In fine, the monarch, who at Tilsit had figured as mere clay in the hands of the Corsican potter, had proved himself to be his equal both in cunning and tenacity.

The seeming dupe of 1807 now promised to be the victor in statecraft.
Then there was the open sore of Poland.

The challenge, on this subject, was flung down by Napoleon at a diplomatic reception on his birthday, August 15th, 1811.

Addressing the Russian envoy, he exclaimed: "I am not so stupid as to think that it is Oldenburg which troubles you.

I see that Poland is the question: you attribute to me designs in favour of Poland.