French abandon Girona

16 May 1813

As 4^th corps continue their march through the mountains towards Lerida, local guerrilla groups close the roads behind them and they lose communications with Barcelona. This was expected and is not a cause for concern. 15^th corps meet no opposition on their march to Barcelona., and are unaware that the 4^th army are moving parallel to them.5^th corps patrol north and west of Tarragona but find no trace of the enemy.

The Spanish CinC issues order to 1^st and 2^nd armies to move on Tarragona. 3^rd army will remain in Lerida until the French approach and 4^th army will continue to keep a close watch on 15^th corps. No move is to be made against Barcelona, as nothing must prompt 4^th corps to abandon their march on Lerida.

15 May 1813

4th French corps leave Barcelona

At first light 4th corps depart from Barcelona and enter the mountains on their way to Lerida. By midday 15th corps commence their move from Girona to Barcelona. 5th corps at Tarragona are ordered to increase their patrols both north and south of the city.

By nightfall Copons is aware of the French activity. Orders are issued for 4th army to shadow 15th corps as it moves west, but not to engage them. The remainder of the Spanish armies will wait until 4th corps is well into the mountains before they start their move on Tarragona.

http://1813tarragona.blogspot.com/search/label/06%20-%20Campaign%20Diary