[29] La Combe Saint Michel was afterwards employed by Napoleon in Italy, Spain, and Germany. He died in 1812. [30] During the reign of Joseph, he was appointed minister of police at Naples, where he died in 1809. [31] Napoleon, Memoirs, vol. iv., p. 51. [32] Such is the report of the Corsicans concerning the alleged first exploit of their celebrated countryman. See Benson's _Sketches_, p. 4. But there is room to believe that Buonaparte had been in action so early as February, 1793. Admiral Truguet, with a strong fleet, and having on board a large body of troops, had been at anchor for several weeks in the Corsican harbours, announcing a descent upon Sardinia. At length, having received on board an additional number of forces, he set sail on his expedition. Buonaparte is supposed to have accompanied the admiral, of whose talent and judgment he is made in the Saint Helena MSS., to speak with great contempt. Buonaparte succeeded in taking some batteries in the straits of Saint Bonifacio; but the expedition proving unsuccessful, they were speedily abandoned.--S.--For an account of the expedition to Sardinia, see _Napoleon's Memoirs_, vol. i., p. 5. [33] "As you quit the town, the first object that presents itself is a little fountain on the left, which, except the pavement of the quay, is the only public work of Buonaparte, for the place of his birth."--BENSON. [34] Benson's Sketches of Corsica, p. 121.--S. [35] Not literally, however; for it is worth mentioning, that when he was in full-blown possession of his power, an inheritance fell to the family, situated near Ajaccio, and was divided amongst them. The First Consul, or Emperor, received an olive garden as his share.--_Sketches of Corsica._--S.