expression what does it mean

[Anonymous]

I apologise for having to dash to Moscow more rapidly that Napoleon managed and I am grateful...

Can someone explain what this "Napoleon" thing means.

Thank you

[twostep]

I apologise for having to dash to Moscow more rapidly that Napoleon managed and I am grateful...

Can someone explain what this "Napoleon" thing means.

Thank you

Correct me if I mess up history. Napoleon's attempt to conquer Russia was limited by the Russian summer. He had to be in Moscow to make winter quarters. In a nut shell - he was was in a hurry!!!