"They write me from Boulogne, that a sort of secret association has been formed in the army under the title of 'Olympiens.' I am not informed of the objects of the society, but they tell me that its ramifications are most extensive. Perhaps they have some bond of union with the 'Conciliabules' who met at the houses of Bernadotte and de Staël. I know well enough what passes there: Garat, who thinks me his friend, and who has the goodness to suppose me still a patriot as I was in 93, tells me everything. There are some Jacobins who imagine that I regret the republic, and would do all in my power to restore it: they are the fools whom I exile or place as may suit me,—Truguet, Rousselin, Ginguené form no plan, say no word, of which I am not informed. They are gentry not very formidable; like all the Moreau gang, they talk much, and do little. However, for some time, they think they must have a party in the army; and it is necessary that I should know their plans: the Olympiens are perhaps their creation. It would be well that you should become an Olympien; you will disclose to me the secrets of these gentlemen, and I shall then know what steps to take."
The count de L*** told Fouché, that the proposed mission was a delicate affair; that the Olympiens would probably only receive members after they had been convinced of their fidelity and fitness; and that, besides, no one would be admitted to the brotherhood, who did not belong to the army. Fouché reflected a moment on these obstacles, and then said—"I have hit on a mode of causing you to be instantly admitted. Go to Genès; you will there find a detachment of Ligurian conscripts, who are under orders for Boulogne, to be incorporated in the eigth regiment of foot artillery. Amongst them is a count Boccardi, for whom his family have vainly endeavoured to procure a substitute. You shall offer to supply the place of the noble Genèse; and, to remove all difficulties, I give you a certificate, stating that you have, under the name
