Letter from Exile

My dear Louise, I have terminated my political career, and I come to sit down by the hearth of the British people. The great events in which I have been engaged have now passed into history. I place myself under the protection of British laws. My thoughts turn constantly to you and to our son. I would give all that remains to me for the opportunity to embrace you both once more. Tell our boy that his father loved France above all else, save for his family. The English treat me with courtesy, though I am their prisoner. They are a great people, though we have often been enemies. I regret that circumstances have led us to this pass. I write this aboard ship, destined for St. Helena, a place I am told is quite remote. My empire is ended, but my love for you endures. Remember me kindly. Tell my son of who his father was, not just the Emperor, but the man who loved his family. Your devoted husband, Napoleon