A raised writing-desk was at one side of the table, and behind it in a green morocco chair with curved arms there sat the Emperor.

A number of officials were standing round the walls, but he took no notice of them.
In his hand he had a small penknife, with which he whittled the wooden knob at the end of his chair.

He glanced up as we entered, and shook his head coldly at de Meneval.
'I have had to wait for you, Monsieur de Meneval,' said he.

'I cannot remember that I ever waited for my late secretary de Bourrienne.
That is enough! No excuses! Take this report which I have written in your absence, and make a copy of it.' Poor de Meneval took the paper with a shaking hand, and carried it to the little side table which was reserved for his use.

Napoleon rose and paced slowly up and down the room with his hands behind his back, and his big round head stooping a little forwards.