CHAPTER XXIII

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General Chlapowski arrives at Keydany, having ordered general Dembinski to withdraw to Wilkomierz.--The position of the two forces and their line of operations.--Examination of these arrangements.--Neglect of the important position of Kowno.--General Chlapowski, at Keydany, proposes to form a provisional government, and obtain a levy of troops.--Dispositions of the Lithuanians, as effected by the mismanagement of our leaders.--Advantages offered to the enemy by the delay at Keydany.--Brave defence of Kowno, by the small force left there.--Skirmish at Wilkomierz.--The opportunity of concentrating all the forces at Keydany, and repassing the Niemen, is neglected.--The enemy presses his pursuit.--Battle of Rosseyny.--Attack on Szawla.--Loss of the ammunition and baggage of the corps.--The corps retreats in order to Kurzany, protected by a rear guard of cavalry and light artillery.--At Kurzany the corps is subdivided into three parts.--Destination and strength of each.--Examination of this plan. 350

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