“I should like to have with me the division of the guard which is commanded by general Lefebvre-Desnouettes, and I send you in exchange the two divisions of count de Valmy’s corps. But, according to my plans at this moment, I prefer posting count de Valmy in such a manner as to have him within reach if I want him, and to avoid causing general Lefebvre-Desnouettes any false marches; for it is probable that I shall resolve upon marching with the guard this evening upon Brussels.
“Nevertheless, cover Lefebvre’s division by the two divisions of cavalry belonging to D’Erlon and Reille, in order to spare the guard; for if there should be any hot work with the English, it is better that it should be with our line than the guard.
“I have adopted as a general principle of this campaign, to divide my army into two wings, and a reserve.
“Your wing will consist of the four divisions of the first corps, of the four divisions of the second corps, of two divisions of light cavalry, and the two divisions of count de Valmy’s corps. The number of these troops cannot be much less than forty-five or fifty thousand men. Marshal Grouchy will have nearly an equal number, and will command the right wing. The guard will form the reserve, and I shall bring it up in support of the one wing or the other, according to circumstances. The Major-General will issue the most precise orders, in order to secure obedience to you, when you have a separate command: whenever I am present, the commanders of corps will receive orders directly from me. I shall draw troops, according to circumstances, from either wing, to strengthen my reserve.
“You well understand the importance attached to the taking of Brussels. It may also produce important results; for a movement of such promptitude and daring will cut off the English troops at Mons, Ostend, etc.
“I wish your measures to be so taken, that, at the first order, your eight divisions may be able to march rapidly on Brussels, without any difficulty.
“Napoleon.”
PROCLAMATION TO THE BELGIANS AND INHABITANTS OF THE LEFT BANK OF THE RHINE[84].
... “The ephemeral success of my enemies detached you for a moment from my Empire: in my exile upon a rock in the sea, I heard your complaints. The God of battle has decided the fate of your beautiful provinces; Napoleon is among you. You are worthy to be Frenchmen. Rise in mass, join my invincible phalanxes, to exterminate the remainder of those barbarians, who are your enemies and mine; they fly with rage and despair in their hearts.
“(Signed) Napoleon.