Memoirs of the Court of St. Cloud (being Secret Letters from a Gentleman at Paris to a Nobleman in London) — Volume 6

A historical account written in the early 19th century. This work presents a collection of secret letters penned by a gentleman in Paris to a nobleman in London, providing insight into the political intrigues and social dynamics of the Napoleonic era, particularly focusing on the decadence of the French court and the notorious figures surrounding Napoleon Bonaparte. The opening of the book reveals a vivid account of a tea-party attended by the narrator where he encounters Madame Chevalier, a woman of scandalous reputation who is tied to the dramatic events leading to the downfall of Paul I of Russia. Through detailed descriptions, Goldsmith illustrates her sordid history and unscrupulous character, alongside the tumultuous political landscape of the time. The letters also touch upon themes of corruption, manipulation, and the moral decay prevalent among the ruling elite, as seen through the narrator's critical lens. This initial glimpse sets the tone for the exploration of the actions and consequences of numerous historical figures against the backdrop of Bonaparte's rise to power.