A week later, Napoleon II drafted his declaration of war against Algiers.
Across from him stood the Foreign Minister of France, Charles de Rémusat.
"By the authority vested in me as Emperor of the French, and in defense of the honor, commerce, and security of the Empire, I hereby declare that a state of war exists between France and the Regency of Algiers."
He paused briefly, eyes scanning the next lines.
"For years, French merchant vessels have endured harassment and piracy in the Mediterranean. French sailors have been seized. Cargo confiscated. Sovereign rights ignored. Diplomatic protest was extended. Ultimatum delivered."
He lifted his eyes for a moment, then returned to the document.
"That ultimatum was rejected."
"France does not seek conquest for vanity, nor conflict for spectacle. But when negotiation fails and national dignity is dismissed, action becomes necessary."
The words were steady. Controlled.
