Page:Battles of Quatre Bras & Waterloo.pdf/5

 head quarters was at Brussels, in the neighbourhood of which his army was so disposed that it could be concentrated in 24 hours. The first corps was commanded by the Prince of Orange; the second, by Lord Hill; and the reserve, under Generals Picton and Cole. The army under Wellington, consisted of 38,000 British; 8000 of the German Legion; 14,500 Hanoverians; and the Belgians, Brunswick, and Nassan troops, amounted to 22,000, making a grand total of 82,000 men, of whom l5,000 were on garrison duty.

On the 15th at day-break, the advanced posts of the Prussians were attacked near Thuin, but were forced to retreat, and suffered considerable loss from the numerous cavalry of the French. At Charleroi they made a stand, and attempted to defend the passage of the Sambre, but being closely pursued, they were unable to destroy the bridges. Napoleon commanded this attack in person, and the town was taken and re-taken several times; but about noon the French established themselves in it, having advanced 15 miles. At Fleurus the Prussians having received considerable reinforcements, and Blucher commanding in person, it was determined to treat no farther. The French made many impetuous attacks on this position, and the contest was continued till sunset, when the French retired to Charleroi, and Blucher occupied Sombref. In this first action, more than 1000 prisoners fell into the hands of the French. The advantages thus gained, induced the soldiers to believe that they were once more invincible, and their confidence in their leader returned, and were ready to follow him even to the cannon's mouth. The Duke of Wellington, and most of the British officers were at a grand ball, given by