France and the European Alliance, 1816-1821: The Private Correspondence between Metternich and Richelieu

This book highlights the concerns of Prince Metternich regarding the efforts of the ultraroyalists to bring pressure on Louis XVIII to suppress the constitutional charter. Metternich anticipated that this process would result in an increase in strength of the liberal opposition movement in France. On several occasions, the advice that Metternich gave to French officials bordered on direct interference in French domestic affairs. The book also highlights Metternich's initiatives to frustrate France's ability to weaken Austria's influence at Turin and Rome; and his desire to thwart Russia's efforts to gain a dominant voice in French affairs.