‘That is because we were not told,’ Arthur responded coldly.‘Blücher has retreated to Wavre. Yes, Wavre. More than a day’s march from here. And his chief of staff did not think to inform us of his reverse at Ligny. For what reason, I wonder? A suspicious mind might conclude that we had been left here, unaware, in order to cover the Prussian retreat.’

Müffling froze and then shook his head.‘That is an ignoble suggestion, your grace.’

‘Perhaps. And if I am mistaken, then I apologise,’ Arthur replied flatly. ‘But the fact remains, my army is in an exposed position. I will have to withdraw. I want you to ride to Blücher at once. Tell him that I will fall back to a position parallel with his at Wavre.’ Arthur closed his eyes and imagined the map of the surrounding landscape. He nodded. ‘Tell Blücher I will make my stand at Mont-St-Jean, if he can promise me the support of at least one of his army corps.’

‘Mont-St-Jean?’

‘The ridge across the road to Brussels. Just before the village of Waterloo.’

‘I know it.’

Arthur clasped his hand. ‘If I am defeated by Bonaparte then I fear that England may never forgive Prussia. In that event the coalition will fail, and the shadow of Bonaparte will descend upon Europe once again.’

Müffling nodded.‘I understand. I will do whatever I can to persuade Marshal Blücher.’

Chapter 58 - Ligny, 7.00 a.m., 17 June 1815

Chapter 58

Ligny, 7.00 a.m., 17 June 1815

Napoleon was at breakfast when the first report came in from General Pajol. He had taken his cavalry forward at first light to scout for the Prussians and discover in which direction they had retreated. Pajol’s officer informed the Emperor that a large body of the Prussians had been spotted on the road to Liège. There were signs that some more of the enemy had headed in the direction of Wavre, but Napoleon dismissed that. If Blücher was retreating, then he would be sure to fall back on his supply lines and make for Liège.

Napoleon nodded with satisfaction as he dismissed the messenger and turned his attention back to his breakfast. He had been joined by Grouchy, Soult and some of the headquarters officers. Despite heavy losses, the victory of the previous day had left the Emperor in a good mood, and his subordinates were grateful for that.