From the memoirs of Captain Charles Parquin, who was a member of the 20th Chasseurs a Cheval at Eylau in February 1807. The regiment belonged to Augereau's VII Corps but was stationed on the French left flank under the orders of Marshal Soult during the action.

'Colonel Castex now inquired if our carbines were loaded. On receiving an affirmative answer he gave the order 'Carbines ready!'-as in campaigning we had the practice of carrying those weapons at the hooks. He next ordered the officers to fall into place in the column and then did so himself.'

'Meanwhile the huge mass of dragoons was steadily approaching us, still at the walk, Colonel Castex regarding them perfectly unmoved. Only when the Russians had approached within six paces of us did his voice ring out sharply: 'Fire!'

'The command was carried out by our regiment as steadily as if on parade. The effect of this volley was terrific-almost the entire front rank of the Russian dragoons was mowed down. But scarcely a single moment did the enemy waver, for almost immediately the second line took the place of the dead and wounded and the conflict became general...'