The original picture from which this engraving is copied, ornaments the
library at the _Hotel des Invalides_. It was painted at the express
command of Napoleon.
The first consul left Paris for Dijon, on the 6th of May, 1800, where
the reserve army was being organized. At Geneva, he had an interview
with the chief of engineers, for the purpose of ascertaining the
particulars of the intended route; especially directing his inquiries to
the difficult passage across St. Bernard. At the close of the interview,
Napoleon said, “Do you believe, then, that the army will be able to
accomplish this?” “Yes, General,” replied the intrepid engineer, “it is
possible for French soldiers.” “Ah well!” said Napoleon, “let us attempt
it then.” And the orders were immediately given for the army to commence
its march.
On the 15th, at the head of 30,000 of his troops, Napoleon began the
ascent of St. Bernard. From St. Pierre to the summit the trail was so
narrow that the troops were obliged to move in single file. In the
course of a few days he performed what General Suvaroff had not dared to
undertake in the preceding year: and thus the name of Napoleon was
placed on the list with Hannibal and Charlemagne.
[Illustration: BONAPARTE AT MOUNT ST. BERNARD.]