General Mallet
The narrative centers on Claude Francois Mallet, a general disillusioned with Napoleon's rule, who orchestrates a daring conspiracy to overthrow the Emperor during a time of political instability. Following Napoleon's disastrous campaign in Russia, Mallet, previously imprisoned for his radical views, seizes the opportunity to escape and rally support for a coup. He forges documents to convince military leaders of Napoleon's death and the establishment of a provisional government. Mallet's plan involves a series of calculated moves, including the arrest of key officials and the occupation of strategic locations in Paris. His initial success is marked by the swift compliance of military commanders, who, misled by the authenticity of the forged orders, mobilize their troops under his command. However, the conspiracy begins to unravel due to a chance encounter with an aide-de-camp who recognizes Mallet, leading to his arrest. Despite the initial momentum, the plot collapses as Mallet's associates lose their resolve upon realizing the scheme's precariousness. The military commission that follows results in the trial of Mallet and his co-conspirators, where he boldly defends his actions as a fight for the Republic. Ultimately, Mallet and several others are sentenced to death. In a final act of defiance, he maintains his composure before the firing squad, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his cause even in the face of execution. The work explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the fragility of power, illustrating how a single individual's aspirations can challenge an empire, albeit briefly. Mallet's story serves as a reflection on the tumultuous political landscape of early 19th-century France, highlighting the complexities of loyalty and the consequences of revolutionary fervor.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1895 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Political Thriller, Biography · 5,126 words
First lines
On the return of Napoleon to Paris from Moscow, he was depressed with news that troubled him more than the loss of his legions. The news that had reached him related to perhaps the most extraordinary conspiracy that was ever devised, and which was within an ace of complete success. It was the news of this conspiracy that induced him to desert the army in the snows of Russia and hasten to Paris. The thoughts of this conspiracy frustrated by an accident, as Alison says, "incessantly occupied his mind during his long and solitary journey."
"Gentlemen," said Napoleon, when the report of the conspiracy was read over to him, "we must no longer disbelieve in miracles."
What this Textopian page supports
General Mallet is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1895 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
- Date: 1895 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Political Thriller, Biography, Drama, Adventure
- Length: 5,126 words
- Structure: 1 section, 69 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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- Work identity for General Mallet by Sabine Baring-Gould
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set during a significant historical period, focusing on the events surrounding Napoleon and the conspiracy led by General Mallet.
- Political Thriller — The plot revolves around a conspiracy to overthrow a government, featuring elements of intrigue, deception, and political maneuvering.
- Biography — The book provides a detailed account of General Claude Francois Mallet's life, motivations, and actions during a pivotal moment in history.
- Drama — The story contains intense emotional and moral conflicts, particularly regarding loyalty, ambition, and the consequences of betrayal.
Tags
military · historical fiction · adventure · war · leadership · strategy · British army · 19th century · character development · conflict · courage · honor