He is ahead of the Duke of Ragusa's corps." "Has he come in touch with the enemy ?" "Not yet, Sire." "The roads ?" "Worse than those we have passed over." "Marshal Marmont ?" "I was ordered by General Grouchy to report to him and then----" "Well, sir ?" "He sent me back here." "For what purpose ?" "To find you, Sire, and to say to you most respectfully from the Marshal that the roads are absolutely impassable.

He has put four teams to a gun and can scarcely move them.

To advance is impossible.
He but awaits your order to retrace his steps." "Retrace his steps!" shouted Napoleon, raising his voice.

"Never! He must go on.

Our only hope, our only chance, salvation lies in an instant advance.