Hans-Karl:

Thank you for those exchanges. They certainly clarify a number of things. It does seem that Bernadotte was 'over-looked' in the exchange of orders. However, I still see Bernadotte's efforts to carry out what he rightly perceived as Napoleon's wishes, as inadequate. I have no doubt that the march was a hard one for Bernadotte's troops, particularly considering the French army's problems getting beyond Jena on the 12th and 13th. However, eight miles in six hours? There would have to be something particularly troublesome on the road to the Dornburg not found for the other Corps commanders. Was there? There were extraodinary efforts made in the days leading up to Jena-Auerstadt.

Bernadotte wasn't made a marshal by accident, nor was he incompetent, as evidenced by any number of engagements, including the 17th, as you point out.So, the road to Dornburg. Was it that much more difficult than faced by the other corps commanders leading up to Jena-Auerstadt. Is that what Dupont is saying?

Bill