Napoleon's Decision to Make France the Center of European Affairs

As Napoleon immersed himself in his tasks after the conversation with his Minister of War, Berthier, his tranquility was interrupted by the entrance of Beaumont. The mere prospect of dealing with yet another person seeking his attention seemed to weigh on Beaumont, a sentiment he couldn't conceal.

"Who is disturbing me now, Beaumont?" Napoleon inquired, his eyes remaining fixed on the document he was engrossed in.

"Your Excellency, it is the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Talleyrand," Beaumont informed him, maintaining a formal tone.

"Talleyrand, Talleyrand," Napoleon repeated the name as he recalled the last time he had engaged with his Minister of Foreign Affairs. It had been a considerable stretch since their last interaction. "Fine, allow him to come in."