Some time after his alliance with the house of Austria, Napoleon, with the view perhaps of making the new Empress known and popular accompanied her on several journeys. One day while walking on the banks of the Rhine, he took a fancy to dine on one of its islands. They sat down at a table which overlooked a little farm. Napoleon desired to see the farmer, and despatched a messenger to summon him. Full of surprise, and doubt, the poor peasant hesitated to approach the Emperor; he advanced awkwardly, and his countenance fully expressed the embarrassment he suffered, and was unable to overcome.

Napoleon questioned him respecting his farm, his family, and his necessities. The poor fellow could scarce find words to reply. The Emperor kindly encouraged him, and offered him something to drink, when the farmer, abashed at so much honor, hardly dared carry the glass to his lips; he attempted several times, and as often failed. At length he overcame his fear, and not only did he give all the information that was required of him, but ventured to point out changes which he would be glad to see.—1810.