WHAT A LESSON FOR MAN.
THE BATTLE OF RIVOLI.
Napoleon arrived at Rivoli about two o’clock in the morning of the 14th of January, 1797, where he was able to observe the line of the enemy’s fires who appeared to be encamped in five divisions, with a view of commencing the attack at different points. Joubert immediately received orders to act on the offensive; and the Fusileers engaged with one of the enemy’s columns, and repulsed it by day-break. Another Austrian column then marched upon the battery at Rivoli; in less than an hour this was defeated and driven back by Massena, when a third came to its aid, and would have thrown itself upon the battery, but the French artillery slaughtered all who came within gun-shot. The cavalry then charged with daring intrepidity, and the enemy were driven to the edge of the precipice, and rolled into the ravine below. Whilst this took place a fourth column arrived at the place to which it had been directed, on the heights of Pipoto, hoping to turn the French flank; but it was too late; it came just in time to see the destruction of the other divisions, and to foresee the fate which awaited itself. Seven thousand prisoners were taken, with twelve pieces of cannon, and a few ensigns. In the course of the day Napoleon was frequently surrounded by the enemy, and had several horses killed under him. In consideration of services performed on this occasion, Massena had the title of Duc de Rivoli conferred upon him.
THE BATTLE OF RIVOLI.
NAPOLEON AT LONATO.
After Lonato had been taken by the Austrians, and again re-taken by Napoleon, August, 1796, five thousand Austrians deserted; when, learning that there were only 1200 French soldiers at Lonato, they marched toward that place, in the hope of clearing a road to the Nuncio. When near Lonato they sent to demand the surrender of the city. At that moment Napoleon arrived from Castiglione, when he ordered the messenger to be brought before him. “Go, tell your general,” said Napoleon, “that he is in the midst of the French army. I give him eight minutes to surrender; after that he has nothing to hope for!” Harassed and fatigued, not knowing which way to turn, these 5,000 men laid down their arms at his command.
