It was at the door of this, where a strong guard of grenadiers announced Napoleon's presence, that my guardian sprang down from his horse and signed to me to follow his example.

An officer of the guard took our names and returned to us accompanied by General Duroc, a thin, hard, dry man of forty, with a formal manner and a suspicious eye.
'Is this Monsieur Louis de Laval ?' he asked, with a stiff smile.
I bowed.
'The Emperor is very anxious to see you.

You are no longer needed, Lieutenant.' 'I am personally responsible for bringing him safely, General.' 'Very good.

You may come in, if you prefer it!' And he passed us into the huge tent, which was unfurnished, save for a row of wooden benches round the sides.

A number of men in naval and military uniforms were seated upon these, and numerous groups were standing about chatting in subdued tones.