In mad game They burst their manacles: but wear the name Of Freedom, graven on a heavier chain." The occupation by French troops of the great central bastion of the European system seemed a challenge, not only to idealists, but to German potentates.

It nearly precipitated a rupture with Vienna, where the French tricolour had recently been torn down by an angry crowd.
But Bonaparte did his utmost to prevent a renewal of war that would blight his eastern prospects; and he succeeded.

One last trouble remained.

At his final visit to the Directory, when crossed about some detail, he passionately threw up his command.

Thereupon Rewbell, noted for his incisive speech, drew up the form of resignation, and presenting it to Bonaparte, firmly said, "Sign, citizen general." The general did not sign, but retired from the meeting apparently crestfallen, but really meditating a _coup d'etat_.