Napoleon's Unexpected Proposal to the Royal Family of Prussia

An hour after breakfast, Napoleon and Talleyrand headed towards one of the staterooms in Sanssouci Palace. Just as they were about to reach the door, Napoleon had a realization.

"Wait," Napoleon muttered in a hushed tone.

Talleyrand, following closely behind, leaned in to hear better. "What's the matter, Your Majesty?"

Napoleon looked at Talleyrand, his expression serious. "I think it might be a mistake to negotiate with the Prussians now."

Talleyrand furrowed his brow, puzzled. "What do you mean, Your Majesty?"

Napoleon explained, "The Poles are in open rebellion against both Prussia and Russia. If we strike a deal with the Prussians now, it might result in an independent Polish state carved only from Prussian territory. I want the Poles to regain their Russian lands as well."

Talleyrand's eyes widened as he grasped the significance of Napoleon's concern. He nodded in understanding.