26 September – North Germany – Day 5

After three battles in three days both armies are in need of resupply and reinforcements.   However Napoleon is not prepared to allow Blucher to recover from his defeats.

The French Guard and Reserve corps are in the condition to continue offensive operations.  He orders them to attack 2^nd Prussian corps and the Prussian reserve at Salzwedel.    All four corps have battle casualties, though the French have less than the Prussians.

The Prussian artillery prove to be particularly ineffective, and their cavalry no better.   Both Prussian dragoon brigades are defeated and routed with heavy casualties.   The Guard infantry are allowed to close with the Prussian infantry without any casualties.

Meanwhile the French gunners are more effective, and cause some casualties to the infantry.  However the Prussian infantry stand their ground despite casualties.

The loss of the Prussian cavalry has a major effect on the battle.   The infantry are forced to form square, which results in artillery casualties.   It also reduces their musket impact on the French columns.

By late afternoon the French have broken the Prussian centre.   With five brigades in rout Blucher is forced to order a general retreat.