The Guns Of August

As most of the French army falls back, Von Kluck, on the German right wing, decides to turn inward toward Paris. He believes the French army defeated, the British army of no consequence, and the chance for ultimate victory at hand. Meanwhile, Moltke does not draw troops from the German left to support the middle and right. Von Kluck’s first surprise occurs when he catches up to the British. Though he believes them to be running, they turn and fight, inflicting casualties upon the Germans, then slip away.

Joffre gives an order for the French armies to continue falling back. He places one army under Gallieni for the defense of Paris, envisioning a final battle that will determine the war. All his efforts point toward that battle. In Paris, the government leaves the next day with a short announcement that the people of Paris are to resist. Gallieni says he feels that he is remaining only to be killed, while Joffre issues orders to fall back and regroup for a battle “upon which the salvation of the country depends” (411). As Von Kluck’s turn finally becomes apparent for what it is—a movement away from Paris to envelope the French army—the French see an opportunity to attack their flank.