Two classic novels of the Napoleonic epoch The writing partnership of Emile Erckmann and Alexandre Chatrian was highly regarded. In common with many authors of their time they drew upon the historical events of their own century as subject matter. This inevitably included the Napoleonic era which has in recent times come once more to the fore as a popular setting for fiction. These Napoleonic novels paint a detailed picture of the events against which the story is set and are well noted for their authenticity. The authors were also well known for their ability not simply to portray events but to accurately report the attitudes of people in all classes of society at the time. This book comprises two linked novels. They chronicle the adventures a young and reluctant conscript in the French Army. In the first he is drawn towards the epic conflict of Leipzig in 1813. Recalled to the colours in the sequel, he is once more forced to march to war-this time towards the muddy battlefield of Waterloo and the destruction of an Empire in 1815.