But there was no
transport; for the roads of Lithuania were unsuitable for the heavy
carts provided.
The country across the Niemen could scarce sustain its own sparse
population, and had nothing to spare for an invading army. This had
once been Poland, and was now inimical to Russia; but Russia did not
care, and the friendship of Lithuania was like many human
friendships which we make sacrifices to preserve--not worth having.
All the while the Russians retreated, and, stranger still, the
French followed them, eking out their twenty days' provision.
"I will make them fight a big battle, and beat them," said Napoleon;
"and then the Emperor will sue for peace."
But Barclay de Tolly continued to run away from that great battle.
Then came the news that Barclay had been deposed; that Kutusoff was
coming from the South to take command. It was true enough; and
Barclay cheerfully served in a subordinate position to the new
chief. September brought great hopes of a battle, for Kutusoff
seemed to retreat with less despatch, like a man choosing his
ground--Kutusoff, that master of the waiting game.
Early in September Murat, the impetuous leader of the pursuit,
complained to Nansouty that a cavalry charge had not been pushed
home.
"The horses have no patriotism," replied Nansouty. "The men will
fight on empty stomachs, but not the horses."
An ominous reply at the beginning of a campaign, while
communications were still open.
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