Chapter 785: At the Gates of Milan
Victor immediately shook his head. "No, that would waste the opportunity we created by crossing the Great Saint Bernard Pass.
"Our greatest advantage at the moment is that the enemy has yet to realize that their soft underbelly is exposed beneath our guns.
"We should attack Milan at once. That is the heart of the entire battlefield.
"I believe Milan cannot have many enemy troops defending it at this time.
"As for General Dimoubin, we should trust in his command ability. He will certainly be able to hold Genoa!"
Marmont raised his voice. "The Army of Italy will soon lose its supplies. No matter how brave they are, they cannot drive back the enemy on empty stomachs!"
The two began arguing, yet neither mentioned Turin. In the minds of French Officers, Sardinia was essentially a free bonus. Who would make a great fuss over a free bonus?
A moment later, they both turned to Napoleon.
Colonel Bonaparte's talent for strategic planning was plain for all to see. The final decision still had to be his.
Napoleon's gaze moved back and forth between Genoa and Milan. After a moment, he straightened and draped an arm around each subordinate's shoulders, smiling. "Why must we make a choice? I will not give up either Milan or Genoa."
"H-how could that be possible?"
"Commander, I'm afraid there won't be enough time..."
Napoleon picked up a small wooden stick and tapped Milan. "What do you think Melas will do if our army captures Milan?"
Victor considered it. "He should redeploy troops to reinforce it."
"Exactly." Napoleon nodded. "That will greatly ease the pressure on Genoa. Meanwhile, we can choose from several positions to intercept Melas's reinforcements and seize the initiative on the battlefield in one stroke!"
Marmont said