assault on the formidable works of Solferino. Upon the result of this assault will depend the issue of the battle. One brigade under General Forey moves into the plain while another is ordered to occupy a position on the heights against Solferino village, with the voltigeurs of the Guard in readiness to support them. The artillery of the Guards is unlimbered in front of the Austrian position, at a distance of 300 yards. The Imperial Guards rest on a line with General Forey's division.
It is now eleven o'clock. This twofold assault, properly aided by the reserve artillery of the 1st corps together with the three columns resting on Monte Fenile, ought to make success certain on the centre of the line. The Emperor of Austria had likewise transferred his head-quarters, going to Volta, where he learned that the French had begun the attack in earnest. At 9.12 a.m. he issued the following command:
"General Slick, the commander of the 2d army, is to hold Solferino as long as he can. The 8th corps, after folding back the Piedmontese upon Lake Garda, will send detachments in support of the 3d corps. The 1st army will keep its direction and disengage the centre attacked by the enemy."
The 2d brigade of Forey moves forward at a double quick to climb the nearest height to the east of Solferino, but it is driven back by superior numbers. After this repulse General Maneque advances with 3 battalions of voltigeurs. He is more successful, and drives the Austrians upon the base of Monte Sacre, where a fierce battle is being waged. Forey with his 2d brigade finds it impossible to turn the Austrian right flank at the tower of Solferino; his ranks are cut by the shot and shell of Austrians who stubbornly hold the position. The division of General L'Admirault now advances to make its attack, which is chiefly directed on the cemetery and on the castle, but this also is met by a killing fire. The marshal now calls upon
