It was now that the French laid the foundation of that universal hatred with which the Prussian nation, in the sequel, regarded them, and which assumed everywhere the virulence of a private and personal passion.
In justice to Buonaparte, a solitary instance of generous conduct, which occurred ere he had been long in Berlin, must be noticed.

The Prince of Hatzsfeld, continuing to reside in Berlin under his protection, corresponded, nevertheless, with Hohenlohe, then in the field, and sent information of the state and movements of the French army.

One of his letters fell into the hands of the French--the Prince was arrested--his wife gained access to the Emperor, and, ignorant of her husband's conduct, spoke with the boldness of innocence in his favour.

He handed to her the Prince's letter; and, confounded with the clearness of that evidence, she fell on her knees in silence.

"Put the paper in the fire, madam," said Napoleon, "and there will then be no proof." Perhaps no part of Buonaparte's conduct at this time gave more general disgust than his meanness in robbing the funeral monument of Frederick the Great of his sword and orders.