Note 94 — JOURNAL OF ELIZABETH LADY HOLLAND (continued 2)

Paul’s views on the European question underwent a radical change soon after Napoleon’s accession to the Consulate. He conceived a great admiration for the conqueror of Italy, and this feeling was fostered by the latter’s action in restoring him 7000 Russian soldiers, clothed in new uniforms, whom the English had refused to include in a cartel of exchange. Instead of the ally he suddenly became the active opponent of England and Austria, seized all British ships in his ports, and ordered Lord Whitworth to retire to Riga.