The Austrian army once more commenced operations on a double basis--one great division on the Tyrolese frontier, and a greater under the Archduke himself on the Friulese; and Napoleon--who had, even when acting on the defensive, been able, by the vivacity of his movements, to assume the superiority on whatever point he chose to select--was not likely to strike his blows with less skill and vigour, now that his numbers, and the acquiescence of Italy behind him, permitted him to assume the offensive.
Buonaparte found the Archduke posted behind the river Tagliamento, in front of the rugged Carinthian mountains, which guard the passage in that quarter from Italy to Germany.

Detaching Massena to the Piave, where the Austrian division of Lusignan were in observation, he himself determined to charge the Archduke in front.

Massena was successful in driving Lusignan before him as far as Belluno, (where a rear guard of 500 surrendered,) and thus turned the Austrian flank.

Buonaparte then attempted and effected the passage of the Tagliamento.

After a great and formal display of his forces, which was met by similar demonstrations on the Austrian side of the river, he suddenly broke up his line and retreated.