Chapter XIX: Book II: Chap

—Feelings of Napoleon's grandees at the approaching contest—their objections, with Napoleon's replies—real motives which urged him to the struggle —Arguments against the war by the Dukes of Frioul and Vicenza and the Count de Segur.—Napoleon's replies —His manner of gaining proselytes to his opinions—his avowals to his own family—his discussions with Cardinal Fesch—his declaration to Prince Kourakin —Circumstances inclining him to delay the contest—his proposals to England and to Russia—Russian ultimatum —Preparations for commencement—Talleyrand—opinions of the military—of Napoleon's ministers and generals—fresh obstacles to his departure