veral squadrons of English dragoons, their burnished
helmets and breastplates glittering brightly in the rays of the sun.
These were the Scots Greys, the Inniskillings, and two regiments of
Dragoon Guards. They moved along at some distance from each other,
riding carelessly, as if not aware of the near vicinity of the enemy.
The rough nature of the ground had hitherto hidden the Russians from
their view, and prevented the latter from seeing them. Scarcely,
however, had their leaders caught sight of the foe than their decision
was made. While one party came between the two cavalry camps, the
larger body formed up to the north of the light cavalry camp, directly
in front of the head of the Russian squadron.

"I do believe our cavalry are going to attack the Russians!" exclaimed
Jack.

"No doubt about it," answered his friend. "That is General Scarlett at
their head, with his aide-de-camp--and see, that must be Lord Lucan who
has ridden up to him."

What was to be done could only be judged by the movements of the
squadrons. About three hundred British horsemen, composed of
Inniskillings and Scots Greys, were forming in line with as much care as
if they were on parade. Another body of cavalry, the Dragoon Guards,
were moving to the right; while two others farther off, also Dragoon
Guards and Royals, formed more to the north. The arrangements were
speedily made. Lord Lucan came galloping back towards the
Inniskillings; and General Scarlett, accompanied by three other persons
on horseback, was seen to place himself at the head of the Scots Greys
and a squadron of the Inniskillings. The enemy's cavalry had now halted
on the slope of the hill. General Scarlett giving the order to advance,
his sword glittering in the rays of the sun, he, with his three
companions, dashed forward, followed by the gallant troop of cavalry,
their horses' hoofs shaking the ground as they rushed towards the
enormous body of Russians.

"They must be swallowed up and annihilated," exclaimed one of Jack's
companions.

"They have no intention of letting the Russians do that to them,"
answered Jack; "though I fear the general and his comrades will be cut
to pieces before the rest of the men overtake them."

There was but little time, however, for making many remarks. Onward at
full gallop went that gallant band of horsemen, their leaders still
fifty yards in advance, while a shower of bullets poured from the
Russian ranks. Every moment