Every gun on our side was turned upon
them. But though we could see the confusion in the ranks, caused by
the shot that swept them, they kept on. It seemed that the little red
patches must be altogether overwhelmed by the advancing wave. But as
it came closer, flashes of fire spurted out from the faces of the
squares. We could see the horses recoil when close to the bayonets,
and then the stream poured through the intervals between the squares.
As they did so, crackling volleys broke out, while from the batteries
on the sand hills an incessant fire was kept up upon them. Then,
following the volleys, came the incessant rattle of musketry. The
confusion among the cavalry grew greater and greater. Regiments were
mixed up together, and their very numbers impeded their action. Many
gallant fellows, detaching themselves from the mass, rode bravely at
the squares, and died on the bayonets; others huddled together,
confused and helpless against the storm of bullets and shot; and at
last, as if with a sudden impulse, they rode off in all directions,
and, sweeping round, regained their position in the rear of their
infantry, while loud cheers broke from our side.
"The squares again fell into line, which, advancing steadily, drove
Hyder's infantry before it.
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