Thomas W. Knox

“ While the 1st French corps is actively engaged, the 2d corps engages the 1st Austrian corps. The Austrians capture Cassiano and Carriano, threatening to cut off MacMahon's retreat. But success at Solferino gives the French some men to spare. The assault is again taken up and the Austrians are forced back. General Maneque holds his position on the high ground of Monte Sacre and General Noël advances on San Cassiano. ”

“ By a movement of General Wimpffen the 1st and 2d French corps were separated; the emperor then ordered Wimpffen to combine his forces on Castiglione and to press the French as vigorously as possible. The Austrians moved towards Medola, but were held in check. The 9th Austrian corps attacked Casanuova but did not succeed in capturing it. Opposed to 45,000 French is a force of 65,000 Austrians. ”

“ 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." ”

“ 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. ”