The battle on the road to Fromel (3)

With the breaking of the central French company the way was open and Major Grabner led his men forward, the French were now very vulnerable

Seeing the French is total disarray Friedrich ordered his men forward to cover their flanks but almost immediately a member of the Aufklarungskorps arrived from the east with the news that French troops were already returning and in some strength. Ilse paused and decided to wait for a moment, before sounding the recall

In the open ground Major Grabner saw his chance and sent his militia forward against the French, who despite their position behind the hedgerow were easily flanked by the central companies, some of whom who took delight in setting fire to the French baggage in passing.

The lead company then fled as they spotted the flanking manoeuvre. Almost at the same time another shell hit the rearguard company killing its commander and also causing a rout.