1798] MOOKE'S TACTICS IN ACTION 297

The attack began. The companies of Light Infantry, being unaccustomed to fire, hesitated a little. I was obliged to get off my horse to put myself at their head, to jump over a high ditch and advance on the enemy; we drove them down-hill over a bridge. I directed Colonel Wilkinson to post himself at this bridge and prevent their passing it again. I ordered Major Aylmer with three companies of Light Infantry to march against a large body which were seen going round upon my left. He sent me word that they were in a wood near him, and seemed in such numbers that he was afraid to advance on them. I then sent them two more companies under Major Daniel and a field-piece, with directions to advance and ascertain the force of the enemy; to be cautious at first, but to follow them briskly if they staggered in the least. I was afraid to go from the front, opposite to which the enemy were in great numbers, and where I thought they were waiting for a favourable moment to fall upon me. The fire grew hotter upon the left, and messages for reinforcements were continually coming. I ordered the brigade-major, Anderson, to go and let me know the true state of the left. He returned, and told me that it was absolutely necessary for me to go to the left immediately. I set off at a gallop, desiring him to stay and watch the movements at the front. I met the Light Infantry, the Yagers, and some Dragoons all in the woods mixed and retreating. The enemy was following close, and firing. I succeeded in stopping some immediately, and got them to jump out of the road and make a front on each side of it. I then encouraged the rest first to halt, then to advance, and, when I saw them ready for it, I took off my hat, put my horse into a trot, gave a huzza, and got them to make a push. The tide immediately turned; we drove the rebels before us, and killed a great many.

They attempted two or three times afterwards to make a stand, but failed. The fire of the rebels was well supported. I was surprised at the numbers of muskets, which, I have since heard, amounted to 600. The numbers of the whole,