Charles Williams
Boney & the Great State Secretary
London, Walker, Feb 1806
Etching
Original hand colouring
340 x 230 mm
£320
Napoleon, in military uniform and wearing a large feathered bicorne, holds out both hands to the much taller and bulkier Fox. The latter is in Court dress as in BMSat 10527, with a large feather-fringed cocked hat under his left. arm. He holds his formidable fist towards the Emperor’s face. Napoleon says: "How do you do Master Charley why you are so fine I scarcely knew ye – don’t you remember me – why I am little Boney the Corsican – him that you came to see at Paris & very civil I was to you I’m sure If you come my way I shall be glad to see you – so will my Wife & Family they are a little changed in their dress as well as you – We shall be very happy to take a little Peace-soup with you when ever you are inclined Master Charley." Fox answers: "Why you little Corsican reptile – how dare you come so near the person of the Right Honble C—– J—— F—— one of his M—— principal Secretaries of State. Member of the – P—— C—— &c &c &c &c &c &c &c &c go to see You!! – Arrogant little Man. Mr Boney – if you do not instantly Vanish from my sight I’le break every bone in your body – learn to behave yourself in a peaceable manner nor dar to set your foot on this happy land without My leave – ."
