CHAPTER XVI.
THE MEMORABLE INTERVIEW BETWEEN COLONEL FOUGAS AND HIS MAJESTY THE EMPEROR OF THE FRENCH.
In falling upon the neck of the big man with the gray moustache, Fougas supposed he was embracing Massena.

He naturally intimated as much to him, whereupon the owner of the barouche burst into a great peal of laughter.
"Ah, my poor old boy," said he, "it's a long time since we buried the 'Child of Victory!' Look me square in the face: I am Leblanc, of the Russian campaign." "Impossible! You little Leblanc ?" "Lieutenant in the 3d Artillery, who shared with you a million of dangers and that famous piece of roast horse which you salted with your tears." "Well, upon my soul! It _is_ you! You cut me out a pair of boots from the skin of the unfortunate Zephyr! And we needn't speak of the number of times you saved my life! Oh, my brave and faithful friend, thank God that I embrace you once more! Yes, I recognize you now; but I needn't say that you are changed!" "Gad! _I_ haven't been preserved in a jug of spirits of wine.

I've _lived_, for my part!" "You know my history, then ?" "I heard it told last night at the Minister's of Public Instruction.

He had there the savant who set you on your legs again.

I even wrote to you, on getting back home, to offer you a bunk and a place at mess; but my letter is on the way to Fontainebleau." "Thanks! You're a sound one! Ah, my poor old boy, what things have happened since Beresina! You know all the misfortunes that have come ?" "I've seen them, and that's sadder still.