After the distribution of the eagles at the Champ de Mars, Napoleon
administered the following oath to the army:--
“Soldiers! behold your banners! These eagles shall always serve you for
rallying points. They shall be ever where your Emperor shall judge it
necessary for the defence of his throne and of his people. Do you swear
to sacrifice your life in their defence, and constantly to maintain them
by your courage in the way of victory? Do you swear it?”
All the army answered by acclamation: “We swear it! Long live the
Emperor!”
[Illustration: TAKING THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE.]