"Your majesty," cried Marmont, his eyes flashing as he divined the Emperor's plan. 

 He was the quickest witted and most brilliant of the marshals, but by no means the hardest fighter, or the most loyal and devoted subordinate. 

 "I am worn out," said the Emperor, smiling more kindly upon them.  "I have scarcely been out of the saddle—I have scarcely had an hour of sleep since the bloody day of La Rothière. I must have rest. Let none disturb me for two hours. Hold the messenger from the Duke of Vicenza. I will give an answer then." 

 The Emperor drooped, as he spoke, much of the animation went out of his face and figure. He looked grayer than ever, heavier than ever, older than ever. 

 "In two hours awaken me," he said. 

 He stepped toward the door that led to the room reserved for himself, but before he reached it two officers were admitted. Napoleon stopped and looked at them. They saluted him, walked over to Berthier, the Chief of Staff. 

 "The soldiers are dying of hunger," said the first.  "The Commissary General has nothing to give them. He expected a convoy of provisions, but Cossacks, who are reported at Fontainebleau, have captured the train. What shall we do?" 

 Berthier threw up his hands, and turned to the other officer to hear his report. 

 "Ten thousand men are without arms, or with arms unserviceable and broken. The supply of powder is low. Where shall we get any more?" 

 The silence in the room was terrible. 

 "Sire," said Berthier in a low voice, turning to Napoleon, standing staring, "you hear?"  He stretched out his hand in appealing gesture. 

 The Emperor turned on his heel, without deigning to look or speak. 

 "Watch the door for two hours," he said to the young officer, crashing to the door behind him.  "Awaken me then." 

 "Gentlemen," said Berthier despairingly to the other officers, "we shall never persuade him. You had better repair to your commands. Some of you must have something to eat. Divide what you have with the less fortunate divisions. Arm and equip the best men. There is a small supply at Nogent, I am told. The others must wait." 

 "If we could only get at these pigs 

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