Even Soubise thought that, with the odds of over five to one in his favour, he could fight a battle with a certainty of success; and planned a masterly march, by which he would place himself on Frederick's left and rear, drive him into the bend made by the Saale, and annihilate his army.

In his enthusiasm at this happy idea, he sent off a courier to carry the news, to Versailles, that he was about to annihilate the Prussian army, and take the king prisoner.
Frederick's dinner was prolonged.

There was nothing to be done, and patience was one of the king's strong points.

At two o'clock an officer, who had remained on watch on the housetop, hurried down with news that the enemy had suddenly turned to the left.

The king went up to the roof with his officers, and at once divined the intention of his foes.
It was a glorious moment for him.