I was one among those of his youthful comrades who could best accommodate themselves to his stern character.

His natural reserve, his disposition to meditate on the conquest of Corsica, and the impressions he had received in childhood respecting the misfortunes of his country and his family, led him to seek retirement, and rendered his general demeanour, though in appearance only, somewhat unpleasing.

Our equality of age brought us together in the classes of the mathematics and 'belles lettres'.

His ardent wish to acquire knowledge was remarkable from the very commencement of his studies.

When he first came to the college he spoke only the Corsican dialect, and the Sieur Dupuis, -- [He afterwards filled the post of librarian to Napoleon at Malmaison.]-- who was vice-principal before Father Berton, gave him instructions in the French language.