windings, and in places cut deeply into the earth. The slope is, for the most part, regular, and not at all steep; consequently the ground was favorable for the erection of batteries in tiers, one above the other. The French had taken advantage of this position, and thrown up a liberal number of batteries. Behind the crest of the ridge there were many positions, covered by bits or stretches of forest, and also intersected with small ravines and valleys, all of which furnished excellent cover for a defending force. The assailing party would thus be obliged to make his attack over sloping ground, which offered no cover, while the defenders were comparatively well sheltered.
The slopes of the valley through which the Meuse passes were covered with wood, but not sufficiently to interfere with the view from the French position, or detract from the effect of their fire.
Canrobert's corps, the 6th, formed the right wing of the French position. The line it occupied was known as that of Amanvillers. The 4th corps, commanded by De L'Admirault, continued the line from that of the 6th corps to Montigny-la-Grange, and had an advanced post at Champenois. The centre was formed by the 3d corps, while the 2d corps, Frossard's, had a strong position on the left. The Imperial Guards were in the rear of the left wing at Bau St. Martin, and formed the main reserve. Along the line of heights from St. Quentin to Plappeville, already described, 120 pieces of artillery were ready for action; but the forts of St. Quentin and Des Carrières were not mounted with guns. The position gave a fine view over the whole region. Marshal Bazaine established his head-quarters there on the morning of the 18th, and remained there throughout the battle.
The French front was about seven miles long, and the position was an admirable one for a defending army. The left wing was especially strong, as it occupied a steep height, which was almost inaccessible, while the right
