Heinrich successfully persuaded Leopold. After exchanging their views, the two summoned the commanders of the entire brigade for a meeting to refine the details of the battle plan.
All officers above company level attended the meeting. Time was tight, so they needed to return and prepare in advance.
Hechingen had only two infantry regiments and one brigade headquarters' directly subordinate combat battalion, amounting to merely twenty or thirty officers above company level.
Due to the needs of war, the command post was not located in a civilian area, but in a separately constructed semi-bunker. It had been built in great haste and was rather cramped. The officers of the Hechingen Brigade gathered in the narrow space of the command post as the operational meeting began.
"After consulting with Staff Officer Heinrich, I have decided to launch a surprise attack on the French in the outskirts tonight. Staff Officer Heinrich will explain the reasons to you. I personally support this plan. If anyone has objections or suggestions, speak freely," Leopold said.
Heinrich then repeated what he had previously told Leopold. "...To sum up, I believe this is an excellent opportunity. The chance will vanish in the blink of an eye; if we miss tonight, we will be forced into a passive position tomorrow."
After Heinrich finished speaking, Leopold said, "Tell me what you think!"
The commander of the First Regiment said, "I support taking the initiative and attacking. The cover of night is perfect for fishing in troubled waters. This is the Hechingen Brigade's first battle. Unlike previous drills, we will see blood. Darkness cannot hide the smell, but it can lessen the visual impact of war on these cadets."
"I have no objection, but we must make every possible preparation for this battle. As you said, this is the Hechingen