For these reasons I did not then accept his friendly invitation, notwithstanding that I was very desirous of seeing my young college friend in the midst of his astonishing triumphs.

Ten months after, I received another letter from Marmont, in the following terms:-- HEADQUARTERS GORIZIA 2d Germinal, year V.( 22d March 1797).
The General-in-Chief, my dear Bourrienne, has ordered me to express to you his wish for your prompt arrival here.

We have all along anxiously desired to see you, and look forward with great pleasure to the moment when we shall meet.

I join with the General, my dear Bourrienne, in urging you to join the army without loss of time.
You will increase a united family, happy to receive you into its bosom.

I enclose an order written by the General, which will serve you as a passport.