The infantry in advancing could only attack on a front of 600 yards. The
enemy's line, being much longer, quickly turned both flanks. The fire
became severe. Numerous casualties occurred. A retirement was ordered. As
is usual in Asiatic warfare, it was considerably pressed. The situation
at about nine o'clock appeared critical. At this point Brigadier-General
Ellis, commanding the Peshawar District, arrived on the field. He
immediately ordered the two squadrons of the 13th Bengal Lancers to move
well to the right flank, to charge across the front and check the
enemy's advance. The "cease fire" sounded as on a field day. Then there
was a pause. The movements of the cavalry were concealed from most of
the troops, but suddenly all noticed the slackening of the enemy's fire.
Then the tribesmen were seen to be in retreat and disorder. The power of
cavalry had been strikingly displayed. The two squadrons, ably led, had
executed a fine charge over what theorists would call impossible ground
for a distance of one and a half miles along the bed of a great nullah,
and among rocks and stones that reduced the pace to a trot.
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