On the 2nd of August, the Germans occupied Luxemburg, without opposition. The order went out to all border posts along all Belgian frontiers, to open fire on any hostile troops attempting to cross into Belgium.
On the same day, the German Ambassador in Brussels presented the Belgian Foreign Office with a letter. Or rather, an ultimatum. On the pretext that France was about to attack Belgium, the Germans demanded free passage through Belgian territory. It was briefly discussed by the Belgian Cabinet, and one hour later unanimously rejected.
On the 3rd, the French commenced hostilities against Germany, and Joffre ordered the VII Corps to move forward to capture Mulhouse. (As an aside, their commander, General Bonneau, prevaricated, took two days to reach the town - it was only 15 miles from his base - neglected to reconnoitre or make defensive positions and re-lost it two days later).
The Germans moved more men into Luxemburg. It was only on this day that the Belgian GHQ finally decided how to deploy their army. The 3rd Division under General Leman were ordered to Liege, and the 4th, under Michel, to Namur, to hold on to the bitter end. The 1st Division left Gent for Tienen, the 2nd went from Antwerp to Leuven, the 5th from Mons to Perwez, and the 6th moved on Wavre, from the capital.
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