It was the first time that he allowed himself a victor's privilege, and no pains were spared to impress the imagination of mankind by a parade of his choicest troops.

First came the foot grenadiers and chasseurs of the Imperial Guard: behind the central group marched other squadrons and battalions of these veterans, already famed as the doughtiest fighters of their age.

In their midst came the mind of this military machine--Napoleon, accompanied by three Marshals and a brilliant staff.

Among them men noted the plain, soldierlike Berthier, the ever trusty and methodical chief of the staff.

At his side rode Davoust, whose round and placid face gave little promise of his rapid rush to the front rank among the French paladins.