THE ALLIED SOVEREIGNS 167 



defeat of the enemy, I could plainly see that the 

 collapse, which I should be the first to feel, was near at 

 hand. 



At length the allies got possession of Paris. The 

 Emperor abdicated ; hostilities were suspended — the 

 Bourbons were recalled — peace was proclaimed. When 

 diplomacy had run its course, and settled the afi^airs of 

 Europe, and the man who had set the Continent in a 

 flame, and trod its sovereigns under his feet, had been 

 sent off to Elba, his conquerors, to further gratify them- 

 selves and their followers, prepared to visit England. 



This was the signal for such scenes in the old town as 

 had never been before witnessed. It was soon made 

 known that the foreign potentates, with the principal 

 generals or commanders, would accompany the Prince 

 Regent on a tour of inspection to this grand naval 

 arsenal and garrison. They had already excited the 

 gratification and curiosity of the metropolis, and were 

 now about to transfer their august persons to be scanned 

 and idolized by the provincials. 



Every preparation was made by the authorities for the 

 proper receiDtion of such guests, and every means at the 

 disposal of the more humble inhabitants were made avail- 

 able for the enjovment of their London or country 

 relatives. Consequently, not only the town, but every 

 village and hamlet within reach, was crowded with 

 visitors. Strangers daily poured in from all quarters. 

 Not a bed was to be had, and such places were set aside 

 for sleep as would not be thought of for such a purpose 

 on ordinary occasions. 



I, with some other of the inhabitants, kept open house, 



