THE BATTLE OF BLENHEIM.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 4, Issue 96, 15 October 1915, Page 4 (Supplement)

THE BATTLE OF BLENHEIM.

The French, commanded by Marshal Tallard, in attempting to join another force, under Marshal Villeroi, and then to march on to Vienna, .were intercepted by the Duke of Marlborough at Blenheim, in Bavaria, on August 13, 1704, with an army comprising several nationalities —viz., English, Prussians, Danes, Dutch and Hanoverians. Numerically the armies were equal, each consisting of about 60,000. The French occupied a strong position, their right resting on the Danube, while on then left was a range of hills, impregnable for guns or cavalry. In front of them was a rivulet running through swampy ground, making the passage of troops very difficult. The village of Oberglau, in their centre, was held by a strong force, as also was the villige of Blenheim. The allied troops were divided into two forces: one under Prince Eugene, was to attack the French left, the other, under the Duke, the centre and right. Before being able to commence the attack, Prince Eugene's .army had to cross the swamps, which subjected them to heavy losses from the French guns on the lulls commanding their line. When Marlborough heard that Eugene's army had crossed the swamps, he ordered his men to advance against Blenheim. After several attempts, each of which was repulsed, Marlborough, realising that Blenheim could not be taken, resolved to break the French line midway between that village and Oberglau. After a severe setback at this point, Marlborough brought up fresh troops, restored the battle, and prepared for the grand attack by his cavalry, which broke thfc French line in two. Marshal Taillard then brought up his reserves, but again Marlborough charged and broke the French defence, the enemy fleeing in disorder in two directions, pursued by cavalry. Many of their number were drowr,i?d in attempting to cross the Danube. The allies lost about 12,000 men, trie French 40,000, including 13,000 taken prisoners, among the latter being their commander, Marshal Taillard.