7 July 1813 – Central Germany

Davout has achieved the campaign objective of taking Erfurt

The Russians hold a strong defensive position on the east bank of the river Saale

He decides to hold the west bank, resupply and leave the initiative to Wittgenstein

The Russians are in a strong defensive position, but must retake Erfurt

Wittgenstein orders 1^st and 4^th corps to hold and resupply from Rudolstadt

He also orders 2^nd corps to move south towards the main army

But to remain within supporting distance of Weissensee

If the French follow he will attack them as they cross the river

If they move south on the west bank he will join the main army

It will take longer for 14^th corps to rejoin the main army.

14^th corps advance to secure the bridge, and await orders from Davout