Chapter 274 Bulwark Stance
Upon hearing Talleyrand's words, Napoleon wasn't the slightest bit surprised. He knew that there was a possible conflict with the United States now that France had a huge swathe of lands in North America, particularly Louisiana, a territory that the United States desperately needed as it wanted to expand westward.
Napoleon won't let the Americans have their own way. After all, he has his own vision of the North American frontier. The central and western part of North America is full of natural resources needed for industrialization. Minerals such as gold, iron, and coal, vast expanses of fertile land, and access to the Mississippi River, would fuel Napoleon's vision for a powerful French empire. The Louisiana Territory was not just a piece of land; it was the key to his ambitions. He would protect it at all costs, even if he had to go to war with the United States.
"Who was the President of the United States of America?" Napoleon asked, though he already knew who was currently serving as its head of state, he wouldn't naturally know given that he had been fighting a war and running a country's affairs. And to look natural of course.
"It's Thomas Jefferson, Your Excellency," Talleyrand answered.
"Thomas Jefferson," Napoleon repeated the name. "He was one of the founding fathers of America and fought against the British to secure their independence. Now I have reason to believe your words, Talleyrand, a conflict with the United States is indeed inevitable as they see us as a threat. But we won't be thwarted.
In their current state, the United States Army is not as formidable as European armies. They are weak and not much of a threat against our army. But their pros is that they are close to the Louisiana territory, so in the event of a war they have the advantage of supplying their forces efficiently."
"You are right about that, Your Excellency. Also, we are in the process of securing our territorial gains from the British. Our navy is scattered. Fighting a war that is an ocean apart is not an easy task," Decrès concurred.
"I concur with Monsieur Decrès, Your Excellency," the newly appointed Minister of Overseas, Georges added. "Perhaps we can ease the tension mounting through diplomacy."
"I couldn't agree more," Napoleon agreed without hesitation. "I'll leave it to you, Talleyrand. For sure the Americans will do the same. They know more about their capabilities than us so there's no doubt they are going to look for some agreement or deals."
"I'll do my best, Your Excellency," Talleyrand replied with a bow of his head.
"Okay, if that is all, we are going to adjourn this meeting. I have a lot of work to do."
With that, the three stood to their feet and prepared to leave.
However, just as Georges and Decrès began to turn towards the door, Napoleon raised a hand, signaling for them to halt. "Wait,"
The ministers exchanged puzzled glances before looking at Napoleon.
"I have something to discuss with the Minister of Foreign Affairs," Napoleon continued, his piercing gaze shifting to Talleyrand. "So, Talleyrand, I request that you remain for a while. As for you two, gentlemen, you are free to leave. Thank you for your time and counsel today."
Georges and Decrès acknowledged Napoleon's directive with respectful nods, then turned on their heels, proceeding to exit the room. The heavy wooden door closed behind them, leaving Napoleon and Talleyrand alone
Napoleon's expression was pensive, and his eyes bore into Talleyrand's with intensity. He had something of great importance to discuss, something that he believed only his trusted Minister of Foreign Affairs could handle.
"Talleyrand," Napoleon began. "How is the referendum about me ascending to Emperor progressing?"
"So far, only one and a half million voted so far, Your Excellency, but the turnover is? quite remarkable," Talleyrand replied and continued. "Of those who have voted, an astonishing 99 percent are in favor of you becoming Emperor of the French. It seems that the people of France have rallied behind the idea."
"1.5 million out of a population of 42 million," he mused. "That's approximately 3.57% of the population who have cast their votes so far. I need more than that, Talleyrand."
"We are in the process of mass-printing ballots and spreading the word, Your Excellency. By the end of 1802, all of France will have completed their votes," Talleyrand explained. "We can't deny the significance of the initial turnout, Your Excellency."
"Then who are those who voted against the idea of me becoming the Emperor?" Napoleon asked, feeling slightly annoyed. After all, he had done a lot for French people, did everything to increase the quality of life, and uplift a lot of impoverished people.
Despite all his efforts to improve France, there are still those people who aren't appreciative of his work.
"Probably the royalists or the republicans, Your Excellency," Talleyrand replied. "Some may still hold on to the ideals of the old monarchy, while others are committed to the idea of a republic. Change of this magnitude is often met with resistance from those deeply entrenched in their beliefs."
"Royalists huh? They want monarchy, I'm giving them one, but it's not going to be King Louis the Sixteenth, it's going to be me," Napoleon scoffed. "As for the Republicans, well, some might criticize me for betraying the principles of the Revolution. But they fail to see that a stable government is necessary for France to flourish, and I believe that I can provide that stability as Emperor."
A smile spread across Talleyrand's lips as one memory of his was replayed in his mind after hearing that from Napoleon.
"Remember when we first met, Your Excellency, that I said something along this line. 'Throughout my years in politics, I have encountered many individuals who claimed to have noble intentions but ultimately succumbed to the temptations of power, wouldn't that be the same to you?'"
"I remember responding with a 'no,'" Napoleon replied. "I'm already demonstrating my loyalty to our nation. I'm striving to make it the most powerful in terms of economy, military, and culture. There will be a time when the whole world will know how to speak French. Don't tell me, you are losing your faith in me?"
Talleyrand chuckled as he shook his head. "No, I don't see myself losing faith in you, Your Excellency," he smiled wryly. "You have consistently demonstrated your dedication to France and its people. So there's that."
There was a moment of silence between the two, and about five seconds later, Napoleon broke the silence.
"Very well. You are dismissed now, Talleyrand. Thank you for your time."
***
November 15th, 1801, in the capital city of the Austrian Empire, Vienna.
At the Belvedere Winter Palace, the former king of France, King Louis XVI was reading a referendum that was circulating in France.
The text of the referendum read:
"To the People of France,
In this crucial moment of our nation's history, we ask for your voice. The question before you is whether First Consul Napoleon Bonaparte should ascend to the throne as Emperor of France.
[ ] I support the ascension of General Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of France.
[ ] I oppose the ascension of General Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of France.
May your choice be guided by the best interests of our beloved France.
Vive la France!"]
After reading the referendum, Louis XVI tore the paper into many pieces and threw it across the room in frustration.
"NAPOLEON!"
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