orses 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. As this was going on, a strong force of
infantry and cavalry, with guns, was moved round by Hyder to fall on
the British rear. These, however, were met by the second line, which
had hitherto remained in reserve, and after fierce fighting were
driven back along the sand hills. But, as they were retiring, the main
body of Hyder's cavalry moved round to support the attack. Fortunately
a British schooner, which had sailed from Porto Novo when the troops
started, had anchored near the shore to give what protection she could
to the baggage, and now opened fire with her guns upon the cavalry, as
they rode along between the sand hills and the sea; and with such
effect that they halted and wavered; and when two of the batteries on
the sand hills also opened fire upon them, they fell back in haste.

"This was Hyder's last effort. The British line continued to advance,
until it had gained all the positions occupied by the enemy, and these
were soon in headlong flight; Hyder himself, who had been almost
forced by his attendants to leave the ground, being with them. It was
a wonderful victory. The English numbered but 8,476 men, of whom 306
were killed or wounded. Hyder's force was about 65,000, and his loss
was not less than 10,000.

"The victory had an immense effect in restoring the confidence of the
English troops, which had been greatly shaken by the misfortunes
caused by the incapacity of Munro and Baillie. But it had no other
consequences, for want of carriage, and a deficiency of provisions and
equipment, pre