Napoleon
orders 3rd corps to cross the river Weser and attack Celle. His intention is to fix Blucher’s attention
on his northern flank.
Meanwhile
he moves 1st corps south to join with 13th corps for the main attack against
Hildesheim.
The
Prussian commander at Celle removes the garrison and moves towards the river to
drive the French back to the western bank.
The battle is decided by a prolonged skirmish and firefight, which the
French win. The Prussians suffer 2800
casualties to 1200 French casualties.
Three Prussian brigades are routed, and the remainder of 1st corps
abandon Celle and retreat south towards Lehre.
Napoleon’s
feint has turned into a significant victory.
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