General Trochu, seated on a horse, issued his directions, and every moment received information of what was taking place.

Notwithstanding the expostulations of his staff, the General refused to withdraw from this exposed point.

'No, gentlemen,' he said, 'I shall not withdraw from here until the cannon are in safety.' At two in the morning all was ready; the long train began to move; the cannon of 7 and the mitrailleuses of Commandant Pothier took the lead.

Then followed the heavy naval guns, then the munition and baggage waggons; the troops of the Line, the Marines, and the National Guard were ordered to cover the retreat.

It was no easy matter to descend from the plateau to Rosny.