The troops were already tired, but Westermann who, as Kleber in his report said, was always anxious to gain glory and bring himself into prominence, insisted on pushing forward at once; and prevailed over the more prudent counsel of the others, as he was the senior officer.
When they approached Laval, Westermann sent a troop of cavalry forward to reconnoitre.

He was not long before he came upon some Vendean outposts.

These he charged, and drove in towards the town.
No sooner did they arrive there than the bells of the churches pealed out.

It was now midnight but, before the army could form into order, the Vendeans poured out upon them, guided by the shouts of the Republican officers, who were endeavouring to get their troops into order.

The combat was desperate and sanguinary.