He withdrew Nansouty from the battle, and ordered Ricard, in command of his extreme left, to retreat slowly, fighting as if defeated.

Sacken, as he saw the wavering on his right, threw his heaviest battalions and regiments upon that point, and attacked with headlong impetuosity.

At the same time he had enough men left to keep Friant busy and in check.

Napoleon, seeing the success of his ruse, suddenly brought up the Guard.

He threw it around the right flank of Friant, and Sacken's left immediately began to give way.