Its object was to reach conspirators, not women and aged men.
I therefore exhort you, citizens, whenever the law brings to your tribunals women or old men, to declare that in the field of battle you have respected the women and old men of your enemies.
The officer who signs a sentence against a person incapable of bearing arms is a coward.
(Signed) BONAPARTE.
This letter saved the life of an unfortunate man who came under the description of persons to whom Bonaparte referred.

The tone of this note shows what an idea he already entertained of his power.

He took upon him, doubtless from the noblest motives, to step out of his way to interpret and interdict the execution of a law, atrocious, it is true, but which even in those times of weakness, disorder, and anarchy was still a law.

In this instance, at least, the power of his name was nobly employed.

The letter gave great satisfaction to the army destined for the expedition.
A man named Simon, who had followed his master in emigration, and dreaded the application of the law, heard that I wanted a servant.