Prince Hatzfeld, the Prussian Governor of Berlin, at the time that city was taken by the French, imprudently sent Prince Hohenloe, by letter, certain information respecting the movements and condition of the French army. This letter was intercepted; upon which Napoleon directed the appointment of a military commission to try the Prince on the charge of treason and espionage.

Previous to the sitting of the commission, however, the Princess Hohenloe sought and gained admittance to the Emperor, by the aid of Duroc. Napoleon appeared touched by her situation; and directed his aid-de-camp to write to Marshal Davoust, who was at the head of the commission, to suspend judgment.

The Princess protested the innocence of her husband. Napoleon said with kindness, “Your husband has placed himself in an awkward situation; according to our laws he merits death.” Then taking the fatal letter he requested her to read it. The Princess trembled with fear. Napoleon took the letter again, and threw it into the fire; saying “Now, Madam, I have no proof of your husband’s crime—he is pardoned!”