An
unusual activity began to show itself in the government offices.
Circulars from the minister of war and the minister of police gave
notice that vigorous measures entrusted to the military commanders
would be taken to stifle the insurrection at its birth. But the
Chouans and the Vendeans had profited by the inaction of the Directory
to rouse the whole region and virtually take possession of it. A new
Consular proclamation was therefore issued. This time, it was the
general speaking to his troops:--
SOLDIERS:
There are none but brigands, /emigres/, and hirelings of England
now remaining in the West.
The army is composed of more than fifty thousand brave men. Let me
speedily hear from them that the rebel chiefs have ceased to live.
Glory is won by toil alone; if it could be had by living in
barracks in a town, all would have it.
Soldiers, whatever be the rank you hold in the army, the gratitude
of the nation awaits you. To be worthy of it, you must brave the
inclemencies of weather, ice, snow, and the excessive coldness of
the nights; you must surprise your enemies at daybreak, and
exterminate those wretches, the disgrace of France.
Make a short and sure campaign; be inexorable to those brigands,
and maintain strict discipline.
National Guards, join the strength of your arms to that of the
line.
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