February 11, 1847.

Thirty-one Academicians present. Sixteen votes are
necessary.

First ballot.

Emile Deschamps 2 votes.
Victor Leclerc 14 "
Empis 15 "

Lamartine and M. Ballanche arrive at the end of the first
ballot. M. Thiers arrives at the commencement of the
second; which makes 34.

The director asks M. Thiers whether he has promised
his vote. He laughingly replies: "No," and adds: "I
have offered it." (Laughter.)

M. Cousin, to M. Lebrun, director: "You did not employ
the sacramental expression. One does not ask an
Academician whether he has *promised* his vote, but
whether he has *pledged* it."


Second ballot.

Emile Deschamps 2 votes.
Empis 18 "