l the troops in the
province, to the number of six thousand. He sent out scouting
detachments, and companies of engineers to break down bridges and block
up roads--none of whom, by the way, obeyed his orders. In short, he did
everything that experience, skill and devotion could suggest to stop the
Emperor and terminate the great adventure then and there.

The ruffling of the drums in the square ceased. The old Marquis detached
himself from his staff and the cavalry and rode out between the
regiments. He lifted his hand. There was an intensity of silence on
every hand. Even the people of the town had left their places of
business and were crowded close to the lines to hear and see what was to
be done.

"Bonaparte," said the Marquis, that high, thin, somewhat cracked old
voice carrying with astonishing clearness in every direction, "landed
from Elba in the Gulf of Juan a few days ago. This usurper, this
bloody-minded tyrant, has broken every oath, disregarded every treaty.
He is coming to Grenoble. He will be here to-day. As loyal subjects of
our gracious and most catholic Majesty, King Louis XVIII, whom God
preserve," continued the old man, taking off his hat, "it becomes our
duty to seize, and if he resists, to kill this treacherous monster, who
had plunged Europe into a sea of blood and well-nigh ruined France." The
old man did not mince words, it appeared! "You, gentlemen and comrades,
have all sworn oaths before God and man to be faithful to the King whose
bread you eat and whose uniform you wear. It has been said to me that
there is disaffection among you. I cannot believe that a soldier of
France can be false to his oaths and to his flag. The Fifth Regiment of
the Line will march with me to meet the Corsican. The cavalry and my
personal escort will keep the gates. If by any chance we should be
beaten, which I cannot think possible with such brave men and gallant
officers, the town must be held. Colonel Labedoyere, to you I commit the
charge. Have your men line the walls. Dispose the troops which will
soon be arriving advantageously. See that the guns are double-shotted.
If by any chance I do not return, hold the place to the last. Troops are
marching to your aid from all over France. Major Lestoype, move your
regiment. _Vive le Roi_!" ended the old man.

Again the cry was echoed, but not by many; the household cavalry, one or
two of the newer companies of the brigade, some of the citizens.