Count, I have the honor to inform you that the Armée de la Moselle is receiving the order to leave on the 7th from its position between Metz and Thionville to arrive in front of Rocroy on the 13th of this month in passing by Stenay and Mézières. It will find itself replaced in its position by the troops under the orders of General Rouyer.
The Emperor orders that for the same time, that is to say the 13th, you concentrate the 3rd Corps of the Army between Mariembourg & Chimay. You will establish your Headquarters in this last place. You will have to have the 8th Infantry Division join you immediately.
Have a camp established near Chimay for your three divisions having with them their artillery, ambulances, etc. in order to be able to establish yourself there on the 13th or 14th if the order is sent to you or even earlier if the enemy’s position made a coming attack presumable.
Your cavalry will supply posts in front on the line but elsewhere it will be as reduced as possible.
You will interrupt any type of communication with the border unless the people crossing come to our side. They will be closely surveilled and interrogated.
You will Ensure, General, that the garrison of the places and fortified posts in your arrondissement are complete and in good shape, and send in the situation. It is well understood that the garrisons must be of National Guards, as it has been ordered, and that the totality of your army corps must be available such that once it receives orders from movement, three hours later it must be entirely assembled and marching.
I advise you again that your troop must be constantly maintained with four days advance from Paris, and with a half pound of rice per man & furthermore that their current distributions be made regularly.
I pray you, General, to report to me on the execution of these arrangements.