He was always prudent.
The crisis of the 18th Fructidor, which retarded for three years the extinction of the pentarchy, presents one of the most remarkable events of its short existence.

It will be seen how the Directors extricated themselves from this difficulty.

I subjoin the correspondence relating to this remarkable episode of our Revolution, cancelling only such portions of it as are irrelevant to the subject.

It exhibits several variations from the accounts given by Napoleon at St.Helena to his noble companions in misfortune.
Augereau thus expressed himself on the 18th Fructidor (4th September 1797):-- At length, General, my mission is accomplished, and the promises of the army of Italy are fulfilled.

The fear of being anticipated has caused measures to be hurried.
At midnight I despatched orders to all the troops to march towards the points specified.