Born into a noble family with a strong military tradition, Armand de Caulaincourt had been Napoleon’s Ambassador to Russia; Minister for Foreign Affairs; political advis∨ and during the disastrous Russian campaign, his personal aide. In this unique document--the first English translation of the original French manuscript--the French statesman presents a comprehensive picture of the supreme crisis of Napoleon’s career, with graphic accounts of the French army’s advance into Russia, the occupation of Moscow, and the horrors of retreat. "By far the most important addition to Napoleonic documentation published in modern times.”--The London Times "When General de Caulaincourt laid down his pen he had completed, whether he knew it or not, a masterpiece.”--The New York Times A superb biography, history, and memoir in one unforgettable volume, the work will fascinate students, teachers, scholars, and history buffs alike.