The event seemed to call for some sign of the nation's thankfulness to the restorer of peace and prosperity.

The hint having been given by the tactful Cambaceres to some of the members of the Tribunate, this now docile body expressed a wish that there should be a striking token of the national gratitude; and a motion to that effect was made by the Senate to the _Corps Legislatif and_ to the Government itself.
The form which the national memorial should take was left entirely vague.

Under ordinary circumstances the outcome would have been a column or a statue: to a Napoleon it was monarchy.
The Senate was in much doubt as to the fit course of action.

The majority desired to extend the Consulate for a second term of ten years, and a formal motion to that effect was made on May 7th.

It was opposed by a few, some of whom demanded the prolongation for life.