Chapter 302 Diplomatic Talks



According to the schedule, Napoleon was about to meet with the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Talleyrand. The time stood at five minutes to ten, affording him a brief window to make final preparations.

Having relinquished his role as the First Consul of France, he had shed the once-iconic red sash and uniform that had symbolized his leadership during the Consulate era. Instead, Napoleon had opted for a more contemporary and meticulously tailored ensemble.

His attire consisted of a refined gray suit, complemented by a matching long-sleeve button-down shirt, a discreetly cut vest, a neatly knotted necktie, and an emblem denoting the Legion of Honor tastefully affixed to his suit's collar.

It was a gift from his wife, Ciela, after his coronation. He liked the style and so he decided he'd ask her for more later.

Napoleon ran a hand through his hair, ensuring that every strand was in place. And with a final adjustment of his tie, Napoleon was ready.

As the clock struck ten, the door of his office swung open with Armand entering.

"Your Majesty, the Minister of Foreign Affairs is here," Armand announced.

Normally, it would be Beaumont announcing Napoleon's visitors, but after the overhaul of the organization of his administrative staff of the Palace of Versailles, that role now passed to the Private Secretary, Armand.

"Show him in," Napoleon ordered.

Armand nodded in acknowledgment and retreated to usher in the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Talleyrand.

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"Good morning, Your Majesty," Talleyrand greeted with a slight bow of his head. "I trust the day finds you in good health and high spirits."

Napoleon acknowledged the formal greeting with a dignified nod. "Indeed, Minister Talleyrand, I am well. Please, be seated," he replied, gesturing to the chair opposite his own.

As they settled into their respective seats, Talleyrand began.

"I have been apprised of a communique from Maximilian, the esteemed Elector of Bavaria, which conveys the receipt of a missive from His Prussian Majesty, Frederick William the Third. The substance of this correspondence constituted an unequivocal ultimatum, stipulating that unless Maximilian abandons his ambition to consolidate the German states under the banner of Bavarian leadership, dire and forceful actions shall be resorted to by the Prussian monarchy."

"What's with you? Why are you speaking so formally?" Napoleon asked, cringing at his choice of words.

The document outlined a series of trade agreements that would reduce tariffs and facilitate the exchange of goods between France and the United States. It also included provisions for mutual cooperation in scientific endeavors, cultural exchange, and diplomatic collaboration.

However, not all of it was good for Thomas as there was part in the document about slavery.

"What do you mean by this part suggesting that we abolish slavery?"

Of course, Napoleon had expected this would happen. After all, Thomas Jefferson had six hundred slaves in his possession. It's natural for him to react that way.

"Mr. President, I understand that the matter of slavery is a sensitive topic. However, it is my belief that embracing abolitionism aligns with the principles of liberty and equality that both our nations hold dear. The world is advancing, and instead of using slaves to harvest crops, we have a machine that would do work equal to 100 slaves per day. This way, we will reduce the tension in the south. Slaves are illegal in our dominions. And I can see in the future that if war were to happen between us, the cause of it would be slaves. It also might start a civil war between north and south."

Thomas Jefferson gulped at the mention of the potential causes of conflict. He leaned back in his chair, a contemplative expression on his face. Slavery was indeed a deeply ingrained and contentious issue in the United States, and it had the potential to lead to internal strife and external conflicts.

"Your Majesty," Thomas Jefferson began slowly, "I am not blind to the moral complexities and the challenges posed by the institution of slavery. It is a deeply divisive matter in our country, and I have long wrestled with its implications. However, it is also a matter that touches upon the core of our economic system and, in many ways, our way of life in the southern states."

"And I'm saying that there is a technology that would replace the negroes. It won't affect the economic system significantly. In fact, it might even enhance it," Napoleon replied earnestly. "Consider the potential benefits of adopting modern farming equipment. Not only would it alleviate the moral dilemma posed by slavery, but it could also lead to increased agricultural efficiency and higher yields."

"I'm sorry, Your Majesty, but I don't have supreme authority to do everything at will like you. Decisions of this magnitude require the support of our states and their representatives in Congress," Thomas emphasized.

Napoleon sighed. "Fine, you can forget about that line. Let's just hope that the situation I mentioned does not happen."

"It won't happen as long as no one instigates it."

Napoleon's brows narrowed.

"Since you have taken Canada, Louisiana, Cuba, and Mexico the United States Congress has been wary of France," Thomas said. "Some feared that you might invade at any moment. Even though we have your guarantee we can't dismiss the possibility entirely."

Napoleon nodded in understanding. The expansion of the French Empire across the Americas had indeed raised concerns and suspicions among various nations, including the United States. His previous assurances of peaceful coexistence were met with skepticism.

"I understand the apprehensions, Mr. President," Napoleon replied. "I assure you that France has no intention of initiating hostilities with the United States. We only seek trade and mutual prosperity. However, I am willing to take steps to alleviate these concerns further. Perhaps we can explore the idea of formalizing our relations through a treaty, one that underscores our mutual commitment to peace and cooperation."

Thomas Jefferson considered Napoleon's proposal carefully. A formal treaty could indeed serve to clarify their intentions and provide a framework for future interactions. It might help ease the tensions and uncertainties that have arisen due to recent territorial acquisitions.

"That is a prudent suggestion, Your Majesty," Thomas Jefferson said thoughtfully. "Very well, let's do it."

"I'm afraid we don't have much time. The luncheon is starting," Napoleon checked the time on his pocket watch. "We will send a draft to Washington in a month or two."