“Is there still a Directory?”
“Still a Directory? What do you mean?”
“Didn’t you see the troops drawn up in the streets leading to the Tuileries as you came here?”
“I saw them, and I was surprised.”
“Those soldiers are mine.”
“Excuse me,” said Bernadotte; “I thought they belonged to France.”
“Oh, to France or to me; is it not all one?”
“I was not aware of that,” replied Bernadotte, coldly.
“Though you doubt it now, you will be certain of it tonight. Come, Bernadotte, this is the vital moment; decide!”
“General,” replied Bernadotte, “I am fortunate enough to be at this moment a simple citizen; let me remain a simple citizen.”