"Soldiers of my Old Guard, I bid you farewell. 
For twenty years, you have constantly been by my side on the road to honour and glory. You have always behaved with courage and fidelity. Again in these last days, you have given me proof of this.
In your hands, our cause would not have been lost. For three years I could have waged a civil war; but France would only have been more unhappy, there would have been no definitive outcome.
The allied powers were presenting all of Europe united against us. One part of the army betrayed me; parties were created to form another government.
I have sacrificed all my personal interests for the good of the nation; so I am leaving. You will serve her always with glory and honour; you will be faithful to your new sovereign.
Receive my thanks. I cannot embrace you all, I will embrace your leader, I will also embrace your flag. Come, General, bring forward the flag…"
Napoleon’s Adieux To The Old Guard At Fontainebleau, 20 April, 1814
Napoleon’s Adieux To The Old Guard At Fontainebleau, 20 April, 1814
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