A regiment was thrown out in skirmishing order, and advanced through the wood, the rest following in column along the road.

General Berruyer had joined General Menou the evening before, with the force from Saumur and, as they moved forward, the two generals rode together.
"This is a much more serious business than I had expected," Berruyer said.

"I certainly imagined that, with such forces as we have gathered round La Vendee, the campaign would be little more than a military promenade.

I see, however, that I was entirely mistaken.

These men have, today, shown themselves capable of taking advantage of the wild character of their country; and as to their courage, there can be no question, whatever.