The Fall of Moscow; March of the Grand Army to the Niemen (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1887 Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XII. PEDRILLA DE FERRATA, CAPTAIN OF THE ROYAL GUARDS OF ITALY--THE MONASTERY. The Russian forces opposed to us retreated quickly on Wilna, and were hastily pursued by Murat and his cavalry. When we arrived at Zismori there was a halt, and as usual the men and officers were collected in groups discussing various topics, but chiefly matters concerning the war. I was engaged in conversation on the high road near the town with a few officers of the Guards, Colonel Rambourg, of the 3rd Horse Chasseurs, and some others whom I had not met before. Suddenly one of the number, who was unknown to me, called our attention to Berthier, the Prince of Wagram, who was approaching with his aid-de-camp. "The Emperor must be near at hand," said a captain of the Royal Guards of Italy; "here's this intolerable old abuser, Berthier. I'll swear he cannot pass now without calling some one to account for some offence or other. I hope none of you have been pillaging lately. Colonel, don'tj be blushing," said he, turning to Rambourg. "I see you have been at it, my good fellow. Faith, you have. I'm sorry you are in for it. Tell the truth, Colonel, if you are attacked. It's bad enough to pillage, my good friend, still I could forgive that, but pillaging and lying combined could never gain favour with me." All laughed outright, and Rambourg not the least heartily, for they seemed well acquainted with this officer, and regarded him apparently as a jovial good fellow. Scarcely had he finished his admonition when Berthier was on the spot, and turning to him, "Pedrilla," said he, "so you are at it again thus early in the campaign." "You know I have been always charitably inclined, Marshal." "Yes, indeed, towards yourself and your own villany. Several complaints have been made conce...