On the 20th of April, 1814, everything was in readiness for Buonaparte’s
departure from Fontainbleau. He ordered that the guard should be
summoned, and advancing toward them, signified that he would speak to
them.
“Soldiers! my old guard!” said he, “I bid you adieu! For twenty-eight
years I have found you constantly in the way of honor and glory. In
these latter times, as in the days of our prosperity, you have not
ceased to be models of bravery and fidelity. With such men as you our
cause need not be lost, but the war would be interminable; it would be a
civil war and France would be more than ever unhappy! I have then
sacrificed all our interests to those of our country; I leave you; do
you, my friends, continue to serve France. Her happiness has been my
only wish; it will always be the object of my prayers! Regret me not. If
I live, it is only to advance your glory farther. I wish to record with
my pen the great things we have done together! Farewell, my children! I
would gladly embrace you all--I embrace your general!” General Petit
brought forward the Eagle: Napoleon took him in his arms and kissed the
standard. “Farewell, once more, my brave companions--farewell!”
[Illustration: NAPOLEON’S FAREWELL AT FONTAINBLEAU.]