Chapter XXIII

General Chlapowski arrives at Keydany, having ordered general
Dembinski to withdraw to Wilkomierz.--The position of the two
forces and their line of operations.--Examination of these
arrangements.--Neglect of the important position of Kowno.--General
Chlapowski, at Keydany, proposes to form a provisional government,
and obtain a levy of troops.--Dispositions of the Lithuanians,
as effected by the mismanagement of our leaders.--Advantages
offered to the enemy by the delay at Keydany.--Brave
defence of Kowno, by the small force left there.--Skirmish at
Wilkomierz.--The opportunity of concentrating all the forces at
Keydany, and repassing the Niemen, is neglected.--The enemy
presses his pursuit.--Battle of Rosseyny.--Attack on Szawla.--Loss
of the ammunition and baggage of the corps.--The corps
retreats in order to Kurzany, protected by a rear guard of cavalry
and light artillery.--At Kurzany the corps is subdivided into
three parts.--Destination and strength of each.--Examination of
this plan. 350