Those round Mortagne were marching forward, when the advanced guard, under General Beaupuy, were suddenly attacked by the Vendeans, while entangled in the lanes.

The head of the column fought well; but those in the rear, finding themselves also attacked, and fearing that the retreat would be cut off, retired hastily to Mortagne.

The column would have been destroyed, had not Beaupuy promptly sent up large reinforcements.

After a long and obstinate fight the Vendeans were driven from the woods and, the Republican artillery opening upon them, they were compelled to retire to Chollet.
Here no halt was made.

Kleber had also been fiercely attacked, but had also, though with much difficulty, repulsed his assailants.