Chapter II

Colonel Gordon’s patrol discovers the Prussians are retreating
upon Wavre.—The allied army ordered to retire upon Waterloo.—The
Duke writes to Blücher.—Retreat commenced, followed by the
enemy.—Skirmishing.—Pressed by the lancers, who are charged by
the 7th hussars; the latter are repulsed.—The life-guards make a
successful charge.—Lord Anglesey’s letter, refuting a calumnious
report of his regiment.—Allied army arrives on the Waterloo
position.—The enemy arrive on the opposite heights, and salute
us with round-shot, to which we reply to their cost.—Piquets
thrown out on both sides.—Dismal bivac; a regular soaker.—The
Duke and Napoleon’s quarters.—His Grace receives an answer from
Blücher.—Probability of a quarrel on the morrow.—Orders sent to
general Colville.—Description of the field of Waterloo; Hougoumont
and La Haye-Sainte.—Disposition of the allied army, and the
advantages of our position.—Disposition of the enemy, and admirable
order of battle.—_The eve of Waterloo._—Morning of the 18th wet and
uncomfortable; our occupation.—The Duke arrives; his appearance,
dress, staff, etc.—Positions corrected.—French bands play, and
their troops appear; are marshalled by Napoleon, a magnificent
sight, worth ten years of peaceful life.—Why tarries Napoleon with
his grand martial display?—The Emperor passes along his lines; his
troops exhibit unbounded enthusiasm; his confidence of victory. 19