The marsh of Arcola is crossed by three causeways,--each of which was
occupied by a French column. Alvinzi, supposing them only a few light
troops, contented himself by ordering two small divisions to disperse
them; these were checked and nearly routed by the strong columns of
infantry to which they unexpectedly found themselves opposed. It was
necessary that Arcola, which was defended by two battalions of Croates
should be taken, in order to gain the bridge of Villeneuve, which was
the only retreat of Alvinzi. The fire continuing unabated, Napoleon,
determined on making a last effort, seized an ensign and planted it on
the bridge with his own hand. He had advanced his column to the centre
of the bridge, when a fresh body of Austrians arrived and commenced a
sharp fire on his flank, which compelled those in the rear to retire.
The grenadiers at the head of the column, finding themselves abandoned
by their comrades, gave way; but not willing to lose their general, bore
him in their arms through the midst of the dead and the dying. In the
confusion he was precipitated into the marsh, where he lay surrounded
by his enemies, and would probably have been taken prisoner had
not the grenadiers, perceiving his danger, raised the cry,
“Forward--forward--save the general!” At this the troops returned to the
charge, and finally drove the Austrians out of the village. Nov. 1796.
[Illustration: CROSSING THE BRIDGE AT ARCOLA.]