February 11, 1847.
Thirty-one Academicians present. Sixteen votes are necessary.
First ballot.
Emile Deschamps 2 votes.
Victor Leclerc 14 ”
Empis 15 ”
Lamartine and M. Ballanche arrive at the end of the first ballot. M.
Thiers arrives at the commencement of the second; which makes 34.
The director asks M. Thiers whether he has promised his vote. He
laughingly replies: “No,” and adds: “I have offered it.” (Laughter.)
M. Cousin, to M. Lebrun, director: “You did not employ the sacramental
expression. One does not ask an Academician whether he has *promised*
his vote, but whether he has *pledged* it.”
Second ballot.
Emile Deschamps 2 votes.
Empis 18 ”
Victor Leclerc 14 ”
M. Empis is elected. The election was decided by Lamartine and M.
Ballanche.
On my way out I meet Leon Gozlan, who says to me: “Well?”