Letter from Bignon to Nesselrode describing Napoleon’s desire to retire to the United States. Proposition of an immediate armistice. Bignon suggests that if the Allies wish to create a stable political system, they must adopt a conciliatory stance. Assurance to Alexander that France, in its state of redressed borders, poses no threat to Russia and should therefore have its independence restored hastily.
Details of the battle of Waterloo and its aftermath (including mention of the famous “sauve qui peut”). Napoleon declares abdication in favor of his son. Creation of the “Commission du Gouvernement” in wake of abdication and question of succession. Ultimately successful diplomatic pressure exerted by the Allied powers to restore the Bourbons to the throne.
Copy of declaration of the provisionary government of France announcing the signing of a treaty with the Allied powers, signaling the abdication of Napoleon.
