Napoleon has escaped from Elba.
He has landed in France, and been received with enthusiasm.

The troops have joined him, and he is already close to Paris, which he is expected to enter without opposition.

The King of France has fled." For a moment there was silence, then the major leaped to his feet.
"Three cheers, gentlemen!" and all of those present joined in a hearty cheer.
Then a sudden silence fell upon them.

The first idea that had struck each man was that the news meant their again taking the field for another stirring campaign.

Then the dismal thought occurred to them that the regiment was under orders for America.