NAPOLEON’S PROCLAMATION.

Dunstan Times, Issue 467, 31 March 1871, Page 3

NAPOLEON’S PROCLAMATION.

The following is the translation of the proolamatfon of the. Emperor Napoleon to the electors of France:—

“Wilhelmshne, February Bth.—Betrayed by fortune, I have maintained since my captivity, the profound silence which is misfortune’s mourning. As long as the armies confronted each otho r I abstained from any steps or words capable of creating party dissensions, hut 1 can no longer remain silent before ray country’s disasters, without appearing insensible to its sufferings.

“When I was made prisoner, I could not ask for peace, because my resolution would appear to have been dictated by personal considerations. I left the Regent to decide w ! ether it was to the interest of the nation to continue the struggle. Notwithstanding the unparalleled reverses, France was unsubdued, her strongholds unreduced, a few departments invaded and Paris in a state of defence. The extent of her misfortunes might possibly have been limited, but, while attention was directed to her enemies,an insurrection arose in Paris, the seats of the Representatives violated, the safety of the Empress threatened, and the Empire, which had been three times acclaimed hy the people, overthrown and abandoned. Stilling my presentiments, I claimed nothing for my dynasty if the country be saved. Instead of protesting against the violation of my rights, I hoped for a successful defence, and admired the patriotic devotion of the children of France.

“Now, when the struggle is suspended, and all reasonable chance of of victory has disappeared, it is time to call to account the usurpers for the bloodshed and ruin and squandered resources. It is impossible to abandon the destinies of France to an mi. authorised Government which was given no authority emanating from universal suffrage. Order, confidence and solid peace are only recoverable when the people are consulted. “ Regarding the government most capable of repairing the disasters to the the country, it is essential that France should be united in her wishes. For myself, bruised by in. justice and bitter deception, I do not know nor claim my repeatedly confirmed rights; there is no room for personal ambition till the people are regularly assembled and express their will.

“It is my duty to say that all the facts are illegitimate; there is only one Government in which resided the national sovereignty able to heal the wounds, to bring hope to the fireside, to reopen, the profaned churches for prayers, and (o restore industry, concord and peace.”