Then, as Roland said nothing, he continued, "I have no more sisters, Roland, it is true; but I have dreamed that you might be something more to me than a brother." Then, as Roland still said nothing, he went on: "I know a young girl, Roland, a charming child, whom I love as a daughter.

She is just seventeen.

You are twenty-six, and a brigadier-general _de facto_.

Before the end of the campaign you will be general of division.

Well, Roland, when the campaign is over, we will return together to Paris, and you shall marry her--" "General," interrupted Roland, "I think I see Bourrienne looking for you." And in fact the First Consul's secretary was already within two feet of the friends.
"Is that you, Bourrienne ?" asked Bonaparte, somewhat impatiently.
"Yes, general, a courier from France." "Ah!" "And a letter from Madame Bonaparte." "Good!" said the First Consul, rising eagerly, "give it to me." And he almost snatched the letter from Bourrienne's hand.
"And for me ?" asked Roland.