human
The French are come?
gpt
The French are come in great force. Fifty-four ships-of-war, carrying probably ten or twelve thousand men.
human
We have twenty thousand regular troops, cried Dessalines.
gpt
The day of the proud French has arrived!
human
Ten or twelve thousand of the elite of the armies of France, said Toussaint,
gpt
General Christophe, Cap Francais and its district are waiting for you. Let the flames of the city give us notice when the French land.
human
General Dessalines, to your command in the west! Preserve your line of messengers from Leogane to my gate at Pongaudin, and let me not want for tidings.
gpt
General La Plume, it is probable that your eye will have to be busier than your hands. You will be ever ready for battle, of course; but remember that I rely on you for every point of the south-west coast being watched, from Leogane round to Aux Cayes. Send your communications through Dessalines' line of scouts.
human
And I?
gpt
Your pardon, General Clerveaux. This your department in the east is likely at present to remain tranquil, as I forewarned you. I now forewarn you that it may hereafter become the seat of war, when you will have your day. Meantime, I may at any time call upon your reserve; and you will take care that the enemy shall find no solace in your department, if they should visit it. Let it be bare as the desert before them. Farewell; I leave you in command of the east.
human
Is he glad that the hour is come, or that his post is in the rear of the battle?
gpt
He is my rival now, and no longer my chief. I am free. It is his own act, but Bonaparte has me for a rival now.