For Napoleon had long since forgiven and forgotten the trouble into which Eliza had once plunged him because of her love for the fruit of their uncle, the canon; and the brother and sister could now laugh over that childish experience, while Eliza dearly loved Napoleon, in spite of her selfishness, and even because of his so uncomplainingly bearing her punishment.
Napoleon, though "an odd child," as people called him, was wide awake and critical.

He observed everything, and thought much.

He was not long in noticing one thing: that was, the recklessness, the extravagance, and the indifference of the boys who were being educated at the king's expense in the king's military school.
Most of these boys were of high birth, accustomed to having their own way, and with extravagant tastes and notions.

Napoleon spoke of this frequently to the friends he made; but both Demetrius and Alexander laughed at him, and said, "Well, what of it?
Would you have us all digs and hermits--like you?
Here is the chance to have a good time, to live high, and to let the king pay for it--the king or our fathers.

Why shouldn't we do as we please ?" "But, Demetrius!" Napoleon protested, "that is not the way to make soldiers.