The Battle of Quatre Bras 16th June 1815
Timeline 6.30 PM to dusk
The Guards of 1st British Infantry Division [ Major-general George Cooke commanding] having entered the Bois de Bossu are pushing the French to the edge of the wood. Fighting is fierce but the French have no reserves and can only delay the inevitable faced with 4000 exhausted but eager Guardsmen.
The withdrawal of the 2nd Legere [Colonel Pierre-Francois Maigrot] to positons near Piramount has allowed the British 95th Rifles [ Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Andrew Barnard] to infiltrate the hamlet of Thyle.
This action has reopened the Namur road and the communication route to the Prussians at Ligny.
This advance is supported by newly arrived elements of Brunswick infantry and artillery extending the Allied left.
The 1st Hanoverian Infantry Brigade [Major-General Count Frederich von Kielmansegge] , advances towards the Gemioncourt stream pushing back the dispirited French who elect to make a stand behind the sturdy hedge line.
However, the French artillery, efficient as ever start to inflict serious casualties and the fighting dies down ending in a stalemate with both sides exhausted.
Marshal Ney having dined with Prince Jerome despatches his report to the Emperor before trying to get some much needed rest.
Meanwhile as dusk falls His Grace, the Duke of Wellington, accompanied by General Willem, the Hereditary Prince of Orange-Nassau scout the French camp near Ferme Lairalle.
Today has been a momentous one, and tomorrow promises to be another.....