14 April 1813 – North Germany - Day 2

To counter the Prussian attack on Wittingen Napoleon orders 2^nd army to attack Boltenhagen.   The battle opens with two cavalry melee, both won by the French.

Prussians retreat before the French can close and pin them.  

The French lost 700 men, the Prussians lost 1300 men

3^rd French army regroup around Wittingen.   2^nd Prussian army regroup in front of Gadebusch.

 

1^st French army and 3^rd Prussian army continue to face each other south of the river Elbe.

 

This forward deployment by both army groups is causing supply problems.    Both are too far from their rear depots, and there are not sufficient supplies at the depots which are in range.   At present neither are prepared to retreat to come within supply