This advice on the part ofFouchéwas an artful piece of dissimulation. No man in France possessed so intimate a knowledge of the secret workings of the public mind; he knew precisely the dispositions and views of the different factions, as also the character and temperament of their Leaders. He knew also that the great Parties in the Chambers, with the exception of the Imperialists, who were in the minority but whom he secretly flattered with the prospect of aNapoleon II., were fully prepared to depose the Emperor, in favour of full Constitutional Freedom and Liberal Institutions. This knowledge, obtained with an adroitness and a precision quite peculiar to this celebrated Minister of Police, he made completely subservient to his own personal views. These had been, from the commencement ofNapoleon's second reign, to coquet with the factions in such a manner as to induce each to consider him an indispensable instrument in the realisation of its hopes; and to exert this extraordinary influence either to support or to undermine the power ofNapoleon, according as the fortunes of the latter might be in the ascendant or on the decline. The resolute attitude assumed by the Allies soon satisfied him that, although the Emperor might once more dazzle the world with some brilliant feat of arms, he must eventually succumb to the fixed determination of theSovereigns to crush his usurped authority; and to the overwhelming masses with which Europe was preparing to subjugate the country. He had been, and was still, in secret communication with the Ministers and Advisers ofLouis XVIII.; and was consequently in full possession of the general plans and intentions of the Allies.
When, therefore,Napoleon's enterprise had so signally failed, and the reoccupation of Paris appeared to be its necessary consequence:Fouchéforesaw clearly, that were the proposed Dictatorship to be assumed by means of a sudden and forced dissolution of the Chambers, implying that the recent reverses had been produced by treachery on the part of the Representatives; and were new levies to be raiseden masse, in support of the force that yet remained available; the result would inevitably be anarchy and confusion in the capital, disorder and excesses throughout the whole country, renewed disasters to the nation, together with an awful and useless sacrifice of life. To prevent such a catastrophe, it was necessary to lullNapoleon's suspicions of the intentions of the Chambers; with which, at the same time,Fouchéwas fully acquainted. Hence it was, that to gain sufficient time for the development of these intentions,Fouchégave to the Council the advice before mentioned.
He strongly expressed his disapproval of the projected Dissolution of the Chambers, and assumption of the Dictatorship; declaring that any measures of that kind would only tend to create distrust, and, not improbably, a general revolt. But, at the same time, his agents were making known throughout Paris the fullest extent of the disasters that had befallenNapoleon, and which had caused his sudden and unexpected return; and the Deputies were assembling in all haste, and in great numbers, to take a bold and decided step in this great national crisis.
In thus dissembling from his Master the real disposition of the great political Parties, and the true state of the public mind,Fouché, no doubt, betrayed the trust reposed in him; but, setting aside the question whether he was really influenced by patriotic motives, or merely acting upon a system of deep duplicity and time serving expediency, there can also be no doubt that, by pursuing the line of conduct which he did on this important occasion, he became the means of preserving his country from the infliction of a still further accumulation of evils.
The Cabinet Council continued in discussion; some supporting, and others disapproving, the propositions ofNapoleon: who, at length, yielding to the arguments ofFouchéandCarnot, declared he would submit himself to the loyalty of the Chambers, and confer with them as to the measures which the critical position of the country might render necessary.
In the mean time, the Deputies had met, and commenced their deliberations on the existing state of affairs.M. de la Fayette, the acknowledged Leader of the Liberal Party, having received intelligence of the subject of discussion in the Council, and aware that not a moment was to be lost in averting the blow with which their liberties were menaced, ascended the tribune, and thus addressed the Chamber, amidst the most profound silence, and breathless suspense:—
"Representatives! For the first time during many years you hear a voice, which the old Friends of Liberty will yet recognise. I rise to address you concerning the dangers to which the country is exposed. The sinister reports, which have been circulated during the last two days, are unhappily confirmed. This is the moment to rally round the National Colours—the Tricoloured Standard of 1789—the Standard of Liberty, Equality, and Public Order. It is you alone who can now protect the country from foreign attacks and internal dissensions. It is you alone who can secure the independence and the honour of France.Permit a veteran in the sacred cause of liberty, in all times a stranger to the spirit of faction, to submit to you some resolutions which appear to him to be demanded by a sense of the public danger, and by the love of our country. They are such as, I feel persuaded, you will see the necessity of adopting:—"I. The Chamber of Deputies declares that the independence of the Nation is menaced."II. The Chamber declares its sittings permanent. Any attempt to dissolve it, shall be considered high treason. Whosoever shall render himself culpable of such an attempt shall be considered a traitor to his country, and immediately treated as such."III. The Army of the Line, and the National Guards, who have fought, and still fight, for the liberty, the independence, and the territory of France, have merited well of the country."IV. The Minister of the Interior is invited to assemble the principal Officers of the Parisian National Guard, in order to consult on the means of providing it with arms, and of completing this Corps of Citizens; whose tried patriotism and zeal offer a sure guarantee for the liberty, prosperity, and tranquillity of the capital, and for the inviolability of the national Representatives."V. The Ministers of War, of Foreign Affairs, of Police, and of the Interior are invited to repair immediately to the sittings of the Chamber."
"Representatives! For the first time during many years you hear a voice, which the old Friends of Liberty will yet recognise. I rise to address you concerning the dangers to which the country is exposed. The sinister reports, which have been circulated during the last two days, are unhappily confirmed. This is the moment to rally round the National Colours—the Tricoloured Standard of 1789—the Standard of Liberty, Equality, and Public Order. It is you alone who can now protect the country from foreign attacks and internal dissensions. It is you alone who can secure the independence and the honour of France.Permit a veteran in the sacred cause of liberty, in all times a stranger to the spirit of faction, to submit to you some resolutions which appear to him to be demanded by a sense of the public danger, and by the love of our country. They are such as, I feel persuaded, you will see the necessity of adopting:—
"I. The Chamber of Deputies declares that the independence of the Nation is menaced.
"II. The Chamber declares its sittings permanent. Any attempt to dissolve it, shall be considered high treason. Whosoever shall render himself culpable of such an attempt shall be considered a traitor to his country, and immediately treated as such.
"III. The Army of the Line, and the National Guards, who have fought, and still fight, for the liberty, the independence, and the territory of France, have merited well of the country.
"IV. The Minister of the Interior is invited to assemble the principal Officers of the Parisian National Guard, in order to consult on the means of providing it with arms, and of completing this Corps of Citizens; whose tried patriotism and zeal offer a sure guarantee for the liberty, prosperity, and tranquillity of the capital, and for the inviolability of the national Representatives.
"V. The Ministers of War, of Foreign Affairs, of Police, and of the Interior are invited to repair immediately to the sittings of the Chamber."
No one ventured to oppose these bold Resolutions; and, after a brief discussion, in which their instant adoption was urged in the strongest manner, they were carried by acclamation, with the exception of the Fourth, which was suspended on account of the invidious distinction which it appeared to convey between the troops of the Line and the National Guards.
They were then transmitted to the Chamber of Peers; where, after a short discussion, they were adopted without amendment.
The Message from the Chambers, conveying these resolutions, reached the Council in the midst of its deliberations.Napoleonwas staggered by an act which helooked upon as an usurpation of the Sovereign Authority. To him, who had so long exercised an almost unlimited control in the State, who had led mighty Armies to victory, and who had subjected powerful nations to his despotic sway, this sudden and energetic voice of the people, conveyed through the medium of their Representatives, aroused him to a full sense of the wonderful change which had been effected in the public mind, and in his own individual position, through the intervention of a Constitution. He was alike indignant at what he conceived to be a daring presumption, and mortified at his own miscalculation in having convoked the Chambers.J'avais bien pensé, he remarked,que j'aurais dû congédier ces gens-là avant mon départ.
After some reflection, he determined, if possible, to temporize with the Chambers. He sentRegnault de Saint Jean d'Angelyto the Chamber of Deputies, in his capacity of Member, to soothe the irritation that prevailed, to relate that the Army had been upon the point of gaining a great victory, when disaffected individuals created a panic; that the troops had since rallied; and that the Emperor had hastened to Paris to concert, with the Ministers and the Chambers, such measures for the public safety as circumstances seemed to require.Carnotwas directed to make a similar communication to the Chamber of Peers.Regnaultvainly endeavoured to fulfil his mission: the Deputies had lost all patience, and insisted upon the Ministers presenting themselves at the bar of the House. The latter at length obeyed the summons;Napoleonhaving consented, though with great reluctance, to their compliance with the mandate. He required them, however, to be accompanied by his brotherLucien, as an Extraordinary Commissioner, appointed to reply to the Interrogatories of the Chamber.
At six o'clock in the evening,Lucien Buonaparteand the Ministers made their appearance in the Chamber of Deputies.Lucienannounced that he had been sent there byNapoleonas a Commissioner Extraordinary, to concert with the Assembly measures of safety. He then placed in the hands of the President the Message of which he was the bearer from his brother. It contained a succinct recital of the disasters experienced at Mont St Jean: and recommended the Representatives to unite with the Head of the State in preserving the country from the fate of Poland, and from the reimposition of the yoke which it had thrown off. It stated, also, that it was desirable that the two Chambers should appoint a Commission of five Members, to concert with the Ministers the measures to be adopted for the public safety, and the means of treating for peace with the Allied Powers.
This Message was far from being favourably received. A stormy discussion ensued, in the course of which it was soon made manifest that the Deputies required a more explicit declaration ofNapoleon's opinions and designs: one, in fact, more in accordance with the views which the majority of them evidently entertained, and was apparently determined to enforce. One of their number significantly remarked, as he addressed himself to the Ministers, "You know as well as we do, that it is againstNapoleonalone that Europe has declared War. From this moment, separate the cause ofNapoleonfrom that of the Nation. In my opinion, there exists but one individual who stands in the way between us and peace. Let him pronounce the word and the country will be saved!" Several of the Members spoke in a similar strain, and the debate was kept up with great animation, until at length it was agreed, that in conformity with the terms of the Imperial Message, aCommission of five Members should be appointed, consisting of the President and Vice Presidents of the Chamber, to collect, in concert with the Cabinet and with a Committee from the House of Peers, the fullest information upon the state of France, and to propose suitable measures of safety.
The Committee consisted of MessrsLanjuinais,La Fayette,Dupont de l'Eure,Flangergues, andGrenier.
Luciennow presented himself, in the same capacity of Commissioner Extraordinary, to the Chamber of Peers. After hearing the Message, the latter also appointed a Committee, which consisted of GeneralsDrouot,Dejean,Andreossy, and MessrsBoissy d'AnglasandThibaudeau.
Napoleon, being fully informed of the proceedings of the Chamber of Deputies, and of the general tenor of the debates, hesitated a long time whether to dissolve the Assembly or to abdicate the Imperial Crown. Some of his Ministers, on perceiving the direction of his views, assured him that the Chamber had acquired too firm a hold of the public opinion to submit to any violentcoup d'état; and expressed their opinion, that by withholding the act of abdication, he might eventually deprive himself of the power of vacating the Throne in favour of his son. Nevertheless he appeared determined to defer this step to the very last moment; trusting in the mean time some favourable event might occur, tending to modify the present disposition of the Chamber.
The Deputies again met, at an early hour on the following morning. The utmost impatience was manifested for the Report of the Committee. Two hours having elapsed, the Members became greatly excited. Some of them proposed that the exigencies of the State were such, that it was their duty to adopt immediate and decisive measures, without waiting for the Report.
At length, in the midst of the agitation and tumult which prevailed, GeneralGrenier, the Reporter of the Committee, suddenly made his appearance. He stated that, after a deliberation of five hours, the Committee had resolved:—
"That the safety of the country required that the Emperor should consent to the nomination, by the two Chambers, of a Commission, charged to negotiate directly with the coalesced Powers; stipulating only that they should respect the national independence, the territorial integrity, and the right which belongs to every people of adopting such Constitutions as it may think proper; and that these negotiations should be supported by the prompt development of the national force."
"That the safety of the country required that the Emperor should consent to the nomination, by the two Chambers, of a Commission, charged to negotiate directly with the coalesced Powers; stipulating only that they should respect the national independence, the territorial integrity, and the right which belongs to every people of adopting such Constitutions as it may think proper; and that these negotiations should be supported by the prompt development of the national force."
This statement excited general murmurs of disapprobation. But the Reporter, aware of the expectations of the Chamber, proceeded:—
"This Article, gentlemen, appears to me insufficient. It does not fulfil the object which the Chamber proposes to itself, because it is possible that your Deputation may not be admitted. I would not, therefore, urge the adoption of this measure, had I not reason to believe that you will soon receive a Message in which the Emperor will declare his wish; that the effect of this should first be tried; and that, should he then prove an insuperable obstacle to the nation being permitted to treat for its independence, he will be ready to make whatever sacrifice may be demanded of him."
"This Article, gentlemen, appears to me insufficient. It does not fulfil the object which the Chamber proposes to itself, because it is possible that your Deputation may not be admitted. I would not, therefore, urge the adoption of this measure, had I not reason to believe that you will soon receive a Message in which the Emperor will declare his wish; that the effect of this should first be tried; and that, should he then prove an insuperable obstacle to the nation being permitted to treat for its independence, he will be ready to make whatever sacrifice may be demanded of him."
This produced an extraordinary sensation in the Assembly. It was looked upon as an artful design upon the part ofNapoleonto create delay by proposing to the Chambers a proceeding which he was well aware would prove unsuccessful; and to seize the first favourable opportunity of destroying their independence, and re-establishing his despotism—to re-enact, in short, the Eighteenth of Brumaire. The tumult had reached a fearful height. Many Members exclaimed vehemently against the Report.
At length, one of them,M. Duchesne, ascended thetribune, and spoke in the following energetic and decided manner:—
"I do not believe that the project proposed by the Committee is capable of attaining the desired end. The greatness of our disasters cannot be denied: they are sufficiently proved by the presence of the Chief of our Armies in the capital. If there are no bounds to the energies of the nation, there are limits to its means. The Chambers cannot offer negotiations to the Allied Powers. The documents which have been communicated to us demonstrate that they have uniformly refused all the overtures which have been made to them; and they have declared that they will not treat with the French, as long as they shall have the Emperor at their head."
"I do not believe that the project proposed by the Committee is capable of attaining the desired end. The greatness of our disasters cannot be denied: they are sufficiently proved by the presence of the Chief of our Armies in the capital. If there are no bounds to the energies of the nation, there are limits to its means. The Chambers cannot offer negotiations to the Allied Powers. The documents which have been communicated to us demonstrate that they have uniformly refused all the overtures which have been made to them; and they have declared that they will not treat with the French, as long as they shall have the Emperor at their head."
The speaker was here interrupted by the President, who announced that the Message to which the Reporter had referred would speedily be received. The interruption, however, at this most important point of the debate, renewed the tumult in the Chamber. Some exclaimed, "It is a concerted plan to make us lose time." Others cried out, "Some plot is concerting;" and the majority vociferated, "Proceed, proceed; there is no middle course."
Duchesnecontinued:—
"It is necessary that we should be certain of finding in the development of the national force, a defence sufficient to support our negotiations, and to enable us to treat with success concerning our honour and independence. Can that force be developed with sufficient rapidity? May not circumstances again lead victorious Armies to the capital? Then, and under their auspices, will reappear the ancient Family." ("Never! never!" exclaimed several voices.) "I freely express my opinion. What may be the consequences of these events? We have onlyonecertain means left, which is, to engage the Emperor, in the name of the safety of the State, in the sacred name of a suffering country, to declare hisAbdication."
"It is necessary that we should be certain of finding in the development of the national force, a defence sufficient to support our negotiations, and to enable us to treat with success concerning our honour and independence. Can that force be developed with sufficient rapidity? May not circumstances again lead victorious Armies to the capital? Then, and under their auspices, will reappear the ancient Family." ("Never! never!" exclaimed several voices.) "I freely express my opinion. What may be the consequences of these events? We have onlyonecertain means left, which is, to engage the Emperor, in the name of the safety of the State, in the sacred name of a suffering country, to declare hisAbdication."
No sooner was this word pronounced than the entire Assembly rose; and amidst the clamour that ensued were heard a hundred voices exclaiming, "Seconded! seconded!"
When, at length, the President succeeded in restoring some degree of order, he said:—
"I cannot hope to arrive at any result, unless the agitation of the Assembly be repressed. The safety of the country depends on the decision of this day. I entreat the Chamber to wait for the Emperor's Message."
"I cannot hope to arrive at any result, unless the agitation of the Assembly be repressed. The safety of the country depends on the decision of this day. I entreat the Chamber to wait for the Emperor's Message."
The proposition ofDuchesnewas instantly supported by GeneralSolignac: an Officer who, during the last five years, had been made to suffer the severest mortifications, arising from the hatred entertained towards him byNapoleon, in consequence of his refusal to be the servile instrument of his ambition; and, therefore, the curiosity of the Chamber was naturally excited to hear what course he was about to adopt.
"And I also," said the General; "I share in the uneasiness of him who has preceded me at this tribune. Yes! we ought to consider the safety of the Empire, and the maintenance of our Liberal Institutions; and, while the Government is inclined to present to you such measures as tend to this end, it appears important to preserve to the Chamber the honour of not having proposed an object which ought to be the free concession of the Monarch. I move that a Deputation of five Members shall be appointed to proceed to the Emperor, which Deputation shall express to His Majesty the urgency of his decision. Their Report will, I trust, satisfy at once the wish of the Assembly, and that of the Nation."
"And I also," said the General; "I share in the uneasiness of him who has preceded me at this tribune. Yes! we ought to consider the safety of the Empire, and the maintenance of our Liberal Institutions; and, while the Government is inclined to present to you such measures as tend to this end, it appears important to preserve to the Chamber the honour of not having proposed an object which ought to be the free concession of the Monarch. I move that a Deputation of five Members shall be appointed to proceed to the Emperor, which Deputation shall express to His Majesty the urgency of his decision. Their Report will, I trust, satisfy at once the wish of the Assembly, and that of the Nation."
This proposition was most favourably received, and the President was on the point of putting it to the vote, whenSolignacagain appeared in the tribune.
"I wish," said he, "to propose an Amendment to my Motion. Several persons have intimated to me that we shall soon be informed of His Majesty's determination. I consequently think it necessary that we should wait forone hour, to receive the Message; which it seems is to be addressed to the Chambers. I therefore move that we adjourn for that time." (This part of his speech was met with great disapprobation onthe part of the Chamber.) "Gentlemen!" continued the General, "we all wish to save our country; but can we not reconcile this unanimous sentiment with the laudable desire that the Chamber should preserve the honour of the Chief of the State?" (Cries of "Yes! yes!") "If I requested that we should wait until this evening or tomorrow, some considerations might be opposed—but, one hour"—("Yes! yes! To the vote!" was the general exclamation; and the Chamber adjourned).
"I wish," said he, "to propose an Amendment to my Motion. Several persons have intimated to me that we shall soon be informed of His Majesty's determination. I consequently think it necessary that we should wait forone hour, to receive the Message; which it seems is to be addressed to the Chambers. I therefore move that we adjourn for that time." (This part of his speech was met with great disapprobation onthe part of the Chamber.) "Gentlemen!" continued the General, "we all wish to save our country; but can we not reconcile this unanimous sentiment with the laudable desire that the Chamber should preserve the honour of the Chief of the State?" (Cries of "Yes! yes!") "If I requested that we should wait until this evening or tomorrow, some considerations might be opposed—but, one hour"—("Yes! yes! To the vote!" was the general exclamation; and the Chamber adjourned).
In the mean time,Napoleonhad been made acquainted with the disposition of the Chamber of Representatives, byRegnault de Saint Jean d'Angely; who hastened to warn him that if he did not immediately abdicate, his deposition would, in all probability, be declared.
He was enraged at the idea of this contemplated violence. "Since that is the case," he said, "I will not abdicate at all. The Chamber is composed of a set of Jacobins, impracticables, and intriguers; who are seeking for disorder, or for place. I ought to have denounced them to the Nation, and given them their dismissal. The time that has been lost may yet be recovered."
Regnault, however, urged him in the strongest manner to yield to imperious circumstances, and to renew the noble and generous sacrifice he made in 1814. He assured him that if he did not take this step, he would be accused by the Chamber, and even by the whole Nation, of having, out of personal considerations alone, prevented the possibility of obtaining peace.
Solignacand other Deputies were then announced. They boldly declared to him that he had no other course open to him but that of submission to the desire entertained by the Representatives of the Nation.Solignacdescribed to him the scene in the Chamber of Deputies, and the difficulty he had experienced in inducing the latter to suspend, even for one hour, their decision; which, if not anticipated by avoluntary Abdication, would entail upon him the disgrace of forfeiture. Even his brothers,LucienandJoseph, now gave their opinion that the moment for resistance had passed.
When the paroxysm of rage, to which these representations gave rise, had subsided:Napoleonannounced his determination to abdicate in favour of his son; and, desiring his brotherLuciento take a pen, he dictated to him the following Declaration:—
"Frenchmen! In commencing the War for maintaining the national independence, I relied on the union of all efforts, of all desires, and the concurrence of all the national authorities. I had reason to hope for success, and I braved all the Declarations of the Powers allied against me."Circumstances appear to be changed. I offer myself a sacrifice to the hatred of the Enemies of France. May they prove sincere in their Declarations, and have really directed them solely against my power. My political life is terminated; and I proclaim my Son, under the title ofNapoleon II., Emperor of the French."The present Ministers will form provisionally the Council of the Government. The interest which I take in my Son induces me to invite the Chamber to form the Regency by a law without delay."Unite all for the public safety, in order to remain an independent Nation."Napoleon."
"Frenchmen! In commencing the War for maintaining the national independence, I relied on the union of all efforts, of all desires, and the concurrence of all the national authorities. I had reason to hope for success, and I braved all the Declarations of the Powers allied against me.
"Circumstances appear to be changed. I offer myself a sacrifice to the hatred of the Enemies of France. May they prove sincere in their Declarations, and have really directed them solely against my power. My political life is terminated; and I proclaim my Son, under the title ofNapoleon II., Emperor of the French.
"The present Ministers will form provisionally the Council of the Government. The interest which I take in my Son induces me to invite the Chamber to form the Regency by a law without delay.
"Unite all for the public safety, in order to remain an independent Nation.
"Napoleon."
This was the last great act of his political life. Defeated and humbled by foreign Enemies, subdued and controlled by the Representatives of the Nation; he was forced to descend from a Throne whence he had at one time swayed the destinies of Sovereigns rendered dependent on his mighty will. Almost all the previous changes and gradations in his extraordinary career had been preluded or accompanied by some magnificent scene of dramatic effect, or a violentcoup d'état; but, in this instance, the transition was attended byno circumstance more remarkable than the quietude with which it was effected. The cessation of the political existence of such a man would have been most naturally looked for as an event coincident only with the termination of a life which, if not closed upon the pinnacle of glory, would be sought for amidst the shock of battle, or in the vortex of a state convulsion.
That he meditated a second 18th of Brumaire, there can be no doubt; but the decided tone of the debates in the National Assembly, the solicitations of his friends, and the hope of securing the Throne to his family, induced him to abandon all idea of such a project. It is, besides, more than probable that, aware as he was of the bad feeling that existed, to a great extent, both in the Chambers and in the country, towards theBourbons; as also of the conflicting principles of the different factions, he calculated upon the chances of a Revolution productive of anarchy and confusion, which he yet might be called upon to reduce to order and submission.
When it is considered that the great mass of the Army of the Line was devoted toNapoleon; that the rallied Army of the North was falling back upon Paris, where it would concentrate its strength and be reinforced from Regimental Depôts; and, further, that the Armies on the Eastern Frontier were still holding their respective positions, and that even in La Vendée the Imperial troops had succeeded in quelling the insurrection,—when, in addition to all this, it is considered how great, how extraordinary, was the influence induced by theprestigeofNapoleonwith the majority of the nation, dazzled as the latter had been by countless victories that outweighed, in its estimation, those fatal disasters which it ascribed solely to the united power of the greatEuropean League established against France,—it is impossible not to be struck by the firm, bold, and determined attitude assumed by the French Parliament. France, on this critical occasion, displayed one of the brightest examples the World has yet beheld of the force of Constitutional Legislation. Under all the attendant circumstances, it was a remarkable triumph of free institutions over monarchical despotism.
It is now necessary to revert to the operations of the Allied Armies.
On the 23d of June,WellingtonandBlüchergave to the great mass of their troops a halt; not merely for the sake of affording them rest, but also for the purpose of collecting the stragglers, and bringing up the ammunition and the baggage.
The only movement made on the part of the Anglo-Allied Army, on this day, was that by Major GeneralLyon's Sixth Hanoverian Brigade, which, together withGrant's Hussar Brigade, Lieutenant ColonelWebber Smith's Horse Battery, MajorUnett's and MajorBrome's Foot Batteries, marched, under the personal command of SirCharles Colville, to attack Cambray, the garrison of which, the Duke had been led to believe, had abandoned the place, leaving in it at most three hundred or four hundred men.Colvillewas furnished with a letter from the Duke to the Governor, summoning him to surrender; as also with some copies of his Grace's Proclamation of the 22nd to the French. The 1st Brunswick Light Battalion was sent forward from the Reserve at Bavay, to watch Le Quesnoy; which Fortress was still occupied by the Enemy.
The Third PrussianCorps d'Arméewas pushed forwardto Avesnes, by which means the Three Corps destined to advance upon Paris were so placed that they could form a junction, with only half an ordinary march; and this relative position was maintained throughout the remainder of the line of advance.
The Allied Commanders had an interview on this day at Catillon, for the purpose of arranging their plan of combined operations. The intelligence they had procured having satisfied them that the Enemy was collecting his forces at Laon and Soissons: they decided upon not pursuing him along that line, since their progress towards the capital might, in that case, be impeded by affairs of Advanced and Rear Guards; but upon moving by the right bank of the Oise, and crossing this river at either Compiegne or Pont St Maxence. By thus turning the French Left, they hoped to intercept the Enemy's retreat, or at all events to reach Paris before him; and in order to deceive him as to these intentions, he was to be followed by Prussian Cavalry, assuming to be the Advanced Guard of the Allied Armies.
It was also settled, that as they might find it necessary to throw bridges across the Oise, the British General should bring forward his Pontoon Train; that possessed by the Prussians being inadequate for the purpose.
In order to secure a good base whence to conduct these operations, it was further arranged that the Corps under PrinceFrederickof the Netherlands should remain, for the purpose of besieging the Fortresses situated on the Scheldt, and between that river and the Sambre: and that the following Corps should undertake the besieging of the Fortresses on the Sambre, and between this last river and the Moselle, namely, the Second PrussianCorps d'Armée, commanded by GeneralPirch; theCorps d'Arméeof NorthGermany, commanded at first by General CountKleist von Nollendorf, and subsequently by Lieutenant GeneralHacke; as also a portion of the garrison troops of Luxemburg, commanded by Lieutenant General PrinceLouisof Hesse Homburg,—the whole of these German forces being placed under the chief command of PrinceAugustusof Prussia.
This plan of operations was such as might have been expected from the combined councils of such Leaders asWellingtonandBlücher, and was undoubtedly the one best calculated to attain the object they had in view; and it was carried into effect with all that mutual cordiality and good fellowship which had invariably characterised their proceedings.
On the morning of the 24th, the Duke ofWellington, in consequence of a report which he had received from SirCharles Colville, directed LordHillto march the two Brigades of the Fourth Division then at Le Cateau, towards Cambray, where they would join the other Brigade of the Division; and also to send with them a nine pounder Battery.
On the arrival of these troops,Colvillemade his preparations for the attack; which took place in the evening, in the following manner. Three Columns of Attack were formed. One commanded by Lieutenant Colonel SirNeil Campbell(Major in the 54th Regiment) escaladed at the angle formed by the Valenciennes Gateway and the Curtain of the body of the place. A Second, commanded by Colonel SirWilliam Douglas, of the 91st Regiment, and directed by LieutenantGilbertof the Royal Engineers, escaladed at a large Ravelin near the Amiens road. A Third, consisting of ColonelMitchell's Brigade, and directed by CaptainThompsonof the Royal Engineers, after having forced the Outer Gate of the Couvre Port in the Hornwork, and passed both ditches, by means of the rails of the drawbridges,attempted to force the main Paris Gate; but not succeeding in this, it escaladed by a breach on that side, which was in a state of reparation. The three Batteries of Lieutenant ColonelWebber Smith, and MajorsUnettandBrome, under the direction of Lieutenant ColonelHawker, rendered the most essential service in covering these attacks; which having succeeded, the town speedily fell into the hands of the assailants. The Citadel continued to hold out, but the Governor solicited a suspension of hostilities; which, however, could not be granted.
Of the Anglo-Allied Army, the First and Third British Divisions, the Dutch-Belgian Infantry attached to the First Corps, and the Dutch-Belgian Cavalry, were moved this day from Gommignies, to Forest, upon the road to Le Cateau, and then encamped between the villages of Croix and Bousies.
The Second British Division continued at Le Cateau.
The Duke made no movement in advance; having found it necessary to afford additional time for the coming up of the Pontoons and supplies.
The Reserve, consisting of the Fifth and Sixth Divisions, of the Brunswick Corps, and the Reserve Artillery, was moved nearer to the main body; and cantoned and encamped in and about the villages of Engle Fontaine, Rancour, and Préau au Bois.
On this day Proposals were made to the Advanced Posts of this Corps under PrinceFrederickof the Netherlands near Valenciennes, as also to those of the First PrussianCorps d'Armée, for a Suspension of Hostilities, upon the grounds thatNapoleonhad abdicated in favour of his son; that a Provisional Government had been appointed, consisting ofFouché,Caulincourt,Grenier, andQuinette; and that these persons had sent Ministers to the Allied Powers to treat for peace.
BothWellingtonandBlücherconsidered that they would not be acting in accordance with the spirit and intentions of the Alliance of the Powers of Europe were they to listen to such proposals, and therefore peremptorily refused to discontinue their operations. Those which were addressed to the Prussian Commander emanated from General CountMorand, who commanded the Rear Guard of the French Army at Laon; and to whomBlücherreplied, that no Armistice could be entered into, except in the case ofNapoleonbeing delivered up, and the Fortresses in rear of the Armies being abandoned and conceded as guarantees for its fulfilment.
Louis XVIII., acting on the advice so urgently tendered to him by the Duke ofWellington, arrived at Le Cateau late in the evening, followed by a numerous train; and only awaited the surrender of the Citadel of Cambray to fix his temporary residence in the latter town.
The Prussian Army renewed its operations on the 24th, according to the plan agreed upon the day before by the Allied Commanders. At break of day, Lieutenant ColonelSchmiedebergwas despatched with the Silesian Regiment of Uhlans, and some Horse Artillery, towards Laon; for the purpose, in conjunction with the Detachments already sent from the FirstCorps d'Armée, of watching and deceiving the Enemy.Blücherdisposed his threeCorps d'Arméein two Columns. The Left Column, which was the one nearest to the Enemy, consisted of the First and Third Corps; and was to move close along the Oise—the Third Corps remaining half a march in rear of the First. The Right Column, formed by the FourthCorps d'Armée, was to advance along a parallel road, keeping on a line with the former, and at the distance of about half a march. The LeftColumn moved upon Compiegne, the Right upon Pont St Maxence.
At nine o'clock, the FirstCorps d'Armée(Zieten's) commenced its march from Etroeungt towards Guise. The Advanced Guard, under Major GeneralJagow, to which were attached the 8th Foot Battery, and two ten pounder howitzers, halted when opposite to St Laurent, a suburb of Guise, in order to observe the Fortress on this side; whilstZietensent an Infantry Brigade, a Regiment of Cavalry, together with a Horse, and a Foot, Battery, by St Germain and La Bussière, across the Oise, to menace the place from the other side.
The Enemy, on finding himself completely invested, withdrew his troops into the Citadel; whereupon preparations were immediately made by the Prussians to open their Batteries against that part: but previously to giving the Order to commence the cannonade,Zietensent a summons to the Commandant to surrender; with which the latter did not hesitate to comply. The garrison, consisting of eighteen Officers and three hundred and fifty men, laid down their arms on the glacis, and were made prisoners of war. The Prussians found in the place, fourteen pieces of cannon, three thousand muskets, two million musket ball cartridges, a quantity of ammunition, and considerable magazines; and gained, what was of more importance, another strong point in their new base of operations, without having fired a single cannon shot.
MajorMüller, with the two weak Fusilier Battalions of the 28th Regiment, and of the 2nd Westphalian Landwehr, remained to garrison the place.
As soon as the remainder ofZieten's Corps arrived near Guise, which was before the place surrendered; the Advanced Guard, consisting of the Third Brigade, moved on, but didnot reach Origny before nine o'clock in the evening. The 1st Regiment of Silesian Hussars pushed on as far as Ribemont. Parties were also detached from the Reserve Cavalry towards Crecy, Pont à Bussy, and La Fère, to observe the Serre.
Thielemann, with the ThirdCorps d'Armée, moved from Avesnes upon Nouvion; which he reached about four o'clock in the afternoon. The Detachments of Observation which had been previously sent out to the left from this Corps, to endeavour to gain intelligence concerningGrouchy's Army, reached Hirson and Vervin in the evening. Scouring parties were also sent towards the road leading from Mézières by Montcornet towards Laon.
Bülow, with the FourthCorps d'Armée, which formed the Right Prussian Column, marched from Ferny to Aisonville and Bernonville. Parties of Cavalry, detached from the Corps, reached Chatillon sur Oise, and found St Quentin unoccupied. This circumstance having been made known to GeneralSydow, upon his arrival at Fontaine Notre Dame with the Advanced Guard, he pushed on, and took possession of that important town. A Detachment of from five hundred to six hundred French Cavalry had marched from this place on the previous day towards Laon. The troops which had been employed in the investment of Landrecies rejoined the Fourth Corps on this day.
By means of these movements, and of the halt of the Duke ofWellingtonat Le Cateau, the Prussians were a day's march in advance of the Anglo-Allied Army.
Grouchy's troops this day reached Réthel.
The positions of the respective Armies on the evening of the 24th were as follows:—
The First, Second, and Third Divisions of the Anglo-Allied Army were in and around Le Cateau Cambresis: the Fourth Division at Cambray; the Fifth and Sixth Divisions, the Brunswick Corps, and Reserve Artillery, at, and in the vicinity of, Engle Fontaine.The Duke ofWellington's Head Quarters were at Le Cateau Cambresis.The First PrussianCorps d'Arméewas at Guise, the Third at Muvion, and the Fourth at Aisonville and Bernonville.PrinceBlücher's Head Quarters were at Henappe.The French troops underSoultwere at Laon; those underGrouchyat Réthel.
The First, Second, and Third Divisions of the Anglo-Allied Army were in and around Le Cateau Cambresis: the Fourth Division at Cambray; the Fifth and Sixth Divisions, the Brunswick Corps, and Reserve Artillery, at, and in the vicinity of, Engle Fontaine.
The Duke ofWellington's Head Quarters were at Le Cateau Cambresis.
The First PrussianCorps d'Arméewas at Guise, the Third at Muvion, and the Fourth at Aisonville and Bernonville.
PrinceBlücher's Head Quarters were at Henappe.
The French troops underSoultwere at Laon; those underGrouchyat Réthel.
On the 24th, the Provisional Government in Paris, which had been appointed on the previous day after a stormy discussion in both Chambers on the subject of the recognition ofNapoleon II., and which consisted of the Duke ofOtranto(Fouché), Minister of the Police; the Duke ofVicenza(Caulincourt), Minister of Foreign Affairs;Carnot, Minister of the Interior; GeneralGrenier; andM. Quinette; issued the following Proclamation:—
"Frenchmen!"Within the period of a few days, brilliant successes and dreadful reverses have marked your destinies."A great sacrifice appeared necessary to your peace and that of the World; andNapoleonabdicated the Imperial Throne. His Abdication forms the termination of his political life. His Son is proclaimed."Your new Constitution, which possesses as yet only good principles, is about to undergo its application; and even those principles are to be purified and extended."There no longer exist Powers jealous of one another. The space is free to the enlightened patriotism of your Representatives; and the Peers feel, think, and vote, as they are directed by the public opinion."After twenty five years of political tempests, the moment has arrived when every thing wise and sublime that has been conceived respecting social institutions may be perfected in yours. Let reason and genius speak, and from whatever side their voices may proceed, they shall be heard."Plenipotentiaries have been despatched, in order to treat in the nameof the Nation, and to negotiate with the Powers of Europe that Peace which they have promised on one condition, which is now fulfilled."The whole World will, like you, be attentive to their reply. Their answer will make known whether justice and promises are accounted anything on earth."Frenchmen! be united! Let all rally under circumstances of such vast importance. Let civil discords be appeased. Let dissensions be silent at this period, in which the great interests of nations are to be discussed. From the Northern frontier to the Pyrenees, and from La Vendée to Marseilles, let all France be united."Who is the man, that, born on the soil of France, whatever may be his Party or political opinions, will not range himself under the National Standard, to defend the independence of the country."Armies may in part be destroyed; but the experience of all Ages and of all nations proves that a brave people, combating for justice and liberty, cannot be vanquished."The Emperor, in abdicating, has offered himself a sacrifice. The Members of the Government devote themselves to the due execution of the authority with which they have been invested by your Representatives."The Duke of Otranto,"T. Berlier, Secretary.""June 24th, 1815."
"Frenchmen!
"Within the period of a few days, brilliant successes and dreadful reverses have marked your destinies.
"A great sacrifice appeared necessary to your peace and that of the World; andNapoleonabdicated the Imperial Throne. His Abdication forms the termination of his political life. His Son is proclaimed.
"Your new Constitution, which possesses as yet only good principles, is about to undergo its application; and even those principles are to be purified and extended.
"There no longer exist Powers jealous of one another. The space is free to the enlightened patriotism of your Representatives; and the Peers feel, think, and vote, as they are directed by the public opinion.
"After twenty five years of political tempests, the moment has arrived when every thing wise and sublime that has been conceived respecting social institutions may be perfected in yours. Let reason and genius speak, and from whatever side their voices may proceed, they shall be heard.
"Plenipotentiaries have been despatched, in order to treat in the nameof the Nation, and to negotiate with the Powers of Europe that Peace which they have promised on one condition, which is now fulfilled.
"The whole World will, like you, be attentive to their reply. Their answer will make known whether justice and promises are accounted anything on earth.
"Frenchmen! be united! Let all rally under circumstances of such vast importance. Let civil discords be appeased. Let dissensions be silent at this period, in which the great interests of nations are to be discussed. From the Northern frontier to the Pyrenees, and from La Vendée to Marseilles, let all France be united.
"Who is the man, that, born on the soil of France, whatever may be his Party or political opinions, will not range himself under the National Standard, to defend the independence of the country.
"Armies may in part be destroyed; but the experience of all Ages and of all nations proves that a brave people, combating for justice and liberty, cannot be vanquished.
"The Emperor, in abdicating, has offered himself a sacrifice. The Members of the Government devote themselves to the due execution of the authority with which they have been invested by your Representatives.
"The Duke of Otranto,"T. Berlier, Secretary."
"June 24th, 1815."
On the 25th,Louis XVIII., at the suggestion of the Duke ofWellington, despatched an Officer, Le Comted'Audenarde, with a summons, in His Majesty's name, for the Governor, BaronRoos, to surrender the Citadel of Cambray. The summons was obeyed, and the garrison capitulated; when the Duke immediately gave over the Fortress entirely to His Majesty.
The main body of the Anglo-Allied Army advanced this day to Joncour. The Fourth Division continued at Cambray. The Reserve moved on to Marets.
The First PrussianCorps d'Arméemarched this day from Guise to Cérisy, on the road from St Quentin to La Fère: its Advanced Guard pushed on to Fargnières, near the latterplace. An Officer and thirty Dragoons were detached across the Oise to cut off the communication between this Fortress and Laon, by which means the investment of the place was effected. Along the right bank of the Oise, La Fère was protected by inundations, and no favourable points presented themselves for the establishment of Batteries. On this account, preparations were made in the night to cross the river below the place, and gain the Heights which command the Fortress on the Laon side.
During the march of the Advanced Guard, Major GeneralJagow, who commanded it, sent a Detachment of the 1st Silesian Hussars to Chauny, which communicated by its left, through St Gobain, with CaptainGoschitzkyin Crespy, and by its left, with the Outpost at Jussy of the Advanced Guard of the Fourth Corps. The parties detached on the previous day to Crecy, Pont à Bussy, and along the Serre, were now called in.
The Third PrussianCorps d'Arméemarched from Nouvion to Homblières and its vicinity. Two of its Brigades occupied passages across the Oise, namely, the Ninth at Origny, and the Twelfth at Neuvillette. The Eleventh Brigade bivouacked at Marey, and the Tenth at Homblières and Menil St Laurent. The Detachments sent out from this Corps on the previous day towards the road leading from Mezières to Laon, brought in word that at eleven o'clock in the forenoon of the 24th, the French troops had abandoned Aubenton, and marched off to Monternet; also thatGrouchy's Army had reached Rocroi on the 23rd, and Réthel on the 24th; and it was presumed that his next march was to be on Soissons. On the receipt of this intelligence these Detachments were drawn back, and their observation limited to the ground nearest to the left bank of the Oise.
The Advanced Guard of the Fourth PrussianCorpsd'Arméewas closely followed by the Reserve Cavalry, and all these troops were placed under the command of PrinceWilliamof Prussia. The Cavalry marched along the road leading to Chauny, as far as Montescour, where it bivouacked. The main body of the Corps reached Essigny le Grand.
At St Quentin, PrinceBlücherreceived a letter from Laon addressed to the Allied Commanders by the Commissioners sent from the two Chambers of the French Parliament; in which they communicated the fact ofNapoleon's abdication, and of the elevation of his Son to the Throne, and stated that they had been deputed by the Provisional Government to negotiate an Armistice.
To this the Prince replied verbally, by an Aide de Camp, that he would suspend hostilities on arriving at Paris, providedBuonapartewas given up to him, and several Fortresses on the frontiers delivered up as sureties; and provided, also, that the Duke ofWellingtonshould agree to what might be proposed.
According to the accounts which were this day received from Lieutenant ColonelSchmiedebergit was presumed that the Enemy was still at Laon. The reports from the Detachments of the ThirdCorps d'Arméealso confirmed this view, and intimated thatGrouchy's troops were yet two marches distant from Laon. This intelligence, combined with the attempts made by the French to induce the Allies to enter into negotiations, clearly showed the importance of endeavouring, by means of a forced march, to gain the passages of the Oise, and then to intercept the Enemy's line of retreat by Soissons upon Paris.
In the night of the 25th, however, decided information was received that the French Army had marched from Laon to Soissons, a fact from which it was naturally concluded that the Enemy was no longer deceived as tothe advance of the Prussians towards Laon; and that he was therefore bent upon effecting his further retreat, or, perhaps, even of anticipating their movements towards the Oise, and detaching towards Compiegne. Hence, not a moment was now to be lost in securing the points of passage, particularly that at Compiegne; to which PrinceBlücherattached so much more importance from the circumstance that his Army had no Pontoons; and that the British Pontoon Train was still far behind, and not to be calculated upon. The Prince decided upon moving his Left Column (the First and Third Corps) on Compiegne, and his Right Column (the Fourth Corps) upon Pont St Maxence; the latter to secure the passage both at this place, and at Creil lower down the Oise.
Soult, who had been indefatigable in collecting at Laon the remains of the defeated portion of the French Army, marched the latter, on the 25th, to Soissons; where it was to be joined by the force underGrouchy: who, having preceded his troops which were yet a march and a half distant, had arrived in that town, to take the command of the whole Army, according to instructions conveyed to him from the Provisional Government.
Soult, as soon as he found himself thus superseded in the command, quitted the Army, and repaired to Paris; disgusted with the abrupt and uncourteous manner in which he had been treated.
The position of the respective Armies, on the evening of the 25th, were as follows:—
Of the Anglo-Allied Army, the Advanced Guard (Vivian's Brigade) was at Crisour, near St Quentin.The Second Division, the Nassau troops, and the British Cavalry, were encamped in the vicinity of Joncour.The First and Third Divisions, the Dutch-Belgian Infantry attached to the First Corps, and the Dutch-Belgian Cavalry, were encamped near Serain and Premont.The Fourth Division, withGrant's Light Cavalry Brigade, was at Cambray.The Fifth and Sixth Divisions, the Brunswick Infantry and Cavalry, and the Reserve Artillery, were encamped at, and in the vicinity of, Marets.The Duke ofWellington's Head Quarters were at Joncour.The First PrussianCorps d'Arméewas at Cérisy; the Third at Homblières; and the Fourth at Essigny le Grand.PrinceBlücher's Head Quarters were at St Quentin.The Right Wing of the French Army, led byVandamme, was at Rheims; the Left, withGrouchy, at Soissons.
Of the Anglo-Allied Army, the Advanced Guard (Vivian's Brigade) was at Crisour, near St Quentin.
The Second Division, the Nassau troops, and the British Cavalry, were encamped in the vicinity of Joncour.
The First and Third Divisions, the Dutch-Belgian Infantry attached to the First Corps, and the Dutch-Belgian Cavalry, were encamped near Serain and Premont.
The Fourth Division, withGrant's Light Cavalry Brigade, was at Cambray.
The Fifth and Sixth Divisions, the Brunswick Infantry and Cavalry, and the Reserve Artillery, were encamped at, and in the vicinity of, Marets.
The Duke ofWellington's Head Quarters were at Joncour.
The First PrussianCorps d'Arméewas at Cérisy; the Third at Homblières; and the Fourth at Essigny le Grand.
PrinceBlücher's Head Quarters were at St Quentin.
The Right Wing of the French Army, led byVandamme, was at Rheims; the Left, withGrouchy, at Soissons.
On the 25th,Napoleonwithdrew from the capital to the country Palace of Malmaison, whence he issued the following Address to the Army:—
"Soldiers!"While obeying the necessity which removes me from the French Army; I carry with me the happy assurance that it will justify, by the eminent services which the country expects from it, the praises which our Enemies themselves have not been able to refuse it."Soldiers! I shall follow your steps, though absent. I know all the Corps; and not one of them will obtain a single advantage over the Enemy, but I shall give it credit for the courage it may have displayed. Both you and I have been calumniated. Men, very unfit to appreciate your labours, have seen in the marks of attachment which you have given me, a zeal of which I was the sole object. Let your future successes convince them that it was the Country above all things, which you served in obeying me; and that if I had any share in your affection, I owe it to my ardent love for France—our common mother."Soldiers! Some efforts more, and the Coalition will be dissolved.Napoleonwill recognise you by the blows which you are about to strike. Save the honour, the independence, of France! Be, unto the last, the same men which I have known you for these twenty years; and you will be invincible."Napoleon.""De la Malmaison, le 25 juin 1815."
"Soldiers!
"While obeying the necessity which removes me from the French Army; I carry with me the happy assurance that it will justify, by the eminent services which the country expects from it, the praises which our Enemies themselves have not been able to refuse it.
"Soldiers! I shall follow your steps, though absent. I know all the Corps; and not one of them will obtain a single advantage over the Enemy, but I shall give it credit for the courage it may have displayed. Both you and I have been calumniated. Men, very unfit to appreciate your labours, have seen in the marks of attachment which you have given me, a zeal of which I was the sole object. Let your future successes convince them that it was the Country above all things, which you served in obeying me; and that if I had any share in your affection, I owe it to my ardent love for France—our common mother.
"Soldiers! Some efforts more, and the Coalition will be dissolved.Napoleonwill recognise you by the blows which you are about to strike. Save the honour, the independence, of France! Be, unto the last, the same men which I have known you for these twenty years; and you will be invincible.
"Napoleon."
"De la Malmaison, le 25 juin 1815."
CHAPTER XIX.
ON the 26th, the Duke ofWellingtonmarched the main body of his Army to Vermand and its vicinity.
Major General SirJohn Byng, who was now in command of the First Corps, having heard, on passing that village, that the Duke himself was there, immediately waited upon his Grace for any Orders he might wish to give him.
The Duke, on seeing him, said, "You are the very person I wish to see—I want you to take Peronne. You may as well take with you a Brigade of Guards, and a Dutch-Belgian Brigade. I shall be there almost as soon as yourself."
Bynghaving given the necessary Orders forMaitland's Brigade, and a Dutch-Belgian Brigade ofChassé's Division attached to his Corps, to proceed on this duty; the former was immediately put in motion.
The Duke, on reaching Peronne just as these troops arrived there, summoned the garrison, and then proceeded, in person, to reconnoitre that Fortress: and perceiving the possibility of taking it by storm, gave Orders to prepare for an assault. His Grace then directed the attack to be made upon the Hornwork which covers the suburb on the left of the Somme. Lieutenant Colonel LordSaltounimmediately led on the Light Troops ofMaitland's Brigade, stormed, and carried the outwork, with but little loss; on observing which, the Duke, beingsatisfied the place would prove an easy capture, returned to Vermand.
Some pieces of Dutch artillery were now brought into the Hornwork, and a cannonade was opened upon the town; but the fire kept up on both sides was trifling, and of short duration: forBynghaving sent forward his Acting Assistant Quartermaster General, Lieutenant Colonel the Hon. J.Stanhope, with a white flag, the Civil Authorities interfered, and urged the garrison to capitulate; whereupon the Maiden Fortress of Peronne surrendered on the condition that its defenders should lay down their arms, and be allowed to repair to their homes.
Byng, on returning to Vermand, to report the capture of the Fortress to the Duke, met the Dutch-Belgian Brigade, which had been ordered to move to Peronne at the same time as the Guards, about half way towards that place!
Colville'sDivision rejoined the main body of the Army from Cambray; which place was handed over to the troops of the King ofFrance, under the Duke ofBerry.
The Reserve moved on to Bellicourt and Belle Englise.
Upon returning in the night to his Head Quarters at Vermand, the Duke ofWellingtonfound a note from PrinceBlücher, forwarding to him the letter from the French Commissioners before referred to, and to which his Grace immediately replied as follows:—
"Head Quarters, 26th June 1815.—10P.M."As Field Marshal the Duke ofWellingtonhas only at this moment returned to his Quarters, he has only now received from Marshal PrinceBlücherthe letter of their Excellencies, and which their Excellencies had sent to the Prussian Outposts."When the Field Marshal last heard from the Head Quarters of the Allied Sovereigns, the 21st instant, their Majesties were at Heidelberg, and they must still be in that direction. It must be obvious to their Excellencies that the Field Marshal can neither prevent nor aid theirExcellencies in reaching their Majesties; but if he has it in his power, or if their Excellencies think proper to pass through the countries in which the troops are under his command, the Field Marshal begs they will let him know in what manner he can facilitate their journey."The Field Marshal was not aware that any Officer commanding an Advanced Post had agreed verbally, or in any other manner, to a Suspension of Hostilities."Since the 15th instant, whenNapoleon Buonaparte, at the head of the French Armies, invaded the dominions of the King of the Netherlands, and attacked the Prussian Army; the Field Marshal has considered his Sovereign, and those Powers whose Armies he commands, in a state of war with the Government of France; and he does not consider the Abdication ofNapoleon Buonaparteof his usurped authority, under all the circumstances which have preceded and attended that measure, as the attainment of the object held out in the Declarations and Treaties of the Allies, which should induce them to lay down their arms."The Field Marshal cannot consent therefore to any Suspension of Hostilities, however desirous he is of preventing the further effusion of blood."As the only object on which their Excellencies desired to converse with the Field Marshal was the proposed Suspension of Hostilities: they will, probably, after the perusal of his sentiments and intentions, as above declared, consider any interview with him an useless waste of time; but, if their Excellencies should still do him the honour to desire to have an interview with him, the Field Marshal will be ready to meet them at the time and place they shall appoint."The Field Marshal begs their Excellencies will receive the assurance of his high consideration."Wellington."
"Head Quarters, 26th June 1815.—10P.M.
"As Field Marshal the Duke ofWellingtonhas only at this moment returned to his Quarters, he has only now received from Marshal PrinceBlücherthe letter of their Excellencies, and which their Excellencies had sent to the Prussian Outposts.
"When the Field Marshal last heard from the Head Quarters of the Allied Sovereigns, the 21st instant, their Majesties were at Heidelberg, and they must still be in that direction. It must be obvious to their Excellencies that the Field Marshal can neither prevent nor aid theirExcellencies in reaching their Majesties; but if he has it in his power, or if their Excellencies think proper to pass through the countries in which the troops are under his command, the Field Marshal begs they will let him know in what manner he can facilitate their journey.
"The Field Marshal was not aware that any Officer commanding an Advanced Post had agreed verbally, or in any other manner, to a Suspension of Hostilities.
"Since the 15th instant, whenNapoleon Buonaparte, at the head of the French Armies, invaded the dominions of the King of the Netherlands, and attacked the Prussian Army; the Field Marshal has considered his Sovereign, and those Powers whose Armies he commands, in a state of war with the Government of France; and he does not consider the Abdication ofNapoleon Buonaparteof his usurped authority, under all the circumstances which have preceded and attended that measure, as the attainment of the object held out in the Declarations and Treaties of the Allies, which should induce them to lay down their arms.
"The Field Marshal cannot consent therefore to any Suspension of Hostilities, however desirous he is of preventing the further effusion of blood.
"As the only object on which their Excellencies desired to converse with the Field Marshal was the proposed Suspension of Hostilities: they will, probably, after the perusal of his sentiments and intentions, as above declared, consider any interview with him an useless waste of time; but, if their Excellencies should still do him the honour to desire to have an interview with him, the Field Marshal will be ready to meet them at the time and place they shall appoint.
"The Field Marshal begs their Excellencies will receive the assurance of his high consideration.
"Wellington."
From the moment that PrinceBlücherhad become aware of the retirement of the French troops from Laon upon Soissons, he was most anxious to secure the passage across the Oise at Compiegne, Verberie, Pont St Maxence, and Creil.
In the middle of the night of the 25th, he therefore sent an Order for the Advanced Guard of the First PrussianCorps d'Arméeto proceed on the following day, from Fargnières,by forced march, as far as the first named place. In the afternoon of the 26th, it reached Noyon, where it halted for a rest, having marched five leagues; and having nearly an equal distance before it to Compiegne. The twelve pounder Battery and the four ten pounder Howitzers which had been attached to this Advanced Guard (the Third Brigade under Major GeneralJagow) were, byZieten's Order, left under the protection of a Battalion, to be employed with the First Brigade, which was directed to make an attempt upon the Fortress of La Fère. The Advanced Guard after having sent on a Squadron of the 1st Silesian Hussars, under MajorHertel, to Compiegne, with Orders to push forward a Detachment thence upon the road to Soissons, resumed its march in the evening.
It was still in movement about midnight, when Major GeneralJagowreceived a communication from the front that MajorHertelhad, with his Squadron, entered Compiegne at eight o'clock in the evening; and had learned from the Mayor that a French Corps was on the march from Soissons to that town, in which it had already bespoken ten thousand rations.Jagowimmediately communicated this important circumstance toZieten, and ordered his troops, after another short but indispensable halt, to continue their toilsome march.
On the morning of this day, the First Brigade ofZieten'sCorps d'Arméecompleted the investment of La Fère. The troops that had been previously detached to this point by GeneralJagowwere moved off to follow this Officer's Brigade on the road to Compiegne. Notwithstanding the vigorous bombardment which the Prussians maintained against the Fortress until noon, and by which several buildings were set on fire, they failed to induce the garrison to surrender.
As it was not intended, however, to attempt any more serious attack: the Brigade, after leaving the Fusilier Battalion of the 12th Regiment and a Squadron of the Brandenburg Uhlans to watch the Fortress, followed theCorps d'Armée, which had marched to Noyon; but it did not even reach Chauny, scarcely seven miles from La Fère.
Zieten, on arriving at Chauny at eight o'clock in the evening, with the remainder of his Corps—the Second and Fourth Brigades, the Reserve Artillery, and a Reserve Cavalry Brigade—considered his troops too much fatigued to fulfilBlücher's intentions that they should march as far as Noyon; and he therefore ordered them to bivouack at Chauny.
The Third PrussianCorps d'Arméemarched from the vicinity of Homblières to that of Guiscard; partly by Jussy, and partly by St Quentin and Ham. It was only the Eleventh Brigade, with the greater portion of the Reserve Cavalry and Artillery, that took the latter road. These troops on reaching the fortified town of Ham, found it occupied by the Enemy; who seemed prepared to oppose their passing through the place. GeneralHobe, who commanded them, summoned the Commander of the Garrison to open the Gates and allow the troops to march through; and on perceiving that this summons was disobeyed, he tried the effect of a few cannon shot, which quickly procured a free passage for his force. No further notice was taken, and no further use was made, by the Prussians of this otherwise insignificant place.
A Detachment of the Reserve Cavalry of this Corps was sent to Chauny, from which it pushed forward a small party along the road towards Soissons, which the latter pursued until on arriving at about a league beyond Coucy, it cameupon an Enemy's Outpost, consisting of a Regiment of Dragoons and a Battalion of Infantry.
The FourthCorps d'Arméewas also required to make a forced march on this day—namely, from Essigny le Grand as far as Lassigny, and its Advanced Guard was to reach Gournay, and thence push forward Detachments to Clermont, Creil, and Pont St Maxence, for the purpose of securing and examining the Bridges across the Oise, and of preparing all that was requisite for effecting a passage for the troops.Bülow, in his Brigade Orders, drew the attention of his troops to the necessity which had arisen for those forced marches on the part of the Prussian Army with a view to obtain a decisive result.
The Advanced Guard started at four o'clock in the morning from Jussy, and proceeded by Lassigny to Gournay, situated upon the road from Peronne to Pont St Maxence; but the Detachments which it sent thence towards Clermont, Creil, Pont St Maxence, and Verberie, did not reach those places until the following day. The Reserve Artillery of the Fourth Corps commenced its march at five o'clock in the morning, following the Advanced Guard, and reached Ressons late in the evening; where it bivouacked, as did also, subsequently, the main body of the Corps, after a march of about twenty five miles.
Whilst the Prussians were thus, on the 26th, hastening towards Compiegne; the French General, Countd'Erlon, was, on this very day, also marching upon that point from Soissons, with the remains of hisCorps d'Armée—about four thousand men—having succeeded, through his urgent representations of the expediency of such a movement, in obtainingGrouchy's assent to its execution.
The troops of the Third and Fourth FrenchCorps d'Arméemoved this day from Rheims towards Soissons, a distance which they could not, however, accomplish in one day's march.
The positions of the respective Armies on the evening of the 26th were as follows:—
Of the Anglo-Allied Army, the Advanced Guard (Vivian's Hussar Brigade) was at Mattignies, near the Somme, having its Picquets on that river.The Second Division, the Nassau troops, and the British Cavalry, were encamped near Beauvois and Lanchy.The First and Third Divisions, the Dutch-Belgian Infantry attached to the First Corps, and the Dutch-Belgian Cavalry, were encamped near Caulaincourt and Martin de Des Près.The Fourth Division was encamped at Gouay.The First British Brigade of Guards was at Peronne.The Reserve, consisting of the Fifth and Sixth Divisions, the Brunswick troops, and the Reserve Artillery was encamped near Nourois, Magny, and Belle Englise.The Pontoon Train was at Estrées.The Duke ofWellington's Head Quarters were at Vermand.The Second and Fourth Brigades of the First PrussianCorps d'Arméewere at Chauny, not far from which was also the First Brigade. The Third Brigade, forming the Advanced Guard, was on the march to Compiegne.The Third Corps was at Guiscard.The Fourth Corps was at Ressons.PrinceBlücher's Head Quarters were at Genvry, near Noyon.The French troops underd'Erlonwere not far from Compiegne, on the road from Soissons. Those of the Third and Fourth Corps, underVandamme, were at some point between Rheims and Soissons.Grouchy's Head Quarters were at Soissons.
Of the Anglo-Allied Army, the Advanced Guard (Vivian's Hussar Brigade) was at Mattignies, near the Somme, having its Picquets on that river.
The Second Division, the Nassau troops, and the British Cavalry, were encamped near Beauvois and Lanchy.
The First and Third Divisions, the Dutch-Belgian Infantry attached to the First Corps, and the Dutch-Belgian Cavalry, were encamped near Caulaincourt and Martin de Des Près.
The Fourth Division was encamped at Gouay.
The First British Brigade of Guards was at Peronne.
The Reserve, consisting of the Fifth and Sixth Divisions, the Brunswick troops, and the Reserve Artillery was encamped near Nourois, Magny, and Belle Englise.
The Pontoon Train was at Estrées.
The Duke ofWellington's Head Quarters were at Vermand.
The Second and Fourth Brigades of the First PrussianCorps d'Arméewere at Chauny, not far from which was also the First Brigade. The Third Brigade, forming the Advanced Guard, was on the march to Compiegne.
The Third Corps was at Guiscard.
The Fourth Corps was at Ressons.
PrinceBlücher's Head Quarters were at Genvry, near Noyon.
The French troops underd'Erlonwere not far from Compiegne, on the road from Soissons. Those of the Third and Fourth Corps, underVandamme, were at some point between Rheims and Soissons.
Grouchy's Head Quarters were at Soissons.
It was half past four o'clock in the morning of the 27th, when the Advanced Guard of the PrussianCorps d'Armée(the Third Brigade), after a forced march of about twenty five miles, reached Compiegne. GeneralJagowimmediatelyposted his troops, in the most advantageous manner, in and about the town, so as to be prepared to meet any attack that the Enemy might make; and detached three Squadrons of the 1st Silesian Hussars upon the Soissons road, and the remaining Squadron upon the Paris road, in observation.
About five o'clock, by which time he had scarcely completed his arrangements, information reached him from the Hussars on the Soissons road that the Enemy was advancing. This was, as before remarked, Countd'Erlon, with the remains of hisCorps d'Armée; from which circumstance it will be seen that ifZieten's Advanced Guard had arrived but a single half hour later, the French would have anticipated the Prussians in securing the Bridge of Compiegne.
From along the edge of the extensive Wood which adjoins this town, a fire was quickly opened by the French Skirmishers against the Prussian Picquets. Very shortly afterwards a Column of Infantry appeared advancing from their rear. A Half Battery of Prussian Horse Artillery, which had been posted on the Soissons road, in front of the Gate on that side of the town, having allowed the Column to approach within a suitable range, directed a fire upon it with such vigour and precision, that in a few moments more the mass rushed for shelter into the Wood.
Four French guns were now brought forward, and these replied to the Prussian Artillery; during which the Enemy moved through the Wood to his left. The Prussians concluded from this movement that he contemplated abandoning the attack in this quarter, for the purpose of assailing the lower and weaker side of the town, by the Crespy and Paris roads: but on renewing his advance, he soon showed that he was only masking his retreat; whereupon the 1stSilesian Hussars advanced along the road to Soissons in pursuit.
By the result of this affair, which lasted an hour and a half but was limited to a cannonade and mutualtiraillade, the French were foiled in their attempt to cover their retreat by securing Compiegne, and checking the advance of the Prussians along the Oise.
The Third Prussian Brigade, however, which had continually formed the Advanced Guard of the FirstCorps d'Arméesince the Battle of Waterloo, was too much exhausted by its efforts during the previous day and night, to attempt seriously to molest the Enemy during his retreat; a circumstance of which the latter failed not to take advantage.Zietendecided upon relieving these troops from the duties of an Advanced Guard by the Second Brigade; which, however, had not yet come up: and hence the French gained some valuable time.
The main body ofZieten's Corps did not reach Compiegne until mid day.
Blücher, who had already arrived there, ordered that the Advanced Guard (now consisting of the Second Brigade) and the Reserve Cavalry, preceded by one hundred Riflemen, should march through the Wood towards Villers Cotterets, followed by the main body of the Corps; it having been his intention to throw these troops upon the Enemy's line of retreat, in the event of the Advanced Guard falling in with French troops at or near that point.
This Order, however, was not strictly followed byZieten, who marched the main body of his Corps, including the Reserve Cavalry, and the Reserve Artillery, through the Wood of Compiegne to Gillicourt, detaching only his Second Brigade, reinforced by the Brandenburg Dragoons and five pieces of Horse Artillery, towards Villers Cotterets. The1st Silesian Hussars were pushed forward upon the road from Compiegne to Soissons, to cover the Left Flank during this movement. The Reserve Cavalry, in front of the Column of the main body, reached Gillicourt just as the Enemy (under Countd'Erlon) had crossed the Defile formed by a tributary stream of the Oise in which that place is situated. The 1st West Prussian Dragoons and the Brandenburg Uhlans, together with a Horse Battery, went on in pursuit; and the Third Brigade was ordered to follow the latter in support. The Fourth Brigade was directed to maintain the Defile of Gillicourt.
The Enemy's Rear Guard was overtaken on this side of Crespy by the two Regiments of Cavalry, which threw it back in disorder upon that town. The French quickly retired from the place; whereupon the Third Brigade, with a Cavalry Brigade, bivouacked there, throwing out parties of Dragoons in the direction of the Enemy's retreat.
The Fourth Brigade, the other Cavalry Brigade, and the Reserve Artillery, bivouacked at Gillicourt. The Second Brigade, with the additional force attached to it, as before mentioned, reached Longpré, not far from Villers Cotterets, in the middle of the night. The long march which the troops of the FirstCorps d'Arméemade this day from Noyon, and the probability of their coming into collision with the Enemy on the following day, rendered a few hours' rest absolutely necessary.