Napoleon Bonaparte, in a passionate letter to Josephine, said:
I have received your letter, my adorable friend. It has
filled my heart with joy. I hope that you are better. I
earnestly desire that you should ride on horseback, as it
cannot fail to benefit you.
Since I left you I have been constantly depressed. My
happiness is to be near you. Incessantly I live over in my
memory your caresses, your tears, your affectionate
solicitude. The charms of the incomparable Josephine kindle
continually a burning and a glowing flame in my heart. When
entirely free from all harassing care, shall I be able to
pass all my time with you, having only to love you and to
think only of the happiness of so saying and of proving it
to you? I will send you your horse, but I hope you will soon
join me.
I thought I loved you months ago, but since my separation
from you I feel that I love you a thousandfold more. Each
day since I knew you have I adored you yet more and more.
Ah! I entreat you to let me see some of your faults; be less
beautiful, less graceful, less affectionate, less good,
especially be not overanxious, and never weep. Your tears
rob me of reason and inflame my blood.
Believe me that it is not in my power to have a single
thought that is not of you, or a wish that I cannot reveal
to you. Quickly reestablish your health and join me, that at
last before death we may be able to say "We were many days
happy." A thousand kisses, and one even to Fortuna,
notwithstanding his spitefulness.