To Marshal Murat
(believed near Meiningen, moving north)
From Marshal Lannes (encamped about 12km north of Meiningen, about to move to ORANGE)
My esteemed colleague,
As per your last dispatch, I will resume my march toward the pass designated ORANGE. I anticipate reaching the objective around noon or a little later. Once arrived, I will send Foucher's cavalry out to screen toward Ohrdruf, and send patrols in that direction to locate the enemy. If possible, Foucher will make contact with the divisions you have left to observe Ruchel's Advance Guard.
My infantry will encamp in defensive positions just to the north of ORANGE and rest the remainder of the day. If we draw Ruchel's troops down on us, I intend to hold ORANGE until relieved by yourself and M. Davout. However, in the event that Ruchel moves to retreat from the Ohrdruf position, I will advance with my corps to maintain contact. If this should happen, I will attempt to bring on a general engagement with Ruchel's Advance Guard division and destroy them.
I will look for d'Hautpol's division to join my infantry at ORANGE this afternoon.
Lannes