Westermann's infantry took no part in the action.

Kleber was occupied in closing every route by which the Vendeans could leave Dol; but Westermann, who had held no communication with him, and knew nothing of his plans, marched with Marigny's division, with six thousand men, to attack the town.
This he did at two o'clock in the morning.

The Vendeans at once rushed to meet them, and first tried to turn the right; but they failed here, and also in an attack on the left.

They fought, however, so fiercely that Westermann withdrew his troops to the position that they had occupied before attacking.

The Vendeans, however, gave them no time to form in order of battle but, heralding their charge with a heavy musketry fire, rushed down upon them.