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DESCRIPTION OF THE CUIRASSIERS OF THE FRENCH IMPERIAL GUARDS
The cuirassiers of the French Imperial guards are all arrayed in armour. The front cuirass is in the form of a pigeon's breast, so as to effectually turn off a musket shot, though fired ever so near, owing to its being kept so bright, the back cuirass is made to fit the back; they weigh from 9 lb. To 11 lb. Each, according to the size of the man, and are stuffed inside with a pad; they fit on with a kind of fish-scaled clasp, and are put off and on in an instant; they have helmets the same as our horse guards, straight long swords, and pistols, but no carbines; and if there is a good horse to be found they are sure to have it. They are all chosen men, must be five feet seven French (above six feet English), have served in three campaigns, 12 years in the service, and of good character.
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-Napoleon Bonaparte
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