"Then, having taken this precaution," said Bonaparte, looking fixedly at Augereau, "you do not think, do you, that there will be anything to prevent your leaving your division for a month or two?"
"Ah, ha!" exclaimed Augereau; "and why should I leave my division?"
"Because you have asked my permission to go to Paris on personal matters of business."
"And a little on your affairs, also, eh?" said Augereau.
"I thought," said Bonaparte dryly, "that you knew no distinction in our affairs?"
"No, no," said Augereau, "and you should be pleased that I am modest enough to be satisfied always with second place."
"Have you not the second place in the Army of Italy?" asked Bonaparte.
"To be sure; but I did a little something toward that myself, and circumstances may not always be so favorable."
"You see," said Bonaparte, "that when you are no longer useful in Italy, or when opportunities are few, I find occasion for you to be useful in France."
"Why? Tell me. Are you sending me to the assistance of the Republic?"