titude of things that have
been done during twelve years? Can you see how far reaction would
extend?"--"General, need I remind you that Louis, in his letter,
guarantees the contrary of all you apprehend? I know what will be your
answer; but are you not able to impose whatever conditions you may think
fit? Grant what is asked of you only at that price. Take three or four
years; in that time you may ensure the happiness of France by
institutions conformable to her wants. Custom and habit would give them
a power which it would not be easy to destroy; and even supposing such a
design were entertained, it could not be accomplished. I have heard you
say it is wished you should act the part of Monk; but you well know the
difference between a general opposing the usurper of a crown, and one
whom victory and peace have raised above the ruins of a subverted
throne, and who restores it voluntarily to those who have long occupied
it. You are well aware what you call ideology will not again be
revived; and--"--"I know what you are going to say; but it all amounts
to nothing. Depend upon it, the Bourbons will think they have
reconquered their inheritance, and will dispose of it as they please.
The most sacred pledges, the most positive promises, will be violated.
None but fools will trust them. My resolution is formed; therefore let
us say no more on the subject. But I know how these women torment you.
Let them mind their knitting, and leave me to do what I think right."

Every one knows the adage, 'Si vis pacem para bellum'. Had Bonaparte
been a Latin scholar he would probably have reversed it and said, 'Si vis
bellum para pacem'. While seeking to establish pacific relations with
the powers of Europe the First Consul was preparing to strike a great
blow in Italy. As long as Genoa held out, and Massena continued there,
Bonaparte did not despair of meeting the Austrians in those fields which
not four years before had been the scenes of his success. He resolved to
assemble an army of reserve at Dijon. Where there was previously nothing
he created everything. At that period of his life the fertility of his
imagination and the vigour of his genius must have commanded the
admiration of even his bitterest enemies. I was astonished at the
details into which he entered. While every moment was engrossed by the
most important occupations he sent 24,000 francs to the hospital of Mont
St. Bernard. When he saw that his army of reserve was forming,