussia, as
soon as he should be convinced of his sincerity. He had
hitherto evaded it, not being satisfied with the part which
Murat had acted; and being now pressed by Murat's
Ministers, he had found therein an additional reason for
quitting Naples. He has left a General Tully to see what
goes on. General Stahremberg himself is convinced of
Murat's treachery ; for, as soon as the Allies were unsuc-
cessful in February last, he would not advance, and fre-
quently sent officers privately to the Viceroy.
Prince Corsini has been sent for by the Grand Duke,
and is ordered to proceed to Vienna immediately. He
is a man much looked up to by his countrymen for his
talents, and was formerly Conseiller d'Etat at Paris.
Prince Molliterno Pignatelli, who accompanied the Queen
of Sicily when she left that island, arrived here some days
ago, and has since gone to Rome.
I met a gentleman in society here, who told me he
was secretary to the Mayor of (I could not catch
the name), a small town near Florence, from whence
the family of Bonaparte originated. Some years ago he
occupied himself in forming a genealogical tree of them.
He found that they were sprung from an ancient and
noble family, but which was afterwards subdivided into
several branches, and became much reduced in circum-
stances. One of Napoleon's ancestors transferred himself
to Corsica. This gentleman had reference made to the
registers there, in order to complete the tree, and he found
Napoleon's name inserted as Nicholas-Charles-Baptiste
Napoleon. He presented this tree to the Princess Eliza,
but received no remuneration.
Two of Captain Usher's officers came here, and called
2GG SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
upon the Commandant, desiring to know where the
Empress Marie-Louise was. They stated that the ' Un-
daunted' had arrived at Leghorn for the purpose of
conveying her from the coast to Elba. The same in-
formation was conveyed by the officers on board to Count
Stahremberg, who wrote to me to express his surprise, as
he knew nothing of it, and at the same time his chagrin,
that such reports should be thereby propagated through
Italy. I questioned the Admiral, who was at this time at
Florence, about the matter. He appeared to have given
permission to Captain Usher to receive the Empress on
board if she came, but he was himself without any orders
or information on the subject. After their return to Leg-
horn, Captain Coghlan wrote to me that the 'Alcmene'
would, he believed, be appointed to that duty, as Captain
Usher was going home ; and he requested me to notify
this to Count Bertrand.
July 11. — Arrived at Rome. Pursuing my intentions
of seeing the different persons employed by His Majesty's
Government in the vicinity of Elba, for the purpose of
establishing secure and confidential communication with
them, I came here to meet Mr. Fagan, who is employed
by Lord William Bentinck. Previously to this I was afraid
of entertaining unfair suspicions, and of ascribing more
importance to Napoleon's restless activity than it might
deserve. As his schemes begin to connect themselves so
openly with the neighbouring continent, and my informa-
tion from Elba is so very detailed and correct, I think the
spirit of my duties will for the present be better fulfilled
by not shutting myself up in quarantine. Lord Exmouth,
the Admiral commanding in the Mediterranean, has, for
the purposes of my mission, been pleased to attach to the
Elba station His Majesty's brig ' Swallow,' which enables
me to communicate with all parts, and I propose to proceed
to Sicily for a few days, to give Lord William Bentinck all
the information in my power, and to benefit by his counsel
as to my future proceedings.
CHAP. IV. ROME. 267
Lucien Bonaparte, the brother of Napoleon, resides in
this city, and Cardinal Fesch is now at his palace in
company with his sister, Madame Mere. The latter, I
understand, is not out of favour, but performs all his
ecclesiastical functions.
Cardinal Mauri was refused an audience of the Pope,
notwithstanding repeated applications ; and then, after re-
maining here a short time, went off without leave or any
kind of notification to His Holiness.
July 12. — Found here General Montresor, who had ar-
rived some days before. He was brought from Corsica to
Civita Vecchia by Captain Tower, of H.M.S. 'Cura9oa,'
having touched at Elba and remained there one day.
Captain Tower carried despatches from Napoleon to Ma-
dame Letitia, with a request that she should go in the
* Cura9oa ' to Elba. He then proceeded by land to Naples,
where he rejoined his ship, which had gone round from
Civita Vecchia. Captain Tower visited the court of Murat,
and was at an evening party. He is expected daily at
Rome, in order to accompany Madame Letitia to Civita
Vecchia, and from thence convey her in his frigate to Elba.
July 13. — Went to Civita Vecchia, forty-nine miles dis-
tant from Rome, for the purpose of seeing Captain James,
of His Majesty's brig ( Swallow.'
July 14. — Returned to Rome at 5 P.M.
Captain James informs me that the sergeant-major of
Napoleon's Guards had deserted from Elba to the Con-
tinent, carrying with him 3,000 francs, the chest of the
corps ; that M. Fayade had gone to sea lately, in the
direction of Pia Nosa, when a firing was heard near that,
and it was said that he had been taken by the Algerines ;
that, soon after the French troops arrived from Toulon in
Corsica, a party of them carried off two vessels by stealth,
and deserted to Elba.
Upon one occasion of Captain James's return to Elba
from the Continent, General Bertrand asked for ' Colonel
Campbell.' When told that I was travelling in Italy, but
268 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
would be back soon, he immediately began to inform Cap-
tain James that he had had a great dispute (bataille) with
the Emperor, and shut the door, but he was interrupted.
July 15. — Went to the palace of the Quirinal in com-
pany with Mr. Fagan. We were first led into a waiting-
room, where were collected a few ecclesiastics. The door
of the adjoining room was opened, upon which two of
these gentlemen desired us to walk in, and accompanied
us. The Pope5 rose from his chair. We approached
bowing, and he too advanced; then held out his hand,
but with great modesty, while we bent down as if to kiss
it. He has a very placid kindly countenance, but is ap-
parently very feeble. He was dressed in a long white
dress, like a robe de chambre, tied round the waist. He
expressed (in Italian) great pleasure at seeing us, and
then, after a few questions as to where we were from, and
where we were going, went on to express great uneasiness
at Bonaparte being so near Italy. We took our leave
bowing low, and he escorted us a few paces.
July 16. — The King, Charles IV., and Queen of Spain,
the Queen of Etruria, and the Prince of Peace, are in this
city, where they have resided for some time. I sent my
card to the Grand Chamberlain.
July 17 and 18. — The variety of interests in Italy, the
weakness of the Government in the Roman States, the
unsettled condition of the kingdom of Naples, the vicinity
of Elba to the Continent, which forms the residence of
several members of Bonaparte's family — all these various
circumstances keep up a ferment, and occasion a concourse
of Bonaparte's partisans and other adventurers to this
part of the world. This increases every day, and all
possible means are taken to disseminate the idea of Bona-
parte's future return to influence and power, so that the
5 Detained a prisoner at Fon- but it was not until after Napoleon's
tainebleau ever since 1809, Pius VII. abdication that he was actually re-
had been released in January 1813, stored to his own dominions. — ED.
CHAP. IV. VISIT TO CARDINAL FESCII. 269
impression becomes only too general. Various parties of
recruits have been sent over to Elba from Italy, and a
whole family have been arrested in Leghorn, who had in
their possession two lists of men ready to serve Napoleon,
to the number of 300 on each.
Having received much confidential and useful informa-
tion from Count Stahremberg, I have, with a reciprocal
view, given him the names of the Italian officers who have
passed over to Elba.
Mr. Fagan informs me that the Neapolitan troops still
occupy the marches of Ancona, notwithstanding various
representations for their removal have been made by the
Pope, and commit the greatest possible excesses. They
lately marched from 15,000 to 20,000 men to another
point of the frontier of the Roman States, but suddenly
halted without transgressing the line.
July 19. — Visited Cardinal Fesch, and told him that, as
I was returning to Elba, I should be happy to convey to
Napoleon any letters from himself or Madame Mere. He
told me that his sister had arranged her journey by land
to the coast of Italy at a point nearest Elba, when Cap-
tain Tower arrived, and of himself offered to carry herself,
her suite, and all her baggage, adding that he would give
her two days' notice. The Cardinal said he had recom-
mended her to accept the offer. I told him I was persuaded
Captain Tower had acted with good intentions, but with-
out reflection; for there were regulations in the Navy,
that no foreigners could be conveyed in His Majesty's
ships without regular applications and permission from,
those of superior authority. Besides, the brig attached to
the Elba station had left orders for him to proceed imme-
diately to join the Admiral, and then proceed to England.
July 20. — Waited upon the Pope, for the purpose of
presenting Captain James of His Majesty's ship ' Swal-
low.' He received us in bed, sitting up with a pillow
behind his back, although he had sent to all the Ministers
270 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
to notify that his indisposition would prevent him. from
seeing anyone. He spoke with uneasiness of Bonaparte
being so near the coast of Italy, but expressed great ad-
miration of England for the steady and consistent policy
she had pursued. Notwithstanding his apprehensions of
Napoleon and Murat, he placed all his confidence in our Go-
vernment. He asked whether I had heard any news from
Paris respecting Talleyrand. When 1 replied in the nega-
tive, he said he was disgraced, and that he was very sorry
to hear it. I found afterwards that he had received a
despatch from Cardinal Consalvi at Paris in seven days.
Two days ago a courier passed through here on his way
from Paris to Murat. He called himself secretary of the
Queen.
June 21. — There have arrived here the Duke of Filan-
gieri, going to Paris on a mission from Murat, and the
Duke of , who gives out that he is deputed to attend
the Congress at Vienna. The former belongs to the
household, and is a general of brigade. The latter is a
general of division, who was out of favour with Joseph on
account of his attachment to Ferdinand, but afterwards
entered into Murat's service, and went to Eussia, where
he lost several of his toes and fingers by frost.
Lucien Bonaparte has applied to the Pope for the title
of Prince of Canino. He pays evening visits, and leaves
cards simply as ' Luciano Bonaparte.' Louis Bonaparte is
expected here about August 10, and intends likewise to
settle at Rome.
July 22. — Went from Rome to Civita Vecchia.
July 23. — Sailed in His Majesty's brig ' Swallow.'
July 25. — Touched at Elba, and saw General Bertrand,
who asked me to remain for twenty-four hours; but I
could not land on account of the quarantine.
A person called Ludovico Ennis showed me a passport
from Lord William Beiitinck, to enable him to go to
Genoa. In the body of the passport he is called Vice-
CHAP. IV. MADAME MERE. 271
consul at the island of Elba. He had announced himself
as such at Porto Ferrajo. I recommended him to proceed
to his destination, unless he had powers to show in addi-
tion to his passport !
A Polish officer stated to M. Eicci at Longono, some
days ago, that, after he was released from prison in Aus-
tria, he went to see the Empress Marie-Louise, having a
secret rendezvous with her. He then received letters
from her, the Empress of Austria, and the young King of
Rome for Napoleon, and also a nut from the Archduke
Charles containing a ribbon. Couriers were sent after
him to Milan, where he was apprehended and searched,
but he had hidden the letters in his boot, and the nut was
covered like a ball of silk. He says he is to be sent away
from Elba soon with despatches. The Pole must vaunt
these falsehoods to give himself consequence. The Em-
press of Austria and Marie-Louise, as is well known, are
not on terms, and therefore could not be together.
About two weeks ago the curates in the different
churches notified that the contributions which were de-
manded some time ago ought to be paid before the first
of August. This created great disturbances, even in the
churches, and a great number of persons have in conse-
quence been apprehended. The Grand Vicaire is a near
relation of Narpoleon's.
July 26-28. — Landed at Leghorn, and remained there
to await the expected arrival of Madame Mere.
July 29. — Arrived Madame Mere and suite in two car-
riages, with six horses to each. She came from Rome,
and travelled under the name of Madame Dupont, accom-
panied by M. Colonna, lately Prefet at Naples, which office,
however, as a Frenchman, he was obliged to resign when
that Government declared war against France.
July 30. — Received a visit from M. Colonna and M. Bar-
tolucci, an Italian, resident in Leghorn, and formerly
member of the Municipality under the French. They
272 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
requested a passage for Madame in a man-of-war. Among
the reasons alleged for this appeal were, the disappoint-
ment of a passage in another of His Majesty's ships,
Napoleon's corvette being absent at Genoa, and these seas
being infested with Algerine pirates. I promised to speak
to the captain of the corvette attached to my mission,
who accordingly acquiesced.
M. Colonna paid me a complimentary call to thank me
on the part of Madame, and to say that a visit would be
very acceptable. Promised to attend in the evening.
July 31. — Visited Madame, in company with Captain
Battersby, of H.M.S. ' Grasshopper.' She got up, as if
with difficulty, some seconds after our approach, and made
us sit down upon chairs close to her. M. Colonna, her
agent M. Bartolucci, and two ladies, entered and sat
down soon afterwards. I addressed her as * Madame ' and
' Altesse.' She was very pleasant and unaffected. The
old lady is very handsome, of middle size, with a good
figure and fresh colour.
She spoke much of the Empress Marie-Louise, of her
being at the baths of Aix, and of her bad health, with
many sighs and expressions of great regard, as if her se-
paration from Napoleon was not voluntary on her part.
Madame Bartolucci, she said, had received a letter from
the Austrian General who commands at Parma, saying
that Marie-Louise had advised him of her intention to be
there early in September.
I mentioned to Madame, in the course of conversation,
that the papers stated that the Duchess of Montebello
had returned to France. She said it was so ; and that
there was now only one of all her French attendants who
remained with her. After remaining for half an hour, we
bowed and went off. Madame will sail to-morrow or next
day, and I intend to accompany her.
The quarantine is from to-day taken off the island of
Elba, and unlimited intercourse is now open, as no in-
CHAP. IV. DESPATCH FROM LORD CASTLEREAGH. 273
fection has been communicated by the vessels from Malta,
which had been captured and carried into Porto Ferrajo in
April last.
I have this day received the following despatch from.
Lord Castlereagh : —
'London : Foreign Office, July 15, 1814.
' Sir, — Tour despatches to No. 21 inclusive, of the 13th
ult., have been received, and laid before the Prince Re-
gent.
* I am to desire that you will continue to consider your-
self as British resident in Elba, without assuming any
further official character than that in which you are al-
ready received, and that you would pursue the same line
of conduct and communication with this department,
which, I am happy to acquaint you, have already received
His Royal Highness's approbation. I am, &c.,
(Signed) * CASTLEREAGH.
' Colonel Campbell, &c. &c.'
August 1. — "Visited by the Commandant of the place,
who gave me the whole history of the persons appre-
hended for enrolling recruits for Napoleon.
An officer of the late Regiment d'Etrangers of Elba, a
native of Lucca, called Quedlicci, employed a Corsican of
the name of Imbricco, resident in Leghorn, to enrol Tus-
can non-commissioned officers and privates for a battalion
to be formed in Elba. The lists were found, and the sol-
diers engaged deposed to the facts.
Letters have also been intercepted from Guasco, chef
de bataillon at Longono, entering into details as to the
application of money for this object, and mentioning that
only seven recruits had arrived from Tuscany.
A Captain Dumont, a Piedmontese, arrived from Elba,
stating that he was going home, and had quitted Napo-
leon's service. Having burnt a quantity of papers in the
lazaretto he was detained, with his papers and baggage,
T
274 SIE NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
after coming out of quarantine. Thereupon he claimed
his liberty as an officer of Napoleon's army. Nothing
more criminal could be proved against him, but it is evi-
dent he was going to Piedmont on a like service, as he
wished to dissemble it at first, and to pretend that he had
quitted Napoleon's service.
It is known that there are other agents on the same
service at Florence, and dispersed through the different
parts of Italy. These are watched, until sufficient proofs
can be obtained of their employment.
Received from General Count Stahremberg, commanding
in Tuscany and Lucca, the following letter : 6
•
' Lucques: 30e de juillet 1814.
'Cher Colonel, — J'ai re9u vos lettres de Rome et de
Livourne avec le plus sensible plaisir. Je ne pourrais
assez vous remercier des nouvelles interessantes que vous
avez bien voulu me communiquer. Je vous aurais repon-
du a Rome, si vous ne m'aviez instruit de votre prompte
depart de cette ville. Cornme mes affaires m'empechent
de venir pour le moment a Livourne, pour avoir le plaisir
de vous voir, et pour causer sur des affaires de haute im-
portance, je dois le faire par ecrit. Yous saurez qu'un
certain Imbricco et Capitaine Dumont ont ete arretes a
Livourne, convaincus comme enroleurs pour 1'ile d'Elbe.
Us avaient deja engage plusieurs sujets toscans, en leur
donnant 100 francs d'engagements. J'ai decouvert qu'il y
6 Translation by Sir Neil Campbell, As business prevents my coming at
' Lucca : July 30, 1814. present to Leghorn, to have the
' Dear Colonel, — I have received pleasure of conversing with you
your letter from Rome and from upon affairs of high importance, I
Leghorn with the most lively plea- must now do it by writing. You
sure. I cannot sufficiently thank must know that a certain Imbricco
you for the interesting news which and Captain Dumont have been
you have had the goodness to com- arrested at Leghorn, convicted of
municate to me. I should have having enrolled for the island of
answered your letter to Rome if Elba. They had already engaged
you had not informed me of your many Tuscan subjects, by giving
immediate departure from thence, them 100 francs for enlistment. I
CHAP. IV. LETTER FROM COUNT STAHREMBERG. 275
avait une bande de ces coquins le long des cotes, et meme
jusqu'en Piemont, pour debaucher les sujets pour le service
de Napoleon. Je me donne toutes les peines possibles
pour decouvrir toute cette canaille. On en arretera aus-
si trois a Massa et Carrara convaincus d'enrolement, et
j'ai nomine une commission militaire a Livourne pour juger
ces individus avec la plus grande severite. J'ai cru devoir
faire sur cet objet de haute importance un rapport tres-
fort a son Excellence le Marechal Comte Bellegarde, en lui
demontrant que Napoleon prouve par tous ses manoevres
qu'il ne restera jamais tranquille, et que sa presence a
1'ile d'Elbe, vu ses connexions avec Naples, et avec tous
ces aventuriers (qui, comme vous dites tres-bien, le ser-
vent dans Pesperance qu'il retournera encore a son ancienne
grandeur), sera toujours tres-dangereuse pour le repos
d'ltalie. H faut employer tous les moyens pour rester
toujours au fait de ce qui se passe a 1'ile, et vous m'obli-
gerez infmiment en communiquant ce que vous en savez.
Vous me dites que vous avez ete en discussion avec les capi-
taines de marine concernant le voyage de Madaifte Letitia
a File d'Elbe. Je viens de recevoir le rapport qu'elle a
have discovered that there was a his presence in the island of Elba
whole hand of these rascals all along (from his connection with Naples,
the coast, even as far as Piedmont, and with all these adventurers, who,
to corrupt the subjects for the ser- as you veryjustly remark, "serve him
vice of Napoleon. I take all pos- in the hope that he will yet recover
sible trouble to discover all this rab- his former greatness " ) will always
ble. There have also been three be very dangerous for the tranquil-
arrested at Massa and Carrara, con- lity of Italy. Every possible means
victed of having enlisted, and I must be employed in order to be
have named a military commission constantly well informed of all that
at Leghorn to try these individuals goes on in the island of Elba, and
with the greatest severity. I have you will exceedingly oblige me by
thought it my duty to make a very communicating to me whatever you
strong representation to His Excel- know. You inform me that you
lency Marshal Count Bellegarde have had discussions with the
upon a subject of such high impor- captains of the Navy respecting the
tance, showing him that all these voyage of Madame Letitia to the
manoeuvres of Napoleon prove that island of Elba. I have just received
he will never remain quiet, and that notice that yesterday, at seven in the
T 2
27G SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
passe tier, a sept heures du soir, Pise, pour se rendre a
Livourne. Onlui a donne a Pise une escorte de quatre hus-
sards, ce que j'ai tres-desapprouve. Je vous prie, clier
Campbell, de me faire savoir si c'est avec votre autorisa-
tion, ou celle de Lebzethern qu'elle vient a Livourne, et
si vous la ferez passer de la a 1'ile, pour que je puisse
prendre mes mesures. II me serait impossible de la souffrir
longtemps, surtout avec sa suite, a Livourne. C'est beau-
coup trop pret et trop dangereux. Je re9ois derechef
des reclamations reiterees des cotes, de Piombino jusque
vers Livourne, sur les inquietudes qu'eprouvent les ha-
bitants, vu 1'apparition d'une flotille barbaresque. Je
crois que c'est egalement un manege de Napoleon pour
inquieter ces pays. Je vous prie de vouloir engager
les capitaines des batiments anglais comme allies, de
proteger autant que possible ces cotes. S'il est possible,
je viendrai vous voir — peut-etre mardi, avant mon retour a
Florence.
* Agreez en attendant Tassurance des sentiments de la plus
haute consideration, et de 1'attachement le plus sincere.
(Signe) ' LE COMTE DE STAHEEMBEEG.'
evening, she passed through Pisa Piomhino to Leghorn, of the un-
on her way to Leghorn. At Pisa easiness which the inhabitants ex-
an escort of four hussars was given perience by the appearance of the
to her, of which I disapproved very Barbary pirates. I do believe that
much. I request of you, dear Camp- it is equally a trick of Napoleon to
bell, to acquaint me whether it is disturb this country. I beg of you
by your authority, or by that of to be so good as to engage the
Lebzethern,* that she has come to captains of the British men-of-war
Leghorn, and whether you will as our allies to protect these coasts
convey her to Elba, in order that I to their utmost. If it is possible, I
may adopt my measures. It is not will come and see you — perhaps on
possible that I can permit her to Tuesday, before my return to Flo-
remain long, above all with her rence.
suite. It is much too near and too 'Accept my assurances of the ut-
daugerous. most consideration, and of the most
' I receive endless pressing repre- sincere attachment,
sentations from the coast, from ' COUNT STAHREMBERG.'
* The Austrian Minister at Rome.
CHAP. IV. MADAME MERE EMBARKS FOR ELBA. 277
August 2. — Embarked in His Majesty's brig ' Grass-
hopper,' Captain Battersby, with Madame Letitia, M.
Colonna, and two dames d'honneur, and landed at Elba
the same evening.
In leaving the inn at Leghorn to walk to the boat, M.
Colonna took the arm of Madame with his hat off all the
way. Captain Battersby and myself took the arms of the
two ladies with our hats on. Crowds followed iis, and, on
quitting the shore, a number of persons hooted, and whis-
tled, and hissed.
Captain Battersby and two of his officers, M. Saveira a
passenger, and myself, all dined with Madame upon deck.
A couch was arranged for her, from which she never
stirred during the whole voyage, except once to look out
for Napoleon's house, when she mounted upon the top of a
gun with great activity.
She told me that Napoleon was first intended for the
navy, and studied for it at Brienne with a certain propor-
tion of the other pupils. She went to see him there, and
found that they all slept in hammocks ; upon which she
prevented his pursuing that line, and said all she could to
dissuade him from it. * Mon enfant, dans la marine vous
avez a combattre le feu et 1'eau ! ' 7 He was then fourteen
or fifteen years of age.
She had had a great desire, she said, to visit England
for many years. She had formed a particular friendship
with one English family at Montpellier, whose address she
had kept, but now lost, and forgotten the name. She had
opportunities likewise of seeing several others, and parti-
cularly Mrs. Cosing (?), the wife of a painter. Her son
Lucien spoke very favourably of England. At first he was
7 ' My son, in the navy you have to the Royal Military School at
to contend with fire and water.' Paris, occur these words : ' Would
In a report, 1783, from the make an excellent sea-officer.' See
masters of the school at Brienne, Lockhavt's Life of Napoleon, vol. i.
recommending 'M. de Bonaparte p. 6, note. — ED.
[Napoleon], bora August 15, 1769,'
278 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. IV.
treated with suspicion, and laid under restrictions, which
was unpleasant ; but afterwards he found himself quite
happy, and formed very agreeable friendships. He has
written a poem respecting the ' Saracens in Corsica,' and
another entitled ' Charlemagne.'
Louis seems to be a great favourite of hers. His pic-
ture is on her snuff-box. She said he had written several
romances, which she admired, and was sure would be
generally esteemed, such as would be fit for young ladies
to read. Spoke of his fortune as being small, although he
did not spend money either on play or women — ' ni jeu
ni femmes ! ' Her eldest son she called ' le roi Joseph.'
She mentioned that she had been very ill-treated by the
Minister of the Interior in France, who wished to take her
house in Paris for 600,000 in the place of 800,000 francs.
She only wished for what it had cost her. The Minister
told her agent, that if she would not take that sum, she
would repent of it. She wrote him, 'that she would
never give up her rights and property, nor bend to the
caprice of an individual.' If the Minister took it by force,
she would enter a protestation formally, and then take
her chance of justice. She hinted at the treaty, and the
guarantee of all the Allied Powers. M. Colonna said her
agent should give in a representation to the English Am-
bassador.
On anchoring in the harbour, a valet of Napoleon, the
master of the port, and others came off. They said that
Napoleon had been expecting his mother the whole of the
preceding day, and had that morning early gone to a
mountain at some distance. The ship's boat being
manned, and no one coming off to say where Madame
would be received, I proposed to M. Colonna to send a
boat with a message to General Bertrand, or Drouot, to
announce her arrival. When he asked her approbation to
that, she seemed greatly agitated and mortified at no one
coming to her on their part, and gave her assent with
CHAP. IV. LANDING AT ELBA. 279
great violence, turning round quite pale and huffed. At
length Generals Bertrand and Drouot arrived. The Cap-
tain and myself disembarked with her. All the officers of
the Imperial Guard, the Mayor, &c., received her at the
wharf, and from that to Napoleon's house the streets
were lined. She went up in a carriage, with her dames ;
we in another, with six horses to each.
The contributions were to be paid "by August 1, or en-
forced by military execution. This was notified by criers
in every village ten days before, and subsequently to that
a similar announcement was made in the churches. Very
few persons, however, have paid, and great disturbances
have been created.
Napoleon has purchased a considerable tract of land in
the richest valley, in the name of Monsieur Lapis ; that
is, he values the spots belonging to many small proprie-
tors, and orders the act to be drawn out. They have re-
presented the impossibility of removing their families,
cattle, goats, &c., to other situations ; since which Napo-
leon has told them they may remain.
A priest of the island went to M. Ricci, and asked
whether England would not interfere to prevent the exac-
tions of Napoleon, and whether the inhabitants might not
send him a memorial to that effect, to be given to me !
280 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
CHAPTEE V.
INTERVIEW -WITH NAPOLEON IN COMPANY WITH CAPTAIN BAT-
TERSBY — GOES TO LEGHORN TO MEET ADMIRAL HALtOWELL — AR-
REST OF EMISSARIES — LETTER FROM COUNT 8TAHREMBERG — DESPATCH
FROM LORD CASTLEREAGH — DECLARATION OF WAR BY DEY OF AL-
GIERS— INTERVIEW WITH GENERAL AND MADAME BERTRAND —
CONVERSATION, ON SEPTEMBER 16, OF THREE HOURS WITH NAPO-
LEON— ARRIVAL OF POLISH LADY AND CHILD AT ELBA — HABITS OF
NAPOLEON — GOES TO FLORENCE, AND IS PRESENTED TO THE GRAND
DTJKE.
AUGUST 3. — This morning General Bertrand informed
me that at 9 P.M. the Emperor would receive Captain
Battersby, M. Saveira, and myself.
On arriving at the palace, the sentry stopped us until
the officer on duty with the guard came out. On telling
him we were there by appointment, he showed us into an
antechamber, and called the aide-de-camp on duty, who
said he could not announce us at that moment, as the
Emperor was playing at a game with his mother and the
Grand Marechal. He requested us to sit down ; but when
I repeated that we came by appointment — that it was of no
consequence, but he could inform the Grand Marechal we
had been there — he became very uneasy for fear of my
going away — begged me to have the goodness to stay one
moment — said that the Emperor would see us directly —
how much regard he had for me ! how much he esteemed
the British nation ! &c. &c. We remained about ten
minutes more, and then I said I would go to call on
General Drouot, whose house was very near, and would
return again. Just as we were going out — which ap-
CHAP. V. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 281
peared to cause them the utmost anxiety — another officer
came running out to the door to say the Emperor wished
to see us. We were accordingly ushered into a room,
when Napoleon immediately appeared from an adjoining
one. He bowed to us, and came up tripping and smiling.
Asked me how I did ? — said I had got fatter. Was I quite
well? Where had I been. 'Quelles nouvelles? Yous
venez done pour rester quelques jours avec nous?' l
I told him I had made a short tour in Italy, and had
been at the baths of Lucca. 'Avez-vous eu le deluge
(shower-bath) ? ' ' No ; I had applied the water in a stream
through a pipe.'
Had I been at Rome ? Had I seen the Pope ? He was
a good man. Bon moine, old and feeble. Had he been
sick ? I said he had a swelling in his legs, and that the
last time I saw him, he was sitting up in bed. He
laughed, and made a joke about the cause of the Pope's
indisposition. Then he went on: 'Hs sont tres-mal-
heureux dans ces Etats. C'est Pinteret de 1'Angleterre de
former un royaume d'ltalie. N'est-ce pas ? Cela doit etre.
Eh ? ' 2 I told him that whatever might be the interest of
England, any interference of us Protestants with the head
of the Roman Catholic Church would be peculiarly ob-
noxious : * Ah ! vous pouvez faire comme vous voudrez.
N'avez-vous pas quelques nouvelles ? ' 3 I told him Sicily
was given up entirely to the King, and that all the Minis-
ters had been changed immediately. He asked where
the Queen was? Whether she had returned? Where
Lord William Bentinck was ? Whether he had gone home,
or was to remain at Genoa ? Who was to succeed him as
Minister at the Court of Palermo ? Whether it was in-
tended to withdraw the whole of the British troops ? ' La
1 ' What news ? You are come, England to form a kingdom of Italy,
then, to stay some days with us ? ' Is it not so ? That ought to be.'
2 ( They are very miserable in 3 ' Ah ! you can do as you like,
those States. It is the interest of Have you not any news ? '
282 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
possession de ce pays ne vous conviendrait pas. Les petites
iles sont mieux pour 1'Angleterre.' 4
He remarked that the English were not popular in
Sicily. Our religion was always in our way with respect
to these Catholics. I felt inclined to ask him if he had
found it so in the case of Spain and Portugal, but in re-
gard to Sicily I admitted that our measures there had
not been received with that popularity, or met with that
success, which had been expected: 'Rien de nouveau
d'Angleterre ? Le mariage de la jeune princesse n'aura pas
lieu done ? Ah ! A ce qu'il me semble, vous avez le pro-
spect d'une belle reine.' 5 He seemed to exult, and said,
' Le Regent a voulu la gronder par rapport au mariage.' 6
1 Je n'ai pas entendu dire cela, Sire,' 7 I replied. ' Oui, c'est
dans mes journaux que j'ai re9us de Genes. Elle se jeta
dans un fiacre. Elle a une tete et un temperament chauds.
n faut trouver un mari pour elle.' 8 I said, Yes ; but I did
not think the union with the Prince of Orange was a
matter of importance either to England or Holland. We
must find another husband for her. He asked, ' Why does
she not marry one of her cousins ? Has the Duke of York
no sons ? I told him, No. Her only cousin among our own
Princes was the Duke of Gloucester, and it was said she
never liked him. If she did not marry, I hoped she would
4 ' The possession of that country which I have received from Genoa,
would not suit you. The small She threw herself into a hackney-
islands are better for England.' coach. She is hot-headed and of a
5 ' Is there nothing new from warm temperament. They must
England ? The marriage of the find a husband for her.'
young Princess will not take place, July 13, 1814. ' All London
then P Ah ! So far as appears to were startled by hearing that the
me, you have the prospect of a fine Princess Charlotte had, on the pre-
Queen.' vious evening, left Warwick House
6 ' The Regent was inclined to unobserved, and gone off in a hack-
scold her with respect to her mar- ney-coach to the Princess of Wales,
riage.' in Connaught Place.' — Reminix-
7 'I have not heard that stated, cences of a Septuagenarian, pp. 112,
Sire.' 113.— ED.
8 ' Yes, it is in my newspapers
CHAP. V. CONVEKSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 283
prove a second Catherine of Russia. He said he did not
believe the Prince of Orange had ever liked her ; that some
time ago he intercepted several of his letters to his father,
wherein he expressed himself that ' il n'a pas voulu etre
mari d'une reine sans etre roi.' 9 I said that I did not believe
any objections to the marriage had arisen on his part.
He asked me to get some English papers for him. I
replied that I would order him one weekly from Leghorn.
He told me he saw, by extracts from them, the Regent's
approval of my wearing my Russian orders.
On presenting Captain Battersby, I added that he was
very happy to have had the honour of conveying Madame.
Napoleon thanked him, and spoke of the very pleasant
passage she had had. I remarked I was particularly glad
to hear that, as she had experienced so much delay from
the expectations Captain Tower had held out to her ; but
that there were orders in search of him during three
weeks to go -home, and that it was necessary for him to
return immediately.
He spoke of the disappointment and inconvenience she
experienced at present from the want of her effects,
which had been detained at the mouth of the Tiber by
a corsair preventing the vessel from sailing. I told him
that the Tuscan and Roman Governments, and all the
people along the coast, were alarmed on account of these
corsairs, but that they often fancied other vessels tacking
in towards the shore belonged to them. He asked Captain
Battersby whether he had seen any. He said * No ; but
there certainly were some about.'
Seeing the conversation nagging, I told Napoleon that
I had lately received despatches in reply to mine, in-
forming Government that he had requested me to remain
after the departure of the other Commissioners, and that I
was happy to say H. R. H. the Prince Regent approved of
9 ' He was not willing to be the husband of a queen without being king.'
284 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
my continuing at the island of Elba. He only nodded and
said, * Ah, ah ! '
On parting he nodded, and, smiling, said to me, * Au
plaisir de vous revoir ! ' then turned round and went to
the adjoining room.
In talking to the officer of the guard, while waiting for
the interview with Napoleon, I asked him whether the
officers and men enjoyed good health, or whether they suf-
fered from the air of the salt-ponds? He said, No, for that
they were all acclimatised. They had campaigned in such a
variety of countries — in Austria, Prussia, Spain, Portugal,
Poland, Italy, and Russia, — 'dans tous les pays excepte
le votre.' l I said, ' Aye, but I should think the cold of
Russia was a bad preparation for the heat of Italy.' ' Ah !
c'est vrai, ce sont les extremites.' 2 I had him there, I
thought, but it did not excite any awkwardness, for he
followed it up with compliments to myself and the British
nation.
In going out this evening after dinner, on our way to
Napoleon's house, we saw a small display of fireworks in
the streets, distributed probably by him to celebrate the
arrival of his mother.
There is a theatre of very small size here, and there
were in it to-night about fifty or sixty persons.
August 4. — As the man-of-war was to return to-day to
Leghorn, where Admiral Hallowell was expected, I deter-
mined to go over to see him. Besides that, I understood
that the discontent excited among the inhabitants against
the contributions was very great, and I considered it
better to absent myself for a time. A priest had pro-
posed to give me a representation to be transmitted to the
British Government, praying for their interference. Very
few of the inhabitants have yet paid, notwithstanding the
threats of military execution which are held out.
1 ' In all countries except yours.' 2 ' Ah ! that is true ; those are
the extremities.'
CHAP. V. COUNT GUICCHAKDI. 285
August 5. — Disembarked at Leghorn.
August 6. — Admiral Hallo well has not arrived, but is
daily expected.
August 7-12. — There is a Count Guicchardi here. I met
him first at dinner at the Governor's, and afterwards fre-
quently in society. He was French minister of police at
Milan, and one of the deputies who went to Paris to pro-
pose that the kingdom of Italy should be governed by the
Duke of Modena, the cousin of the Emperor of Austria, as
an independent sovereign, or by some other Prince con-
nected with the Allies. This proposition, however, was not
made until after Bonaparte's abdication, when of course
the Italians could not help themselves. Count Guicchardi
has probably come here until the popular fury at Milan
against the former French authorities has subsided. He
wishes, I can see, to flatter me greatly, and asks whether
England will not do something for the Italians, by re-
storing to them a kingdom, and rescuing them from the
intolerable oppression of the Austrians. I told him they
had been too late with their propositions, which ought to
have been made before the Allies entered Paris. He and
other Italians say that many wished to rid themselves of
Bonaparte, and the connection with the French last year,
and particularly after Murat declared himself, it was pro-
posed to act in concert with him ; but there was no proper
head, nor sufficient energy. Everyone spoke and thought
the same, but they did not act.
The Consul of the late kingdom of Italy, who was resident
at Leghorn, is still here, and speaks the same sentiments.
He is a Venetian named Alberti, a clever man, but violent
against the Austrians and the partition of Yenice made
under the Treaty of Campo Formio.
The Marquis Prie, belonging to one of the first families
at Turin, tells me that until after Eugene's return from the
Russian campaign> he was adored by the people. After
that period he showed a want of confidence in the Italians ; '
286 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
their troops were not trusted in the garrisons. French
officers were placed in all' the chief commands. This
created disunion, and there were daily quarrels between
the French and Italian officers, and at length the Viceroy
came to be considered no longer as their sovereign, but
as a French general placed over them forcibly to preserve
their connection with France.
The Italians speak universally against the Austrians,
and complain of their rough manners ; the hardships of a
people who are polished and descendants of the ancient
Romans being under Germans. The people of Tuscany
and Lucca again declaim against the excessive contri-
butions, and the unfairness of being obliged to support
these Austrians, when they can take care of themselves.
But I cannot hear, on good authority at least, of any mal-
versation on the part of the latter. I know the Austrian
military and interior arrangements to be very precise,
and I observe the utmost regularity and quiet among both
officers and men in the streets. The officers are certainly
never admitted into society, and complain, I am told, of
the incivility of the inhabitants. The fact is, such dif-
ferent materials as the Italians and the Austrians, with
reciprocal prejudices, cannot easily associate ; the one de-
voted wholly to pleasure, the other to military duties.
It is said that the secretary of General Count Stah-
remberg, M. Eosetti, a Piedmontese, is extremely venal;
but if the case be so, I do not think it is known to the
General. A proclamation appeared lately, ordering all plate
belonging to palaces or public establishments, which had
been carried away, to be restored. A few days before this
— so the story runs — he came in a carriage by night from
Lucca to Leghorn with a box, which was carried into his
room. A Jew came to him for a private conference, and
carried away the chest, but one of the waiters in the room
had taken up a position which enabled him to spy the
• contents of the box and overhear the bargain !
CHAP. V. M. COLOMBINI. 287
August 12-18. — Upon the night of August 12, a Satur-
day, a company of Austrian infantry was under arms all
night, and a few hussars patrolled about the streets. It
seems that a captain of the Hungarian infantry heard
a peasant in the streets talking of a revolt ; and although
the commanding officer, to whom he reported this with
great earnestness and signs of fear, reprobated his con-
duct, as certainly arising from a misunderstanding and
false impression on his part, and put him under arrest,
yet it was thought prudent to keep a force under arms.
M. Marescalci, governor of Parma, has written to say
that the Archduchess Marie-Louise will be there about
the 1st of September. He with others is to resign his
situation, on account of the number of persons whom she
wishes to put into their places.
It is reported that Murat counts much upon the support
of the Austrians through the interest which his Queen
has with Metternich, whose chere amie she formerly
was !
August 19. — A M. Colombini has arrived here from
Florence. He is the person who assisted the French guard
in scaling the window of the Pope. He comes of a good
family and has property. On the Pope's return to Eome
he was thrown into prison, but has now received per-
mission to go where he pleases. He relates all sorts of
stories as to the discontent existing against the Pope's
government and his foolish proceedings. M. Alberti, for-
merly Consul of the kingdom of Italy, introduced him at
the theatre the night before.
The Commandant has given me the names of the follow-
ing persons as having gone over to the island of Elba, and
being much suspected — Locatelli and Dr. Guidotti. The
wife of the latter remains here, and is under surveillance.
A person came to me to be engaged as a servant, call-
ing himself first a nephew, and afterwards only a relation
of M. Ricci. He told me he was going to Pisa, in case I
288 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
did not hire him, on account of a wound in the head, re-
ceived while serving in the French army. He said he had
been a soldier for many years, and had a passport signed
by the Mayor of Porto Ferrajo. I think he has been sent
to me as a spy !
Prince Borghese has arrived at Florence. The King of
Spain refuses to restore to him his house at Rome, and the
Pope will not interfere.
A small vessel has arrived from Bastia in Corsica. I am
informed that when she came away, there was a tumult
between the citizens and the military, in consequence of
the latter wishing to prevent a religious procession.
August 20. — Arrived Admiral Hallowell in the ' Malta,'
from Genoa.
August 21. — The Admiral disapproves most strongly of
several instances of voluntary court and unnecessary visits
paid by naval officers at Porto Ferrajo, and I am per-
suaded nothing of the kind will recur in future. He con-
tinues the arrangements of Lord Exmouth in placing a
man-of-war upon this station, in case of any extraordinary
event to communicate.
August 22. — Admiral Hallowell sailed for Palermo.
August 23. — A few days ago Napoleon went on board
his corvette, and remained for two hours. Fifty of his
Guards were embarked at the same time. It is given out
that they are sent to receive the Empress Marie-Louise ;
but it is more probable that this measure has arisen from
fear of the Algerines, although Napoleon would hardly
wish to raise an alarm among the inhabitants on account of
so trifling a foe ! Since then the corvette has been sent
over to Genoa for fireworks, clothing, and household
stores.
Porto Ferrajo continues to be the resort of a number
of officers from Italy, who dislike the service both of the
King of Sardinia and of the Emperor of Austria : in the
former case, on account of the harsh expressions made
CHAP. V. OPEN LETTERS. 289
use of to those who had been wounded, or obtained dis-
tinction under the French; in the latter, on account of
the system of corporal punishment and the difference
of language. Their expectations of employment are kept
up by constant reports propagated purposely to produce
that effect. Still many have returned to their homes,
sorely disappointed in their prospects, and displeased at
the reception they met with from Napoleon, whose man-
ner is very seldom conciliatory.
August 24. — A letter from General Drouot, governor of
Elba, to General Spannochi, governor of Leghorn, requests
of him to send under an escort to Piombino an officer who
had been arrested, and assures him that if the man has
committed any crime, he shall be tried by a military com-
mission and punished. The reply from General Spannochi re-
fers him to General Stahremberg, commanding in Tuscany.
August 25. — Arrived from Palermo the Prince of Villa
Franca, lately Minister of Foreign Affairs while the
island was under British dominion, with Lord William
Bentinck as governor, the Duke of Ventimiglia, and two
other Sicilian noblemen, who found it prudent to withdraw
upon the assumption of the government by the King.
August 26. — Received a despatch from Count Stahrem-
berg, with a packet of letters from the Princess Pauline
and from various members of the Court of Naples to
Napoleon, forwarded by Count Meyer, the Austrian Minis-
ter there. They had been left open, he states, and he had
accordingly read them ; but they contained nothing but
felicitations on Napoleon's fete-day ! ' Ce sont,' he adds,
* des finesses cousues de fil blanc. On nous envoie des
lettres ouvertes pour les expedier a Pile, pendant que Pon
a de frequentes occasions d'en envoyer d'importance directe-
ment de Naples a Pile.'3
3 ' These are artifices easily seen they have frequent opportunities of
through. They send us letters open sending others of importance direct
to be forwarded to the island, while from Naples to the island.'
290 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
He also tells me, that although General Drouot had
written twice to General Spannochi on the subject of the
persons arrested for recruiting at Leghorn, he had sent
no reply ; nor should he do so, until the proces was more
advanced, and something more was known of their pro-
ceedings. They were being tried by a military commis-
sion, and the details would be forwarded to Vienna. At
the same time he promises to inform me of the issue of
this affair.
Prince Esterhazy has arrived at Florence, on his way
to Biome, upon an extraordinary mission. The Pope has
issued a bull, directing the re-establishment of the Jesuits
throughout Europe.
Dr. Milner, a Roman Catholic bishop, and a deputa-
tion from England, were at Home in the beginning of last
month.
August 27. — Went towards Elba in H.M.S. 'Grass-
hopper,' but returned, as I did not wish to be present at
the formal celebration of Napoleon's birthday. This was
first ordered for the 15th, but was afterwards postponed to
the 27th instant, which is the anniversary of the birth-
day of the Empress Marie-Louise.
It is stated that twenty of the Guards have deserted
since the quarantine was taken off, and that all are tired
of the place. Some sixty men of the Bataillon Etranger
and thirty-five of the Line remained in the service of
Napoleon. They have been augmented to 350, Italians
and Corsicans, but principally the latter. Of these re-
cruits, however, sixty have deserted at various times.
The last order for payment of the contributions fixes
the 24th of this month, under pain of military execu-
tion.
August 28. — The Commandant showed me a despatch
from General Stahremberg, stating that Jerome Bonaparte
had left Gratz, and was at Padua on the 22nd. Search
was being made, and there were orders to apprehend him.
CHAP. V. DESPATCH FROM LORD CASTLEREAGH. 291
August 29. — Received a despatch from Lord Castlereagh
as follows :
' Foreign Office : August 6, 1814.
* Sir,— I have the honour to acquaint you that I have
received the commands of His Boyal Highness the Prince
Regent to set out shortly for the Continent, to assist, as
His Majesty's principal Secretary of State for Foreign
Affairs, at the approaching Congress of Vienna.
*It is His Royal Highness's pleasure that you still
continue, as on the former occasion, to address your
despatches to me at the Foreign Office, sending duplicates
of such as you may be of opinion ought to be made known
to me without delay at Vienna.
' You will transmit your correspondence to me at Vienna
by the most favourable opportunities which may offer ; but
you will avoid any unnecessary expense by sending mes-
sengers on occasions which do not appear to you to
require immediate despatch.
' I am, with great truth and regard, &c. &c.,
(Signed) ' CASTLEREAGH.
' To Colonel Campbell, &c. &c.'
August 30. — Went to-day from Leghorn to Florence, in
expectation of the arrival there of the Grand Duke.
Informed that a courier had been arrested at Bologna,
with despatches from Joseph Bonaparte to Napoleon.
They were taken from him, being supposed to be of
importance.
August Sl.-Sept. 8. — Florence and baths of Lucca.
While at Florence, General Stahremberg showed me a
letter from Prince Esterhazy, written from Rome, applying
for escorts for Charles IV., late King of Spain, the Queen,
the Prince of Peace, and their suites. They propose to come
to Florence as private individuals, and they have named
Schneider's Hotel for their residence.
u 2
292 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
Sept. 9. — Returned to Leghorn.
I am informed, that on the celebration of Murat's birth-
day, August 20, at Naples, the troops were reviewed by him.
While a feu de joie was being fired, a musket-ball from
one of the men's pieces hit an aide-de-camp, and wounded
him mortally. Murat turned pale, but soon recovering
himself said gaily, ' Ce ii'etait pas bien ajuste.' Examina-
tions were made, and several soldiers arrested in conse-
quence of balls being found in their pieces.
Sept. 10. — Received copy of a letter from Admiral
Hallowell, stating that the Algerines have declared war
against Naples, Genoa., and Elba.
It is addressed to Mr. Felton, the British Consul at
Leghorn, and runs as follows :
•Palermo Bay: August 31, 1814.
' Sir, — I lose no time in acquainting you that I have
received a letter from M. Oglander, the British Consul
at Tunis, informing me of the Dey's determination not
to respect either the British flag, or passports which may
be granted to the subjects of Genoa and other Italian
States, and that he was fitting out several corsairs for the
express purpose of cruising against the vessels of these
Powers.
' In the same letter he informs me that cruisers from
Algiers and Tripoli are at sea with similar orders, and
that he had been informed by the Bey of Tunis that some
Genoese vessels, having Mr. Fitzgerald's pass, had been
captured by the Algerine cruisers. I have therefore to
request, that you will warn any vessel belonging to the
subjects of Genoa and other States (lying at Leghorn),
who may be furnished with such passports, of the danger
to which they will be exposed, by navigating any longer
under the faith of such protection.
'I ha.ve received a letter from Mr. MacDonnell, the
British Consul at Algiers, wherein he informs me that the
CHAP. V. ENROLMENT OF RECRUITS. 293
Dey has instructed his cruisers to seize all Neapolitan
vessels, and those sailing under the flag of Elba, wher-
ever they may be met with, and the person of 'the Sovereign
of that island also, should any opportunity happily offer of
getting hold of him.
( I have the honour to be, &c. &c.,
(Signed) ' BEN. HALLOWELL.'
N.B. — The last part, marked in italics, was not sent by
me to General Bertraiid, as being personally offensive
against Napoleon.
Sept. 11, 12. — One of the persons arrested for enrolling
recruits in Tuscany for Napoleon has made an acknow-
ledgment of the circumstances. His name is Qued-
licci. He deposes that he was originally commissioned
to purchase clothing for the troops ; and that when at-
tending at the Governor's residence, for the purpose of
receiving his final instructions — at the very moment when
the necessary papers were being signed — some one opened
the door of the room in which he was, and Napoleon
himself appeared ; that after looking at him attentively,
he inquired whether he was one of the officers charged to
enrol recruits ; that on his replying that such was not his
immediate commission, but that, nevertheless, he had
instructions to that effect, Napoleon bid him apprise his
comrades that he wished for men, healthy, robust, and
capable of executing a coup de main of some sort. He also
gave him a commission to procure fifteen or sixteen men
as musicians to make up a band.
Quedlicci has further given up the names of eight other
officers, destined for recruiting in these various localities :
Rome, Naples, Bastia and Ajaccio in Corsica, Piedmont,
Massa, Carrara, Genoa.
I shall acquaint Colonel Sir John Dairy mple, who com-
mands at Genoa, for the information of the Government
2U4 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
of that State, with the name of the officer employed there
by Napoleon.
A decree has been issued at Naples, signed by the Duke
of Laurenzana, Minister of Police. It states that the
Government there have heard with surprise, by means of
letters from Civita Vecchia and Leghorn, that several
persons, calling themselves officers in the service of the
King of Naples, and decorated with his Eoyal Order,
have presented themselves at those ports, professing to
be sent from the Court of Naples to the island of Elba.
And although no one could be deceived by so miserable a
stratagem, yet the said Minister of Police thinks it neces-
sary to declare that such intriguers do not belong to the
kingdom of Naples, that they are not even known, and
that they are still less charged with any mission to the
island of Elba. All local authorities are invited to cause
the arrest of any such individual.
Sept. 13. — Sailed from Leghorn.
Sept. 14. — Landed at Porto Ferrajo, and had an inter-
view with General Bertrand, to whom I presented a letter
notifying the declaration of war by the Algerines. Some
persons were present in the room. General Bertrand
went out for some time, and on his return seemed much
agitated. When we found ourselves alone, he told me he
would send the letter to the Emperor at Longono. I
asked whether Napoleon had no communication with
the Government of France respecting the treaty with
the Algerines. He laughed ironically, and said, 'No.
The matter rests with the Allied Powers, if they mean to
act in good faith.' I reminded him of the reply of Admiral
Sir Edward Pellew some time before, to the effect that he
could not interfere, and that the question did not rest
with H. B. Majesty's Government. At the same time, if
Napoleon wished to make any representation, I would
forward it to Lord Castlereagh. To this General Bertrand
made no particular answer.
CHAP. V. INTERVIEW WITH MADAME BERTH AND. 295
Madame Bertrand, whom I saw on this occasion, told
me in the course of conversation, that Napoleon asked
Caulaincourt to accompany him to Elba, but he declined.
She is persuaded that he had no connection whatever with
the apprehension or death of the Duke d'Enghien. The
Emperor Alexander was so certain of this, that he asked
Louis XVIII. to send him as ambassador to St. Peters-
burg; and, when that was refused, he offered him the
place of Grand Ecuyer with himself. Savary ordered a
lantern to be tied to the Duke d'Enghien's breast, in
consequence of his requesting that the soldiers would not
fail in their shots. Napoleon had been very unwell for
some days before, and advantage was taken of it by Murat
and others about him to hasten on the death of the Duke.
In another hour it would have been countermanded.
This is probably said in reliance upon the success of
Josephine's application ; but I was told at Fontainebleau
that Napoleon kicked her from his knees.
Before Madame Bertrand left Paris she asked Berthier
if he would not come to Elba. He told her, * Yes, he
would come to see the Emperor very soon, and that he
would pass three months with him every year ; that he
would have gone with him in the first instance but for his
wife and children.'
Sept. 15. — Napoleon came over for a few hours from
Longono, in order to press on the repairs of his house, but
returned in the afternoon. I did not see him.
Sept. 16. — Had an audience of Napoleon for the first
time since my last visit to Leghorn and the baths of
Lucca, which are prescribed for my wounds. It was
courted by himself? in sending to inform me that one of
his carriages was at my disposal to convey me from Porto
Ferrajo to Longono, where he has been for the last two
weeks. This audience lasted for three hours by the
watch, during which time there was no interruption. He
constantly walked from one extremity of the room to the
Six; Silt NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
other, asked questions without number, and descanted
upon a great variety of subjects, generally with temper
and goodnature, except when the matter bore upon the
absence of his wife and child, or the defection of Marshal
Marmont.
He began by questions as to Genoa. Understood Lord
William Bentinck was to return there very soon. Was
there not a British regiment at Nice ? Spoke of the state
of Piedmont, Lombardy, Venice, and Tuscany ; said that
the rude manners and different language of the Austrians
rendered it impossible for them to become popular with
the Italians, who had previously been nattered by the for-
mation of the kingdom of Italy ; that it should be the
policy of Great Britain to retain this kingdom, as an ally
against France and Austria; that it should be equally
her object to keep Naples separate from Sicily. The
latter, as an island, would be entirely under the influence
of England. He inquired where the Queen of Sicily was ?
Whether I knew the intentions of the Allies towards
Murat ? Whether the late King of Spain was to remain at
Rome ? When I told him it was reported that Ferdinand
VII. had invited his father and mother to return to Spain,
provided the Prince of Peace did not accompany them,
he inveighed against the latter, and said that his own
countenance and support given to him had been very
prejudicial to his cause in Spain.
He presumed that England would keep Corfu, and said
he had done a great deal there for us. I observed that the
proclamation of the British General, on taking possession
of the island as commissioner, stated it was * on behalf
of His Britannic Majesty and his Allies,' and that it was
generally supposed Austria and Russia would also have
claims. He derided this idea, and said that Russia parti-
cularly could have no just pretensions.
He then asked whether I had lately received any com-
munication from Lord Castlereagh. I told him not since
CIIVP. V. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEOX. 297
that which conveyed the Prince Regent's approbation to
my prolonging my residence.
He next adverted to the threats of the Algerines, but
cursorily, and did not seem apprehensive ; said that if it was
intended to adhere to the treaty entered into with him at
Fontainebleau, he would not be molested by them. I re-
minded him of the application upon this subject some time
before, which I had transmitted to Lord Exmouth, who re-
plied that he could not interfere, and that even according
to the treaty quoted by himself, it rested with the Court of
France. I also pointed out to him, that while the British
troops occupied Sicily and Portugal, and were in the most
intimate relations with their Governments, the latter made
their own treaties and arrangements with the Barbary
Powers without any interference. Besides, I referred to the
fate of the Genoese vessels, which had hoisted the British
flag, and received licences from the English Consul at
Genoa. He expressed his belief that the Algerines were
well inclined towards him, and related with good humour
that they had ridiculed the crews of two vessels belong-
ing to Louis XVIII. near Elba, calling to them with re-
proaches, ' Yous avez deserte votre Empereur ! ' He added
that all the subjects of the Grand Seignior were well
inclined towards him as the enemy of Russia, and consi-
dered him the destroyer of Moscow.
He asked me if I knew what was intended by the
Austrians respecting his wife and son, animadverting with
warmth, and in strong language, upon the interdiction to
their joining him, which he stated to exist, and said that
it excited universal indignation even at Vienna ; that no
such instance of barbarity and injustice, unconnected with
any state policy, could be pointed out in modern times ;
that he was persuaded England was too just and liberal
to approve of it. The Empress had written to him, and
he knew her wishes. She was now absolutely a prisoner,
for there was an Austrian officer (whom he named and
2D8 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. OHAP. V
described) wlio accompanied her, in order to prevent her
from escaping to Elba. Before she left Orleans it was
promised to her that she should receive passports to enable
her to follow him : ' L'Euipereur d'Autriche est mene par
Metternich, mais il est mene lui-meme ; car quoiqu'il ait
des talents, il est d'un esprit leger.' 4
He then asked me to write to Lord Castlereagh, to inquire
whether it was intended to prevent his wife and child, or
either of them, from joining him. I told him I had no
correspondence with his lordship but what was official. He
replied, ' Mais vous pouvez toucher sur cela legerement,
ou ecrire a qu.elqu'un pres de lui.' 5 I bowed, and told him
that I should be happy to do anything that was agreeable
to him, and at the same time consistent with my duty. He
seemed to receive this as an assent to his wishes. ' Oui,
vous le ferez ; vous pouvez faire cela tres-bien.' 6
After giving vent to his feelings upon this subject, he
next mentioned how very inimical and personal the con-
duct of General Stahreniberg, who commanded in Tuscany,
had been towards him. These observations afforded me
an opportunity of noticing the apprehensions which were
entertained by the General in consequence of persons en-
rolling and entering in his name some subjects of Tuscany.
He admitted the fact, but treated it with ridicule ; said he
had only 500 or 600 of his Old Guard, who were not suffi-
ciently numerous to guard all the villages and fortifications ;
that the situation of the island did not admit of his re-
cruiting upon it his battalion of Chasseurs, and therefore the
Corsica.n officers, who remained at Elba, instead of going to
France with the rest of the garrison, endeavoured to obtain
recruits in Italy and Corsica. Could General Stahremberg
4 ' The Emperor of Austria is led matter lightly, or write to some one
by Metternich, but he is led himself ; about him.'
for although he has some talent, he 6 ' Yes, you will do it; you can
is of a frivolous disposition.' do that quite well.'
5 ' But you can touch upon that
CHAP. V. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 209
be so weak as to be alarmed at this ? He was very happy
that I remained on, ' pour rompre la chimere. Je ne peiise
a rien dehors de ma petite ile. Je pouvais avoir soutenu
la guerre pendant vingt annees si j'avais voulu cela. Je
ii'existe plus pour le monde. Je suis un homme mort. Je
ne m'occupe que de ma famille et de ma retraite, ma maison,
mes vaches et mes mulets.' 7
He expressed regret at some difficulties which a few
English travellers had experienced some days before from
the Commandant and the police at Porto Ferrajo. He
reprobated the conduct of the latter, and paid many com-
pliments to the British nation. It was his wish, he said,
that every traveller should meet with attention and facility.
The mistake arose from advices being received that a per-
son of another nation had come to Elba as an assassin.
[It is probably on account of this information that
Napoleon has resided for the last two weeks at Longono
within the fortress, and orders are given there that no
stranger may be admitted without a written permission
from the Commandant. However, he makes frequent ex-
cursions in his carriage.]
After continuing to expatiate on the British character,
and remarking that, notwithstanding all the abuse directed
against it in his name, his sentiments were well known by
those near his person, he requested me to obtain for him
an English Grammar the first time I went to the Con-
tinent.
Conversing with respect to the affairs of America, he
repeated his conjectures made some time ago, that the ex-
pedition from England was destined for Louisiana, in order
to limit definitively the United States to the southward.
7 ' To dispel the illusion. I think world. I am a dead man. I only
of nothing outside my little island, occupy mj'self with my family
I could have kept up the war dur- and my retreat, my cows and my
ing twenty years if I had wanted mules.'
that. I exist no longer for the
300 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
He inquired with great eagerness as to the real state of
France. I told him that private letters, English travellers,
and every source of information, concurred in ascribing
great wisdom and moderation to the Sovereign and Govern-
ment, but that there were many, such as those who had lost
good appointments, the prisoners who had returned from
abroad, and a portion of the army, who were attached to him.
He appeared to admit the stability of the Sovereign, sup-
ported as his Government is by all the Marshals, Berthier
being captain of the Guards ; but said that the attempt to
copy Great Britain with respect to the Constitution was
absurd — a mere caricature ! It was impossible to imitate
the Houses of Parliament, for ancient and respectable
families, like those composing the aristocracy in England,
did not now exist in France.
After continuing in this strain for a long time, with
comparisons highly complimentary to England, he spoke
with some warmth of the cessions made by France since
his abdication ; said it was not wise, on the part of the
Allies, to require so much, particularly as regarded Lux-
emburg and the Netherlands ; that she had no defence
whatever on that frontier. While Prussia, Holland, Aus-
tria, and Russia were aggrandised beyond all proportion
on the Continent, and England in the East and West
Indies, France had lost all, even to the pitiful island of
St. Lucia. He spoke as a spectator, without any future
hopes or present interest, for he had neither, again in-
sisting on his own nonentity ; but it showed utter igno-
rance of the French character and temper of the present
time. Their chief failings were'pride and the love of glory,
and it was impossible for them to look forward with satis-
faction and feelings of tranquillity, as was stated to be
the sincere wish of all the Allies, under such sacrifices.
They were conquered only by a great superiority of num-
bers but not humiliated. The population of France had
not suffered to the extent that might be supposed, for he
CHAP. V. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 301
always spared their lives, and exposed the Italians and
other foreigners.8
These observations gradually led him to speak of his
own feats in war and the last campaign. He entered
into the details of many operations, in which he had re-
pulsed the enemy and gained advantages with numbers
inferior beyond comparison, and then went on to abuse
Marshal Marmont, to whose defection alone he ascribed
his being obliged to give up the contest.
He alleges that the gratitude which the Royal Family of
France feel towards England is viewed with jealousy and
contempt by the people of France, as producing a sacri-
fice of their interests. The King is called ' le Vice-roi
d'Angleterre ! '
In talking of St. Domingo, I remarked that the super-
fluous portion of discontented military could be em-
ployed there. He said it would be bad policy to attempt
to re-establish that colony. Better to blockade it, and
force the negroes to transport the whole of their produce
to France only. This would have been his own plan in
case of a peace.
He asked whether I had heard that Parma, &c., were
not to be given up to Marie-Louise, but to the Queen of
Etruria, and that an indemnity in Germany was to be
offered to the former. I admitted that this was one among
other reports prevalent in Italy.
He expressed his own desire and expectation of being
on a good footing with the Grand Duke of Tuscany ; pre-
sumed that if I returned to the baths of Lucca, I should
pay my respects to His Imperial Highness ; in which case
I should be able to ascertain his sentiments towards him-
self, and if they were favourable, as he expected (in con-
sequence of favours received from him formerly, when
the Grand Duke was on bad terms with his brother the
8 The advice of the old Greek traordinary danger with the Canon,
proverb was to 'confront any ex- and not the native-born. — ED.
302 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
Emperor of Austria), lie would send over an officer to com-
pliment him upon his arrival in Tuscany.
He inquired about the Countess of Albany, and asked
whether she still received a pension from. England. He
abused M. Mariotti, the French Consul at Leghorn.
[This man was chief of Bacchiochi's staff, and got his
place through the interest of Madame Brignolli, who is
now with Marie-Louise. Napoleon called him a Corsican
adventurer. I suspect, however, that he is useful in for-
warding communications, and that this abuse was pur-
posely to deceive me !]
In the course of conversation Napoleon told me that the
Archbishop of Malines,9 who had been his own chaplain,
was extremely addicted to descanting on military subjects,
which is very disgusting to military men. He was the
person whom he sent for at Warsaw, on his retreat from
Russia. Lately, at the table of Talleyrand, this man cast
many reflections upon him ; said he was no general ; was
a fool, &c. At length a Frenchman present remarked in a
very moderate tone : ' Mais 1'Empereur Napoleon a eu
quelque succes dans ses campagnes d'ltalie ! ' l Lord
Wellington had remained silent during the whole of this
conversation, but when the same gentleman referred to
him for his opinion, he replied that the success which the
Emperor had obtained in the last campaign, between the
Seine and the Marne, was equally great.
Napoleon appeared to be highly flattered by the praise
thus accorded to him by the Duke of Wellington, and
asked me whether he was not generally reserved in con-
versation. I replied that he certainly was not talkative !
Enlarging for some time upon the influence which he
possessed over the minds of French soldiers in the field,
he said that under him they performed what no other
9 Better known as the Abbe* has had some success in his cam-
de Pradt. — ED. paigns in Italy.'
1 ' But the Emperor Napoleon
CHAP. V. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEOX. 303
chief could obtain from them. This he ascribed to his
manner of talking to them on particular occasions. With
soldiers it is not so much the speech itself as the mode of
delivering it. Here he raised himself on his toes, looked
np to the ceiling, and, lifting one of his hands to its ut-
most extent, called out, ' Deployez les aigles ! Deployez
les aigles ! ' 2 He then related to me, that when the battle
of Marengo was almost lost, he redeemed it by calling out
to the men, who were then in perfect rout. He had then
with himself only about forty horsemen ; but by putting
himself at the head of the retiring troops, and speaking to
them in a certain tone and manner, they rallied imme-
diately, crying out, ' Aliens done, en avant ! ' It is like
music, which either speaks to the soul, or, on the contrary,
gives out sounds without harmony.
It strikes me there was something wild in his air
throughout this last visit, and in many of his observations,
the above among others.
Sept. 17. — Madame Letitia, upon her first arrival, pro-
posed to remain only one month, but she has now taken
up her permanent residence in the island, and has sent for
the rest of her baggage.
Part of the effects belonging to the Princess Pauline
have arrived, and vessels have been sent to Naples for the
remainder. This looks as if Murat was averse to any
public communication with Elba. The Princess herself is
expected to arrive from Naples in two or three weeks.
Sept. 18. — About three weeks ago, a lady with a child,
apparently five or six years of age, arrived here from
Leghorn. She was received by Napoleon with great
attention, but a certain degree of concealment, and ac-
companied him immediately to a very retired small house
in the most remote part of the island. After remaining
two days she re-embarked, and is said to have gone to
* ' Unfurl the eagles ! '
394 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. T CHAP. V.
Naples. Everyone in Elba believes that this individual is
Marie-Louise with her son. It is even said that a servant of
Napoleon's was put in confinement for propagating the
report, as if it was a circumstance intended to be con-
cealed. The Major of Marchiana, on her passing through
that village on her way to the mountain retreat, ordered
preparations for illuminating to be made. For this he was
rebuked by Napoleon, and the order was countermanded.
The same idea is very generally credited on the opposite
coast, but my information leads me to believe that it is a
Polish lady from Warsaw, who bore a child to Napoleon a
few years ago. It is probable that the concealment used,
and her speedy departure to the Continent, proceed from
delicacy towards Marie-Louise, and the fear of this con-
nection becoming known to her.
Sept. 19. — The Intendant tells me that Napoleon's
revenue, even with the impositions, does not exceed
300,000 francs ; whereas his expenses, including troops,
marine, and household, have been at the rate of 1,000,000.
A great part of the ten months' provisions, which were
left in store here by the French troops, have been nearly
all sold by Napoleon, and are supposed to have produced
about 500,000 francs. This sum, with the specie brought
with him from France (the amount of which, however, is
unknown) enables him to continue his extraordinary ex-
penses. The salt has failed this season, and the iron ore
does not meet with sale, in consequence of the quantity of
guns and old iron sold at Genoa by the British, and at
Leghorn by the Neapolitans.
The inhabitants of Capolini have not paid any con-
tributions, nor any of the poorest of the population gene-
rally ; but the threats of military execution have not been
carried out, and the tax will not be levied from them at
present. The Mayor of Marchiana is released.
Napoleon is never now saluted with cries of ' Vive 1'Em-
pereur ! '
CHAP. V. NAPOLEON'S RESTLESSNESS. 305
There are still many discontented officers from the
army of Italy here, and it is said that they are to form a
Garde de Corps. Four officers from France have en-
tered the Imperial Guard as private soldiers. A General
Lebelle and his family have lately arrived here from France,
but he is not employed.
Sept. 20. — Napoleon seems to have lost all habits of
study and sedentary application. He has four places of
residence in different parts of the island, and the im*-
provements and changes of these form his sole occupation.
But as they lose their interest to his unsettled mind, and
the novelty wears off, he occasionally falls into a state of
inactivity never known before, and has of late retired to
his bedroom for repose during several hours of the day.
If he takes exercise, it is in a carriage, and not on horse-
back as before. His health, however, is excellent, and his
spirits appear not at all depressed. I begin to think he
is quite resigned to his retreat, and that he is tolerably
happy, excepting when the recollections of his former
power are freshened by sentiments of vanity or revenge,
or his passions become influenced by want of money, and
his wife and child being kept from him.
To-day he went to Pia Nosa, accompanied by several
ladies and others belonging to his household. He was to
have proceeded there some days ago, but on receiving my
information, with respect to the Algerines having declared
war against Elba, he sent his corvette there to reconnoitre.
She returned yesterday.
This island, as I have before said, is situated a few
miles south of Elba, and is about three miles long and one
broad.
Being very capable of yielding grain, the acquisition of
it is desirable to Napoleon ; and it is probable that he has
no other view in sending there a detachment of soldiers
and some inhabitants. But at the same time it affords
him opportunities of receiving persons from the Continent,
x
306 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. V.
and particularly Naples and Corsica, without any possible
means of detecting it. I have therefore thought it my
duty to draw Lord Castlereagh's attention to the circum-
stance.
Sept. 21. — Embarked for Leghorn.
Sept. 22. — Landed from the ' Grasshopper ' this morning,
and arrived at Florence the same evening.
Sept. 23. — Had an interview with M. Fossombroni, the
Prime Minister of Tuscany, and was informed by him that
fifty-five Polish Lancers of Napoleon's Guard, who had
been at Parma, will arrive at Leghorn by a march-route
on October 2, to embark for the island of Elba. There
were no explanations about the transports to convey them.
General Stahremberg had received this communication
from Marshal Bellegarde, and General Stafinini, com-
manding at Parma, was ordered to communicate with
General Bertrand.
Sept. 24. — Florence.
Sept. 25. — Presented to the Grand Duke of Tuscany in
the forenoon, and afterwards went by invitation to his
box, to see the horse-racing. In the evening attended
the drawing-room, and played cards with the two Grand
Duchesses.
In the course of my audience, the Grand Duke asked
some questions of curiosity about Napoleon ; and when I
took occasion to speak of the favourable sentiments he
had expressed towards His Imperial Highness, he said he
had never done him any pointed violence ; adding, however,
his want of confidence in him, and taking no more direct
notice of Napoleon's proposal to send an officer to compli-
ment him.
I made the Grand Duke, as well as his Minister, per-
fectly aware that I did not charge myself with any mission
from Napoleon; but, as circumstances had led me there,
and there was no British Minister at that Court, I thought
CHAP. V. LETTER TO GENERAL BERTRAND. 307
it right to mention the proposal, as I should, in like
manner, to Napoleon the substance of his reply.
Sept. 26-28. — I have written to General Bertrand in
such terms as may induce both him and Napoleon to
believe that there was no encouragement on the part of
the Grand Duke to any person being sent to compliment
him.
x 2
308 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
CHAPTEE VI.
ARRIVAL OF POLISH LANCERS — TUNISIAN CORSAIR — EDICT OP NAPO-
LEON— HINTS THROWN OUT BY GENERAL BERTRAND — CONVERSATION
WITH NAPOLEON, OCTOBER 31— ARRIVAL OF PAULINE — PECUNIARY
EMBARRASSMENTS OF NAPOLEON — WRITES TO LORD CASTLEREAGH
ON SUBJECT — RESISTANCE TO CONTRIBUTIONS — VISIT TO FLORENCE —
INTERVIEW WITH M. HYDE DE NEUVILLE — OLD GUNS SENT FROM
PORTO FERRAJO — CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON, DECEMBER 4, OF
THREE HOURS AND A HALF — PRESENTS CAPTAIN ADYE — LIST OF
NAPOLEON'S VESSELS — REPORT OF CONVERSATION BETWEEN NAPO-
LEON AND M. LITTA — INTERVIEW WITH NAPOLEON, DECEMBER 21
— DISCHARGE OF SOLDIERS — GRADUAL ESTRANGEMENT OF NAPOLEON.
OCTOBER. — Upon the 2nd ult., a detachment of fifty or sixty
Polish Lancers, mounted, arrived at Leghorn from Parma
with their horses, and were sent over here on the 5th, at
the expense of the Commandant of Leghorn. A person
came with them, who presented an account of the sum
paid for hire of transports. This it was promised to repay ;
but on settling the account with Napoleon's treasurer,
he only paid one-half, without assigning any reason for
withholding the rest.
I have been assured, from good authority, that his
present funds are nearly exhausted ; in consequence of
which there is a great diminution in the expenses, but
not in the extent, of his household and establishment.
It may be necessary to explain, that the Polish Lancers
just mentioned formed part of the volunteers from France ;
but when the others were embarked for Elba at Savona,
in the month of May last, they were sent to Parma by
order of Napoleon, to act as a cavalry-guard to Marie-
Louise.
It is reported that upon the 29th ult., a boat coming to
this island from Corsica, with two officers and fourteen
soldiers for Napoleon's levy, was overtaken by another
CHAP. VI. LETTER FROM SIR JOHN DALRYMPLE. 309
despatch, from the governor and carried back. Those who
have already arrived here are extremely dissatisfied, and
would all return to Corsica if they could escape.
The checks placed upon his recruiting men from Corsica,
by the activity of the new governor, Brulart, have annoyed
him extremely.
The troops here are constantly exercised with mortars
and guns, throwing shells and firing red-hot shot. This
practice increases the surprise of the inhabitants on the
opposite coast, and augments the many reports which are
in circulation.
Colonel Lebelle (whom I before described as General) is
now employed by Napoleon. There is no other Frenchman
above the rank of captain who has joined Napoleon since
his first arrival.
Sir John Dalryrnple writes me from Genoa, that, upon
the 4th inst., a French general of the name of Bourigny,
or Persigny, arrived there, stating that he had left Paris
ten days before, and intended to travel in Italy. It was
discovered that he had hired a vessel to convey him to
Elba. Upon being prevented in that design, he went to
Milan. He had no passport excepting one from Lord
Castlereagh, by means of which he had formerly gone to
Corfu as commissioner, to surrender that island to the
Allies. I cannot learn that he has yet arrived here. I
have written to General Campbell at Corfu, to inform him
of the circumstance.
It is stated that a detachment of French troops, from
Corsica, lately disembarked at the island of Capraja (which
lies to the northward of Corsica, and north-west of Elba),
took on board all the military stores, and then returned. It
is conjectured that this measure arises from the intention of
restoring it to Genoa, to which republic it belonged pre-
viously to the year 1792.
Oct. 22. — Napoleon's corvette is still absent at Civita
Vecchia, or at Naples, either to receive on board the Prin-
cess Pauline, or to accompany the ship which will convey
310 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
her. Many of her effects have arrived here lately. It
has been supposed in Naples and Sicily that they belonged
to Murat, and that they were embarked clandestinely in
case of his losing his present crown.
Murat's squadron is frequently to the southward of this
island, cruising between it and the Bay of Naples, in
order to protect their trade against the Barbary Powers,
but I do not learn that they hold any communication with
this place. The fleet consists in all of two sail of the line,
three frigates, and some small vessels.
Oct. 23. — I have heard nothing more on the subject of
an officer being sent by Napoleon to compliment the
Grand Duke of Tuscany, excepting that M. Colonna went
from this to Leghorn and Florence a few days ago, and it
is surmised that such is the object of his journey. He
accompanied Napoleon's mother from Borne to Elba, and
- has remained with her ever since.
It has been reported in Tuscany for some time past,
and generally believed, that medals and coins have been
struck off here by Napoleon's order. Persons lately ar-
rived from Paris have asserted that they have seen them
there, describing them to bear the same motto as was
reported in Italy — viz., Vlicunque felix. I do not believe
that any were ever made in this island, and I presume that
these must have had their origin in Paris.
Oct. 24-28. — A small ship, a corsair belonging to Tunis,
anchored here on the 24th, and saluted with five guns,
which were returned. This State has not declared war
against the flag of Napoleon. It is only the Algerines who
have done so.
Two Genoese vessels carrying English colours anchored
here subsequently, in consequence of contrary winds, and
put to sea on the morning of the 2 7th. The corsair wished
to pursue them, but was prevented by order from Napoleon,
who directed her to be kept at anchor until the others
were out of reach.
CHAP. VI. DECREE, 311
Napoleon's corvette is stated to be at Baise, near Naples,
anchored at some distance from the shore, and prevented
from landing any of her crew.
Oct. 29. — A few days ago some fifty of the Guards sent
separate petitions to Napoleon to quit his service. No
answer has been yet given, but the inhabitant who was
employed by them to write them out has been sent away
from the island.
From the following decree, affixed in various parts of
the island, it may be inferred that Napoleon foresees the
probability of the officers of the Guard likewise leaving
him, and therefore wishes to prepare some of the young
men of the island for filling their situations.
[Traduction de 1'Italien.]
' S. M. 1'Empereur, par sa decision de ce jour, a decrete
les dispositions suivantes : —
' Porto-Ferrajo, le 13e oct. 1818.
* ART. 1. Dix eleves militaires seront admis a la com-
pagnie d'Artillerie de la Garde. Us seront instruits dans
les manoeuvres d'artillerie et d'infanterie. Un officier des
Grenadiers de la Garde est charge de les instruire en tout
ce qui concerne les manoeuvres d'infanterie, la discipline
et les reglements militaires.
' ABT. 2. Les eleves d'artillerie seront instruits dans les
elements de mathematique, de fortification et de dessin
par im officier qui sera digne de cette charge.
f ART. 3. Les eleves d'artillerie porteront le chapeau noir
avec bordure rouge, pantalons bleus, bottes a 1'ecuyere,
epee, et ceinturon blanc, les epaulettes de sous-lieutenant.
11s seront loges a 1'etoile et feront ordinaire entr' eux.
' ART. 4. Les eleves d'artillerie seront choisis parmi les
jeunes gens qui auront requ la meilleure education, et ils
devront recevoir de leurs families une solde de 360 francs par
an. Ils recevront en outre par le gouvernement une solde
de 180 francs par an et les rations accordees au soldat.
312 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
' AET. 5. Les depenses d'etablissement seront faites par
la famille des eleves d'artillerie.
* Le Gouverneur de Pile d'Elbe,
(Signe) * LE COMTE DEOUOT.'
Oct. 30. — For the last two months I have perceived
' that, upon my return from the Continent to Elba, hints
were thrown out by General Bertrand as if my visits to
the island were expected to be only of short duration.
But I cannot say whether this was in order to ascertain
the footing upon which my stay was prolonged, or merely
in the way of accidental observation from my making
frequent excursions to the mainland, without any other
meaning. As my reception was always marked with
attention and kindness, although I saw less of Napoleon,
and as in my interview at Longono he expressed his
satisfaction at my being there, as he said, * pour rompre
la chimere,' I did not feel myself called upon to enter into
explanations further than to state (in accordance with Lord
Castlereagh's directions) that my residence would continue
until after the affairs of Europe were settled by the Con-
gress. After that, I presumed that His Majesty's Govern-
ment would enable me to exhibit the powers of a perma-
nent and ostensible appointment.
To-day General Drouot told me that Napoleon asked
why I did not go to visit him, as he had not seen me since
my return ; and he requested me to come to him for an in-
terview the following day, at an hour which he appointed.
Oct. 31. — His reception was as kind as usual, and after
polite questions as to my health, he continued for an hour
to make his remarks upon the politics of Europe, occa-
sionally questioning me as to what I had observed in
Italy, or heard from other quarters.
In the course of his remarks as to the discontent of the
Italians, I observed to him that the situation of Italy would
be greatly tranquillised if Murat's position was assured,
CHAP. VI. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 313
and adverted to a report of the question being decided
favourably for him. He did not seem to derive any satis-
faction from this report, and by no means coincided in
the idea of its having that effect throughout Italy. He
traced the evils which existed in Italy to the influence
of the clergy, and attributed the discontent which was
increasing daily, among other causes, more particularly
to the national pride in losing the name of a kingdom.
These evils were too extensive and radical to be influenced
by Naples alone, or by Murat. He praised the Italians,
and ridiculed the Germans. He would engage always to
beat 30,000 Germans with 20,000 Italians. The former
were stupid, slow, and without pride, contented with their
pipes, cows, and farms, whereas the latter were quick and
proud, and had now become military. He had quite
changed their habits, and abolished much of their de-
generacy. All the young men were attached to the
French, from having served with them in the army, and
their minds were bent upon the formation of Italy into a
kingdom. The Government of France had only been
nominal. That part of Italy which had been incorporated
with French departments was only to have remained so
until certain of his projects were fully realised, and the
people knew this. They held their places, and felt them-
selves as one people and one kingdom, from Piedmont to
Naples. After this it was impossible for them to be
reconciled to the changes which were now being made,
through the Austrians, with different language and names,
the disgusting measures of the King of Sardinia, and those
of the Pope and his priestcraft.
He inquired whether Lord William Bentinck had yet
returned to Genoa, if our troops were still there, and
whether the Republic was to be reinstated ?
He asked as to the probable duration of the Congress of
Vienna, adverted to the reports which are in circulation in
Tuscany, of its lasting a considerable time, and that the
314 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
sovereigns would separate before it was closed. He had
thought that all arrangements had been made and
thoroughly understood before their arrival at Vienna, and
that their confirmation only was wanting, which would
have been affixed immediately. How could so many sove-
reigns remain together for any length of time ? Their
separation without a final settlement of Europe, and a
publication of the terms, would have a dreadful effect,
particularly in Poland, Italy, and France. He enlarged
upon this at 'different times, as if he dreaded the conse-
quences, and pretended even to express his wish that the
Congress should conclude speedily and amicably.
With regard to Poland, he said that if Russia could
attach the minds of the Poles to her as one people, she
would be the first Power in Europe. But this was the
difficulty. It was a problem yet to solve, and one which
he thought not at all likely to be solved. If the Emperor
Alexander sent a viceroy, with all the appointments and
the government in the hands of Russians, the Poles would
never become attached to them, nor contribute to the
strength of Russia. The nobles were numerous, high-
spirited, well-educated, and not to be deceived, and there-
fore would not be satisfied by a mere show of independence
and with the name of a kingdom without the reality. The
rest of the nation were in a manner slaves without in-
struction, but they would follow their own nobles with con-
fidence and with perseverance in any cause they espoused.
But, on the other hand, if the Russians succeeded in
uniting the Poles heartily in a common interest, the whole
of Europe ought to dread them. It would be impossible to
foresee or to limit the consequences. Hordes of Cossacks
and barbarians, who had once seen the riches of more civi-
lised countries, would be eager to return. They would
overrun Europe, and some great change would probably
result from it, as had been the case in former times from
the incursions of barbarians. His own opinion, however,
CHAP. VI. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 315
was, that the Poles and Eussians would never be united in
one cause ; there were so many difficulties in the way.
He afterwards changed the subject to the state of France,
principally in respect of Belgium, and his favourite topic,
Antwerp. He gradually became warmed, and was fre-
quently much agitated. The state of humiliation to which
France is now reduced by her cessions and the aggrandise-
ment, so unequal, of the other leading Powers !
' L'Angleterre avec toutes ses richesses, ses possessions
etrangeres et sa puissance maritime ! L'Autriche avec
toute l'Italiev La Prusse avec Mayence, et jusqu'a Luxem-
bourg ! Les Fran£ais a Dantzick n'etaient pas si extraordi-
naires que les Prusses a Luxembourg. Quelle humiliation
pour la France apres tant d'annees de preponderance gagiiee
par sa gloire ! La Hollande avec la Belgique ! ' 1 It was a
great object for England to have Antwerp in possession of
her former ally Holland, and taken from France. But if
this was to be effected, what prospect was there of a
lengthened state of tranquillity in France ? He certainly
thought none. He might be wrong, but time would show.
There could not be quiet in Europe, if the French were
humiliated, and reduced out of proportion with the other
leading Powers. He was of opinion that the Ministers of
England were as much persuaded of this as himself, and
considered the present frontiers of France were quite un-
reasonable ; but it would be impossible for them to convince
the people of England of that, and therefore he presumed
they acted contrary to their own opinions. He was per-
fectly ready to have made peace at Chatillon, if Antwerp
had been left to France. It was England, therefore, that
prevented the peace. The whole of France knew that, and
1 'England with all her riches, ' The French at Dantzic were not
her foreign possessions, and her so extraordinary as the Prussians at
maritime strength ! Austria with Luxemburg. What a humiliation
the whole of Italy. Prussia with for France after so many years of
Mayence, and as far as Luxem- superiority acquired by her glory !
burg ! Holland with Belgium ! '
316 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
approved of his determination never to cede it, but to stake
everything upon it as he did. Metternich was bribed by
England at that time. He knew the particulars of every
sum that he received, and even the debts which he owed
in Paris, and which were all paid for him. At present
Holland and Prussia, and probably Russia also, would be
the constant allies of England, and this would throw France
and Austria together.
He again descanted upon the feelings and qualities of
the French people, pointing out that there would be a
violent reaction of the whole nation before fi^e years were
over, similar to what took place at the Revolution, in
consequence of their humiliation and so great a diminu-
tion of frontier. The Rhine was the natural boundary.
Every man in France considered it so, and this opinion
would never alter. There was no want of male popula-
tion in France, and all martial beyond any other nation,
by nature as well as in consequence of the Revolution and
their ideas of glory. Louis XIV.'s memory, notwith-
standing their sufferings under him, was still beloved by
the French, because he had flattered these feelings. It was
the battle of Rosbach 2 which produced the Revolution in
France, more than any other of the causes to which it was
ascribed. In many instances Louis XVIII. and his sup-
porters showed good sense, in others a total ignorance of
the French character. It was Peltier who wrote the
newspapers in France ; and nothing could be more calcu-
lated to disgust the mass of the population. Their spirit,
if once roused, cannot be opposed ; it is like a torrent.
Neither ministers nor marshals, nor anyone else, can
either direct it differently or stem it. It is otherwise in
England. The nation is directed by parties and by reason-
ing. Perhaps the King of France might send a part of
2 In 1757, between 22,000 Prus- The former had 500 killed and
sians under Frederick the Great, wounded ; the latter, 2,800. —
and 55,000 French and Imperialists Hozier's &ven Weeks' War, vol. i.
under the Prince de Soubise, a fa- p. 34.3. — ED.
vourite of Madame de Pompadour.
CHAP. VI. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 317
his army to St. Domingo, but that would be seen through.
He himself had made a melancholy attempt to conquer
that island with 30,000 men, which had proved the in-
utility of such an expedition.
The appointment of the Duke of Wellington as ambas-
sador at Paris was an open insult and injury to the feelings
of the French people. He, who had been one of the most
successful instruments against them, could not be consi-
dered in any other light. He knew, by persons from France,
that there was a universal disgust there at their present
humiliation, and that the Bourbons had very few partisans
in the army, and among the bulk of the population.
He was then at pains to show that he had no personal
motives or expectations.
' Je suis un homme rnort. Je suis ne soldat. J'ai monte
le trone et j 'ai descendu. Je suis pret a tout. On peut me
deporter. On peut m'assassiner. J'etendrai ma poitrine
pour recevoir le poignard. Comme General Bonaparte,
j'avais des biens que j'avais gagnes, mais on a pris tout.'3
He asked me whether I had lately received any letters
from Lord Castlereagh, and whether I had written to his
lordship', to report the sentiments he had expressed re-
specting the detention of the Empress and his son P I said
I had, but as yet had received no answer.
Napoleon's sister Pauline arrived here to-day on board
of his corvette, escorted as far as the channel of Piornbino
by a Neapolitan frigate, which then returned to Naples
without any communication with Elba.
Nov. 1-12. — I have ascertained from undoubted autho-
rity, that M. Colonna has gone to Florence, charged with
a letter from Napoleon to the Grand Duke of Tuscany.
After the Tunisian corsair left this harbour, she gave
chase to some coasting vessels near Piombino, and block-
3 ' I am a dead man. I was born me. I would stretch out my breast
a soldier. I have mounted the to receive the poignard. As Gene-
throne, and I have descended. I ral Bonaparte, I had possessions that
am ready for everything. They can I had gained, but they have taken
transport me. They can assassinate all.'
318 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
aded them there. It appears certain that Napoleon has es-
tablished himself on an amicable footing with this Power,
or that he has bribed the captain of the ship with the ad-
vantage of taking shelter in his ports, so as to be able
perhaps to communicate with France. For it is said that
she came direct from Toulon in four days. I shall pursue
this investigation, as the circumstance appears remark-
able.
Memorandum of information which it is desirable to obtain
as soon as possible, or any other circumstances connected
therewith.
1. 'Whether the amicable understanding between Elba
and the Tunisian corsair is with herself only, or whether
it extends to all vessels of the Bey of Tunis ? '
2. ' The extent of these relations in detail ? '
3. ' By what means and channel they have been ef-
fected?'
4. ' Whether by way of Genoa or by way of Naples, and
how far Murat or his Government has been concerned in
establishing this communication ? '
5. ' Whether the corsair came from Toulon, or from
whence, when she arrived at Porto Ferrajo upon October
24?'
6. t Whether she has conveyed persons or letters to or
from Napoleon, by way of France or Corsica, Naples, or
other parts of Italy ? '
7. c If not from Napoleon or to him, whether she has
conveyed letters to or from other persons in Elba ? The
nature and extent of this communication, as much in detail
as possible.'
Napoleon appears to be agitated by the want of money,
and to be impressed with a fear that there is no intention
of fulfilling the treaty made at Paris, in respect of the sums
stipulated for himself and his family. In writing to Lord
Castlereagh, I have set down the only expressions which
CHAP. VI. DESPATCH TO LORD CASTLEREAGH. 319
have fallen from himself, but those about his person cannot
dissemble their belief in the reports which are circulated
in Italy, to the effect that it is intended to remove him to
St. Helena or St. Lucia. The wife of General Bertrand
lately said that he has scarcely a shilling, not even a
ring to present to any one, and that his situation is
frightful.
I have expressed myself to Lord Castlereagh as follows :
[Despatch No. 34.]
* If pecuniary difficulties press upon him much longer,
so as to prevent his vanity from being satisfied by the
ridiculous establishment of a court which he has hitherto
supported in Elba, and if his doubts are not removed, I
think he is capable of crossing over to Piombino with his
troops, or of any other eccentricity. But if his residence
in Elba and his income are secured to him, I think he will
pass the rest of his life there in tranquillity.'
Nov. 13-18. — The last party of recruits who arrived
from Corsica upon October 25 have been sent back, and it
is given out that Napoleon does not wish to receive any
more. It is difficult to say whether this is on account of
the expense, the general discontent of these recruits, or
that Napoleon's views and hopes are more extensive than
they were upon his first arrival at Elba.
Upon the 15th instant a party of gendarmes were sent
to the village of Capolini to enforce the arrears of contri-
butions, but the inhabitants resisted. In consequence,
Poles and Corsicans, amounting to nearly 400, were sent
there upon the 17th during the night, and are to re-
main until the tax is paid, receiving each one pound of
meat and an allowance of wine from the inhabitants of this
small village, who do not probably exceed 400 or 500. Two
priests and three others of the principal inhabitants were
arrested at the same time, and conveyed to Porto Ferrajo.
Nov. 19-30. — Florence. I have come to this place for
320 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
the purpose of comparing my intelligence respecting the
Tunisian corsair with that in possession of the Grand
Duke's minister. I also requested Captain Adye, com-
manding His Majesty's ship * Partridge ' on the Elba sta-
tion, to assist me in these inquiries, in case of his falling
in with the Tunisian in the course of any of his cruises.
He returned to Leghorn on November 20, and as he
could not obtain any information respecting the corsair,
he is of opinion that she has returned to Tunis.
Previously to my application to Captain Adye, the
Tunisian had anchored a second time at Elba, but in the
Port of Longono, where she remained from October 31
until November 10. She was in quarantine during the
whole time, and I cannot ascertain that there was any
underhand communication. The captain stated that he
had sailed from Tunis for the express purpose of cruising
on the Roman coast, but that the winds and bad weather
had forced him to put into Toulon, where he had remained
eighteen days in quarantine; that the same causes had
induced him to put into Elba, and that he had no orders
to seize the vessels of that island.
1 have likewise been anxious to ascertain the result of
the examination of a spy — one Ettori — who went from
Elba to Leghorn, and was arrested there. The man is
now here under the inspection of the police, but the infor-
mation obtained respecting him has been far less impor-
tant and conclusive than had been expected. In fact he
appears to have been equally in the confidence of Marshal
Bellegarde and Napoleon !
M. Ricci, who acts as vice-consul at Elba, and obtains
private information for me there, has just transmitted to
me a report respecting the embarkation of guns and shot.
This is certainly a matter calculated to excite alarm, and
deserves the utmost and most immediate attention. But I
am persuaded it will prove to be old iron shipped for sale
to the Continent, as a cargo of old guns, broken shells,
&c., had been already sent by Napoleon to Civita Vecchia.
CHAP. VI. DESPATCH FROM EARL BATHURST. 321
There lias been a further reduction of servants and other
expenses of Napoleon's household for the sake of economy.
This reduction is estimated at 35,000 francs per month.
Four of the officers of Napoleon's corvette received deco-
rations from Murat, but have been expressly forbidden to
wear them. I do not yet know the grounds upon which
this interdiction has been given.
Having supplied all the information in my power to Lord
Burghersh (who has arrived here as His Majesty's Minis-
ter to the Court of Florence) with respect to my mission,
and the objects connected therewith, I propose returning at
once to Elba.
I have received the following despatch in reference to
his lordship's appointment :
'Foreign Office : Oct. 13, 1814.
( Sir, — His Royal Highness the Prince Regent, having
been pleased to appoint Lord Burghersh to be His Ma-
jesty's Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary
to the Grand Duke of Tuscany, and it being desirable that
his lordship should be kept constantly informed of the
state of affairs at Elba, I have to signify to you His Royal
Highness the Prince Regent's commands, that you send
your official correspondence with this office under flying
seal through Lord Burghersh at Florence. You will at
the same time omit no opportunity of sending duplicates
of your despatches by sea. I am, &c. &c.,
(Signed) * BATHURST.
' Colonel Campbell, &c. &c.'
While I was at Florence, M. Hyde de Neuville4 arrived
there. From his distinguished zeal and ability in the
4 Memorandum respecting M. Hyde and the Barbary Powers, but in
de Neuville, given, to M. Plcmta, fact (as he afterwards confessed to
Secretary to Lord Viscount Castle- me, and as M. Fossombroni, the
reugh. Minister of the Grand Duke of
•London : April 7, 1815. Tuscany, told me) to see what
' This gentleman came to Italy Bonaparte was doing in Elba. This
in November last, upon a pretext was previous to the arrival of Lord
of arrangements between France Burghersh,
322
SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
Bourbon cause, this gentleman was sent to Italy by the
King of France's confidential friends, to collect informa-
tion respecting Napoleon's situation and conduct at Elba.
The mission conveys in itself an evident proof of the appre-
hensions they entertain, that the internal state of France
and Bonaparte's situation were incompatible with the tran-
quillity of the nation. The French Consul in Tuscany,
Monsieur Mariotti, informed me of M. H. de Neuville's ar-
rival. The real object of his mission was imparted to me by
M. Mariotti, as well as by M. Fossombroni, the Minister of
the Grand Duke of Tuscany, although the ostensible object
was said to be some arrangements respecting the Barbary
Powers. The information of these gentlemen was sufficient
to induce me to lay aside every reserve with M. H. de
Neuville, although possessing no previous acquaintance
with him, nor any other introduction. Perceiving that he
1 Being assured, from undoubted
sources, of his attachment to the
Bourbons, of his intimacy with Sir
Sidney Smith (with whom he had
served on the coast of France, and
with whom he was then in corre-
spondence), I gave him the fullest
information respecting Bonaparte's
conduct and situation, and even
respecting my own situation in
Elba, his restlessness, the emissaries
he had sent abroad to recruit for
men, the extraordinary circumstance
of his harbour being frequented by
a Tunisian ship, which ship had last
come from Toulon, that it was im-
possible to say what project might
be masked under that connection.
This vessel might pass in the Medi-
terranean from one port to another
with less suspicion than his own,
and his appearance in France might
only be known after he was in pos- .
session of Toulon and the fleet.
'I expressed my great surprise that
the King of France had not yet sent
any confidential person to Italy, to
remain there for the particular pur-
pose of watching Bonaparte, who
would discover his emissaries and
plots among the various States of
Italy, which would be done more
effectually by one person employed
for that object; also some ships to
guard him.
' He was very thankful for the in-
formation, acquiesced in all my re-
marks, and set off immediately for
Paris to report upon these sub-
jects; and, very soon thereafter,
several ships of war belonging to
Louis XVIII. came to cruise near
Elba. But I did not hear more of
M. Hyde de Neuville, or any other
agent of France.
' M. Hyde de Neuville, known to
be a firm adherent to the King,
must of course have given all that
information to his Ministers, point-
ing out to them how very little
check against any sudden aggres-
sion of Bonaparte there was by my
residence, and how necessary it was
to watch him.'
CHAP. VI. M. HYDE DE NEUVILLE. 323
was greatly in error upon many points, I snowed him Lord
Castlereagh's instructions, and gave him every information
connected with my own duties, Napoleon's situation, and
his dispositions, desiring to call his attention to the un-
limited freedom of person and communication with the
Continent which Napoleon possessed. I then distinctly
pronounced to him my opinion that Napoleon was not suffi-
ciently watched ; that I had no means of preventing him
from escaping ; that he was still of a most restless dispo-
sition ; that discontented persons of an adventurous spirit,
from France and Italy, frequented Elba ; that it was a very
suspicious circumstance, the communication held with
the Tunisian ship ; that I had traced her having come to
Elba. I even supposed it possible to him, that a conspiracy
might be formed in Napoleon's favour at Toulon ; he could
be conveyed in that ship, and that the first intelligence
might be his being in possession of that important place
and the fleet.
M. Hyde de Neuville took memoranda in writing, in my
presence, of this information, and departed the following
day in post haste to Paris. 5
5 Two French frigates were soon rappellez, Colonel, sont de la plus
afterwards sent from Toulon to scrupuleuse exactitude. 11 est de
cruise round the island of Elba ; fait, que me trouvant a Florence, par
but the evil could not be averted suite d'une mission dont le Roi
by them, and they were of no use inon maitre m'avait charge aupres
whatever, as will be seen here- de plusietfrs cours d'ltalie, et ayant
after. eu 1'avantage de vous y rencontrer,
M. II. de Neuville was after- vous me temoignates une extreme
wards Minister to the United States satisfaction de pouvoir enfin parler
of America. When referred to for a un sujet de S. M. Louis XVIII,
minutes of the above conversation, qui toujours avait e"te h'dele a sa
he wrote as follows : cause. Vous me dites que vous
<Non seulement j'ai garde" le sou- pourriez enfa'n vous exprimer avec
venir de notre conversation, mais il toute confiance, ce que vous fites
me serait aise d'en donner les alors avec autant de loyaute que
moindres details si j'avais ici mes d'obligeance. II est certain, Colo-
papiers, car cette inteYessante con- nel, que vous m'avouates que Bona-
versation est consignee dans mon parte n'e"tait point assez surveille,
journal. que vous n'aviez aucun moyen de
' Les circonstances que vous pre" venir son Evasion, et que vous
Y 2
324
SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
December 1, 2. — Leghorn. Since my arrival here, upon
my way to Elba, I have ascertained that the guns, &c.,
which were embarked there, were (as I supposed) old iron
to be sent to the Continent for sale. So persuaded was I of
this, that I would not have transmitted the report to Lord
Castlereagh, had I not been certain that it would reach
Vienna through the Tuscan Government, and in more
alarming terms.
Dec. 3. — Porto Ferrajo, Elba. I am now able to report on
the above subject from personal observation. About three
months ago Napoleon directed the old guns and part of
the military stores to be removed from Longono (which is
a considerable fortification on the Italian side of Elba)
to this place, and part of them were afterwards sold at
Oivita Vecchia as old iron. The brig ' Inconstant ' is now
receiving an additional quantity for the same purpose.
n'etiez pas sans inquietude, par suite quo je venais d'obtenir, me deter-
de beaucoup de circonstances dont minerent a accelerer mon retour a
vous me fites part. Paris.' *
' Ces renseignements et d'autres
* Translation of tJie above by Sir
Neil Campbell : —
' I have not forgotten any of the
circumstances mentioned in it, and
indeed I am of opinion that it would
not be possible for any sovereign to
find anyone more zealous in his
cause than yourself. Not only do I
well recollect our conversation, but,
had I my papers with me at pre-
sent, I could cite the most minute
details of it, as that interesting
conversation is preserved in my
journal.
' The circumstances which you
call to my recollection, Colonel, are
stated by your letter with most
scrupulous correctness. It is a fact
that, being at Florence upon a mis-
sion with which the King my mas-
ter had honoured me to several
Courts iu Italy, and having the
good fortune to meet you there, you
expressed to me the utmost satis-
faction at having at length been
able to communicate with one of
the subjects of Louis XVIII., who
had ever been faithful to his cause.
You stated to me that at length
you could speak without reserve,
which you did with the greatest
frankness and kindness. You cer-
tainly did avow to me, Colonel,
that Bonaparte was not sufficiently
watched, that you did not possess
any means for preventing his eva-
sion, and that you were not with-
out uneasiness upon the subject, in
consequence of many circumstances
which you then disclosed to me.
' This communication, and others
which were made to me, caused
my return to Paris with greater
haste.'
CHAP. VI. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 325
I have seen the correspondence which has passed between
General Drouot and two merchants — one here and another
at Naples — as to the terms of sale. The principal reasons
alleged are the want of money, and the fact that, as the
fortification is of no use to Napoleon, it only occasions an
unnecessary expense. He therefore proposes to dismantle
it entirely by degrees, in proportion as his means enable
him to remove the stores.
In order to raise money, he has, within the last few days,
sold a large public building in this town, formerly occupied
as a soldiers' barrack, for 1,500 francs.
The agent sent to Florence, M. Colonna, was for the
purpose of promoting a correspondence with Marie-Louise ;
in the first instance openly, by an amicable intercourse
with the Grand Duke of Tuscany, afterwards clandes-
tinely ; but both of these have failed.
Dec. 4. — Had a conversation with Napoleon, which lasted
three hours and a half.
After some general inquiries as to my health and last
visit to the Continent, he said that Talleyrand was 'un
scelerat, un pretre defroque, un homme des revolutions; '6
in fact, everything that was bad. He knew that he was
inimical to him long ago, and would betray him if an
opportunity offered. He therefore told Cambaceres, who
was charged to remain at Paris with the Empress Marie-
Louise, and who accompanied her to Orleans, not to leave
Talleyrand alone at Paris ; but he weakly yielded to his
application to remain there, so pitifully supplicated for at
the very moment of his quitting it.
I asked him whether the letter which had appeared in
some of the newspapers as if written by Talleyrand, dis-
suading him from the war in Spain, was true. He said it
was not — not one word of it; no such letter was ever
written. It was Talleyrand who first proposed to him the
invasion of Spain. After being turned out of office by him,
6 ' A villain, a renegade priest, a revolutionist.'
326 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
in consequence of representations from the Kings of Bavaria
and Wurteinburg that he demanded sums of money for
himself on several occasions, he nevertheless continued for
a long time to frequent his evening parties along with
Fouche, who was in office at that time. It was in hopes of
reviving his credit with him (Napoleon) that Talleyrand
advised him to profit by the dissensions which existed in
Spain, between Charles IV. and his son Ferdinand, and
to put one of his own family upon the throne. He pre-
sented to him a memoir written to that effect by a friend
of his own in Spain, who was intimate with the Prince of
Peace. In fact he declared that Talleyrand was a Jacobin
of the vilest heart; that he very often urged on him to
get rid of the Bourbons by assassinating them ; or, if he
would not accede to that, to let them be carried off from
England by a party of smugglers, who were in the con-
stant habit of coming over. He always rejected the
proposal, so long as they kept out of France. It was
different with the Duke d'Enghien, who came to the fron-
tier of France, even to the gates of Strasbourg, in order
to foment conspiracies. But his death also was an act of
Talleyrand's, it was proposed by him ; and but for him too
the Duke's life would have been saved, even after he was
arrested. It was told him (Napoleon) that the Duke
d'Enghien requested to speak to him. ' Cela me touchait.
J'ai voulu voir le jeune homme, mais c'etait deja trop tard.
II avait pris les mesures pour 1'empecher. C'etait lui, Tal-
leyrand, qui en etait la cause.' 7
[In this relation Napoleon showed much enmity to-
wards Talleyrand, but very little emotion or regret at the
circumstance itself.]
He asked me whether I had heard of the divorce which it
was proposed to institute between himself and the Empress.
7 'That touched me. I wished measures to prevent it. It was he,
to see the young man, but it was Talleyrand, who was the cause.'
already too late. He had taken
CHAP. VI. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 327
I told him I had, but only through the foreign papers, and
there were so many untruths in the newspapers on the
Continent, that I only read the English papers and the
* Gazette ' of Florence. He said the story had been inserted
in the journals of Genoa and Milan. I told him I was
persuaded, that although Genoa was occupied by British
troops, the officer who commanded there did not interfere
with nor influence the press, but confined himself to his
military duties. I then mentioned an anecdote which had
been related, that Marie-Louise had been greatly chagrined
at mistaking the Princess of Wales' courier for one of
Napoleon's ; and, when complimented by the Princess on
her proficiency in music, she said she had studied it par-
ticularly in order to please Napoleon, for that to her he
always was and would be perfect ! '
Here he showed considerable emotion; spoke of the
weakness and inhumanity of the Emperor of Austria, in
keeping away his wife and child. She had promised to
write to him every day upon her return from Switzerland to
Vienna, but he had never since received one letter from her.
His child was taken from him like the children taken by
conquerors in ancient times to grace their triumphs. The
Emperor ought to recollect how differently he had acted
towards him when he was entirely at his mercy, and no
ties of marriage existed. He had twice entered Vienna
as a conqueror, but never exercised towards the Emperor
such ungenerous conduct. It was not he who solicited
the marriage ; it was Metternich who proposed it to Nar-
bonne. ' J'ai ete tres-heureux avec ma femme, mais pour
moi le mariage a ete tres-funeste. J'aurais mieux fait de
marier une princesse de Eussie.' 8 His Council deliberated
upon the proposition. Had it not been for the difference of
religion, he would have married a Russian Princess. A
8 ' I have been very happy with should have done better to marry a
my wife, but the marriage has Russian Princess.'
proved very disastrous for me. I
328 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
Greek chapel would not have answered in Paris. To have
seen him going to one church, and his wife to a Greek
chapel, would not have looked well, and therefore this
other marriage was decided upon. As to settlements, he
told them to copy the contract of marriage between
Louis XVI. and Marie-Antoinette : in half an hour it was
signed by Schwartzenberg.
He again spoke of the weakness and ingratitude of the
Emperor of Austria, who had once come to his camp to
supplicate for forbearance. So weak was he as to tell
Marie-Louise lately that Metternich was Napoleon's friend,
and had assured him that he would attend to Napoleon's
interests.
In answer to a question, I said that if he gave me a
letter for the Empress, I would send it to Lord Burghersh,
who had desired me to announce his arrival at Florence,
and to offer his services in any way consistent with his
duty. He said this might be prejudicial to Lord Burghersh
and myself. I replied that I did not apprehend so. The
letter would be forwarded to Lord Castlereagh, who would
either openly deliver it, or return it honourably.
He was prepared, he said, for every act of personal
hostility and oppression, even to the taking his life. Was
it not evident that there was some such intention against
him in the choice made of the governor of Corsica —
Brulart — a man who was employed for many years by
the Bourbons while in England in plots and conspiracies
with Georges and others ? Brulart had even changed his
residence from Ajaccio to Bastia, so as to be at the point
nearest Elba. Since then he had never gone out to take
exercise except with four armed soldiers to accompany
him. Brulart could not have been selected with any
other view, for he had no connection whatever with Corsica;
so far otherwise, that one of the regiments now there had
been employed against him in La Vendee.
They spoke of removing him to England. There he
CHAP. VI. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 329
would have society, and enjoy an opportunity of explaining
the circumstances of his life, and doing away with many
prejudices, such as was not possible in the island of Elba.
In England he could even see and communicate with his
partisans better than at Elba ; four-fifths of the French
people were in his favour.
He pointed out, as he had frequently done before, the
impolicy of humiliating France; that the ferment there
would break out one day or other, and the Sovereigns of
Europe would then perhaps, for their own interest and
repose, find it necessary to call him in to tranquillise the
country.
At present nothing could be wiser than the conduct of
the King of France, but the Government acted differently.
They openly ordered the restoration of property to the
emigres and ancient families. Even he himself dared
not do so. Whenever he brought them forward, he felt
that l les renes fremissaient dans mes mains ! ' 9 Much
might be done for them in the way of restitution without
proclaiming it to all France, and thus affecting the security
of so much property.
He had been abused in numerous publications; the
epithets of Nero, Brutus, &c., had been applied to him. It
had been said that he had received lessons for attitude
from Talma, and similar circumstances were stated which
had no foundation whatever, while others were exag-
gerated or perverted. These things proved the adage,
* C'est la verite seule qui peut blesser,' J and therefore he
had not been affected by them.
The French knew what he had done for them; how
many millions he had brought into the country, and ex-
pended in works of public utility. Many of these, which
were entirely executed by him, were now ascribed to his
predecessors. Before him there was not a sewer in all the
9 ' The reins trembled in my 1 ' It is the truth alone that can
hands.' wound.'
330 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
streets of Paris ; water was scarce. The quays were en-
tirely formed by him. Posterity would do him justice.
I told him he ought to fulfil the pledge given at Fon-
tainebleau by writing his ' Memoirs ; ' that I had received
letters from booksellers in London, totally unknown to me,
expressing great anxiety on the subject. One in particular,
who had published his brother Lucien's poem, of ' Charle-
magne,' wished to propose terms. * Yes,' he said ; ' I shall
publish my " Memoirs," but they will not be very long.'
The Bourbons ought to pursue towards him the same
forbearance he had shown with regard to them after
he ascended the throne. He would not allow either
praise or invective, either good or evil, to be published
respecting them.
He had been called ' Idche !' (coward). 1 1 say nothing of
my life as a soldier. Is it no proof of my courage to live
here, shut up in this bicoque of a house, separated from
the world, with no interesting occupation, no savants with
me, nor any variety in my society, excepting when I have
occasionally the pleasure of conversing with yourself — even
without money ? '
Here he stated the sum he had brought with him from
France. ' So small were his means,' he said, ' that he had
been under the necessity of obtaining an addition, sent to
him from Orleans by the Empress, before he could even
leave Fontainebleau ! '
There had been abuse against him even in the expose of
the French budget. It was a false statement, for there
was no notice of four hundred millions of * domaines prives '
taken by the Royal Family. It was at one time his in-
tention to have replied to this paper, but he afterwards
thought it better not to do so.
He inquired about the Congress. I told him the most
perfect secrecy was preserved, but it was generally under-
stood that the greatest harmony prevailed.
It appeared extraordinary to him that Murat's fate was
CHAP. VI. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 331
not known. He had ordered a levy of 25,000 infantry and
6,000 cavalry, which betrayed a want of confidence on his
part towards the Allies. Murat, however, I might depend
upon it, did nothing but in concert with Austria. When
his sister, Princess Pauline, left Naples, the Austrian
Minister was king there ! He ridiculed the idea of Murat
resisting any terms the Allies might choose to impose
upon him. All he could do, was to seek his own death;
to fall with arms in his hands, rather than yield to their
demands.
He was surprised at the bad policy of England in wish-
ing to restore the family of Ferdinand to the throne of
the Two Sicilies. How much more her interest to sepa-
rate the island of Sicily !
With what hope could the sovereigns of Europe look
forward to the enjoyment of tranquillity, with discontent
boiling in France and Italy, countries which formed so
great a portion of the Continent? Even in Germany it
appeared that many of the petty princes were not satisfied.
Prince Fiirstenberg and many others had presented an
address to the Emperor of Austria, at which he had shed
tears. Bavaria and Wurtemburg could not but view that
with uneasiness.
He ridiculed the nomination of the Sovereigns of Eussia
and Prussia to be colonels of Austrian regiments, and
their asking leave of absence as such from the Emperor of
Austria. What childishness ! ' L'Empereur Alexandre est
un acteur, et tres-faux ; tout a fait Grec.' 2 Frederick the
Great of Prussia having put on the uniform of the Austrian
levies when he paid a visit to the Emperor of Austria was
not a similar case. Nor did the meeting between Francis I.
and Henry VIII. bear any resemblance to the meeting of
the Allied Sovereigns. It might be very well to give
the use of a regiment to that Ostrogoth the Grand Duke
2 f The Emperor Alexander is an actor, and very Talse ; a complete
Greek.'
332 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
Constantine, wherewith to amuse himself. During the pre-
paration for the Peace of Amiens, Lord Cornwallis asked
him for a regiment of cavalry, the exercise of which he
constantly attended, but that was very different too.
In talking of the entry of the Allies into Paris, and the
operations at that period, he said that his Guards were
only one march from Fontainebleau with the design of
attacking them ; that, in that case, Schwartzenberg would
have abandoned Paris, and taken a defensive position on
the other side. General Koller had told him so, and Fuiiti
said the same.
[Here he stopped himself, and seemed embarrassed at
having mentioned the name of the latter. He has always
asked me, on my return from any of my late visits to the
Continent, whether I had seen Funti, who was formerly a
senator at Paris and now lives at Florence.]
I told him he had a more favourable opportunity for
attacking Schwartzenberg at Arcis, when Blucher's army
was separated. He said that might be so — perhaps he was
wrong ; but his views at that time were to have attacked
the Allies in detail from the rear ; and that had he not
been disconcerted by Marmont's disobedience of orders
(who did not push on to Chalons, as directed), he would
have destroyed the one army, and then turned back upon
Blucher.
Here he related the view of affairs which had induced
him to abdicate. He could have supported the war in
France for years, and perhaps have carried it out of the
kingdom. But although the people would have flocked to
his standard, and the army would have stood firm, this
would have been the ruin of France. With the armies of
Blucher and Schwartzenberg in Paris, Wellington press-
ing forward from Toulouse, Augereau beaten at Lyons
(for he did not then know that he was indisposed to exert
himself at all), a faction in Paris against him, and the
senate weak enough to assemble by the orders of their
CHAP. VI. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 333
enemy, he had 110 hesitation in descending from the
throne, as it appeared to be the only way of saving
Trance. But he would never have done so had not Mar-
mont deserted him — except, indeed, on the regency of the
Empress and her son being secured. In his own person
he could not even consent to any peace except according
to such a treaty as that proposed at Frankfort. France
could not submit to any other line than that of the Rhine,
and he had himself openly said that, if he made peace at
Chatillon, he should not be able to keep it three months.
The people generally might be tired of the wars into which
his conquests had led them (entrames), but they would
never be satisfied to remain at peace on the terms now im-
posed. In France there are 800,000 men who have carried
arms. He had now no regret in his abdication, nor yet in
his refusal of the last propositions for peace. He would
do the same over again. Lord Castlereagh prevented
the peace at Frankfort. The other Allies were perfectly
willing to consent to it, but England wished to diminish
France. I reminded him that Lord Castlereagh did not
arrive until after the Allies had crossed the Rhine.
On his asking what were the observations of English
travellers who had come lately from Paris, I told him that
the people in France, particularly the military, did not show
so much good-will towards the English as at first. Many
of the French officers, I believed, felt sore at having been
put on board the prison -ships ; but this arose from many of
them, of all ranks,3 breaking their paroles and deserting.
•He said we had done the same. I told him that no officer
who deserted would be received either by the Commander-
in-chief or by his own corps. He said he had published
3 One of the most notable in- the following year, and escaped to
stances was that of General Lefe- France. Napoleon at once rein-
bvre Desnouettes, who had been stated him in the command of the
taken prisoner at Benevente, while mounted Chasseurs of the Guard,
pressing Sir John Moore's retreat, and ever afterwards treated him
He broke his parole in England with marked favour. — ED.
334 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
a list of them in the ' Moniteur.' I assured him that these
were civilians, some of whom might be in the yeomanry or
militia, but not in the regular army or navy. He said
they were, in his view, equally prisoners of war. As we,
immediately on declaring war, had seized all French sub-
jects and their property on the sea, although not belong-
ing to the military service, he in like manner detained
all British subjects whom he could lay hold of on the
Continent.
I related to him the anecdote of the Princess of Wales'
wig and crown tumbling down at the feet of Lucien Bona-
parte, adding that she was frequently at his house in Rome.
But this did not produce any observation from him re-
specting his brother, excepting that he supposed they had
met in England. I told him, certainly not.
He said England had not acted generously in prosecuting
the war against America, but showed a spirit of inveterate
revenge. It weakened her voice at present at the Con-
gress, so great a portion of her force being absent from
Europe. She had not occupied Louisiana, nor acquired
any great or permanent object. The Americans would
gradually improve, and we should have to be satisfied to
make peace without having gained any accession of
strength or power. Our character, after standing lately
so high in the eyes of all Europe, would diminish by the
sort of warfare in which we indulged against private
property, trading vessels, storehouses, &c. I told him the
Americans had no right to expect generosity from us after
their ungenerous provocation in forcing us into war when
the whole of Europe was arrayed against us. The first
excesses were practised by them in burning towns and
villages in Upper Canada, even after threats of retaliation
were held out to them.
I asked him whether it was true that he had proposed
to the British Government, during the Peace of Amiens, to
unite in an expedition against the Barbary Powers. He
CHAP. VI. NAPOLEON'S OWN HISTORY. 335
said he had ; that the present state of things was a disgrace
to all the civilised Powers ; but that it depends only on
England to put an end to it ; and as we had been the
means of abolishing the slave trade, or nearly so, so we
ought in like manner to make this a national object. I
told him that societies had lately been formed with this
view, and that they were daily increasing.
He then related at great length his own history, from
the beginning of the Eevolution, and with more fire and
precision than usual.
In the commencement of the Revolution he marched
with his company of artillery to Douai, where he witnessed
some scenes of violence without taking any part in them.
By chance the routine of service sent him to Toulon, where
the operations had been very badly conducted under the
Representants du Peuple. He had been conspicuous among
his schoolfellows and comrades for his knowledge of mathe-
matics, and had been selected by them to compile a Memoir,
according to custom, against the Engineer department.
Prom the character thus acquired, he was desired to draw
up a Memoir with his plan of operations against Toulon.
He did so, and was then allowed to take a detached work,
which he had pointed out as the key of the place. On this
he immediately received the command of the artillery,
and the direction of the operations, according to his own
plan, which proved successful. This gave him confidence
in himself. He was appointed general of brigade, and
came to Paris. There he was named to a command in
La Vendee as a general of infantry, but not liking that
war, nor to be employed out of his own line in a subor-
dinate situation, he declined it, saying he was an officer of
artillery.
Soon afterwards Menou, who commanded the Army of
the Interior, was beaten by the Parisians, who likewise
threatened the Convention. He himself was at the theatre,
in perfect obscurity, and going out, by chance he heard the
336 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
boys bawling out a decree of the Convention, in which his
own name was vociferated. He listened ; and as it could be
no other but himself, he gave two sous for one of the papers,
went to one side, and there read the decree of the Conven-
tion, by which he was named General of the Interior. He
proceeded towards the Committee of Public Safety, and in
the course of his walk there again heard his name vocife-
rated about the streets. On entering the Hall, he found the
members despatching persons to find him out, if possible, in
his obscure residence. * Le General Bonaparte ! Le petit
general d'artillerie ! ' 4 was resounded everywhere upon his
being perceived. He was ushered into another room by
some of the members, where he found Menou in arrest.
' Que voulez-vous de moi, citoyen ? ' 5 he demanded of one of
the Convention. ' Citoyen, vous etes nomine au commande-
ment de PInterieur !' 6 *I said that, before I accepted the
offer, I must ask some information of General Menou. Very
well. I asked the General where was his artillery ? At —
[I could not catch the word] . How many pieces ? Forty.
Guarded by what force ? About forty or fifty cavalry. I
immediately called Murat, who was standing by us in the
uniform of a captain of cavalry. What number of cavalry
have you at your immediate command? Two hundred.
Mount instantly, and bring here all that artillery. Sabre
all that oppose you. He executed my order. I placed
the artillery so as to sweep the streets that day — it was
the 13th Vendemiaire — and secured certain other parts with
barricades and pallisades — forced the Parisians to remain
quiet, and restored the power of the Convention.' He
remained in this command during three months, after
which he was named general of artillery to the Army of
Italy, and afterwards to the chief command.
After his successful campaigns as General Bonaparte,
4 ' General Bonaparte, the little citizen ? '
general of artillery.' 6 ' Citizen, you are nominated to
5 ' What do you want with me, the command of the Interior.'
CHAP. VI. NAPOLEON'S OWN HISTORY. 337
commanding the Army of Italy, he returned to Paris, where
he remained some time in a small house in perfect retire-
ment, wearing only a,froque, or covering himself up in his
cloak, in order to go to the Institute, of which he was a
member. This was in consequence of the military calling
out, ' Nous voulons avoir le General Bonaparte, notre petit
general, pour notre chef.'7 Others said, ' II doit etre roi, il
faut le faire roi.' 8 This gave him great uneasiness, for he
was a Republican in opinion, and had no wish to avail
himself of the desire of the army and Parisians. If he had
not preserved the most cautious conduct, it would have
led to his destruction, either by causing his assassination,
or getting him put out of the way upon false charges.
Notwithstanding his determination not to profit by the
feeling in his favour, nor to give any pretext for suspi-
cion, the Directory became jealous of him. Talleyrand was
therefore sent with a proposal, that he should carry an
army to Egypt. He was as much overjoyed, and entered
as ardently into the project, as if it had originated with
himself. He resolved to give his whole heart to the expe-
dition, looking forward to it as his only object, in order
that he might either march on to India, or to Constan-
tinople, according as circumstances might arise in the
course of time.
By one of the arrivals from France, while in Egypt, he
received a decree of the Directory, which was to be inserted
as an ordre du jour, according to the practice at that time.
This decree related to the electors, and it so disgusted him
that, from that moment, he was no longer a Republican.
He said to himself, * Je ferai fondre tout cela.' 9 For a long
time afterwards he received no intelligence from France,
but one day Sir Sidney Smith (who was always eager to
send flags of truce, and keep up communication with him
7 'We wish to have General 8 'He ought to be king. We
Bonaparte, our little general, for our must make him king.'
chief.' 9 ' I will put an end to all that.'
338 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
by these means) forwarded some newspapers of a recent
date. In these he read of the reverses of Italy, the taking
of Mantua, &c. Now is my time, he exclaimed to him-
self, and immediately took his measures, and returned to
France.
' You will perceive,' he continued, ' that I have engaged
but little in the disorders of the Eevolution. I was born
in an island, half Italian, half French, but I am a French-
man in soul (en dme). I left Corsica at an early age, was
educated in France, and have passed my life there.'
I told him that many persons in England asserted that,
upon his quitting Egypt, it was his intention to have re-
stored order for the Bourbons. He turned round quickly
towards me, and looking with an air of agitation, replied,
' Ce n'est pas vrai, jamais ; cela aurait ete une trahison
envers les Fran9ais. Cela n'aurait pas ete consulter leur
bonheur et leurs interets.' l t After the battle of Marengo
the Abbe Montesquieu,' he said, ' gave me a letter from
Louis XVIII., wherein he asked my assistance to restore
him to the throne. Without me he had no hope ! With-
out him I could have no security ! . I replied, with all the
respect that was due to him, that I could not accede to
his proposals ; but that I should always be happy to con-
tribute, as far as I could, towards the welfare of himself
and his family in other respects.'
Dec. 5. — To-day I presented, at an interview with Na-
poleon, Captain Adye, commanding H.M.S. * Partridge '
on the Elba station.
Captain Adye having informed Napoleon that he had
served on board of Lord Nelson's ship at the battle of
Aboukir, he at once entered minutely into the details of
that action. As I have perceived in many similar conver-
sations upon naval matters, Napoleon has no idea of the
1 ' It is not true, never ; that been to consult their happiness and
would have been treason towards their interests.'
the French. That would not have
CHAP. VI. BATTLE OF ABOUKIR. 339
hazard incident to movements upon a coast, nor of the
difficulties occasioned by winds and tides, but judges of
changes of position in the case of ships as he would with
regard to troops upon land. He said that Admiral Brueys
expected Lord Nelson's attack would have been on his left,
but he ought to have made sail instead of waiting for it at
anchor. In a book of Regulations and Instructions for the
French Navy there is a plan of a fleet at anchor, with
another attacking in the same way as Nelson. It was
singular enough that at L'Orient, while he was on board
Admiral Brueys' ship, the latter showed him this very
plan, and pointed out the disadvantages a fleet would
labour under, in waiting for an attack in such a position,
instead of getting under weigh. Captain Adye said that
Admiral Brueys could not well expect that Lord Nelson's
attack should have taken place before the following morn-
ing, and that, as far as he recollected, the wind would not
allow of his getting under weigh when the attack was
about to begin.
Napoleon spoke of Sir Robert Calder's action, and
blamed Villeneuve for not attacking the British on the
second day. Instead of losing time by putting his vessels
into order and arranging their numbers, he ought to have
borne down to the attack in any order. I remarked that if
the French lost two ships on the preceding day, while the
British had only one out of action, the former of course were
comparatively less able to engage on the next day. He said
those two ships were taken by manoeuvre and accident, not
by force. If the British Admiral had confidence in his own
strength, why did he not attack on the second day, and
prevent the French from going into Vigo ? I replied that
the British Admiral was to leeward, and it depended upon
the French to attack : this they made a show of doing, but
never came down. The Admiral had another object in
view, and could not follow the French fleet to the coast,
where he would also have had to encounter the fleet then
z2
340 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
in Ferrol. He said that was only an excuse, advanced from
national pride, for the Admiral ran away during the night
of the 23rd (July, 1805).
He lamented deeply the conduct of Villeneuve in dis-
obeying his orders in various ways during the cruise, so as
to occasion an improper and unnecessary loss of time in
the West Indies, and in going to Cadiz instead of up the
Channel, where he was anxiously awaiting him, in order
that he might cross over with his flotilla. He explained his
plan of deceiving us, by mounting guns on the transports,
as if he intended to force his passage across. He would
have landed either in Kent or, if possible, on the right
bank of the Thames, so as to turn all the defences of
towers, canal, &c., made by Mr. Pitt. This danger must
always hang over England. An invasion is perfectly prac-
ticable whenever France can assemble a larger army than
England, and at the same time obtain, for a week or ten
days, the command of the Channel with her fleet. On
this account the formation of the port of Cherbourg is a
serious consideration for England. Our possessions are so
extensive, that we must have fleets to guard each of them,
and to watch the movements which may be directed against
them. While engaged in this, it is easy to mislead so
great a proportion of the British navy, that the French
must infallibly obtain that superiority in the Channel
which is required for a time, in order to effect the inva-
sion. However, he himself foresaw that, if his preparations
were not put into execution, it would have the effect of
making England a military as well as a naval Power, by
rousing the spirit and energies of the whole people, and
causing them to form both armed associations and a great
army. In the event it had proved so, for it was this which
gave both the impulse and the materials for the British
army, as particularly shown in Spain.
I told him it was often doubted in England whether he
intended to accompany the first body of troops who were
CHAP. VI. INVASION OF ENGLAND. 341
to attempt the invasion, and hoped he would excuse my
asking him the question. He told me, Certainly, he meant
to command it in person. The whole would have left Bou-
logne together, and disembarked as quickly and as much
in company as they could. But if the wind admitted of it,
he should prefer landing in or near the Thames — so as to
turn all the defences constructed by Mr. Pitt — rather than
on the coast of Kent. No British force could be collected
in sufficient numbers to oppose him. His subsequent mea-
sures, in case of success, must depend upon circumstances,
but he should certainly have separated Ireland from Great
Britain, and success he considered certain.
At first there was a brig placed by Admiral Lord Ex-
mouth upon the Elba station, to act in concert with me.
But, upon his departure, Admiral Hallo weU directed this
vessel never to remain longer than twenty-four hours at
Elba, for fear of causing jealousy to other Powers. On my
making a representation to the latter, a partial relaxation
of the order was allowed, in case of a positive necessity and
direct application on my part.
For some time past the ' Partridge ' has been under orders
to be in readiness to accompany a Sicilian frigate from
Leghorn to Sicily, as soon as the Prince Leopold of Sicily
should arrive there from Vienna. As this would leave me
without means of communication, I have this day written
to Rear-Admiral Penrose, now commanding in the Mediter-
ranean, as follows : —
'Porto Ferrajo, Isle of Elba: December 5, 1814.
' Sir, — I avail myself of the first opportunity to acknow-
ledge the receipt of your letter dated November 21, and
to express my thanks for your offers of assistance to the
objects of my mission.
' I beg leave to assure you, that every circumstance
connected with the isle of Elba, and which appears to me
342 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
in the smallest degree interesting to you as Commander-in-
Chief of His Majesty's fleet in the Mediterranean, shall be
regularly transmitted.
' I presume you are in possession of my correspondence
with Lord Exmouth and Rear-Admiral Hallowell, by
which you will perceive that I submitted to the latter the
inconvenience which might arise to the interests of His
Majesty's Government from the restrictions which he had
placed upon the man-of-war employed here, subsequently
to the departure of Lord Exmouth, and the intention of
withdrawing her entirely to accompany the Sicilian frigate,
neither of which circumstances can have entered into the
calculation of His Majesty's Government according to my
instructions.
' I beg leave to submit to your consideration my repre-
sentations to that effect, and am supported in the same
opinion by that of His Majesty's Minister at the Court of
Florence — particularly until the proceedings of the Con-
gress and the affairs of Italy are finally settled, and espe-
cially those of Naples.
* Notwithstanding these surmises, I hope I shall not
excite your apprehensions ; but it is necessary to be pre-
pared for possibilities. A thousand reports and conjec-
tures are afloat as to an understanding between Napoleon
and Murat. I have no reason myself, however, to believe
that the enmity which existed between them has yet been
removed, and the alarming apprehensions circulated re-
specting Napoleon arise from old guns, shot, and shells
having been sent from the dismantled fort of Longono to
sell at Civita Vecchia.
* It is impossible for me to advert further to all the
reports which have been circulated, even by persons in
public situations in Italy. The correspondence which I
have had with Captain Adye, and which I presume he has
' transmitted to you, arose more from these prevailing
rumours than from any belief of my own in the circum-
CHAP. VI. LETTER TO ADMIRAL PENROSE. 343
stances to which I requested liis attention, by means of
a memorandum to that effect.
' It is with great satisfaction that I avail myself of this
occasion to express to you that cordial and zealous co-
operation which I received from Captain Adye in the exe-
cution of our united duties.
(Signed) 'NEIL CAMPBELL.'
December 6. — In a despatch under this date [No. 38] 3 I
have written to Lord Castlereagh thus : —
' I beg leave to repeat my opinion that, if the means
of subsistence which he was led to expect on coming to
Elba are given to him, he will remain here in perfect
tranquillity, unless some great opening should present
itself in Italy or France. He does not dissemble his
opinion as to the latter, in regard to the present temper
of the people, and what may be expected hereafter.
' I keep a strict look-out upon all vessels belonging to
this island, a list of which I do myself the honour of
enclosing for your Lordship's information. I have also
given the same to Admiral Penrose, commanding His
Majesty's fleet in the Mediterranean, and to the naval
officer on this station.'
List of Vessels belonging to Napoleon Bonaparte in the Island
of Elba.
1. One brig, * L'Inconstant,' 16 guns, commanded by
M. Talliade, formerly of the French Imperial Navy.
This corvette was given to Napoleon, at the time of his
abdication, by the Provisional Government, and has lately
returned from Naples with Napoleon's sister, Pauline. At
present she is taking old guns, shot, and shells at Longono,
to carry to Italy for sale.
2. One bombard, ' L'Etoile,' with two masts — Captain
Richon — unarmed, 90 tons.
3. One felucca, *La Caroline' — two four-pounders, 26
tons.
344 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
4. One felucca, ' La Pastorella J — M. Cornevali — 5 tons,
unarmed.
Remarks. — The bombard is generally employed in bring-
ing grain and flour from Civita Vecchia ; the two feluccas
in carrying provisions to Pia Nosa, and in watching the
coast near Rio, to prevent the inhabitants from sending
away ore from the mines on their own account.
Besides these vessels, which are the private property of
Napoleon, there are seventeen belonging to the inhabi-
tants of Rio, which are employed in carrying the iron ore
to the coast of Italy and Genoa for sale. They are from
50 to 100 tons each, consisting of 10 pinques, 2 brigs, 5
xebecs, and 1 brigantine.
Dec. 7-10. — I really believe that Napoleon's reason for
preventing the officers 'of his brig from wearing the decora-
tion of Naples is on account of his enmity towards Murat.
The inhabitants of Capolini paid their contributions, upon
which the troops were withdrawn. The priests are con-
fined to the town of Porto Ferrajo, and suspended from
their functions by the Grand Vicaire, at Napoleon's desire.
The Intendant-General of the island of Elba informs
me that Napoleon's troops and vessels cost him one mil-
lion of francs per year, while all his sources of revenue,
including the contributions, will not net four hundred
thousand this year. In addition to the discharging a
number of servants lately, he has reduced to one-half the
salary of his surgeon, treasurer, and some others who
hold civil appointments in his household, and who accom-
panied him from Fontainebleau.
Dec. 11-19, Leghorn. — M. Mariotti, the French Consul
here, read to me the substance of a conversation which
Napoleon had with a M. Litta, who came to Elba about
six weeks ago from Milan. He has been described to me
as a native of that city, well connected, possessing ability
and enterprise, much attached to Napoleon, and inveterate
against the Austrians.
CHAP. VI. NAPOLEON AND M. LITTA. 345
M. Mariotti did not inform me by what means lie
obtained a knowledge of this conversation. It is not
probable that any person could have overheard it, or that
M. Litta would divulge it ; and I believe that persons
who are employed by different governments to watch over
Bonaparte's actions sometimes exaggerate, falsify, or
invent stories, in order to appear the more zealous in
their duties. However, I shall enclose a copy of the con-
versation to Lord Castlereagh, as near as I can recol-
lect it.
«
[Enclosure A, in Despatch No. 40.]
Napoleon. ' Que voulez-vous ? '
Litta. * Je viens faire mes hommages a Votre Majeste, et
vous offrir les assurances fideles d'une vie consacree a
Votre Majeste.'
N. * Est-ce que le General Bellegarde est a Milan ? '
L. < Oui, Sire.'
N. 'Est-ilaime?'
L. < Non, Sire.'
N. ( Le Due de Modene, est-il aime ? '
L. * II tache a se faire aimer, Sire, mais comme tous ses
sujets sont degoutes de devenir si petits, cela ne peut pas
the.'
N. ' J'ai voulu faire de belles choses pour les Italiens.'
[D'abord Napoleon demandait de 1'esprit parmi les Pie-
montais, les Milanais, les Toscans et les autres Italiens.
Litta lui repondait qu'il n'avait qu'un sentiment parmi
tous, excepte quelques pretres et quelques hommes de soi-
xante annees.]
N. * Mais sont-ils fermes ? *
L. * Votre Majeste peut toujours compter sur eux; et si
Votre Majeste avait ete avec nous, les circonstances n'au-
raient pas change, comme elles sont a present.'
N. ' Mais le Prince Eugene vous a bien commandes ? '
L. * H nous a trop meprises, Sire.'
346 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
N. * Et mon Grand Chambellan, Caprara, que fait-il ? '
L. ' n est tres-afflige, Sire.'
N. * Combien de vos troupes ont pris le service avec les
Autrichiens ? '
L. f Je crois a peu pres de six mille, et le General
Palombini.'
N. * Et mes Gardes, est-ce que beaucoup d'eux ont pris
le service avec les Autrichiens ? '
L. * Non, Sire, la plupart d'eux ont pris le service de
Naples.'
N. ' Combien de troupes autrichiennes sont &n Italie ? '
L. ' On comptait soixante mille homines quelque temps
passe, mais il j en a beaucoup qui sont partis en Autriche.'
N. ' Etes-vous seul ici ? '
L. ' Je suis accompagne d'un jeune homme qui a servi
aussi sous les aigles de Yotre Majeste.'
N. 'Et ou aUez-vous?'
L. •' J'ai 1'intention d'aller a Naples.'
N. * Naples.' (H a regarde M. L., et a pris un air
pensif.) * Je vous verrai encore avant votre depart.'
I have since learnt that M. Mariotti had this conver-
sation from a person in particular intimacy with M. Litta,
to whom he confided it.
Dec. 20.— Keturned to Elba.
Dec. 21. — Had a conversation with General Bertrand
concerning the statements which appeared in some of the
continental journals that General Koller (the Austrian
officer who accompanied Bonaparte from Fontainebleau)
was now on his way from Vienna to this place.
Soon afterwards I received a message from Napoleon,
requesting to see me the same evening at 8 P.M. I have
no doubt it arose from his anxiety upon the same subject ;
for, very soon after saluting me, he asked as to the founda-
tion of the report, and again introduced it several times
during a conversation of two hours which I had with him
CHAP. VI. THE BOURBONS. ! 347
upon various other subjects. He inquired if I had read the
report ? If I knew it from any other source ? What did
I suppose to be the object of the journey? Was it
respecting Marie-Louise ? Of course I could only express
my entire ignorance, excepting having read the report in
a French newspaper, under the head of a letter from
Vienna. He seemed to me to view the report more with
feelings of hope and eager curiosity than of apprehension.
He discussed the proceedings of Congress at Vienna,
and asked me whether it was expected there would be a
renewal of war. He knew there were serious differences
of opinion, and he did not think they would be easily
adjusted. The Congress might be continued for five years,
during which time Prussia would keep possession of Saxony,
England and Holland of Belgium, and Russia of Poland.
I asked him what he thought of Marshal Soult being
appointed Minister of War in France. He did not appear
to relish the news, but admitted that the King of France
could not have made a wiser choice. ( He will be faithful
to the Bourbons,' Napoleon added, ' so long as there is no
weight in the other scale ; but if ever a patriotic party
(as he called it) arises, they need not confide in him !
He cannot forget twenty years of service for the glory
of France.'
In talking of France, he said that many of his Guards
had letters from their comrades and relations, who de-
scribed the discontent to be very general, and congratu-
lated them on having accompanied him to Elba ; that he
had no correspondents there himself, but he received
many anonymous communications, which described the
same state of affairs, and expressed great fears of another
revolution and the reign of terror.
* The present Government is too feeble. The Bourbons
should make war as soon as possible, in order to establish
themselves upon the throne. With such an army as they
could assemble, it would not be difficult to recover Belgium.
348 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
It is only for the British there that the French army has
the smallest awe.'
He inquired whether it was true that the French esta-
blished in Leghorn were ordered to quit it. I told him I
had not heard so.
The other parts of his conversation were not remarkable,
and, as usual, contained much repetition.
Dec. 22-27. — It is reported in this island, and at Leg-
horn, that proposals have been made by Napoleon to the
Grand Duke of Tuscany for the sale of his brass guns.
I was misinformed in stating lately to Lord Castlereagh
that some of the Corsican recruits had been sent back.
So far from it, that they stiU continue to come over here
in small parties, clandestinely ; eight arrived here on the
10th ult.
Napoleon has lately sold some provisions which were in
store in the fort of Longono.
Dec. 28. — Although General Drouot informed me that
the * Inconstant' brig had gone to Civita Vecchia for
grain, yet, as it was currently reported and generally
believed in the island that Bonaparte had sent her to the
Levant, supplied with three months' provisions, I was
induced to request Captain Adye, commanding H.M.S.
' Partridge,' to look in at the former port.
He returned here this morning, and informs me that
the ' Inconstant ' and another of Napoleon's smaller vessels
are in the harbour of Civita Vecchia, but that the Pope
has refused them permission to export any more grain to
Elba from his States. This will prove a considerable
annoyance to Napoleon, as there is no other State from
whence he can so economically draw this indispensable
article for the supply of his troops, workmen, and house-
hold.
Dec. 29-31. — Napoleon's spirits seem of late rather to
rise than to yield in the smallest degree to the pressure
of pecuniary difficulties ; although his mother, and some
CHAP. VI. EMBARRASSING SITUATION. 349
of the principal persons who have followed his fortune,
are constantly absorbed in grief and effusions of discon-
tent. They place their last hope for amelioration in the
Congress, the members of which, they expect, will fix the
regular payment of Napoleon's annuity, according to
treaty. They appear also to entertain sanguine hopes that
Marie-Louise will reside at Parma as sovereign, and even
that she will come to Elba after the Congress is dissolved ;
from all which they draw favourable conclusions.
Of late Napoleon does not oppose the return to France
of officers or soldiers who urge it ; but most of them
prolong their service with him only to await the issue of
the Congress.
Fourteen non-commissioned officers and privates re-
ceived their discharges last week, and have taken their
passages in vessels for Genoa. I have seen several of
these discharges ; they are regularly stamped upon parch-
ment, with the title, ' Conge absolu, Garde Imperiale, Ba-
taillon Napoleon.' The services and descriptions of the
men are recited, and the motive assigned for the discharge
is, * en le pressant besoin que sa famille parait avoir de
lui.' They are signed by * Comte Drouot, General de Divi-
sion, Gouverneur de 1'ile d'Elbe,' and by several other
officers, precisely according to the previous forms under the
government of Napoleon. They are stamped at the top
with a seal, upon which there is an eagle.
It is universally supposed in Italy, and publicly stated,
that Great Britain is responsible to the other Powers for
the detention of Napoleon's person, and that I am the exe-
cutive agent for this purpose. Napoleon believes this. He
has gradually estranged himself from me, and various
means are taken to show me that my presence is dis-
agreeable. Of this, however, I could not be certain for a
long time, as it was done by hints which could not well
be noticed.
I think his inviting Lord Ebrington to dine with
350 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VI.
him,2 without me, was intended as a marked slight, for
the purpose of inducing me to quit Elba entirely. But,
always expecting the Congress to be brought to an end,
I have resolved to make the sacrifice of my own feelings
until that event, occasionally going to Leghorn, Florence,
and the baths of Lucca for my health and for amusement,
as well as to compare my observations here with the
information of the authorities on the Continent and the
Trench Consul at Leghorn. My return always gives me
an opportunity of asking for an interview with Napoleon,
to pay my respects. Of late he has evidently wished
to surround himself with great forms of court, as well to
preserve his own consequence in the eyes of the Italians
as to keep me at a distance ; for I could not transgress
on these without the probability of an insult, or the proffer
of servile adulation inconsistent with my sentiments.
9 Dec. 8, 1814. Lord Ebrington dum of Two Conversations between
(afterwards Earl Fortescue) pub- the Emperor Napoleon and Viscount
lished a record of his conversation Ebrington at Porto Ferrajo, on
on this as well as a previous occa- December 6 and 8, 1814.' — ED.
eion, under the title of l Memoran-
CHAP. VII. VISIT TO GENOA. 351
CHAPTEE VII.
GOES TO GENOA — INTERVIEW WITH NAPOLEON ON RETURN — M.
RICCI VICE-CONSUL — SUSPICIONS PERSONS AT PORTO FERRAJO —
WARM ARGUMENT WITH GENERAL BERTRAND — VISIT TO CONTINENT
— MEETS MR. COOKE, UNDER-SECRETARY — SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES
— EMBARKS IN 'PARTRIDGE* FOR ELBA — LANDING AND DISCOVERY
OP NAPOLEON'S ESCAPE — INTERVIEWS WITH MR. GRATTAN, MADAME
BERTRAND, M. LAPIS, AND PAULINE — PURSUIT OP NAPOLEON —
RETURN TO ENGLAND.
JANUARY 1815. — Early in this month I went to Genoa,
in hopes of affording to the Austrian General, Koller, the
means of coming here with the man-of-war belonging to
this station, and being desirous also of conversing with
him previously to his arrival in this island. Receiving
no instructions of any sort from Vienna, I was anxious to
let General Koller know my uneasiness respecting Napo-
leon, and my suspicions of his holding communications
of an improper nature with Murat. As, however, he did
not arrive here within the period calculated upon, I
returned to Elba.
During my absence, accounts had been received at
Porto Ferrajo that many Italian officers, including some
generals, had been arrested at Milan, and that General
Koller had gone there from Vienna.
In the first interview I had with Napoleon after my
return (January 14), he asked many questions as to the
nature of the charge against those officers. I told him
that I had no knowledge beyond the public reports at
Genoa, which ascribed their arrest to the discovery of a
plot against the Austrian Government ; and it was more-
352 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
over stated that the information as to their plans had been
given by Murat. He said repeatedly, ' On ne trouvera
rien contre moi. Au moins, on ne trouvera pas que je
sois compromis du tout.' l These expressions, as well as the
whole tenour of his conversation upon the subject, bore
evident marks of anxiety. He did not believe, he added,
that these persons were guilty of any crime, but that it was
merely a pretext of the Austrian Government, in order to
confine them, and then remove them out of Italy.
He then spoke of the statements which had appeared in
some of the newspapers respecting his removal to St.
Helena or St. Lucia, in a way which showed his belief in
them, said he would not consent to being transported from
Elba, but would resist the attempt by force to the last.
* Avant cela il faut faire une breche dans mes fortifications.
Nous verrons ! 2 I told him I did not believe these stories,
which had no foundation beyond vague report.3
[He has lately placed detachments of his Guards in
two advanced works of considerable strength, which were
erected a few years ago to retard the approach to the for-
tifications of Porto Ferrajo in case of a siege.]
He asked me, with a kind of suspicious curiosity,
whether I had met with any of the ships of war belonging
to Louis XVIII., which have lately cruised off Corsica and
Elba.4 He repeated his invectives against the present
governor of Corsica,5 asserting that an assassin, sent by him,
1 ' They will not find anything O'Meara, A Voice from St. Helena,
against me. At least, they will vol. i. p. 460. — ED.
not find that I am at all com- 4 ' Two French frigates were sent
promised.' from Toulon to cruise round the
2 ' Before that, they will have to island of Elba, soon after my inter-
make a breach in my fortifications, view with M. Hyde de Neuville.' —
We shall see ! ' Note by Sir N. C.
3 'I asked if he thought that it 5 'Bonaparte had particular rea-
had been the intention of the Allies son to dread Brulart. This Chouan
to have sent him to St. Helena ? chief had been one of the numbers
" Why," replied the Emperor, " it who had laid down their arms on
was much spoken of. However, Napoleon assuming the Consulate,
Colonel Campbell denied it." ' — and who had been permitted to
CHAP. VII. CONVERSATION WITH NAPOLEON. 353
was lately landed in Elba from one of these "same French
men-of-war ; that the gendarmes were in search of him,
and he would undoubtedly be apprehended ; that the crews
of these ships were attached to himself, and gave him in-
telligence of everything which passed in the squadron.
He appeared much agitated, and impressed with a belief in
the truth of what he stated. In reply, I assured him that
I did not believe for a moment that the Bourbons were
capable of sending emissaries to make attacks upon his life,
and that if I became aware of any circumstance which
could induce me to suspect anything of the kind, I would
lose no time in acquainting him with it.
His brig returned here from Civita Vecchia last night,
having touched by the way at Naples and Corsica. She
failed in procuring any grain. This morning (January 15)
she was driven on shore by a violent gale of wind, but by
taking out her guns and stores she will be got oif again
without any material injury.
A sloop of war belonging to Murat anchored here yes-
terday, having on board a Princess of Saxe-Gotha. This
ship left Genoa ten days ago, bound for Naples, and it is
said that she will proceed from this to Leghorn, to repair
some damages. I can only consider this as a pretext to
cover some other intention, as the wind is now favourable
for Naples, and the distance to the latter place so little
beyond that to Leghorn.
February. — In my last interview with Napoleon (Feb. 2)
he was unusually dull and reserved ; but from that manner
reside at Paris. A friend of Brulart, Brulart fled to England in grief
still more obnoxious than himself, and rage, at being made the means
was desirous of being permitted to of decoying his friend to death,
return from England, to which he In the height of his resentment,
had emigrated. He applied to he wrote to Napoleon, threatening
Napoleon through Brulart, who him with death by his hand. The
was directed by the Emperor to recollection of this menace alarmed
encourage his friend to come over. Bonaparte, when he found Brulart
Immediately on his landing in so near him as Corsica.' — Scott's Life
France he was seized and executed, of Napoleon, ch. Ixxxii., note. — ED.
A A
354 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
wearing off Ky degrees, it afterwards appeared to me as if
it had been studied.
He goes less abroad than before, and appears much
more tenacious of his dignity in exterior show and form.
He never takes exercise, excepting in a carriage drawn by
four horses, and accompanied by Generals Bertrand or
Drouot, who sit uncovered, whatever may be the state of
the weather, while passing through the town and fortifi-
cations.
For some time past Napoleon has suspended his im-
provements as regards roads and the finishing of his
country residence. This is, I think, on account of the ex-
pense. Some of the roads, as well as a bridge built entirely
for his own use, and unconnected with the public, have yet,
by his order, been paid for entirely by the inhabitants.
A Council of State was lately held at Porto Ferrajo, to
determine whether the town-house (hotel de ville) can be
sold for his private emolument ; but as the opinions were
divided, the project has not yet been carried into execu-
tion.
Some time since, I recommended to Lord Castlereagh
M. Ricci, who was formerly British Vice-consul at Lon-
gono, whilst that port belonged to the King of Naples, as a
person very fit for the appointment of vice-consul in this
island. As it was very desirable that some one should
in the interim represent this character, in order to send
out pilots, and afford other assistance to British men-of-
war or trading vessels which might touch here, I took it
upon myself to give M. Ricci a letter of recommenda-
tion, requesting all captains who might enter to consider
him in such a capacity, so long as the appointment might
be vacant ; to call upon him for every necessary aid and pro-
tection, and to pay him the usual trifling fees. I informed
General Bertrand of the circumstances of the case, stating
that although no exequatur or formal acknowledgment of
his appointment could be asked for, or was expected for
CHAP. VII. M. RICCI VICE-CONSUL. 355
the present, yet that I requested he might tacitly be ac-
cepted in that office. This was agreed to. Soon after-
wards, in consequence of his informing me that the priest
and some other of the inhabitants of Capolini — who were
then in revolt on account of the contributions — had made
use of very strong language with reference to Napoleon,
and had requested his interference, I cautioned him
against any such communications, and furnished him with
written instructions for his guidance.
Upon my return here lately from Leghorn, after a short
absence, M. Bicci informed me that he had been called
upon by the governor to state the nature of his appoint-
ment, and was informed that my instructions, of which he
gave a copy, were not official, and therefore he could not
be considered as consul until he had received his formal
commission from London.
When speaking to me on the subject, General Bertrand
did not say that M. Eicci would be prevented from acting
as consul, but that it was necessary for him to receive a
commission as such from the British Government before he
could be recognised in any manner. At the same time, he
acknowledged that M. Ricci's character was highly re-
spectable, and that he had not committed any act which
could justly give offence.
I cannot precisely account for this sudden and apparently
useless stir about M. Ricci's powers, unless it were from
disappointment at finding that he had not received any
commission from the British Government, as had been
reported, and in which it is possible that Napoleon ex-
pected his own titles might have been inserted. Or it
might be to intimidate him from giving me information of
what passes in the island, and to authorise, perhaps, a
sudden seizure of his papers, after having deprived him by
the commandant's letter of that protection which might
be understood to attach to his public character, or to resent
his interference with regard to vessels which frequent this
A A 2
356 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
island under British colours, without being in reality
entitled to them. He has also taken up the case of a
British vessel which was lately wrecked on the island of
Pia Nosa.
If any personal insult be hereafter offered to M. Eicci
(which has never yet been the case, but, so far from it, he
has always been assisted hitherto in the execution of his
duties), such as I have supposed, it will be a proof of the
existence of some improper and guilty connection, in
regard to which Napoleon is anxious to ascertain how far
my knowledge extends. Nothing injurious to M. Eicci
could possibly be discovered, as I have invariably directed
him, since my first arrival, neither to ask nor speak in
any way which could be considered hostile or exception-
able, confining himself entirely to his duties, and to giving
me information.
However, I have again told M. Eicci to be very careful to
give no cause for suspicion, either by indiscreet language
or by holding any communication with the discontented
people at Capolini ; nor to keep by him any paper which
can possibly be made a charge against him as one of
Napoleon's subjects. For at present they had deprived
him of the inviolability which belonged to his public
character, and therefore he must be very circumspect not
to put himself in their power, nor to retain any documents
which might be suddenly seized, and might compromise
him. At the same time he was to be particularly on the
alert, to give me constant information ; and if anything
extraordinary occurred while I was absent, not to consider
expense, but to come off instantly himself and report the
matter both to me at Leghorn and to the British Minister
at Florence.
The letter written to M. Eicci by the Governor was
noticed by me in conversation with General Bertrand, in
order to make them feel their responsibility in case of any
indecorous proceedings towards him, and looking upon it
CHAP. VII. WRECK AT PIA NOSA. 357
also as a want of delicacy and politeness towards myself.
Their chief motive, I suspected, arose from a wish to disgust
me, and induce me not to remain in the island. I often
reflect whether this is really from some improper projects
going on, or merely because Napoleon has appeared to
those about him, and to all persons in Italy, to be a sort of
prisoner of England under my charge.
Notwithstanding that the licence of Genoese vessels to
trade with British colours, formerly granted by Admiral
Lord Exmouth and Mr. Fitzgerald, acting consul at Genoa,
has been withdrawn for several months, this island is fre-
quented by small feluccas and other boats, which carry
British colours but are certainly not British. Some of
them possess these licences renewed by a person signing
himself E. Waller, British Proconsul at Naples. Others
are originally granted by the same person, with every
appearance of irregularity, although bearing the British
arms and seal. Some, too, are renewed by a person
signing himself Joseph Towies, Proconsul, and dated at
Castellamare, in the Bay of Naples. Most of these vessels
come in here for shelter in the course of their voyages from
Naples along the coast, so that it appears to be an expe-
dient of Murat's for giving to the Neapolitan trade the
security of the British flag. M. Eicci, who was desirous
to obtain further particulars on the subject, has been
refused access to the register of the harbour-master.
A British trading-vessel of considerable size was lately
wrecked upon the island of Pia Nosa, where there is a de-
tachment of Napoleon's troops. The master of the wreck
has presented a petition to M. Eicci, setting forth that
the commandant demands a daily sum for protection, and
also a proportion of the cargo as salvage for Napoleon.
This petition has been transmitted to General Drouot as
governor of Elba, by M. Eicci, but as yet no answer has
been received.
In the channel of Piombino, which is from four to five
358 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
miles in width between the north-east point of Elba and
the nearest part of Italy, there is a small rock called Pal-
mayola, situated about one mile from Elba, and rather more
than three miles from the town of Piombino. There is a
surface of not many square yards upon its summit. During
the late war two guns and a howitzer were placed upon it by
the French, to annoy the British men-of-war. These guns
were left there. No possession of this rock was given to
Napoleon, but he always spoke of it as being an appen-
dage of Elba, no less than Pia Nosa. He has lately sent a
few soldiers there. This can only be for one of two motives
— either to apprehend any of his men who might desert,
and possibly touch there, or to hold secret communica-
tion personally or through others with anyone who may
come over from Italy. I mentioned this circumstance to
General Bertrand as having attracted observation in Italy.
He did not attempt to explain the matter in any way,
but treated it quite lightly.
Without attaching too much importance to this rock, or
the facts in connection with it, it is worthy of remark that
there is another island, without any inhabitants, called
Monte Christo, south of Elba, and not double the distance
of Pia Nosa, to which Napoleon's fancy or projects may
also lead hijn, and others at similar distances again to the
southward, approaching the coasts of Rome and Naples.
So that his absence from Elba could be less easily known,
while any pretext remained for quitting it. He has paid
three visits to Pia Nosa since his arrival here, and before
the winter set in. His brig has been repaired of the
damages sustained by running aground last month, and
she is again ready for sea. It is given out that she will
proceed to Longono, to convey here the stores of that fort
— an operation in which another of his vessels has been
employed for some time. The officer who commanded the
brig when she was driven on shore has been discharged,
on the plea of incapacity and peculation. But some per-
CHAP. VII. FRENCH SQUADRON. 359
sons say that Napoleon suspects him of a secret under-
standing with the existing Government of France, and of
a wish to destroy the brig. His successor is M. Chauslard,
capitaine de fregate, who came here from Toulon a few
months ago.
The ships of the French squadron are sometimes seen
near this island. There is a brig and a schooner under
the immediate orders of the Governor of Corsica, and two
frigates from Toulon. In my last conversation with
Napoleon, when the subject of these ships was mentioned,
he did not seeni so irritated or apprehensive as at first.
Quarters are provided for twelve men in each of the
villages nearest to Corsica ; but whether this circumstance
is in order to prevent the Corsican soldiers from deserting,
(many of them have gone off lately), or as a blind to draw
off attention from Por£o Ferrajo, it is impossible to say.
As usual, this arrangement has been accompanied by a
report, purposely circulated to cause a stir, ' that a very
great personage is expected to disembark there shortly.'
Feb. 14. — To-day there was a review of the Corsican
battalion, when it was notified to them, that all who were
desirous of quitting Napoleon's service should declare it,
and discharges would be given to them. None came for-
ward ; so far from it, that the men generally called out,
' Vive Napoleon ! ' This probably arose from the fear of
being stripped of their uniform, and sent away without
any clothing, for there have been frequent desertions of
late.
Feb. 15. — M. Litta, whose conversation with Napoleon
I have before related, went lately from this to Naples.
Similar mysterious adventurers and disaffected charac-
ters continually arrive here from France and Italy, and then
proceed on to Naples, giving out that they are disappointed
in their hopes of employment by Napoleon, and that they
expect to realise them with Murat.
One of the most remarkable of these characters, who
360 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII
lately fell under my observation here, was a M. Theologue,
a Greek, said to have come here from Paris. He is much
attached to Napoleon, and has been greatly employed by
him in the affairs of Turkey and Persia. He left this for
Naples about ten days ago.
A person, who calls himself Pietro St. Ernest, has arrived
here under the guise of a sailor from the Bay of Spezzia.
The commandant de place, the commissary of police, and
other officials, have been with him, and have ordered him
not to be disturbed.
Madame Bertrand gives out that M. Talliade is going
at once to Paris. He belonged formerly to the French
Marine, and is married to a native of Elba.
M. Kundtzow, a. Norwegian gentleman, was presented
to Napoleon lately. His first question was, 'Are you a
Norwegian ? ' next, ' What is the population of Norway ? '
Mr. K. answered, 'Two millions, Sire.' 'One million
eight hundred thousand,' said Napoleon immediately.
Some of Napoleon's admirers will say in this, as in so
many other instances, that it shows wonderful knowledge
and minutely correct information — unless indeed he had
referred to his library to prepare himself for the inter-
view !
The Adjudant de place of Longono — an Italian named
Bellucci — has lately returned from Naples, whither he
went some months ago. He speaks openly of Murat's
preparations for war, and states that the fortress of Gaeta
has been provided with stores, as if for a siege.
It is scarcely possible to convey an idea of Porto
Ferrajo, which is like the area of a great barrack, being
occupied by military, gendarmes, police officers of all de-
scriptions, dependants of the court, servants, and adven-
turers— all connected with Napoleon, and holding some
place of honour or emolument in subservience to him.
The harbour is constantly filled with vessels from all parts
of Italy, bringing over almost hourly supplies of provisions
CHAP. VII. CONVERSATION WITH COUNT BERTRAND. 361
for this great increase of population, as the island itself
furnishes nothing but wine. Vessels, too, of all nations
frequently anchor here, from motives of curiosity and specu-
lation, or detained by contrary winds.
I have before alluded to the claim made by the Com-
mandant of Pia Nosa to a part of the wreck of a British
vessel cast away there. This he stated to be by Napoleon's
order, and I have every reason to believe it was so. This
claim, however, has now been withdrawn, or rather is post-
poned for future reference to the owners at Leghorn, in
consequence of the master's petition to M. Rieci and my
interference. Napoleon's habits of unprincipled rapacity
appear not to have been as yet forgotten.
In a conversation which I had with General Bertrand, I
perceived that my mediation in support of these un-
fortunate persons was not relished by Napoleon, as well
as a request which I had made to be permitted to visit
Palmayola, in order to ascertain its exact position and
extent.
General Bertrand expressed his feelings in very strong
terms ; said that the Emperor and all of them were under
great obligations for all the facilities afforded by me as
the British Commissioner, and were very happy at my pro-
longing my stay; that they wished to show me every
attention (bienseance) ; that I must know all the reports
about Palmayola were absurd. M. Ricci, he added, could
not be considered as British Vice-consul without holding
a commission as .such. There could be no treason or injury
to the British Government in a few small vessels arriving
there from Genoa or Naples, although they might perhaps
carry the British flag. The Emperor lived quietly in his
retreat, and therefore considered all this as meddling (tra-
cassant] \ I told him this was a strong expression ; that,
to be sure, I was not accredited, and therefore had no right
to interfere in these matters, holding no ostensible situa-
tion excepting that of Commissioner, which had been
362 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
prolonged there originally for their advantage and at their
request. Now, however, it was my duty to notify to him,
that neither Pia Nosa nor Palmayola had been given over
to the possession of Napoleon, and that I should report to
the British Government what had passed in regard to the
points now under discussion. Our conversation was loud
and warm ; but however disagreeable the prolongation of
my stay might be under such circumstances, I resolved to
remain, being in daily expectation of the Congress termi-
nating.
On February 16, I quitted Elba in H.M.S. 'Partridge'
(Napoleon's schooner, ' L'Etoile,' commanded by Captain
Bichon, sailed out of Porto Ferrajo with us, supposed
to be bound for Longono), upon a short excursion to
the Continent for my health, having agreed to meet Cap-
tain Adye at Leghorn, in ten days, in order to return. I
was anxious also to consult some medical man at Florence
on account of the increasing deafness, supposed to arise
from my wounds, with which I have been lately affected.
Captain Adye promised to cruise round the island during
my absence, as well as to visit Palmayola for my informa-
tion. His doing so, I thought, would excite less suspicion
and attention on Napoleon's part.
My despatch to Lord Castlereagh [No. 43] , under date
February 15, was delivered by me to Lord Burghersh on
my arrival at Florence. It was read by Mr. Cooke, Under-
. Secretary of State, who had just come from Vienna. He
seemed to think my uneasiness with respect to Napoleon
quite unnecessary, and at Lord Burghersh's table on the
same day said, ' When you return to Elba, you may tell
Bonaparte that he is quite forgotten in Europe ; no one
thinks of him now.'
Before leaving Florence, when I told Mr. Cooke that of
course Napoleon would ask me many questions as to the
Congress upon my return, and that I should be glad if he
could give me any information which might be particularly
CHAP. VH. MR. COOKE UNDER-SECRETARY. 363
interesting with regard to his money, Marie-Louise, Parma,
&c., he very sarcastically replied, * You may tell him. that
everything is amicably settled at Vienna ; that he has no
chance; that the Sovereigns will not quarrel. Nobody
thinks of him at all. He is quite forgotten — as much as if he
had never existed ! '
I did feel very uneasy at the position of Napoleon and
the seeming inconsistencies of his conduct ; but, after Mr.
Cooke's remarks, I began to fancy that my near view of
him and of the state of Elba had induced me to exag-
gerate circumstances. I had thought it probable that he
was preparing to desert to Murat, in case the latter should
commence operations against the Allies, and that he was
suspicious of an attempt to seize his person before these
were fairly begun.
I had written to Captain Adye at Leghorn, to say,
that as I knew it was his intention to go over to Elba on
February 22, and from thence shortly after to Genoa, to
complete his provisions, I feared it would be too long an
absence for me from Elba to wait his return, and therefore
requested he would land me there previously to his going
to Genoa.
In answer to this, Captain Ady5 wrote me that he should
go to sea on the afternoon of Wednesday the 22nd, and
return to Leghorn for me by Sunday the 26th.6
6 ' Capt. Adye's report of subse- able, I did not get near enough be-
quent events was as follows : fore dark to accomplish my wishes,
' I anchored in the harbour of and therefore lay to in the passage of
Porto Ferrajo about midnight, on Piombino the whole of the night of
Thursday the 23rd, and landed there Friday the 24th. The next morning,
about nine o'clock A.M. on Friday February 25th, I went towards the
the 24th. After seeing General island, but was refused a landing, in
Bertrand, and ascertaining that Na- consequence of the order of Bona-
poleon Bonaparte was still on the parte not to allow any person to
island, I put to sea again about visit it, although both Sir Neil
two o'clock in the afternoon, with Campbell and myself had been as-
the intention of inspecting the sured by General Bertrand that no
island of Palmayola, agreeably to opposition should ever be made to
the wishes of Sir Neil Campbell ; our landing,
but as the wind was light and vari- 'At daylight on Friday morning
364
SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
I returned from Florence to Leghorn February 25, and
on the 26th, -while anxiously waiting for Captain Adye, the
'Partridge' being becalmed for several hours off the har-
O O
bour, and after my suspicions had been increased by in-
formation which General Spannochi, M. Mariotti, and I
myself had obtained, I wrote a despatch (No. 44.) to Lord
Castlereagh, and also forwarded by estafette to Florence
a letter for Lord Burghersh. Another letter, containing
a similar outline of information received up to midday, I
the 24th, Bonaparte's brig of war,
" L'Inconstant," put to sea, and
shaped her course to the northward.
The captain of the port, on his
coming on board, told us she was
bound to Leghorn to repair her
damages, in consequence of having
been on shore twice. About nine
o'clock A.M. she was perceived to
tack, and for about a quarter of an
hour her head was towards Porto
Ferrajo. She soon afterwards wore
round, and appeared to have little
wind, but about noon was lost sight
of, close in with the Italian shore.
' On my getting into the passage
of Piombino about five o'clock P.M.,
I was rather surprised to see the
brig with the bombard " L'Etoile "
and " La Caroline " (a row-boat,
which I had seen leave Porto Fer-
rajo about an hour afternoon) com-
ing down from the southward, as if
from Longono. I afterwards saw
them round Cape Bianco, and haul
in to Porto Ferrajo.
' On Saturday morning, the 25th,
as before mentioned, I made the at-
tempt to land at Palmayola. Soon
after one o'clock P.M. (having light
winds from the NE.), I made sail in
the direction of Leghorn, and about
six P.M. plainly saw the brig " L'ln-
constant" at anchor in Porto Fer-
rajo. Shortly after noon on Sunday
the 26th, I anchored in Leghorn
Roads, and about two P.M. saw Sir
Neil Campbell, who embarked with
me about eight P.M. that evening.
Had there been a breath of wind, I
should have instantly sailed, as Sir
Neil Campbell, from information
which he had gained, was most anx-
ious to ascertain the movements of
Napoleon. About four A.M. on Mon-
day the 27th, a light breeze sprang
up from the eastward. I instantly
weighed and made sail, but the wind
was so light and variable that at the
close of the day, we had not got the
length of Capraja.
' On Tuesday morning the 28th, at
daylight, from having had a light
breeze during the night, we had ad-
vanced to about six or seven miles
from Porto Ferrajo. At eight A.M.,
having little or no wind, and Sir
Neil Campbell being very anxious,
be went in one of the ship's boats
into the harbour, agreeing with me
that if he did not return in two
hours, it should be considered as a
proof of his being detained, and that
I was accordingly to despatch an
officer from Piombino to Lord Burg-
hersh at Florence. Sir Neil Camp-
bell returned in about an hour and
a half, with the information that
Bonaparte had left the island with
his generals, and all his French,
Polish, and Corsican troops.'
CHAP. VII.
INFORMATION FROM ELBA.
365
left with. Mr. Falconer, the British Consul at Leghorn, to
be sent by post the next day.
Although mixed up with some other very absurd, con-
tradictory, and confused reports, M. Bicci's letter to me,7
7 Memorandum of information
from Elba received at Leghorn Fe-
bruary 26, 1815 :
' 1. Upon the night of the 16th
arrived at Longono, from Porto
Ferrajo, a Captain Raimondo, ac-
companied by an orderly dragoon,
with a letter from General Drouot
to the Commandant, recommending
him. He immediately embarked
on board a small vessel belonging to
Marciana, commanded by one Nanzi
(which was supposed, before his
arrival, to have been destined for
Civita Vecchia), and sailed.
'2. Napoleon's vessel, "L'Etoile,"
commanded by Richon, went upon
the 16th from Porto Ferrajo to Lon-
gono, and took on board military
stores and salt meat, with which
she returned there.
'3. Upon the 20th two of the
vessels usually employed in convey-
ing iron over from Rio to the Con-
tinent, sailed from thence to Porto
Ferrajo in ballast only.
' 4. The "Inconstant " brig, with
three other vessels, was in Porto
Ferrajo upon the 21st inst., and it
was suspected that all of them had
on board military stores and salt
provisions. It was understood that
the voyage of the "Inconstant" was
to Naples, and that it would take
place in a few days.
' 5. Upon the 16th, General Bar-
tolozzi inspected the detachment
of the Corsicans at Longono, made
some promotions of non-commis-
sioned officers, and was busy with
his interior organisation.
' 6. Upon the 17th, M. Colonna
arrived at Longono from Porto Fer-
rajo, and was expected to embark
for Naples, to prepare a residence
there for Napoleon's mother.
' 7. A Greek from Cephalonia,
named Demetrian Calamalli, was
at Elba for ten days, and presented
Napoleon with a work of his own
composition, after which he left the
place.
'8. The police has now been
more active and suspicious than ever.
Detailed instructions are given to
the master of the port, health-
officer, &c., which are said to have
been drawn up by Bonaparte.
' 9. It is reported that the horses
of the Polish Lancers are to be
brought up from Pia Nosa imme-
diately, and that the saddlers are
busily employed. The troops are
full of expectation of some great
event. Innumerable reports are on
foot, so that it is impossible to trace
the origin of any. It is said that Na-
poleon was out in a boat all night ;
that some days ago his mother had
an interview of two hours with Na-
poleon, during which a very loud
discussion took place. She was ob-
served to be much, affected on sepa-
rating from him to return to her own
house, and gave orders for immedi-
.ately packing up part of her effects.
' 10. Some time ago a contract
was made with a M. Rebuffat, of
Longono, to supply a considerable
quantity of grain, which is ground
into flour at Rio, and sent to Porto
Ferrajo, where it is put in store.
'11. It is said that a Genoese
merchant has lately sent part of the
brass guns, dismounted at Longono,
to the Barbary States, where they
were sold.
1 12. It was reported lately in
306 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
dated February 18, contained matter of such nature as a
to excite the gravest suspicion. And on comparing it with
information in the possession of M. Mariotti, the French
consul, and General Spannochi, the governor of Leghorn,
also received from their agents at Elba, it became evident
that Napoleon was on the point of embarking a military
force with stores and provisions. General Spannochi, in-
deed, is a feeble old man, who knows little and believes less.
But M. Mariotti's reports have always been so superior to
those of M. Ricci, that I have constantly had recourse to
them as the basis on which to found my personal observa-
tions ; and now, after being employed together the whole
of the morning in tracing the connection of the various
suspicious circumstances respecting Napoleon and his ad-
herents at Elba (which we have been in the habit of doing
reciprocally, in order to combine and check them), we felt
persuaded that he himself was prepared to quit the island
immediately with his troops. I have been in habits of
very friendly communication with M. Mariotti, and have
perfectly coincided in every observation and measure,
always looking with anxiety towards Naples on account of
Elba, that one of Napoleon's officers the Princess Pauline's plate, and
had employed a person to purchase that they were sent there to be sold,
a vessel of eighty or ninety tons, but that the keys and instructions
and that the money was deposited would be sent to him.
in readiness. ' 14. The same person was in-
' 13. I ascertained that, upon the formed upon February 26, by M.
23rd inst., four or five large cases Constantin, that he had lately re-
belonging to the Princess Pauline ceived orders from M. Sisca to
were disembarked at Leghorn, freight a British vessel for four
from Elba. A person of credibility months certain, and the option of
told me that he saw them landed, two more. A contract was made
and the person to whom they were for one of 250 tons about a week
consigned (M. George Bastacchi, a ago, but, upon February 25, direc-
merchant there and a Greek) told tions were sent to him not to exe
him that, about a week before, he cute the order,
had received a letter from M. Sisca, ' 15. A magistrate and a briga-
a merchant of Porto Ferrajo, to in- dier of gendarmerie lately left Cor-
forrn him that these cases were em- sica, and there is reason to know
barked and insured for the sum of that they have gone over to Elba.
5,000 dollars, that they contained
CHAP. VII. CONGRESS OF VIENNA. 367
its vicinity. My access to Napoleon has for some time
past been so much less than at first, as to afford rne very
little opportunity of personal observation ; and besides, the
etiquette of a sovereign and court were studiously adhered
to. So that during the last few months our intercourse
has been continued under different feelings upon both
sides, although no expression to that effect was ever pro-
nounced by either of us ; and when he did grant me an
interview he. always received me with the same apparent
courtesy as formerly. Sometimes I could only ascribe his
reserve to a dislike of his appearing in the eyes of the
world as a prisoner, and to my stay being prolonged
beyond the period which he perhaps expected, owing to
the duration of the Congress. Or possibly he had projects
and communications of an improper nature, which he was
afraid might be discovered by me, in case of my associating
with his mother and sister. The latter, I knew, desired
such intimacy, and had taken several steps for that pur-
pose, in which she was counteracted.
Whatever the fact might be — however disagreeable this
situation had become for some months past, acting upon
mere conjecture and suspicion — with great responsibility in
case of Napoleon committing any eccentricity — remaining
at Elba as an obnoxious person, upon a kind of sufferance,
and gradually slighted by inattentions — I nevertheless
considered it nay bounden duty not to break off the ties
which still existed, in hopes of being useful to my sovereign
and his ministers, who had been pleased to honour me with
this confidential appointment. Nor was it in my power
to quit my post, until the sanction of my employers should
be communicated to me. So that I have looked forward
for a long time, with impatience and daily anxiety, to the
conclusion of the Congress of Vienna, as the period which
would produce an order to that effect from Lord Castlereagh
and close my mission.
By absenting myself occasionally from the island, I had
368 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
a pretext for requesting an interview both before my de-
parture and again upon my return, and this became latterly
my only opportunity of conversing with Napoleon.
In one of my former despatches to Lord Castlereagh, I
observed that ' I did not think Napoleon would ever commit
himself, unless some very favourable opportunity occurred
in France or Italy ; but that if the payments promised to
him at the time of abdication were withheld, and the want
of money pressed upon him, I considered him capable of
any desperate step, even that of crossing over to Piouibino
and landing there with his Guards.' There is a proba-
bility that, about this time, the decision of the Congress
as regards Murat may have become known both to him
and to Napoleon. I think it almost certain that Napoleon
is prepared to join Murat, in the event of the latter throw-
ing down the gauntlet in defiance of the sovereigns of
Europe.
In case of Napoleon quitting Elba, and any of his
vessels being discovered with troops on board, military
stores, or provisions, I shall request Captain Adye — who
has instructions from Admiral Penrose to afford me every
facility in the objects of my mission, and who has assisted
me very cordially upon every occasion — to intercept,
and, in case of their offering the slightest resistance, to
destroy them. I am confident that both he and I will be
justified by our sovereign, our country, and the world, in
proceeding to any extremity upon our own responsibility
in a case of so extraordinary a nature. I shall feel that in
the execution of my duty, and with the military means
which I can procure, the lives of this restless man and
his misguided associates and followers are not to be put
in competition with the fate of thousands and the tran-
quillity of the world.
At midday, Feb. 26, the ' Partridge' came to an anchor.
Immediately after Captain Adye landed at Leghorn in the
afternoon, I inquired of him, with abrupt anxiety, whether
CHAP. VII. CAPTAIN AD YE. 3G9
anything extraordinary had occurred at Elba, and when he
left it ? He smiled at my anxiety, and replied, * I neither
saw nor heard of anything extraordinary. Upon the 24th I
was on shore for some time. In the forenoon Bonaparte
was there in good health. I visited General Bertrand. I
walked about the town of Porto Ferrajo, and saw the soldiers
of the Imperial Guard all busy in carrying earth and in
planting tr.ees in frontof their barracks. Upon the after-
noon of the 24th I again sailed out of Porto Ferrajo. Upon
the forenoon of the 25th I was off Palmayola, and went in
my boat to the landing-place of that rock, but the guard
refused to let me go on shore. Everything was quiet at
Elba. Last night at sunset I could see the topmasts of the
" Inconstant " within the harbour of Porto Ferrajo ! ' I
then informed Captain Adye of the suspicious information
which M. Mariotti and I had obtained ; that some chests
of plate, belonging to the Princess Pauline, had been
secretly sent to Leghorn ; that I had succeeded in tracing
a proposal lately made from Elba to a person at Leghorn,
to hire a British merchant-vessel ; that the Polish Lancers
had been employed in mending their saddles, &c. I re-
quested Captain Adye to endeavour to recollect whether
there was any circumstance which could now bear a
suspicious construction, although it might not at the
time have attracted his notice. He then recollected that
at daylight, on the morning of the 24th, the ' Inconstant '
left Porto Ferrajo, and in the forenoon was seen at a
great distance to the northward, off the coast of Italy.
It was said on shore that she had sailed for Leghorn
or Genoa, to undergo repairs for the damage received
when driven on shore at Porto Ferrajo, January 12. In
the course of the day the * Inconstant ' was observed by
some of the officers of the ' Partridge ' to return south-
ward, keeping close to the coast of Italy. In the afternoon,
when the ' Partridge ' got out of the harbour and turned
into the channel of Piombino,she perceived the 'Inconstant'
£ B
870 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
with one of Napoleon's smaller armed vessels and one of
the island mine-vessels, which passed her and entered the
harbour. Captain Adye then recollected that the smaller
vessel had been hastily manned, and left the pier while he
was on shore at Porto Ferrajo in the forenoon ; but he paid
no attention to it at the time, nor could he afterwards assign
any particular motive for it. It is probable that the latter
vessel was sent to communicate with the ' Inconstant,' in
consequence of the arrival of the ' Partridge ' occasioning
some alarm in the mind of Napoleon that his project of
quitting Elba was discovered.
General Bertrand inquired particularly of Captain Adye
respecting my movements and probable return, which were
frankly communicated to him.
At 8 P.M. went on board the ' Partridge,' and at once sat
down to write Lord Burghersh hastily the information I
had obtained from Captain Adye.
While on shore at Porto Ferrajo upon the forenoon of
the 24th, Captain Adye did not see Napoleon. But General
Bertrand's wife told him that she had walked with him in
the garden on the preceding day, and that he had a bad
cold. I think this must be true, so far as relates to his
being there on that day ; and that Madame Bqrtrand would
neither be made the tool of covering his departure, nor is
she capable of dissembling her uneasiness, if any such cir-
cumstance had taken place.
If I may venture an opinion upon Napoleon's plans, I
think he will leave General Bertrand to defend Porto
Ferrajo, as he has a wife and several children with him
to whom he is extremely attached, and probably Napoleon
will not communicate his intention to him until the last
moment. But he will certainly take with him General
Cambronne (a desperate, uneducated ruffian, who was a
drummer with him in Egypt) and those of his Guards upon
whom he can most depend, embarking them on board
' L'Inconstaiit,' * L'Etoile,' and two other vessels, while he
CHAP. VII. PRECAUTIONARY ARRANGEMENTS. 371
himself probably, with General Drouot, will precede them
in 'La Caroline.' The place of disembarkation will be
Gaeta, on the coast of Naples, or Civita Vecchia, if Murat
has previously advanced to Rome. For I cannot persuade
myself that Napoleon will commit himself openly, until the
former has moved forward with his troops ; but it is very
likely they will endeavour to have an interview immediately
at Pia Nosa or Monte Christo. To divert attention from
the real point, it is possible that General Bartolozzi may
at the same time disembark in Corsica with some of the
Corsican battalion.
As there is a line-of-battle ship, a frigate, and a brig at
Genoa, I have requested Lord Burghersh to transmit the
last accounts immediately to Captain Thomson, R.N., the
senior officer there, in hopes that he will at once detach
one of the ships under his command either to watch
or pursue Napoleon, as the case may be, as weU as to be
ready to convey information of occurrences. If I find that
Napoleon is really as criminal as appears at present, I
shall propose to take immediate possession of Palmayola
and Pia Nosa, so as to leave him no pretext for quitting
Elba, and being absent without its being known where
he is.
As the first object is to ascertain whether Napoleon is
still there, I shall, in the usual manner, request an inter-
view, after which I shall remain almost entirely on board
ship, in order to watch and examine 'all vessels which
approach the island, and as soon as possible to communi-
cate with some of the French men-of-war.
Captain Adye does not intend to anchor in the harbour
of Porto Ferrajo, for it is probable that Napoleon would
seize the ' Partridge' when he puts his plan in execution,
as well as my person, in order to prevent intelligence being
sent.
At 9 P.M. I went down below, and thought the brig was
B B a
372 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
getting up her anchor. But as it turned out, on account
of there being no wind, she did not leave the harbour until
early this morning (the 27th). In the course of the day
we saw the French brig ' Zephyr.'8
February 28. — Being becalmed several miles north of
Porto Ferrajo, I went on shore in a boat of Captain Adye's,
at 10 A.M., in order to ascertain if Napoleon was still there,
and then transmit whatever information I could collect
to His Majesty's Minister at Florence, acting afterwards
according to circumstances. We agreed that the ship
should not enter the harbour, and that if I did not return
in two hours it would be a sure proof of my detention ; in
which case Captain Adye would immediately despatch an
express from Piombino to Lord Burghersh with this in-
formation and all he could obtain otherwise of the state
of affairs.
Upon entering the harbour I immediately perceived,
from the appearance of the National Guards as sentries on
the fortifications, that the French Guards were no longer
there ; and, on proceeding alongside of the health-office,
was informed, in answer to my inquiries after General
Bertrand, that he had gone to Palmayola.
Expecting to be detained, I thought to push off im-
mediately, but, after a moment's deliberation, considered
that this would not be sufficiently satisfactory to others,
although it might be so to myself, and therefore resolved
upon the risk (or rather sacrifice more probably), as Captain
Adye would be able to transmit the information required.
Accordingly I landed, and, proceeding towards General
Bertrand's house, was met by Mr. Grattan, an English
gentleman, who had been conveyed to the island by Captain
Adye on the 24th inst. He informed me that, about 3 P.M.
on the 26th, there was a sudden bustle among the troops
and inhabitants, and a parade of the Corsican battalion took
8 We must have been nearly in ' Ze"phyr,' it is since known, spoke
eight of Napoleon's flotilla, as tL« the 'Inconstant.' — NotelySirN. C.
CHAP. VII. DISCOVERY OF NAPOLEONS ESCAPE. 373
place. Soon afterwards the gates were shut. His servant,
who had a brother a lieutenant in the Corsican battalion,
told him that the Emperor and the whole of the troops
were about to embark for Italy. Some spoke of Naples
and Milan, others of Antibes and France. He applied
several times to see General Bertrand, but could not
obtain access to him under various pretexts.
At 7 P.M. the troops marched out of the fortifications
without music or noise, and embarked at the health-office
in feluccas and boats which were alongside, a part of them
being transported to the brig which lay in the harbour.
At 9 P.M. Napoleon with General Bertrand passed out in
the Princess Pauline's small carriage drawn by four horses,
embarked at the health-office in a boat, and went on board
of the brig ( L'Inconstant.' Immediately afterwards the
whole flotilla got under weigh with sweeps and boats, the
soldiers crying out ' Vive 1'Empereur ! '
Mr. G rattan says that his curiosity tempted him to hire
a boat to go alongside of the brig, as he could scarcely
believe his eyes and senses. There he saw Napoleon in
his grey surtout and round hat pacing the quarter-deck
of the brig, which, as well as all the other vessels, was
crowded with troops. One of his boatmen called out that
there was an Englishman on board; upon which he was
questioned by an officer from the poop in English, what
was his business there, and who he was ? He told who
he was, and said that he had come merely to see the
Emperor ; upon which he was ordered to go away. This he
immediately complied with, for he expected every moment
to be fired at or seized.
Mr. Grattan informed me that, ever since their depar-
ture, there had been very little wind. Upon the preced-
ing day, the 27th, they were still in sight till 2 or 3 P.M.,
a short distance north of the island of Capraja. I pro-
ceeded to General Bertrand's house in company with Mr,
Grattan. There I found his wife alternately smiling and
874 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
expressing her anxiety. She told me that her husband had
known nothing of Napoleon's intentions until the moment
of his departure ; that he had only a quarter of an hour
given him to prepare his portmanteau ; that she was not
aware where they were going to, as they had spoken only
of Pia Nosa. I thought that by moving her feelings
something might be discovered, and therefore told her it
was a most desperate step ; that the whole of the project
was known for some time ; and that they must be already
taken. She immediately asked me, with great earnestness,
where was her husband, and what was become of him ?
Were they really taken ? If so, she, as an Englishwoman,
claimed my protection, as well as that of Lord Burghersh,
the British Minister at Florence. I told her that I could
not exactly say they were taken, but that they were so
situated they could not escape, for there were British as
well as French men-of-war all round them; that the
squadron from Sicily with the Admiral were looking out
for them between Elba and Gaeta. On this she became
more relieved and quite collected ; from which I concluded
that her opinion of their destination was north, and not
south, as I thought at first.
She told me that Napoleon had left M. Lapis 9 as gover-
9 The following proclamation, in a six des citoyens les plus distingues,
strange handwriting, and very badly et a votre attachement reconnu et a
spelt, occurs among Sir Neil Camp- votre valeur la defense de la place
bell's papers : et le maintien de bon ordre.
[Traduction de 1'Italien.] < " Je pars (a-t-il dit) de Tile
' Le General Lapis, d'Elbe. Je suis extremement satis-
' Gouverneur de File d'Elbe, Cham- fait de la conduite des habitants.
bellan de S. M. 1'Empereur Napo- Je leur confie la defense du pays
le"on, Directeur des Domaines et auquel j 'attache la plus grande im-
Biens extraordinaires de la Cou- portance. Je ne puis leur donner
ronne. une preuve d'une plus grande con-
' Habitants ! fiance que de laisser apres le depart
'Votre auguste Souverain, rap- des troupes ma mere et ma sceur
pele" par la Divine Providence a sous leur garde. Lesmembres de la
son antique gloire, a du abandonner Junte et tous les habitants de 1'ile
son ile. II m'en a confie" le com- peuvent compter sur ma protection
mandement — le gouvernement a sp^ciale."
CHAP. VII. M. LAPIS. 875
nor. (This gentleman, a native of Porto Ferrajo, had for-
merly been mayor before his arrival, and afterwards one
of his chamberlains.) I proceeded to his house, but was
directed to find him in the citadel, whither I went accord-
ingly with the expectation of being detained. However,
to intimidate him from so much responsibility, I told my
servant who accompanied me to say that the whole would
be certainly taken !
A. Piedmontese surgeon, whom I had been in the habit
of meeting at General Bertrand's, and who accompanied
me, confirmed most distinctly all Mr. Grattan's informa-
tion as to seeing the flotilla in the situation described,
adding, further, that Napoleon had given M. Lapis the
rank of general of brigade and the appointment of gover-
nor.
M. Lapis received me in his uniform as commandant
of the National Guard, his doors being open, and a dozen
of persons in the passage. I told him that 'I came to
him as one of the Commissioners of the Allied Powers,
who had accompanied Napoleon to Elba, in which charac-
ter I had likewise prolonged my stay there. Therefore I
requested to know from him in what position was I to
consider him ? ' He said, c As governor of the island of
Elba.' ' Governor for whom ? ' I asked. * For his sove-
reign.' ' What sovereign ? ' ( L'Empereur Napoleon.' I
then said that ' I wished to inquire of him whether he
would give up possession of the island to the British,
or the Grand Duke of Tuscany, or the Allied Sove-
reigns ? ' He smiled and said, ' Certainly not ; that he
had the means of defending Porto Ferrajo until he re-
' Habitants, cette e"poque est la Junte, les autorite"s et les fonction-
plus fortune"e et la plus memorable naires seront dans le cas de vous
pour vous. De votre conduite de*- donner dans les circonstances ac-
pend votre gloire et votre fe"licite" tuelles. Vous serez heureux, habi-
perpe"tuelle. Si vous voulez ac- tants de Tile d'Elbe, si vous ne vous
que"rir 1'une et 1'autre, continuez laissez pas se"duire par les perfides
a obeir aveugle"ment aux sages dis- conseils des ennemis de bon ordre.'
positions du gouvernement, que la
376 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP/MI.
ceived orders from the Emperor.' I told him to recollect
that he had taken upon himself the responsibility, and
therefore that it only remained for me to notify to him
that the island would now be considered in a state of
blockade, speaking very audibly, on purpose that what I
said might be heard by others.
After bowing to retire I advanced again, and told M.
Lapis in a loud voice, that in order to prevent misery to
the inhabitants individually throughout the island, it
would be proper for him to announce the fact to them,
and that they ought to hold no communication with the
Continent. I acted in this manner in order to impress
M. Lapis with a sense of responsibility, and prevent him
from detaining me. I was also in hopes that the inhabi-
tants would, for their own sakes, induce him to hold no
more connection with Napoleon or Murat, and surrender
the island to the Allies, perhaps even give intelligence of
importance, and take some friendly step after my depar-
ture, as my time would not allow me to follow up this
object.
In passing the house of Madame Mere and the Princess
Pauline, I observed sentries of the National Guard at
their door, while an officer and a Pole were walking toge-
ther as if on duty. I told them that if Madame or the
Princess had any letters to transmit to Leghorn, or would
express any wishes which it might be in my power to exe-
cute, it would give me pleasure to serve them. While on
my way to the boat, the Princess sent to request me to
return. After being detained for a minute or more in the
antechamber, I sent in to say that I was under the neces-
sity of departing immediately, as the frigate would other-
wise leave without me.
She then came out and made me sit down beside her,
drawing her chair gradually still closer, as if she waited
for me to make some private communication. I merely
told her that as perhaps she might have some commands
CHAP. VII. PRINCESS PAULINE. 377
for the Continent, I would willingly receive them. She
asked me, with every appearance of anxiety, if I had
nothing to say to her, and what I would advise her to do ;
said she had already written to her husband, Prince
Borghese, who was now at Leghorn, and requested me to
tell him that she wished to go to Rome immediately. I
told her that my advice in the meantime would be to re-
main at Elba. " She then went on to protest her ignorance
of Napoleon's intended departure till the very last mo-
ment, and of his present destination ; laid hold of my
hand and pressed it to her heart, that I might feel how
much she was agitated. However she did not appear to
be so, and there was rather a smile upon her countenance.
She inquired whether the Emperor had been taken ? I
told her I could not exactly say he was, but that there
was every probability of it. During this conversation she
dropped a hint of her belief in his destination being for
France : upon which I smiled and said, ' O non ! ce n'est
pas si loin, c'est a Naples ; ' for I fancied (for the moment)
she mentioned France purposely to deceive me.
Two or three minutes afterwards I took my leave, and
proceeded to the boat without any opposition, accom-
panied by Mr. Grattan. He agreed, at my request, to
proceed in a boat to Leghorn with my despatches. After
going out of the harbour, I forced a fishing-boat to
accompany us, in order to have the means of conveyance
for him. At 3 P.M. he left the frigate, carrying with
him my despatch for Lord Castlereagh, No. 46, which he
was to convey immediately from Leghorn to Florence. I
also gave him a copy to be forwarded from Leghorn, by
a courier, to Colonel Sir John Dalrymple, commanding
at Genoa, for his information and that of Captain Thom-
son, commanding the navy there. Copies were to be
forwarded by the former to Paris, to London, and to
Vienna.
At the same time M. Ricci, provisional vice-consul at
378 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
Elba, who came off in a boat, was to go to Piombino, in
order to proceed direct from thence, by the horse-road of
Sienna to Florence, carrying with him for Lord Burghersh
my despatches to Lord Castlereagh, Nos. 45 and 46.
After fully deliberating with Captain Adye upon all
the circumstances, and comparing the information of Mr.
Grattan and M. Bicci in their own presence, we deter-
mined to proceed towards Antibes for the 'following rea-
sons. (In so doing Captain Adye had the goodness to sacri-
fice his own opinion, which inclined to Naples, to mine.)
There was always a probability of overtaking Napoleon
and his flotilla, if he had gone in that direction ; there was
none if he had gone to Naples. The horses and guns,
which he was said certainly to have embarked, could be
of no use at Naples, but only an incumbrance ; although,
to be sure, it might be a mask to make one believe that he
had not gone there, and he might afterwards have thrown
them overboard.
Would he, however, also have incumbered himself with
so many civil followers, and with all the Corsicans, if he
was destined for Naples ? He could not throw them over-
board, and they could be of no importance as an addi-
tional force.
But, what was still stronger than all, would he lose the
whole of the first night, and the following day, in going
north instead of south, and so be obliged to retrace his
route ? Had he gone out during the day, he might do so
to deceive until that night, but certainly not for so long a
time (nearly twenty-four hours), incumbered with soldiers
broiling in the sun, and with a dead calm, and every
minute of the utmost consequence.
I think his destination is for the frontier of Piedmont
next France, and that he will take possession of some
strong place near Nice, or between that and Turin, dis-
persing his civil followers immediately over North Italy,
of which he will proclaim the independence, raising the
CHAP. VII. NAPOLEON'S PROBABLE DESTINATION. 379
disaffected there, while Murat does the same in the
south.
This plan will be more reconcilable to the national
feelings of his officers and men, and they will think it
probably less hazardous than raising the standard of re-
bellion in France, where they would be considered traitors.
General Drouot gave in his adhesion to the present dy-
nasty of the Bourbons before quitting France, and I
believe General Bertrand did the same.
No part of Napoleon's plan for quitting Elba could
have increased my general suspicions of his possibly taking
that step at some time or another, even had I been there
from the 16th to the 26th, nor could have authorised me
to report to the British Government any fact which could
be considered as a certain proof of that intention. There
would have been no positive criminality in any act previous
to his embarkation of the troops and his actual depar-
ture, a period of six hours, during which time the gates of
Porto Ferrajo were shut. He had been for months em-
ployed in dismantling the fortress of Longono, situated
in the passage of Piombino, and in conveying the guns,
ammunition, and provisions from thence to Porto Ferrajo
in three of the vessels taken with him. Two of the others
are feluccas from his mines at Rio, the arrival of which at
Porto Ferrajo could not attract observation. Had His
Majesty's ship ' Partridge ' been in the harbour on Sun-
day, February 26, she might have been detained. Captain
Adye, the first lieutenant, and myself would probably
have been invited to General Bertrand's house, where we
sometimes dined, and we might have been easily arrested
there, and thus made more subservient to the easier exe-
cution of his plan.
H.M.S. 'Partridge' was at anchor in Porto Ferrajo
harbour upon the 24th, and Captain Adye went on shore
during the day. He was also off the mouth of the harbour
upon Saturday the 25th inst., and ascertained, for his own
380 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
information and mine, that the l Inconstant ' was there at
anchor at 6 P.M. Thence he proceeded immediately to
Leghorn, to bring me back to Porto Ferrajo, according to
previous agreement made some days before.
M. Bicci, the person who gave me private information
of a suspicious character, observe jl on the 2oth that he
was constantly followed by two gendarmes ; but he had
knowledge of his being watched for some time before.
When he heard of the gates being shut upon the 26th, he
wished to go over to Piombino with the information, but
could not obtain a boat for any sum, as they were all
under embargo.
Tor a few weeks previously to his departure, Napoleon
employed people in planting trees upon the roads leading
to Porto Eerrajo, and in forming an avenue near his house,
also in making a garden close to the barracks of his Guards.
When Captain Adye was on shore there on the 24th, there
were about thirty soldiers busily employed in shaping
beds and forming gravel walks in the garden ; and they
were probably employed all day on Saturday the 25th in
finishing the work, in order to deceive the various spies
who, he knew well, watched all his proceedings.
A.S to the immediate execution of Napoleon's project,
I do not believe that any person in Elba, except Gene-
ral Drouot, knew of his intentions until the gates were
actually shut upon the afternoon of the 26th.
I had long thought Napoleon so restless and unprinci-
pled a person, that he would lose no opportunity of employ-
ing himself in war upon the Continent ; and, particularly if
pressed by want of money, or subjected to any humiliating
treatment, that he was capable of any eccentric or des-
perate act. But all accounts from France, and the ap-
parent tranquillity of the country, have induced me to
judge that he has no chance of success there, and that he
himself has despaired of every hope in that quarter.
Neither did I think that he would commit himself openly
CHAP. VII. NAPOLEON'S MEANS OF ESCAPE. 381
in Italy, until Murat had made some progress, and this
would give sufficient time to secure his person, if at least
it was wished to do so. For many months he has fur-
nished a just pretext for this measure — has given ample
cause for such a step, by his violation of the law of
nations and breach of good faith, in sending officers
clandestinely to Corsica and Italy to recruit soldiers;
and therefore I no longer considered this to be an object
which was sought for or intended on the part of either the
French Government or the Allied Sovereigns.
With the free sovereignty of Elba, four armed vessels
of his own, and seventeen belonging to the mines, which
sailed in every direction, I knew well that Napoleon had
it in his power to avail himself any day of these means of
escape, without any chance of my preventing him, depen-
dent as I was on the occasional calls of a man-of-war,
which cruised between Civita Vecchia and Genoa, and the
frequency of whose visits was subject entirely to the cap-
tain. Injustice, however, to the four captains successively
employed in this service, as well as to Admirals Lord Ex-
mouth and Penrose, I must say that they entered liberally
and cordially into my wishes and the objects of my mission.
What I considered as the surest means of security for
Napoleon's person were the two frigates and some smaller
vessels belonging to Louis XVIII. (none of them were to
be seen either on the 27th or 28th), which were constantly
cruising between Corsica, Capraja, and Leghorn; while
I knew also that the French consul at Leghorn and the
governor of Corsica had their respective spies over him.
At 7 P.M. spoke the British merchant-ship, ' Lady Ann,'
Captain Segur, by whom I wrote to Mr. A'Court, minister
in Sicily.
Napoleon's flotilla consists of seven sail ; viz., * L'lncon-
stant,' a brig, 18 guns and about 300 tons ; ' L'Etoile,' a
bombard, 80 tons and a few guns ; ' La Caroline,' half-
declccd, 25 tons and 1 gun.
382 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
Four feluccas of 40 or 50 tons each.
There is also a Trench merchant-brig, of between 300
and 400 tons, which had anchored at Porto Ferrajo by
accident, a few days before Napoleon's departure. He
seized her, and put a guard on board to prevent its being
known.
List of persons who embarked with Napoleon in Elba,
February 26, 1814.
General Count Bertrand . . . . "^
General Count Drouot .
n i T» r« i- r Frenchmen.
U-eneral Baron Cambronne . . . .
Adjutant- General (Colonel) Lebelle . . J
Baron Germanowski, commanding the Poles.
Chevalier Fourreau, medecin, Frenchman.
M. Gatte, pharmacien, Frenchman ; married, a few months ago,
a Mdlle. Nenchi, whose father is a merchant at Leghorn.
M. Peyrouse, tresorier, Frenchman.
> founders de palais, Frenchmen.
M. Baillon j
M. Pons, administrateur des mines, both before and since the
arrival of Napoleon in Elba, formerly chef de bataillon under
Massena, who, with Lacepede, the chancellor of the Legion of
Honour, are his friends and patrons — a violent., intriguing
fellow.
M. Talliade, formerly of the French Marine, and, until lately,
commander of Napoleon's brig — married to a woman of Lon-
gono.
M. Chauslard, capitaine de fregate ; lately appointed to command
of ' Inconstant ' brig.
M. Richon, of the French Marine, commanding the bombard
' L'Etoile.'
Colonel Socoski, a Pole ; his wife is with the Princess Pauline.
Captain Roule, officier d'ordonnance, confidential officer about
Napoleon's person ; Frenchman.
TVT V fcm* i omciers d'ordonnance of Porto Ferrajo.
M. Phillidore, captain of the port at Porto Ferrajo ; probably
taken away by force, in order to return to Elba or Naples with
the flotilla.
Captain Paoli, Corsican.
Captain of gendarmes.
CHAP. VII. NAPOLEON'S SUITE. 383
These are all names of principal persons who accom-
panied Napoleon (excepting a few officers and men who
were at Longono, Pia Nosa, and Palmayola, and who
were too late to embark) ; every person, French and Italian,
whether in the military or civil service, secretaries, ser-
vants, &c., went with him.
His whole force may be estimated as follows : —
Old Guard 600
Polish Lancers 100
Corsican Battalion ...... 300
Gendarmes, mostly Italians and Corsicans . . 50
1050
Civilians, including servants .... 100
General Bartolozzi, formerly commandant de la place,
was left behind at Porto Ferrajo.
Wednesday, March 1. — About 2 A.M. a light was dis-
covered. We beat to quarters, as it was reported that
there were several sail. We thought our sanguine hopes
were accomplished, but upon nearing and hailing, found
it was a French frigate. Captain Adye and I went on
board of her. It proved to be the * Fleur-de-Lys,' com-
manded by Captain Chevalier de Garat, belonging to the
station of Corsica and Elba, and now five leagues north of
Cape Corse. He did not know of Napoleon's escape till
we informed him, although his only duty was to prevent it,
and he ought to have been off Elba as a watch, unless he
was accessory to it.
[It is fair to state, that on Marshal Massena hoisting the
tricolour flag at Toulon, in the course of the month of
March following, the Chevalier de Garat was at once dis-
missed from his ship, but again restored to his rank by
the Bourbons on August 1.
In a formal defence of his conduct, addressed to the
Comte d'lancourt, minister of Marine, and dated August
28, 1815, he wrote as follows : —
' Le commandant de cette fregate n'entrera dans aucun
384 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S, JOURNAL. CHAP. VII
detail a present sur la navigation la plus penible et peut-
etre la plus dangereuse, pendant le plus rude des hivers,
depuis le 2e Janvier dernier.
* II passe de suite a 1'epoque du 26e fevrier, jour du
depart de Bonaparte de Porto Ferrajo. Le Colonel
Campbell a rapporte au commandant que " L' Usurpateur "
sortit de ce port par une brise tres-faible, qui devint bien-
tot un calme plat a huit heures du soir.
1 La" Fleur-de-Lys " avait eu, le memejour a neuf heures
du matin, connaissance de la fregate la " Melpomene/'
dans le sud et le S.S.O. de Pile Capraia; et comme depuis
plus de dix jours elle ne 1'avait pas ape^ue, elle diri-
geait sa route vers elle, lorsque tout a coup on decouvrit
plusieurs voiles doublant 1'ile de la Gorgone avec un vent
long et frais.
' La" Fleur-de-Lys " vira aussitot de bord, et manoeuvra
a toutes voiles pour les chasser et les reconnaitre ; elle
joint cinq de ces bailments avant midi, parla a un brick
anglais, navigua quelque temps avec eux, et s'assura que
ces navires etaient anglais et suedois, et avaient appareille
de Livourne le meine matin. Cette chasse avait porte la
" Fleur-de-Lys " a 1'emboucliure du Golfe St.-Florent.
' Le vent varia et mollit ; le commandant en profita
pour se rapprocher de son port le plus habituel, pres de
1'ile Capraia ; il aper£ut pour la seconde fois la " Mel-
pomene," toujours vers le S.S.O. de cette ile, a portee de
pistolet de deux bateaux qu'elle reconnut sans doute ; a
huit heures du soir la " Fleur-de-Lys " se trouvait dans
1'ouest de Capraia, a la distance de douze milles environ, et
dans le 1ST.N.O. de Giralio.
* Le 27 au matin, vers midi, la " Fleur-de-Lys " releva
le Cap Corse au S.S.O. 4° O., et la Capraia encore plus
pres au S.S.E. demi E.
' A quatre heures du soir il fit presque calme ; la
" Fleur-de-Lys " etait alors dans le N.O. de Capraia,
explorant toute la partie du vent entre la Gorgone, 1'ile
CHAP. VII. CHEVALIER DE GARAT. 385
d'Elbe et la dite Capraia ; elle avait encore en connais-
sance de la "Melpomene," toujours dans la partie du sud, et
des deux bateaux precites, caboteurs ordinaires, qui a la
nuit avaient fait route vers 1'ouest.
' Pendant la nuit du 27 et dans la matinee du 28, la
" Fleur-de-Lys," suivant son usage, courut divers bords
entre le Cap Corse, la Grorgone et Capraia. II vint en idee
au commandant, vu le temps favorable, de revisiter Porto
Ferrajo ; mais a peine eut-il double Capraia par le nord,
que le vent lui manque tout a coup, et il passa environ trois
heures en devant de cette ile, a deux tiers de lieues, en
caline. H ne decouvrit que deux pecheurs, qu'il fit accoster,
et qui ne lui apprirent rien de File d'Elbe, le complimentant
au contraire sur 1'opiniatrete de sa croisiere depuis si long-
temps.
* Le brick de Bonaparte que nous avions plusieurs fois
vu dans le port de Porto Ferrajo, ainsi qu'un autre bateau,
ce qui au reste etait tres-connu de nos officiers depuis que
le Roi 1' avait fait remettre a Bonaparte, — ce brick, ni
la petite flotille, malgre les efforts, la Constance, et, on
peut le dire, 1'opiniatrete de la " Fleur-de-Lys," qui
plusieurs fois s'est trouvee en peril, parce qu'il lui etait
severement defendu de mouiller en aucun cas a File d'Elbe,
seul port neanmoins qui existat sous le vent dans tout cet
archipel, — cette flotille, dirons-nous, n'a ete decouverte ni
aper9ue par personne a bord de la fregate. Vu la situa-
tion de Porto Ferrajo, a deux lieues et demie du conti-
nent d'ltalie, entoure de six lies et de deux ecueils tres-
dangereux appeles les Fourmis, il aurait fallu un coup de
fortune extraordinaire pour avoir reussi (sans petits bati-
ments, sans moucnes, sans avisos, sans une seule intelli-
gence a terre) a arreter ou meme a voir le brick de Bona-
parte, qui en tout etat de cause aurait toujours pu se
jeter a la cote. Si le commandant de la " Fleur-de-Lys "
Feut joint, sans egard, sans consideration sur la nature
de ses instructions, partout il Faurait attaque: pas un
c c
386 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
•
individu n'en doutait a bord de la fregate ; la population
de Toulon, dans quelque opinion politique qu'elle avait
ete, en est convaincue, le General Brulart, Gouverneur de
Corse, 1'est plus que personne ; car d'apres la connaissance
qu'il a, depuis vingt ans, du zele, du devouement, et des
principes du Chevalier de Garat, il a garde dans sa poche
1'ordre de son rappel a Toulon, expedie de ce port en poste
par la goelette " L'Antilope," quinze jours avant Pevasiou
de Bonaparte.
' Lord Castlereagh a dit le 19 avril, en plein parlement,
que la flotte entiere de sa Majeste britannique n'aurait
pas suffi pour assurer la non-evasion de Bonaparte de Tile
d'Elbe, vu sa situation ; et il n'a ete contredit par personne.
Que pouvaient done deux grosses fregates separees, a qui
il etait impossible de mouiller (quelque temps qu'il fit)
dans le seul port qui existe dans ces parages ? '
Early during the forenoon, the Chevalier de Garat came
on board the * Partridge,' when it was agreed (in conse-
quence of what he had stated with regard to his being near
Capraja on Monday, and yet not having seen Napoleon's
flotilla), that it might possibly have gone there or to
Gorgona; that Captain Adye should therefore return and
examine them more minutely ; that Captain de Garat
should proceed direct to Antibes, and if he did not find
Napoleon there he should despatch an officer immediately
to Paris with the news of Napoleon's escape. I gave him
a despatch, No 47, for Lord Castlereagh, enclosed to the
Duke of Wellington, or British charge d'affaires at Paris,
and open for perusal.
I have been induced to change my opinion, in concert
with Captain Adye, for various reasons. It seems unneces-
sary for both ships to proceed in the same direction, and
Chevalier de Garat must pursue that of Antibes, in order
to despatch an officer to Paris. The conjecture upon
which we set out yesterday from Elba is now less likely
to prove fortunate, from Chevalier de Garat's statement,
CHAP. VH. PUKSUIT OF NAPOLEON. 387
and our not having seen Bonaparte. In thinking over
every project that Napoleon may have intended, and en-
deavouring to reconcile Chevalier de Garat's information
with that of Mr. Grattan, it appears possible that he may
have secreted himself for a few days in Capraja or Gorgona,
in order to lead away the * Partridge,' and be able at night
to take Leghorn by surprise. This seizure might be ef-
fected. He would obtain money, provisions, ammunition,
and stores of all kinds, and a ready communication with
Murat, who might send a part of his force to meet him at
Florence. A portion of Murat's fleet with some troops
might replace him at Porto Ferrajo, or even the whole
fleet come up there from Naples.
The Chevalier de Garat approved of this change in our
plan. He pursued his voyage to Antibes, and the ' Par-
tridge ' returned towards Capraja, taking on board a mid-
shipman belonging to the 'Fleur-de-Lys ' M. Fortis, for
Corsica, as the captain was anxious to communicate with
the Governor, Brulart.
March 2. — Very little wind all day. Standing towards
Capraja, which at sunset bore east, thirty miles distant.
March 3. — At 2 A.M., near Capraja, saw a sail ; sent on
board, and found it to be the French schooner ' Anlilope,'
Captain Fernahaye. I went on board with the midship-
man belonging to the ' Fleur-de-Lys.'
Went on shore at Capraja in two boats from the * Par-
tridge ' and * Antilope/ in hopes of obtaining information.
The escape of Napoleon was not known. The command-
ant and mayor both stated circumstantially and separately
that a brig, with six feluccas in company, was off" the
island the whole of Monday standing NW., and was lost
sight of in the evening, having then very little wind. This
confirms Mr. Grattan's information, although difficult to
reconcile with what the Chevalier de Garat stated, and
proves almost to a certainty that our first conjecture was
c c 2
388 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII
just. Captain Adye, therefore, lias again shaped his course
for Antibes.
March 4. — At 7 P.M. Captain Croker, of His Majesty's
ship ' Wizard,' came on board. She left Genoa yesterday,
and is bound for Leghorn and Palermo. Sir John Dalrymple,
commanding there, had received my despatch on the 2nd
instant, and the troops were put in movement to the west-
ward on the 3rd. Wrote by the * Wizard' to Lord Burg-
hersh and Mr. A'Court.
March 5. — At midday spoke the Sicilian ship with
Nautical School bound for Palermo. She had left Genoa
yesterday at 3 P.M., at which time it was reported that
Napoleon had been refused a landing by the Commandant
at Frejus, and had disembarked at Antibes.
Nearly calm all day.
March 6. — Nearly calm. Off Savona spoke the trans-
port ' Lord Wellington,' with Colonel Bourke and the
Italian levy bound from Savona to Nice. There were two
other transports in company. Informed that Napoleon
had landed a few days ago near Antibes, and, upon find-
ing he could not get possession of that place, had inarched
into the interior.
I am persuaded it will soon be proved that the invasion
of France by Napoleon did not originate with himself, and
that it has not long been decided upon, although he had
the means of preparing and executing his plans without
any possibility of detection on my part.
It was the delay in communicating with the * Fleur-de-
Lys ' which alone prevented the ' Partridge ' from arriving
at Antibes nearly about the same time with Napoleon, and
lost us the glorious chance, which was so nearly at our
command, of destroying him.
March 7. — At 2 P.M. went on board H.M.S. 'Aboukir,'
Captain Thomson, from Antibes, bound to Genoa, and
learned, certainly to our mortification, that Napoleon
had disembarked at midday on March 1, in Juan Bay, be-
CHAP. VII. NAPOLEON'S LANDING. 389
tween Antibes and Frejus. In a few hours after, he had
marched off towards Grenoble without opposition. Five
officers and thirty men, who had been sent to Antibes to
summon it to surrender, were detained by the command-
ant. Wrote to Lord Castlereagh, enclosed to Lord William
Bentinck and open for perusal.
March 8. — Anchored at Antibes. The ( Fleur-de-Lys ' and
' Legerie,' French men-of-war, were in the offing. The
latter came in close to us, and sent a boat on board of the
* Partridge.' Captain Adye and I returned the visit.
Afterwards went on shore at Antibes, and visited General
Corsin, the governor. Informed by him that, upon the 1st
inst., about 11 A.M., Napoleon stood in from sea, fired two
guns, and hoisted the tricolour flag on board of his brig,
which was in company with several other smaller vessels.
They made for Juan Bay, west of Antibes, where Napoleon
disembarked his force upon the beach.
The General himself happened to be at the island of
Marguerite, in the Bay of Juan, with some friends, and had
no idea it was Napoleon. He and his party were looking
through glasses, and when the brig hoisted the tricoloured
flag, thought it was an Algerine who had captured some
Genoese coasters, and was coming in to water. Early in
the afternoon, the General went on to say, he received a
note from the officer commanding at Antibes in his absence,
requesting him to return immediately, 'for that a most
extraordinary circumstance had occurred ! ' He thought
it was merely some scuffle between the soldiers and the
inhabitants, and immediately despatched an officer to the
place. Later in the afternoon he received a second express,
explaining the real cause of the alarm. He at once re-
turned, but being obliged to make a considerable detour,
and to scramble over rocks and bushes (the marks of which
he showed me on his hands), in order to avoid Napoleon's
piquets, did not arrive at Antibes till 2 A.M. on the second.
He sent out parties to ascertain Napoleon's forces and
390 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
intentions, but it appears they neither impeded nor fol-
lowed him.
It seems most extraordinary that the disembarkation
should have taken place, and the encampment been con-
tinued from midday till nearly sunrise the next morning,
without attracting more notice, or causing any measures
to be taken on the part of the authorities.
However a detachment which Napoleon, after forming
his camp, had sent to Antibes, had been taken prisoners
without resistance. They were transferred to Toulon under
a strong escort, the officers particularly having behaved in
the most frantic manner, and attempted to escape during
the night. One of them, a Captain Casabianca, leaped
over a part of the ramparts and broke his back. They
would not give any information whatever.
An officer of the garrison, who is a Corsican, and a cousin
of the Bonaparte family, was put into arrest on account of
some suspicious circumstances.
All the horses seized near Antibes were paid for libe-
rally.
At Cannes a butcher got his musket with the determi-
nation of going to Juan Bay and killing Napoleon; but the
inhabitants surrounded him, and begged him to desist, as
their village would be burnt down, and they would all be
sacrificed.
General Corsin further told me, that by the last account
Napoleon was on the mountain-road from Cannes towards
Grenoble. Upon the 4th he entered Digne, with only
about a hundred men. The rest of his force was scattered
along the road, coming up as fast as they could, and press-
ing mules and horses to assist them. Several desertions
had taken place, and neither soldiers nor others had joined
Napoleon. So far, however, he had not met with any
troops to oppose him, as there were scarcely any nearer
than Grenoble, where there is a considerable force of
artillery, with between 1,000 and 1,500 infantry.
CHAP. VII. ANTIBES. 391
Marshal Massena had marched after Napoleon with a
force from Toulon, but was supposed to be considerably in
his rear.
On the afternoon of the 1st the vessels again sailed
out of the bay in a SE. direction. Napoleon remained in
bivouac till 2 A.M. on March 2, when he marched to
Grasse, on the road towards Grenoble, with his whole
force and two pieces of cannon, leaving behind him the
rest of his artillery, sixteen ammunition waggons, and a
carriage marked P., belonging to the Princess Pauline.
While in camp a great noise and mirth were kept up ;
people were sent out in all directions to procure horses,
and several proclamations in writing were distributed.
These proclamations call upon the people of France to
rise against their present Sovereign and Government,
who have broken their faith and promises, and sacrificed
the interest and glory of France to the priests and emi-
grants ! Nothing is said* of Italy ; so far from it, that
Napoleon pledges himself to abandon all thoughts of foreign
conquest, and to employ himself only in promoting the
internal happiness of France.
The proclamation began thus :
* Napoleon, par la grace de Dieu et la constitution de
1'Etat, Empereur des Fran£ais ; ' and they are counter-
signed by ' Le Grand Marechal, faisant fonctions de
Major-General de la Grande Armee, Bertrand.'
There is likewise an a^lress from the officers and soldiers
of the Imperial Guard who accompany him to the Generals,
officers, and soldiers of the Grand Army.
We found at Antibes the French merchant- vessel which
Napoleon had seized at Porto Ferrajo to convey a part of
his force.
March 9. — There being no safe anchorage at Antibes,
the ' Partridge ' weighed from there and proceeded to
Villa Franca, near Nice. Went over to the latter place,
and waited on the Governor, General Osarce. Saw also
392 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
General Dejeany, commanding the military force sent
from Genoa by the King of Sardinia, the French Consul
Marquis de Candolle, and the British Consul.
The French Consul confirms all the information re-
ceived yesterday at Antibes. He read me a letter, received
while I was with him, from the prefect of Draguignan, of
yesterday's date, wherein he details the marches of the
regular troops and National Guards, from Toulon, Mar-
seilles, and other points, directed to Napoleon's rear. He
states that no partisans had joined him, nor had there
been any symptoms of discontent; and he praises the
enthusiastic ardour universally displayed by the popula-
tion. At the same time he regrets that no opposition had
been made in Napoleon's front during his march, nor any
steps taken to occupy or destroy the bridge at Sisteron
before his arrival there. He takes no notice of Napoleon's
movements after reaching that point. It seems strange
that the prefect should have had no later information.
From all that I can gather, Napoleon's marches appear
to have been as follows :
Wednesday morning, Marcn 2, left his camp, and
marched by Cannes to Serenon.
Thursday, March 3, marched to Bareme.
Friday, March 4, marched to Digne.
Saturday, March 5, marched to Sisteron.
The French Consul at Nice seems jealous of any cir-
cumstance being mentioned wh^h can reflect a doubt
upon the exertions and spirit of the French nation as
against Napoleon. He admitted, however, that the con-
duct of the General commanding at Antibes was suspicious,
but said his authority did not extend beyond the glacis of
the fortress.
It is stated also by other persons, that General Count
Gazan, who commanded at Cannes, ran away and hid
himself, without taking any steps whatever. [This he
admitted afterwards, on my questioning him.]
CHAP. VII. NAPOLEON'S PROGRESS. 393
The Governor of Nice, however, seems to have acted
with energy, and being disposed to give little credit to the
accounts received there, he has sent confidential officers
as far as Digne, but he has no report since the 5th. Al-
though he thinks Napoleon has got as far as Sisteron, he
has no confirmation of the fact. He judges that the spirit
of France is not so good as might be expected, or else that
the event is so very extraordinary and unexpected, that
the people are stupefied. One of his officers states, upon
the authority of a respectable person who witnessed it,
that Napoleon entered Digne with about fifty mounted
officers and cavalry and a few infantry, without any op-
position. The people called out, ' Vive 1'Empereur ! A
bas les droits reunis ! ' He replied, ' Oui, mes enfants !
Quand j'arriverai a Paris, je m'occuperai a cela pour vous,
et je m'en occupe depuis quelque temps.' Part of the
road by which he has marched is very bad, mountainous
and narrow, where an opposing force might arrest very
superior numbers ; and he has now no guns with him.
The French Consul as well as the Governor say that
between twenty and thirty of the garrison of Antibes
deserted the third day after Napoleon's disembarkation,
when the gates were opened, and it is conjectured that
they have followed him. Before being sent away, the
prisoners belonging to Napoleon's Guard were treated like
friends, and were seen playing bowls with the garrison.
And this is confirmed by an English gentleman, who had
observed their treatment during their removal from An-
tibes to Toulon.
March 10. — It is probable that the test of Napoleon's
success will be made at Grenoble, and that he will endea-
vour to bring it to that issue as soon as possible, before
the accumulation of force renders his passage of the Isere
more difficult. If he is foiled there, he has no alternative
but to retreat to Gap, and there turn off the main road by
a mule-path, which leads over Mount Dauphin and Mount
394 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
Genevre, by the river Durance, to Turin, passing by
Sesana and Exele. This route is scarcely passable for a
horse in many places.
As he advances, he propagates reports that he has
many partisans among the principal persons in France,
and that he will arrive at Paris before March 24. l
March 11. — Being very uneasy at not hearing any cir-
cumstantial facts, and being also desirous to transmit the
best and earliest news to Ministers at home, as well as to
Lord William Bentinck at Genoa, and Lord Burghersh
at Florence, I resolved to follow Napoleon into France.
Accordingly at 3 A.M. I set off towards Antibes, in the
hope of obtaining certain information, and being able to
judge of the spirit of the people for myself.
At Juan Bay I saw the lieutenant de douane and
the commissaire, who gave me the whole story of Napo-
leon's disembarkation as they witnessed it. He came on
shore about 3 P.M. on the 1st. During the afternoon
the band continued to play occasionally. * Ou est-ce
qu'on peut etre mieux que dans le sein de sa famille ? '
He walked about under the trees, sitting down from
time to time. He wore a grey great coat. At night
he lay down on a mattrass with a coverlet turned over
his head.
General Bertrand was constantly with him, and always
kept off his hat when he approached him, as did all
others.
General Cambronne went on horseback along the road
towards Cannes, three or four miles off. He gave out
that 3,000 men were with him, and that a large body in
conjunction with the Allies had passed on by sea to Tou-
lon and Marseilles. Detachments were placed about a
mile to the right and left, to prevent anyone from pass-
ing. They at first said they had come from Corsica ;
1 As a fact, lie arrived on the evening of the 20th. — ED.
CHAP. VIT. NAPOLEON'S PROGRESS. 395
afterwards that they were from Elba, and had been dis-
charged; but when they arrived at Cannes, they gave
out that the Emperor was with them, and that 4,000 more
of his troops had landed west of Frejus. The mayor
was directed to go to Napoleon with the public authorities,
but he refused.
Between 2 and 3 A.M. on the 2nd the whole party
arrived. The officers supped together at the inn. One
officer paid for a horse which he bought, but all others
were impressed, and left in the road when fatigued, and
changed. Napoleon did not enter the town, but re-
mained outside, where the men halted in position. After
remaining there an hour or two, they turned to their
right off the great road, and took the mountain-road to
Grasse. It was so bad that they were obliged to leave
the guns behind.
At Grasse Napoleon dined on a height above the town.
A table was brought out, and he sat upon a soldier's pack.
The troops were encamped round him, and employed
themselves in cooking and eating.
The courier who travelled with me on the road from
Nice to Draguignan told me that Napoleon was certainly
taken by this time. A circular letter had been sent by
the postmaster of Valence, with the assurance that he
was enclosed (cerne) by the National Guards and garrison
from Grenoble, between that city and Gap.
March 12. — Arrived at Draguignan, the chief town of
the department of the Var, and visited the prefect, Cointe
de Bouthillier, a very clever man, and at the same time
frank and communicative.
Nothing, as it appears, could have been better than his
dispositions. By 6 A.M. on the 2nd, he had sent off mes-
sengers to Digne on one side, and Toulon on the other.
However the prefect at Digne did not circulate the infor-
mation for several hours after he received it, and took no
steps to assemble the National Guard, or destroy the
396 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
bridge at Sisteron. His proclamation is only dated the
6th, two days after Napoleon had passed. The mayor of
Castellane gave him a dinner. At Digne he obtained a
number of blank passports, signed by the present authori-
ties. Still the Comte de Bouthillier was sanguine in the
expectation of hearing every moment that Napoleon was
taken, as he was surrounded, he said. And the same idea
was universal at the Count's house in the evening, where
a numerous party was assembled for the prefect's weekly
party. All praised the good disposition shown by the
National Guards, bat it is evident that the troops of the
line are not equally trusted.
March 13. — About one in the morning a person with a
lanthorn entered my room very silently, and told me that
the prefect requested to see me immediately. In order to
avoid all noise and observation, he led me by a back way,
and through a stable, into the house. I found the Count in
a state of extreme dismay, and occupied with his secretary.
I sincerely participated in his feelings on hearing from
him the intelligence he had just received from Aix and
Valence, viz., that Napoleon had entered Grenoble upon
the 7th at 8 P.M., and that General Marchand, with
the staff and most of the officers, had retired. It may be
inferred from this that the rest and the private soldiers
have betrayed their duty.
This state of affairs is so serious, that I determined to
go off immediately to Nice, in order to convey the earliest
intimation of these melancholy circumstances to Lord
William Bentinck at Genoa. I shall also report to him my
observation as to the bad disposition of the troops at
Antibes, and the little reliance that can be placed upon
the regular army, so that he may prepare for the worst.
No actual disposition has been made by the Piedmontese
for the passage of the long bridge over the Var, which
separates them from Antibes.
Set off from Draguignan at 3 A.M., and arrived at Nice
CHAP. VII. RETURN TO ENGLAND. 397
at 5 P.M. At 10 P.M. went on board of H.M.S. 'Partridge*
at Villa Franca, but it blew so hard that she could not
with safety attempt to beat out.
Lord Sunderland 2 has arrived from Marseilles. There
it is universally believed that the English had favoured
Napoleon's return, and the people are furious against us.
The same idea also prevails everywhere in the South of
France and in Piedmont. A newspaper of Turin, just
arrived at Nice, states positively this to be the case !
March 14. — Sailed out of Yilla Franca at 6 A.M., and
arrived at Genoa at 8 P.M.
March 15. — Wrote Lord Burghersh with news from
Draguignan of the 13th inst., and mentioned a report of
Napoleon having entered Lyons.
Madame Mere, as I am informed, states that Napoleon
had three deputations from France before he consented to
quit Elba.
March 18. — H.M.S. ' Aboukrr' sailed for Leghorn.
March 19. — H.M.S. 'Partridge' left Genoa for Leghorn
and Sicily.
March 20. — Left Genoa. During the night robbed of
my watch and between fifty and sixty guineas by brigands
near Novi.
March 21. — 4 P.M. at Milan.
March 22. — 7 A.M. Domo d'Ossola. 7 P.M. Left the
Simplon.
March 23. — 11 A.M. Sion. Carriage-wheel broke. 8 P.M.
Yevay.
March 24. — Midday, Morat. Overtook Mr. Perry, the
courier, who had left Genoa the morning before me.
March 25. — 11 A.M. Basle. 7 P.M. Fribourg.
March 26. — 2 P.M. Rastadt. 5 P.M. Carlsruhe.
March 27. — 3 A.M. Manheim. Passed the Rhine.
March 28. — 10 A.M. Lisere ; passed the Moselle in a flat.
8 Succeeded as fifth Duke of Marlborough, March 5, 1840.— ED.
398 SIR NEIL CAMPBELL'S JOURNAL. CHAP. VII.
4 P.M. Treves. At midnight, Luxembourg. Stopped four
hours to pass through the fortress.
March 29. — 4 A.M. Left Luxembourg.
March 30. — 6 P.M. Brussels. Eemained three hours.
March 31. — 6 P.M. Ostend. Sailed at 8 P.M. in H. M.
brig ' Eosario,' Captain Peak.
April 1. — 9 A.M. Landed at Deal, and at 9 P.M. arrived
in London. Next day had interviews with Lord Castle-
reagh, and with H.E.H. the Prince Eegent at Carlton
House.
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