) 

 ::To clarify, I was countering the previous assertion, and I meant that he did not leave Moscow in mid October 1812 because of the losses suffered thus far in the campaign (what was described as "an unacceptable cost"). He left because defeating the Russian army and taking a major city did not get him what he wanted, the Czar's petition for peace. He could not win by staying there, and things would only get worse with each passing day. He still thought if he could engage the Russian army in a decisive battle he could save the campaign, and he attempted to do so as he moved out. He was unsuccessful in forcing the issue, and he had to leave. I believe we are in agreement, essentially.   (UTC