‘SIRE,—More than ten years ago I was compelled to leave
France by ministerial order. Since then I have twice received
permission to visit Paris.[67]
‘Of late I have been steadily refused the privilege of visiting
France, though one of my daughters is being educated in Paris
and I own a house there. I venture to apply directly to your
Imperial Majesty with a request for permission to visit France
and to remain in Paris for the time necessary for my business,
and I shall await your decision with confidence and respect.
‘In any case, Sire, I give you my word that my desire to
visit France has no political motive.—I remain, with profound
respect, Your Majesty’s obedient servant,
‘ALEXANDER HERZEN.
‘ORSETT HOUSE, WESTBOURNE TERRACE, LONDON.’
Branicki thought the letter was curt and would therefore probably not
attain its object. I told him that I should not write another letter, and
that if he cared to do me a service he might deliver it, but that if on
reflection he had changed his mind he could throw it in the fire. This
conversation took place at the railway station; he went off.