The overthrow of the Directory was a foregone conclusion.

But with the Legislature it was far otherwise, for its life was still whole and vigorous.

Yet, while amputating a moribund limb, the plotters did not scruple to paralyze the brain of the body politic.
Despite the adhesion of most of the Ancients to his plans, Bonaparte, on appearing before them, could only utter a succession of short, jerky phrases which smacked of the barracks rather than of the Senate.
Retiring in some confusion, he regains his presence of mind among the soldiers outside, and enters the hall of the Five Hundred, intending to intimidate them not only by threats, but by armed force.

At the sight of the uniforms at the door, the republican enthusiasm of the younger deputies catches fire.

They fiercely assail him with cries of "Down with the tyrant! down with the Dictator! outlaw him!" In vain Lucien Bonaparte commands order.