In spite of being beaten at Craonne Napoleon pursued the Allied force which was withdrawing in good order towards a concentration point at Laon. Once at Laon Blücher stood, choosing his ground on a high steep ridge. Napoleon launched a series of probing attacks but had had no success when darkness fell. Marmont's force [VI Corps and I Cavalry Corps] had been approaching during the day and when darkness came halted some distance from the main force. Blücher attacked Marmont overnight and drove him away. Timidity in the face of Napoleon prevented the Allies from totally crushing the French. After a day of light engagements the French fell back owards Soissons.

A fortified town in northern France about 87 miles northeast of Paris. (France)

French Forces

Number engaged :

40,000

Casualties :

6,500 (16.25%)

Allied Forces

Number engaged :

101,000

Casualties :

844 (0.84%)