‘We have what we asked for. England is to return the colonies they seized from us, as well as those taken from Spain and Holland. The only territories they get to keep will be Trinidad and Ceylon. They’ve also agreed to hand Malta back to the Knights of St John, and Egypt is to be returned to Turkey. In return we are to pull our troops out of Naples and the papal territories.’

Napoleon clapped his hands together and rubbed them happily.‘Wonderful! If only I could see Mr Pitt’s expression now! It could not have been better.’

‘No, the timing is perfect. Next month we’ll have the Concordat with Rome in our hands.There will not be a man in France who won’t be rejoicing.’

‘I can imagine there will be one or two who might not. But this news will bury any arguments about the legitimacy of the new constitution. I have provided order, economic revival and international respect. Who dares to question me now?’

For a moment the foreign minister’s expression registered surprise, then the mask slipped smoothly back into place.‘You are right, of course, Citizen Consul. The nation owes you far more than it can ever repay. But, surely, for the sake of appearances, it is best that the success be seen to be due to the efforts of the consuls, senators, tribunes and deputies collectively?’

‘Why?’ Napoleon responded bluntly. ‘Only a fool would not be able to detect my guiding hand behind all of this. The improvements to France’s fortunes are largely due to my efforts, Talleyrand. I see no harm in letting the people know it.’

‘The harm is that some people - disposed to jealousy and mendacity as they are - will start rumours that it is a sign of your dictatorial ambitions.’

‘Then let them.’ Napoleon dismissed the idea with a curt wave of his hand. ‘The people know that I am no dictator. I do not seek power for myself. I seek only to express the general will of the French people. They understand that.’

Talleyrand’s eyelids flickered. ‘Let us hope so, Citizen Consul. Now, if you will forgive me, I must return to my ministry to ensure that news of the treaty is dispatched to our embassies. I came here because I just wanted to tell you the news in person. Madame Bonaparte.’ He bowed to Josephine again.

Napoleon nodded. ‘My thanks, Talleyrand. For all that you have done.’

‘As you say, citizen, it is we who must thank you, for all that you have achieved.’

He bowed his head, turned, and left the orangery, closing the door gently behind him before he crunched away along the gravel path to the stables.

Josephine stared after him for a moment and then poured herself and her husband another cup of tea. ‘That man sees through you, Napoleon.You must be careful of him.’