I cannot punish the traitors, for that would consign the majority of my generals to the ax of the executioner.

But I will give them all a warning example.

I will intimidate them, let them have an intimation that I am aware of their treacherous plans." He sank down into the armchair which stood before his writing-desk, took a pen-knife and began to mark and cut the arm of the chair with as much zeal and perseverance as if the object in view was to accomplish some useful and urgent task.

Then, when the floor was covered with tiny chips, and the black, delicately carved wood of the old-fashioned armchair was marked with white streaks and spots, the emperor hurled the knife down and rose hastily from his seat.
"This Colonel Oudet must die," he said, each word falling slowly and impressively from his lips.

"I cannot crush all the limbs, but I will make the head fall, and that will paralyze them.