Your retreat, therefore, is entirely cut off.

The orders are that you shall maintain yourself here as long as possible, as in the darkness and confusion, it is unlikely that the allies can attack you from the rear before morning.
"The marshal himself holds the plateau, and will continue to do so.

You are to make your way tonight, if possible, in battalions and in good order, through the intervals between the various divisions of the enemy; or, if that is not possible, singly.

All are to endeavour to join him on the plateau.

Those who cannot do this are to make for Ghent or Lille." "Your order scarcely comes as a surprise, sir," the general said bitterly.