CHAPTER I.
1800.
Bonaparte's confidence in the army—'Ma belle' France—The convent
of Bernadins—Passage of Mont St. Bernard—Arrival at the convent—
Refreshments distributed to the soldiers—Mont Albaredo—Artillery
dismounted—The fort of Bard—Fortunate temerity—Bonaparte and
Melas—The spy—Bonaparte's opinion of M. Necker—Capitulation of
Genoa—Intercepted despatch—Lannes at Montebello—Boudet succeeded
by Desaix—Coolness of the First Consul to M. Collot—Conversation
and recollections—The battle of Marengo—General Kellerman—Supper
sent from the Convent del Bosco—Particulars respecting the death of
Desaix—The Prince of Lichtenstein—Return to Milan—Savary and
Rapp.