‘But we have only just achieved peace on the continent.’

‘I want peace across the whole of Europe, on my terms. Nothing less will guarantee France’s pre-eminence above all nations.’

‘Or your pre-eminence above all sovereigns,’ Lucien added.

‘Quite.’ Napoleon nodded.

‘This is impossible,’ Talleyrand said bitterly. ‘The people will not be happy about another war, sire. I can assure you of that.’

Napoleon turned to Fouché. ‘What do you think?’

Fouché leaned forward and stroked the back of his hand with a finger as he replied. ‘Sire, there is already some discontent over the existing conscription laws. If we introduce further measures it will only exacerbate the situation.’

‘That is obvious enough,’ Napoleon agreed. ‘The question is, can your police and your agents contain the malcontents?’

‘Of course, sire. It merely depends on a judicious use of force and rewards, and ensuring that the newspapers print what we want people to read. If you grant me the powers I require, I can guarantee that any such rebels will be dealt with.’

‘Rebels?’ Talleyrand shook his head. ‘Sire, they are not rebels. They are not traitors. They are simply tired of war. Now that you have given them peace they will be as loyal to you as any man.’

‘He’s right,’ Lucien added. ‘For pity’s sake, sire, let France enjoy the peace.’

‘In good time,’ Napoleon replied.‘After we have dealt with Portugal.’

Talleyrand leaned forward with an earnest expression. ‘But sire, how can you wage war against Portugal? Our fleet was destroyed by the British navy. The warships we have left would not be adequate to protect any convoy carrying an army to the coast of Portugal.’

‘I know.That is why we must invade Portugal by land.’

‘By land?’Talleyrand’s eyes widened. ‘By marching across Spain?’

Napoleon smiled. ‘I am not aware of any other route. In which case, I require you to secure agreement with Spain that our army be given free passage from the Pyrenees across Spain to the border of Portugal.’

‘And if they refuse our request?’

‘Although the King of Spain is our ally, you must make it quite clear to him that I ask for his agreement out of courtesy. If he refuses, my army will march across his territory regardless of his wishes.’

‘If the Spanish oppose our forces it will mean war.’

‘Which is why they will not refuse.’

Talleyrand stared at the Emperor. ‘This is madness, sire. There is no other word for it.’

‘Be careful,Talleyrand.You go too far.’