The Swedish order of battle was different from that of the
Imperialists. The latter had their cavalry massed together in one
heavy, compact body, while the Swedish regiments of horse were placed
alternately with the various regiments or brigades of infantry.
The Swedish centre was composed of four brigades of pikemen. Guns
were behind the first line, as were the cavalry supporting the
pikemen. The regiments of musketeers were placed at intervals among
the brigades of pikemen.
Pappenheim on his return to the camp ordered up the whole of his
cavalry, and charged down with fury upon the Swedes, while at the
same moment Furstenberg dashed with seven regiments of cavalry on
the Saxons. Between these and the Swedes there was a slight interval,
for Gustavus had doubts of the steadiness of his allies, and was
anxious that in case of their defeat his own troops should not be
thrown into confusion. The result justified his anticipations.
Attacked with fury on their flank by Furstenberg's horse, while
his infantry and artillery poured a direct fire into their front,
the Saxons at once gave way. Their elector was the first to set
the example of flight, and, turning his horse, galloped without
drawing rein to Torgau, and in twenty minutes after the commencement
of the fight the whole of the Saxons were in utter rout, hotly
pursued by Furstenberg's cavalry.
Pages:
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159