After having branded your heroic disinterestedness, they disdained to consult your sympathies and your wishes, and yet you are the flower of the Nation.
To-day, at this solemn moment, I am resolved that the voice of the Army shall be heard.
"Vote, therefore, freely as citizens; but, as soldiers do not forget that passive obedience to the orders of the Chief of the State is the rigorous duty of the Army, from the general to the private soldier.
"It is for me, responsible for my actions both to the People and to posterity, to take those measures which may seem to me indispensable for the public welfare.
"As for you, remain immovable within the rules of discipline and of honor.

By your imposing attitude help the country to manifest its will with calmness and reflection.
"Be ready to repress every attack upon the free exercise of the sovereignty of the People.
"Soldiers, I do not speak to you of the memories which my name recalls.
They are engraven in your hearts.

We are united by indissoluble ties.
Your history is mine.

There is between us, in the past, a community of glory and of misfortune.
"There will be in the future community of sentiment and of resolutions for the repose and the greatness of France.
"Given at the Palace of the Elysee, December 2d, 1851.
"(Signed) L.N.

BONAPARTE." "IN THE NAME OF THE FRENCH PEOPLE.
"The President of the Republic decrees:-- "ARTICLE I.The National Assembly is dissolved.
"ARTICLE II.