To this Ferdinand returned a firm refusal; and his advisers, Escoiquiz and Labrador, ventured to warn the Emperor that the Spaniards would swear eternal hatred to France if he tampered with the crown of Spain.

Napoleon listened good-humouredly, pulled Escoiquiz by the ear as a sign of his personal regard, and added: "You are a deep fellow; but, I tell you, the Bourbons will never let me alone." On the next day he offered Ferdinand the throne of Etruria.

It was coldly declined.[191] Charles IV., his Queen, and Godoy, arrived at Bayonne at the close of April.

The ex-King had offered to put himself and his claim in Napoleon's hands, which was exactly what the Emperor desired.

The feeble creature now poured forth his bile on his disobedient son, and peevishly bade him restore the crown.