Napoleon arrived at Rivoli about two o’clock in the morning of the 14th
of January, 1797, where he was able to observe the line of the enemy’s
fires who appeared to be encamped in five divisions, with a view of
commencing the attack at different points. Joubert immediately received
orders to act on the offensive; and the Fusileers engaged with one of
the enemy’s columns, and repulsed it by day-break. Another Austrian
column then marched upon the battery at Rivoli; in less than an hour
this was defeated and driven back by Massena, when a third came to its
aid, and would have thrown itself upon the battery, but the French
artillery slaughtered all who came within gun-shot. The cavalry then
charged with daring intrepidity, and the enemy were driven to the edge
of the precipice, and rolled into the ravine below. Whilst this took
place a fourth column arrived at the place to which it had been
directed, on the heights of Pipoto, hoping to turn the French flank; but
it was too late; it came just in time to see the destruction of the
other divisions, and to foresee the fate which awaited itself. Seven
thousand prisoners were taken, with twelve pieces of cannon, and a few
ensigns. In the course of the day Napoleon was frequently surrounded by
the enemy, and had several horses killed under him. In consideration of
services performed on this occasion, Massena had the title of _Duc de
Rivoli_ conferred upon him.
[Illustration: THE BATTLE OF RIVOLI.]